RALEIGH — The following are highlights from this week at the N.C. Department of Transportation. The below stories are also featured in our weekly newscast, N.C. Transportation Now, which can be viewed by clicking here.

Safety Awareness

Warmer weather and longer daylight hours, unfortunately, mean an increased risk for crashes involving pedestrians, bicyclists or motorcyclists. May is designated as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month and National Bike Month to remind all road users that we share the responsibility to make sure North Carolina roads are safe for everyone.

For motorists, this means being extra watchful for others on the road, driving at a slower speed, avoiding distraction, and being prepared to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks. Also remember to share the road; motorcyclists and bicyclists have the right to a full lane. They also can be easily hidden in a car's blind spot, so take an extra moment to thoroughly check traffic when changing lanes. Bicyclists, motorcyclists and pedestrians also share in the responsibility and should make themselves visible at all times and follow all traffic rules and signals. More safety tips regarding bicyclists and pedestrians can be found here.

NCDMV Reminding Moped Owners of Insurance Requirement

The N.C. Division of Motor Vehicles is reaching out to registered moped owners to remind them that beginning July 1, they are required to carry liability insurance. Owners must provide proof of insurance to their local license plate agency or risk having their license plate revoked.

Governor Pat McCrory Helps Christen New Dredge for Ferry Division

Governor Pat McCrory and Secretary Nick Tennyson were joined by other state and local leaders this week at the Ferry Division’s shipyard in Manns Harbor to christen a new dredge. The Dredge Manteo features state-of-the-art technology, including sensors to measure the amount of material dredged, and software to map the dredge location and area to be dredged, as well as being able to dredge to a depth of 30 feet. Keeping our state-maintained waterways navigable is essential for our economy as well as safety, and is part of Governor McCrory’s 25-Year Vision for transportation.

Ferry Division Increasing Departures for Popular Summer Routes

The Ferry Division is gearing up for the busy summer travel season. To better accommodate riders on the popular Hatteras-Ocracoke ferry route, the division will be providing 36 daily departures from each side beginning Tuesday, May 3. That’s double the number of off-season departures. Lines are shortest before 9 a.m., so arrive early to avoid delays.

Beginning Tuesday, May 24, the two other routes serving Ocracoke Island — Swan Quarter and Cedar Island — will also increase their departures. Swan Quarter goes from three to five departures and Cedar Island goes from three to four departures. Reservations are recommended for these longer routes to ensure your desired departure time.

Up-to-date schedules for each of our ferry routes are available online.