Gov. Pat McCrory declared a state of emergency Tuesday for N.C. 12 in Dare County, a move aimed at speeding up the state’s effort to shore up a fragile road frequently closed in recent weeks because of ocean overwash.

The state Department of Transportation is seeking permits for beach renourishment and dune construction at the S-Curves area near Rodanthe on Hatteras Island. DOT plans to use $20.8 million in federal emergency funds related to damage caused last fall by Hurricane Sandy.

Meanwhile, the department has long-range plans to elevate more than four miles of N.C. 12 on bridges high above the surf.

“The people there have real concerns about the road they depend on to get to work, school or medical appointments,” McCrory said. “They need a highway that is not forced to close every time a storm approaches.”