N.C. lighthouse a finalist in contest for free repairs

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The Bodie Island Lighthouse is one of 12 finalists that could receive new windows and doors from a nationwide contest. (Chris Curry | The Virginian-Pilot)

Vote: Choose your favorite lighthouse

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By Catherine Kozak
The Virginian-Pilot
© August 8, 2008

Windows leak. Water stains streak the walls. Rusted metal work is falling apart.

It's federal property, but the budget has neglected the Bodie Island Lighthouse for so long, supporters are turning to a window manufacturer's contest for help.

The JELD-WEN Reliable Lighthouse Restoration Initiative is taking votes on which lighthouse of 12 finalists deserves free windows and doors.

Bodie Island is tied for second with Louisiana's New Canal Lighthouse. Michigan's Grand Traverse Lighthouse leads. Voting ends Sept. 7.

Outer Banks Lighthouse Society President Bett Padgett says the 1872 beacon near Oregon Inlet is the only "real, true" lighthouse of the top contenders - the others look like "a house with a little tower."

Even if it doesn't win, the company will consider donating its products, said JELD-WEN communications specialist Lynne Butterworth.

The president's proposed budget would repair the balcony, casement windows, gallery decks and 21 of 214 steps.

"If we could get the windows for free," said John Wescott, facilities management chief for the National Park Service Outer Banks Group, "then we could get more steps replaced."

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