DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT TO BE RELEASED IN A FEW WEEKS.

TIMELINE AS REPORTED IN THE VIRGINIAN PILOT

* 1989 Bridge first placed on a state highway plan after years of discussion.
* 1996 State purchases land in Corolla for bridge landing. Bridge cost estimates range from $47 million to $71 million.
* 1998 Bridge plans and possible landing sites presented at public hearings. Aydlett residents oppose the project. Cost estimate is now $87 million.
* 2001 Bridge project stalls after state officials announce study that could take years. Officials say bridge’s environmental impact may not be worth its e ffect on traffic flow. Cost estimate is now $97 million.
* 2002 North Carolina Turnpike Authority created to expedite construction of several state road projects.
* 2004 State unveils traffic study that says widening U.S. 158 and N.C. 12 would relieve traffic flow better than a mid-county bridge. Currituck and Duck officials and residents disagree with conclusions. Bridge cost estimate is $103 million.
* 2005 General Assembly passes bill authorizing Turnpike Authority to plan and build a toll bridge over Currituck Sound using private financing and construction. Cost estimate is $118 million.
* 2006 A study by a transportation institute at North Carolina State University estimat es the cost at $156 million.
* 2007 Turnpike Authority releases study that shows tolls could be $8 to $12. Bridge costs estimates are adjusted to better reflect inflation and design to $296 to $795 million.
* 2009 ACS Infrastructure Development, a private company, to lead construction and operation of toll bridge. Estimate firmed up to $659 million.
* Oct. 12, 2009 State puts forth option to let the bridge land in Aydlett rather than go overhead all the way to U.S. 158. Revision could save $60 million. Aydlett residents and Currituck commissioners oppose that option.