NCDOT survey seeks public input on new ferry toll policy

By Outer Banks Voice on August 18, 2026

(NCDOT)

With NCDOT facing a Jan. 1, 2027 deadline to begin tolling previously untolled routes, it is providing a platform for public feedback through an online survey that will be available through September 14. Ferry Tolling Implementation – PublicInput

The questions in the survey range from asking how much a passenger would be willing to pay for a one-way toll to how NCDOT can best implement the new tolling policy.

The tolling measure, included in the new state budget, has generated significant criticism and pushback in coastal communities.  The Outer Banks Voice – Ocracoke Access Alliance seeks one-year delay for new ferry tolls. With an aging ferry fleet, the budget calls for the tolls to be used for a Ferry Capital Special Fund to pay for new ferries.

Under the 2026 law, tolls will now be required on the Currituck-Knotts Island, Bayview-Aurora, Hatteras-Ocracoke and Cherry Branch-Minnesott Beach vehicle ferry routes. In addition, NCDOT will establish a $150 annual commuter pass available to active-duty\military and permanent residents of North Carolina’s 20 coastal counties.

NCDOT had previously announced that it will hold four public “listening sessions” in communities impacted by the new toll policy. All sessions will be held from 6-8 p.m.

·         Sept. 1 – Beaufort County Community College, 5337 U.S. 264 East, Washington

·         Sept. 2 – Pamlico Community College – Delamar Center, 5049 N.C. 306 South, Grantsboro

·         Sept. 3 – Knotts Island Elementary School, 413 Woodleigh Road, Knotts Island

·         Sept. 8 – Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum, 59200 Museum Drive, Hatteras

·         Sept. 9 – Ocracoke School, 120 Schoolhouse Road, Ocracoke

NCDOT has also published a timeline for implementing the new tolling measure.

A summary of public comment will be released on Sept. 22. The recommended tolls and rate-setting methodology will be presented to the NC Board of Transportation on Oct. 8. One month later, on Nov. 5, the Board of Transportation will consider adopting the rates and methodology, with the tolls going into effect on Jan. 1.