From uber-reporter and hell of a guy Chris Baysden:
N.C. DOT's Rail Division "has applied for almost $7 million in federal planning funds that would allow for the expansion of intercity passenger rail service in the state – including between Raleigh and Wilmington. ...
"North Carolina already won a large chunk of federal money for rail improvements this year. In January, North Carolina announced grants of $545 million from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act for further development of sections of the Southeast High Speed Rail Corridor located in the state."
Granted, it would be tough to hit the train in Raleigh, get off in Wilmington and then find our way to CB, but it's at least a start.