SOUTHPORT, N.C. - An official says the state-run ferry between Southport and Fort Fisher on the North Carolina coast may close for about two months this winter for repair work on loading ramps.

The Wilmington Star-News reported Saturday that ferry division director Jack Cahoon said if engineering plans are complete the route would close in December and January for ramp work on both side of the Cape Fear River route.

Cahoon said if the plans aren't complete this year, the ferry route will close the same months in 2009 and 2010.