In this Sunday, Aug. 28, 2011 file photo, officials survey the damage to N.C. Highway 12 on Hatteras Island, N.C. a day after Hurricane Irene swept through the area. The highway that is the economic lifeline for Hatteras Island is scheduled to reopen by Tuesday, Oct. 11, 2011, more than a month after Hurricane Irene chewed a new inlet through the road. Business owners are relieved, but some wonder if they can salvage any of the fall season at this point. (AP Photo/Steve Helber)