William B. Umstead Bridge, Road bridge in Dare County, United States.
The William B. Umstead Bridge is a road bridge spanning Croatan Sound, connecting Manns Harbor with Roanoke Island. The structure carries US Route 64 and provides a vital link between the mainland and the island.
The bridge opened in 1955 and was the first major crossing structure in the Outer Banks region of North Carolina. It marked a turning point for connecting this remote island area to the mainland.
The bridge honors William B. Umstead, who served as North Carolina Governor and United States Senator before the structure's dedication in 1957.
The roadway is narrow and exposed, making it susceptible to strong winds and weather conditions. Planning your crossing for calmer times and allowing extra time during peak season helps ensure a safer journey.
The western section provides roosting habitat for around 100,000 purple martins during their yearly journey to South America. This unexpected bird concentration makes the span a seasonal location of biological interest.
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