Dare County officials are facing a critical water supply challenge as they prepare to address a deteriorating pipeline that is essential for servicing the community. During a special meeting on December 18, 2024, the Dare County Board of Commissioners discussed the urgent need to replace a 30-inch water line that has been deemed irreparable. The current infrastructure is at risk of failing, particularly during the summer months when demand for water surges.

The board highlighted that the existing pipe is brittle and cannot be effectively patched. Attempts to explore alternative solutions, such as slip lining or installing a smaller pipe within the existing one, have proven unfeasible due to structural limitations and the complexity of the pipeline's route. With summer approaching, officials warned that without immediate action, the county could face a shortfall of millions of gallons of water.

To mitigate this impending crisis, the board is seeking approval to order new piping before the end of the year. This proactive step is crucial to ensure that the necessary materials arrive in time for contractors to begin work early in 2025, ideally completing the project before the peak summer season.

The estimated cost of boring a new pipeline could reach up to $16 million, depending on the subsurface conditions encountered during the project. The board is actively seeking contractors capable of undertaking this significant task, as previous bids have been withdrawn due to the project's complexity and high costs.

Despite the financial challenges, the county has a dedicated water fund that will support this critical infrastructure project. The board emphasized the importance of moving forward swiftly to secure the water supply for Dare County residents, underscoring that the community's access to water is at stake. As the situation develops, officials remain committed to finding a viable solution to ensure a reliable water supply for the future.