This bill clarifies the legal definition of electric assisted bicycles in North Carolina by categorizing them into three classes based on motor power and speed limits. It authorizes local governments, including cities and counties, to create their own rules regarding where these bikes can be ridden, such as restricting them from sidewalks or setting speed limits on shared paths. While the bill generally allows electric bikes on all roadways, it mandates that riders under 18 wear helmets when using Class 3 bikes and permits cities to require helmets for younger riders on Class 1 and 2 bikes. Additionally, the legislation directs the Department of Transportation to create educational materials about safe e-bike usage and provides funding to support this effort.
This bill establishes the North Carolina Infrastructure Investment Commission to create a long-term, 20-year strategy for improving the state's critical systems like roads, water, and energy. The new commission will consist of ten appointed members led by the State Treasurer, who will develop a comprehensive investment plan focusing on maintenance, modernization, and resilience against severe weather. Once the plan is submitted to various legislative committees and the governor by March 2028, the commission will dissolve, and any funding decisions must still be approved by the General Assembly. The legislation also allocates $300,000 to cover the administrative costs of running the commission starting in fiscal year 2026-2027.
This bill directs the North Carolina Department of Transportation to conduct a study on how well the Strategic Prioritization Funding Plan for Transportation Investments is working. The department must examine why some projects under this plan are delayed and gather input from construction partners and planning groups. By November 1, 2026, the agency will submit a report with its findings and suggestions for improving project delivery to state legislative committees. The bill does not change any laws immediately but requires an evaluation to inform future decisions on transportation funding.
This bill directs Harnett County to adopt specific land-use planning overlays for its jetport area. By amending state law, it allows the county to create zoning rules tailored to the airport that operate outside standard local zoning restrictions. The legislation applies exclusively to Harnett County and becomes effective immediately upon passage.
HB 1145 allocates $2.5 million from the Highway Fund to the North Carolina Department of Transportation for the 2026-2027 fiscal year. These funds are designated to upgrade utilities and street infrastructure at the intersection of Highway 49 and Eastway Drive. The primary goal of this project is to improve pedestrian safety at this specific location. The legislation takes effect on July 1, 2026.
This bill allocates $545,588 from the state's General Fund to the Town of Pineville to finance a pedestrian safety project. The funds are designated for constructing a pedestrian hybrid beacon and a crosswalk at the intersection of Highway 51 and Main Street near the town hall. The primary goal of this infrastructure improvement is to enhance pedestrian safety and improve walkability within the community. The legislation takes effect on July 1, 2026, providing directed grant money specifically for these construction costs.
HB 1096, the First in Flight Act, allocates state funding to support North Carolina's aerospace industry and airport infrastructure. The bill creates a new aviation capital project account to provide grants to airports for modernization projects, provided those projects are linked to agreements with aerospace businesses. Additionally, it establishes an aerospace apprenticeship program and funds community college training initiatives to develop a skilled workforce in the sector. These measures aim to strengthen the state's economic position in aviation by improving facilities and expanding educational opportunities.
This bill directs the North Carolina Office of the State Auditor to conduct a performance audit of the Ferry Division within the Department of Transportation. The audit will review financial spending, evaluate current operations and maintenance activities, and analyze the route system to identify ways to increase revenue and lower costs. Additionally, the auditor will explore options for diversifying revenue sources to support capital projects and cover operating expenses. The final report must be submitted to the Joint Legislative Transportation Oversight Committee and the Fiscal Research Division by October 1, 2026.
This bill allocates $15.5 million in state funds to the Department of Transportation for renovating and repairing hangars at Smith Reynolds Airport in Forsyth County. The money is specifically designated for two locations: $11.5 million for the facility at 4001 North Liberty Street and $4 million for the one at 3820 North Liberty Street. These funds will cover structural repairs, modernization efforts, and necessary infrastructure improvements to the airport's hangar facilities. The legislation takes effect on July 1, 2026, and directs the allocated money to be used for these specific construction and maintenance projects.
This bill establishes a two-year pilot program to test hovercraft ferries on the Hatteras-Ocracoke route, aiming to improve travel times and reduce the need for expensive channel dredging. The North Carolina Department of Transportation will issue a request for proposals to lease or buy suitable hovercrafts and implement a fare system that is free for island residents but charges a fee for visitors. A feasibility study will evaluate the long-term benefits of replacing the current diesel fleet, including environmental impacts and financial viability, with reports due in early 2027. To fund this initiative, the state will allocate $25 million from the General Fund for the 2026-2027 fiscal year, effective July 1, 2026.