Land Use Plan Update-1986

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Division of Coastal Management_ Copy
LAND USE PLAN UPDATE
PREPARED FOR:
THE TOWN OF BEAUFORT, N.C.
By:
BATOL LA G°PLAV]Nn ONG
PLANNERS ❑ LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS
ADOPTED MARCH 18, 1986
CERTIFIED BY THE COASTAL RESOURCES COMMISSION
APRIL 4, 1986

r
V.
LAND USE PLAN UPDATE
Beaufort, North Carolina
Prepared by:
WOLLQ PLANNORS
PLANNERS M LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS
P.O. BOX 1110 • ST. MARYS, GEORGIA 31558
Adopted by the Town of Beaufort: March 18, 1986
CRC CERTIFICATION: April 4, 1986
.The preparation of this report was financed in part through a grant
provided by the North Carolina Coastal Management Program, through funds
provided by the Coastal Zone Managment Act of 1972, as amended, which is
administered by the Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management,
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

TABLE OF CONTENTS
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Introduction
v
R EXISTING CONDITIONS
1
Existing Land Use
1
Land Use Controls
8
Economic Conditions
9
Community Facilities
10
Transportation
13
Physical and Environmental Constraints
15
GROWTH TRENDS AND IMPACTS ON COMMUNITY FACILITIES
20
Population
20
POLICIES
Resource Protection
22
The Estuarine.System
22
Natural and Cultural Resource Areas
25
Storm Water Runoff
25
Marina Development
26
Floating Home Development
26
f Development of Sound and Estuarine Islands
26
Physical Constraints to Development
26
Septic Tank Suitability
26
Package Treatment Plants
26
Resource Production and Management
27
Commercial and Recreational Fisheries
27
Productive Agricultural and Forested Lands
27
Off -Road Vehicles
27
Provision of Services to Development
28
Public Water Supply
28
Public Sewage System
28
Solid Waste Disposal
28
Transportation
28
Parking
29
Fire.Protection and Rescue Squad
29
' Police
29
Recreation
29
.. Waterfront Access
29
ii

Economic and Community Development 30
General Land Use Policy 31
Residential Development 31
Commercial Development 31
Tourism 32
Historic District 32
Industrial Development 32
Committment to State and Federal Programs and
Assistance to Channel Maintenance Projects 32
Storm Hazard and Post Disaster
Reconstruction Plan 31
Continuing Public Participation 31
Land Classification 32
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LIST OF MAPS
Map 1 - Existing Land Use
Map 2 - Community Facilities
Map 3 - Environmental Determinants
Map 4 - Land Classification
LIST OF TABLES
Table 1. Existing Land Use Within Town Limits
Table 2. Existing Land Use in Extraterritorial
Area
Table 3. Existing Land Use - Total Beaufort
Planning Area
2
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16
39
0]
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INTRODUCTION
The Coastal Area Management Act of 1974.establishes a cooperative
program of coastal area management between local governments and the
State. Land use planning is intended to be central to the local govern-
ment's involvement, providing local leaders an opportunity to establish
and implement policies to guide the development of their community.
The Beaufort Land Use Plan is an expression of long range planning
goals in which the local government has set forth its major policies
concerning desirable future development over the next ten years.
The Land Use Plan is an important policy document at local, region-
al, state and federal levels. The users, in addition to the Town of
Beaufort, are regional councils of government,. State and Federal permit-
ting agencies, and public and private funding and development groups.
Local Government Uses
The plan provides policy guidance for decisions related to overall
community development, while providing the basis for land development .
regulations and capital facilities programming. Planning for the provi-
sion of capital intensive services, such as central sewer and water, is
aided .by the Land Use Plan's identification of likely growth trends and
by plan policies which will effect growth.
Local Land Development Uses
Developers and investors (including prospective residents) can use
the land use plan as a primary source of information about the communi-
ty. The plan provides data and analysis on present development pat-
terns, capacity of community facilities, population and growth patterns,
and physical limitations to development, all of which are useful in
market analyses and other feasibility studies. The plan also provides,
the investor with information about the community's preferences for
development types, densities, and locations.
Regional Uses
The Beaufort Land Use Plan will be used by the Neuse River Council
of Governments for regional planning purposes and in its function as
Regional Clearinghouse (A-95) for State and Federal funding programs.
The local plan indicates to this agency what types of development the
community feels are desirable and where the development should take
place.
State.and Federal Uses
Local land use plans are used in the granting or denial of permits
for various developments within the coastal area. State and Federal
agencies must ensure their decisions consider the policies and land
classification system established by this plan. The Coastal Area Man-
agement Act stipulates that no development permit may be issued if the
proposed development is inconsistent with the local land use plan.
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Similarly, decisions related to the use of Federal or State funds within
the community and projects being undertaken by state and federal agen-
cies themselves must also be consistent with the local plan.
vi

EXISTING CONDITIONS
The existing conditions section of this Land Use Plan presents
brief descriptions of the conditions pertinent to land use in Beaufort.
General section headings include: Existing Land.Use, Land Use Controls,
Economic Conditions, Community Facilities, Transportation, and Physical
and Environmental Constraints. Sources for Existing Conditions and all
other sections of the plan are generally cited in the course of the text,
and include the North Carolina Departments of Natural Resources and
Community Development, Transportation, Cultural Resources, and Adminis-
tration; the Division of Marine Fisheries; the Federal Emergency Manage-
ment Administration; the Carteret County Planning and Tax Departments,
Beaufort officials, and personal observations by Satilla Planning, Inc.
Sources are generally cited in the course of the text and major conclu-
sions follow as part of plan analysis.
Existing Land Use
The Town of Beaufort is known for its historic, small town charac-
ter and its beautiful waterfront areas. Although predominantly a resi-
dential community, Beaufort contains an unusually diverse mix of land
uses for a town its size. Existing land use is graphically depicted on
Map 1 (following page).
Existing land use tabulations for the corporate limits of Beaufort,
its extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ), and the total Beaufort planning
area (corporate limits plus ETJ) are found in Tables 1 through 3 (pp. 3
- 5). A descriptive summary for each land use category follows.
Residential
Residential land use in Beaufort was broken down into three catego-
ries: single family, multi -family, and mobile homes. In the extraterri-
torial area, the single family category also includes mobile homes on
individual lots.
Single Family
This is by far the predominant residential dwelling type within the
Beaufort town limits. Some 1263 dwellings, 73 percent of all dwellings
in the corporate limits, occupy slightly less than 300 acres of land.
This accounts for about 80 percent of the reside tial total. Single
family residential density is 4.3 units per acre of land, slightly more
than 10,000 square feet per unit.
In the extraterritorial area, 209 units occupy 146.5 acres. The
single family residential density here is about one third that of in -
town at 1.4 units per acre, or more than 30,000 square feet per unit.
Multi -family
All of,444 multi -family units in the Beaufort planning jurisdiction
are found within the town limits, accounting for 51.2 acres. Most of the
smaller multi -family groupings (6 units or less) are found in the oldest

TABLE 1. EXISTING LAND USE WITHIN TOWN.LINITSI
Acres Percent Units Density
of total (Units/acre)
294.4 41.1 1263 4.3
22.4 3.1 98 4.4
8.7
Land Use
Single Family
Mobile Home
Multi -family
51.2
7.1
444
Total Residential
368.0
51.3
1805
Commercial
70.4
9.8
Industrial
22.1
3.1
Public
and Institutional
58.4
8.2
Parks and Open Space
8.7
1.2
Utilities
4.4
.6
Agricultural, Forested
and Vacant
184.4
25.7
Totals 716.4 100.0
1Source: Satilla Planning field survey, February - March, 1985.
4.9
3

1
TABLE 2. EXISTING LAND USE IN EXTRATERRITORIAL AREA1
Land Use - Acres Percent Units Density
of total (units/acre)
Single Family
(includes mobile
homes on individual 146.5 6.3 209 1.4
lots)
Mobile Home Parks
5.1
.2 36 7.0
Total Residential
151.6
6.5 245 1.6
Commercial
7.2
.3
Industrial
75.8
3.3
Public
and Institutional
17.1
.7
Parks and Open Space
4.5
.2
Airport
403.6
17.4
Agricultural, Forested
and Vacant
1665.8
71.6
Totals 2325.6 100.0
1Source: Satilla Planning field survey, February - March, 1985.
El

Y
1
TABLE 3. EXISTING LAND USE - TOTAL BEAUFORT PLANNING AREA1
Land Use
Acres
Percent
Units
Density
of total
(units/acres)
Single Family
440.9
14.5
1472
3.3
Mobile Homes
27.5
.9
134
4.9
Multiple Family
51.2
1.7
444
8.7
Total Residential 519.6
Commercial
77.6
Industrial
97.9
Public and
Institutional
75.5
Airport
403.6
Parks/Open Space
13.2
Utilities
4.4
Agriculture, Forested,
Vacant
1850.2
17.1 2050 3.9
2.6
3.2
2.5
13.3
.4
.1
60.8
Totals 3042.0 .100.0
1 Area within town limits plus extraterritorial jurisdiction. Source:
Satilla Planning field survey, February - March, 1985.
5

part of Beaufort, in the area south of Town Creek. The average density
for this category is 8.7 units per acre. Newer multi -family develop-.
ments include Pirates Landing, Beaufort Towne Apartments and Brentwood
Village Apartments.
Mobile Homes
There are 98 mobile homes within the Beaufort town limits. Almost
all of these units lie within two mobile home parks on West Beaufort
Road. The average density for this category within the town limits is
roughly equivalent to that for single family dwellings in Beaufort -
about 4.4 units per acre.
Mobile homes within mobile home parks in the extraterritorial area
yield a higher density than those in Beaufort, 36 units on 5.1 acres or
about 7 units per acre.
Residential: Summary
There are a total of 1805 dwellings within the Beaufort town lim-
its. The average residential density is 4.9 units per acre. The pre-
dominant dwelling type is the single family home on an individual lot
(over 70 percent of the total). Multi -family units comprise roughly 20
percent of the dwelling unit count. Five percent of all dwellings in
Beaufort are mobile homes. Residential land use covers more than 50
percent of the land area within the town limits.
In the greater Beaufort planning area, there are 2050 homes. Some
72 percent of these units are single family or mobile homes on individu-
al lots. Twenty-two percent of the units in the planning area are multi-
family. The remaining six (6) percent are mobile homes found in mobile
home parks.
The 2050 units comprise about 17 percent of the .total land area
within the planning jurisdiction.
Commercial
There is a substantial amount of commercially developed land within
the Beaufort planning area, particularly for a town of Beaufort's popu-
lation. Of the more than 77 acres in this category, more than 90 per-
cent (70.4 acres) lies within the corporate limits. Notable commercial
areas include the waterfront commercial district and Beaufort Square
Shopping Center. Over 15 acres (19 percent) in the commercial category
can be considered marine and fisheries related commercial uses.
Industrial
A majority of the industrial land use in the Beaufort area is found
in the extraterritorial area (over 75 acres compared to 22 acres within
the town limits). The largest industrial land user is Atlantic Veneer
Plywood, located at the east end of Lennoxville Road. Much of the re-
maining industrially classified land in the extraterritorial area is
adjacent to the airport.
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Public and Institutional
Beaufort is the county seat of Carteret County and contains a sig-
nificant number of government related uses. In addition to State, Town
and County government facilities, this category includes the Mariner's
Museum, the public library, several schools, numerous churches and ceme-
teries, and fraternal and cultural buildings. Over 75 acres fall within
this category.
Parks and Open Space
Accounted for in this category are the waterfront park, Grayden
Paul Park, Freedom Park, the Town dock, and undevelopable land along
waterfront areas which is under private ownership but affords waterfront
views from public right of ways.
Airport
The Beaufort - Morehead City Airport is the single largest devel-
oped land use in the Beaufort planning area at over 400 acres.
Utilities
This category includes water distribution and sewage treatment
facilities, including wells and lift stations, and telephone and elec-
tric power facilities.
Agricultural, Forested, and Vacant
Within the town limits, of the total 184.4 acres in this category,
93 acres -fall into the agricultural category, or about 13 percent of
total land within Beaufort. Slightly less acreage within the corporate
limits of Beaufort (91.3 acres) is undeveloped.
In the extraterritorial area,
this category, more than 1660 acres
under cultivation.
Summary
the vast majority of land falls into
(71.6 percent). Much of this land is
Land use in the corporate limits of Beaufort contrasts with land
use in its extraterritorial area in several ways. First, almost all of
the land within the Town limits is.developed; only 12 percent falls into
the vacant category. And while acreage in agricultural cultivation
brings the developed total down to about 75 percent, much of the devel-
oped land is intensively developed: buildings and parking areas take up
a large percent of total lot area in much of the Town.
Within the extraterritorial area, lot sizes for the predominant
residential dwelling.types (single family and individual mobile homes)
average over 30,000 square feet, versus about 10,000 square feet within
Beaufort. This variation is partly attributable to the lack of central
water and sewer within the extraterritorial area, making large lots
necessary for septic tank requirements, and partly attributable to Beau-
fort's historic land development pattern, with its small lot sizes.
7

Generally speaking, land within the Beaufort town limits, with the
exception of agricultural areas near its northern perimeter, is urban in
nature. The Beaufort extraterritorial area remains predominantly rural
in character.
Land Use Controls
Beaufort has enforced its present zoning and subdivision regula-
tions since the 1970's. The Town -also enforces the North Carolina
Building Code, and a federally sanctioned flood plain development. ordi-
nance. Recently adopted ordinances include a Historic District Ordinance
and an ordinance regulating floating home activity.
Zoning Ordinance
Beaufort's current zoning ordinance, with subsequent amendments,
has been in force since August 1977. The ordinance is conventional in
its structure and includes several categories fof residential, commer-
cial, and industrial classifications and provides for an open space zone
and an historic district.
Beaufort's ordinance is unusual in that its Board of Adjustment is
structured to include the Town Board of Commissioners as members. The.
Board of Adjustment is a. quasi-judicial body; it makes determinations"
under the zoning ordinance as to variances, special exceptions, and
appeals covering interpretation of requirements. The Town Board of
Commissioners, on the other hand, is a legislative body that passes
local laws and oversees the, administration of town government. In
keeping with standard zoning enforcement procedures and the general
practice of separating legislative and judicial governmental functions,.
the Town should consider appointing Board of Adjustment members other
than Town Commissioners.
An amendment creating a local Historic District and Historic Dis-
trict commission was passed in February, 1985. The amendment provides
guidelines for new development and exterior reconstruction within the
district, an area bounded by Broad Street to the north, Beaufort Channel
and Taylor's Creek to the west and south, and Polluck Street to the
east. The district, which comprises a smaller area than the Beaufort
National Register District, also includes Courthouse Square, just north
of Broad Street.
Subdivision Regulations
This ordinance was adopted in June, 1979,and provides procedures
and site requirements for the subdivision and platting of land in Beau-
fort. Provisions for group housing were 'passed as an amendment to the
ordinance in June 1984.
Flood Plain Development Ordinance
Beaufort participates in the .National Flood Insurance Program and
a complies with all related regulatory requirements.
8

Floating Home Ordinance
This ordinance, adopted in September, 1983, establishes legal moor-
ing areas and required registration and fees.for live -aboard boats
anchoring in Taylor's Creek. The ordinance prohibits the discharge of
untreated sewage or other waste materials.
Storm Hazard Mitigation and Post Disaster Reconstruction Plan
This plan provides for the mitigation of hurricane hazards and
establishes guidelines for the reconstruction of public facilities and
the community at large in the event of a tropical storm disaster.
Morehead City - Beaufort Thoroughfare Plan
This 1971 Plan proposes numerous improvements to the Beaufort -
Morehead City transportation system.
Economic Conditions
Beaufort is located just east of Morehead City, the Morehead City
State Port, and the U.S. 70 connector. to the Bogue Banks beaches. Visi-
tors to the southernmost sections of the Outer Banks (Cape Hatteras,
Ocracoke, Shackleford Banks) pass through Beaufort on their way to the
Cedar Island ferry. The presence of'the State Port and related industry
is an important part of Beaufort's economy. Increasingly, Beaufort's
appeal as a tourist destination has become. a significant part of the
local economic picture. .
Beaufort is known for its historic waterfront, which has undergone
substantial revitalization in the last two decades. The waterfront area
is once again a vital commercial district and has become a major area
tourist destination. Recent investments in the waterfront area include
construction of the Inlet Inn, a 37 room, $2 million project which was
financially assisted by the Town of Beaufort through a $280,000 UDAG
grant. Additionally, smaller establishments, notably bed and breakfast
inns, have opened in the historic district and near the waterfront park
to help accommodate overnight visitors.
Beaufort has a diverse economy for its size, with a.good mix of
tourist related, retail commercial, industrial; and residential real
estate businesses. The Beaufort tax base has increased tremendously in
the last decade. Prior to the last county property re-evaluation in
1980, the Town's tax base was slightly less than $ 29 million. After
re-evaluation, the tax base had increased in 1983 to over $ 75 million.
9

Community Facilities
The location of community facilities in Beaufort is displayed on
Map 2, Community Facilities (following page).
Water Supply
The Town of Beaufort operates and maintains its own central water
system. All but two dwelling units in the town are tied into the system.
The system is due to be upgraded in conjunction with sewage treatment
system improvements eligible for the October, 1985 Federal funding
cycle.
Presently, there are three wells in the system with a total capa-
city of 2.02 mgd (millions gallons per day) and a maximum safe pumping
capacity under state standards of 1.01 mgd. Well No. 3, installed in
1984, is currently tied into the system during normal daily operations.
A $ 1 million general obligation bond referendum was passed by Beau-
fort's voters on November 5, 1985. The bond financing will provide for
the following system improvements:
o tie Well #3 into the water distribution system.
o add water storage to the existing 200,000 gallon tank with a
300,000 gallon ground tank and a 200,000 gallon elevated tank.
Maximum safe pumping capacity is currently exceeded during peak
usage in summer months. The planned improvements will correct this.
The Community Facilities Map (page 11) identifies the location of water
system components.
Sewer
Beaufort's sewage treatment system has a design capacity of 750,000
(gpd). The system, which is aged by modern standards, is hydraulically
overloaded during wet weather due to stormwater infiltration. Daily
flows range from 700,000 gpd to 1.5 million gpd. Average flow is 1
million gpd. The Town recently completed an engineering study to deter-
mine the sources of extraneous water. The study found that about
100,000 gpd of extraneous water could be eliminated from the system
through disconnection and rerouting of stormwater and -the replacement of
some old or broken city sewer lines.
The Town is planning an expansion in its design flow to 1.5 million
gpd. This figure was calculated based on current needs '(1.47 million
gpd); less extraneous flow (.1 million gpd), plus anticipated growth
needs (about 134,300 gpd).
Funding for the expansion is expected to cost about $ 1.7 million
and will come from two sources. About 88 percent of the sewer improve-
ments project cost is eligible for EPA matching funds of 55 %. EPA's
share will be in the neighborhood of $ 675,000. The Town will assume a
bond requirement for the remaining cost of the proposed improvements.
9M

The preparation of this map was financed in part through a grant pro.
vided by the North Carolina Coastal Management Program, through
funds provided by the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as
amended, which is administered by the Office of Ocean and Coastal
Resource Management, N.O.A.A.
SEE MAP #4 FOR EXTRATERRITORIAL JURISDICTION
'n
3
4
BEAUFORT, N.C.
COMMUNITY FACILITIES
MAP 2
r,.o.,.a or. SATILLA PLANNING
200 Osborne Street
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Solid Waste
Beaufort provides a town -wide refuse collection system. The Town
is responsible for local pick-up and contracts for services to transport
waste from transfer stations to the Carteret County landfill.
Pick-up is handled by one truck during the winter months. A second
truck is needed during the peak tourist season in summer. Residential
pick-up is provided twice per week. Commercial pick-up is provided on
the basis of individual requirements, generally three or more times per
week. If Beaufort continues to grow at present rates, an additional
truck and crew may be needed in the near future.
Fire Protection
The Beaufort Fire Department, which is manned by both paid and
volunteer personnel, serves Beaufort and its surrounding area. The Fire
Chief and six engineers are paid employees of the Town; there are 52
volunteers. Equipment includes three 1000 gpm pumpers. Carteret County
contracts with the Town to provide service to a designated tax district
(.72 mils). The response area extends to the North River Bridge on U. S.
70, to Back Creek on Merrimon Road, to Core Creek Bridge on N. C. 101,
and also includes Radio Island. The furthest point is about 9 miles
from the fire station.
Police
The Beaufort Police Department, which serves all areas within the
Town limits, consists of 12 officers and a police chief. Two men are on
duty at all times. During summer tourist months, auxiliary police and
four part-time officers supplement the full time force.
Recreation
Recreation facilities in Beaufort include the Waterfront Park and
Grayden Paul Park, both overlooking the Rachel Carson Estuarine Sanctua-
ry and Taylor's Creek.. Additionally, a park at the end of Front Street,
just outside the Town limits, offers tennis courts and a boat launch.
County -owned Freedom Park is located within the Town's extraterritorial
jurisdiction.
Other recreation facilities include a recreation area adjacent to
Beaufort Elementary, several neighborhood parks, and the Town Dock on
Taylor's Creek on Front Street. Boat harborage is available in the
vicinity of the Waterfront Park and in Taylor's Creek. Open space areas
in Beaufort include the scenic drive along Front Street affording a
waterfront view of Taylor's Creek and. Carrot Island, and several histo-
ric cemeteries.
Emergency Services
Emergency ambulance services are provided by the Beaufort Rescue
Squad. The operations of this volunteer organization are subsidized by
the Town which provides financial contributions, all gas and fuel, and
vehicle maintenance assistance.
12

Transportation
Roadways
Road access is one of the key determinants of land use. The availa-
bility of good road capacity and traffic volumes makes adjoining land
attractive for certain types of development, such as commercial uses
that depend on high visibility and accessibility for economic success.
On the other hand, the overloading of roads with ill -designed land uses,
such as strip commercial development along a highway, can lead to prob-
lems.of traffic safety, capacity and poor visual appearance.
Key roadways in and around Beaufort have been identified and
analyzed. The four road classifications used are: principal arterial,
minor arterial, major collector, and minor collector.
Principal Arterials
These roads are intended to serve a through traffic function and
interconnect with the Minor Arterial and major highway systems. They
collect from other arterials to provide inter -community and county
transportation functions. They should not penetrate identifiable neigh-
borhoods. Land use along principal arterials should be primarily higher
intensity commercial and industrial, or medium and high density residen-
tial uses, with limited direct highway access. Through movement should
always take precedence over access to private property.
U.S. 70 is the principal arterial serving Beaufort.
Minor Arterials
These roads are intended to serve a through -traffic function and
interconnect with and augment the Principal Arterial System. They link
two arterials or one major collector and one arterial, and distribute
traffic to geographic areas smaller than those identified with the
higher system. Land use along minor arterials may include low, medium
and high .density residential uses, provided durable and ,effective
screening techniques are employed; and medium and high intensity
commercial and industrial areas. Access should not interfere with
through traffic movement. Generally, individual residences should not
have direct access to minor arterials.
The only road classified as a minor arterial in the Beaufort area
is N. C. 101.
Major Collectors
These roads should have relatively long trip lengths and connect
arterials and/or other collectors. They should have relatively few
access points.to individual residences. Access to land uses should not
interfere with traffic movement. Land -uses along major collectors may
include high intensity or large commercial and.industrial areas, and
low, medium or high density residential uses.
13

Turner Street, Front Street between Turner and Live Oak Streets,
West Beaufort Road, Lennoxville Road and Live Oak Street between Front
and Cedar Streets have been placed in this classification.
Minor Collectors
These roads generally provide for short and medium intra-area
trips. They generally move traffic between neighborhoods and other
collectors and arterials. Land uses should generally be of lower inten-
sity, including medium and small industrial and commercial areas. Mode-
rate access to adjacent areas is generally provided. However, such
access should not interfere with normal through traffic.
Roads in this category include: Front Street, Ann Street and
Mulberry Street.
Traffic Conditions
Beaufort and Nearby Activity Centers
Beaufort is located just east of Morehead City and the Morehead
City State Port. The Bogue Banks beaches, some of which are visible from
the Beaufort waterfront, are reached via bridge from Morehead City. To
the east lies a largely unpopulated area known as Down East. Seasonal
pass through traffic is generated by summer destinations such as Harkers
Island and ferry points to the east, which connect Carteret County with
Ocracoke Island and Shackleford Banks.
Average Daily Traffic (ADT) counts for major corridors are provided
by 1983 N. C. Dept. of Transportation data. Traffic counts along Cedar
Street (U.S. 70), portions of which run through low density residential
neighborhoods, were as high as 11,100 ADT. Highest counts for U.S. 70
( 11,900 ADT) were just north of the U.S. 70 intersection with Mulberry
Street.
Within Beaufort itself, traffic is hampered by narrow roads laid
out before the advent of the automobile. ADT's for major and minor
arterials range from as much as 5000 ADT on N.C. 101 to 3500 on Live Oak
Street, 3000 on Lennoxville Road and 2300 on Turner Street. Traffic
circulation problems are intensified during the summer tourist months
when actual daily traffic counts.are significantly higher.
Parking
Despite the skillful use of almost every available bit of space,
parking in Beaufort's tourist -oriented waterfront park area never seems
to be adequate for the demand. The Town of Beaufort is in the process of
adding 47 additional spaces from a landlocked parcel between Ann'and
Front Streets. The Town has also acquired an easement for parking on a
parcel used for church parking adjacent to this new lot. In addition to
already existing lots in the immediate vicinity of the Waterfront Park,
parking is available at the waterfront along Front Street to the east of
the Waterfront Park for several blocks.
14

Parking is also a problem at other facilities located in older
parts of Beaufort which do not have offstreet parking. Parking diffi-
culties associated with the Carteret County Administration Building
should ease once the renovation of the'turn of the century courthouse is
complete.
Ample parking is available in recently built commercial areas such
as Beaufort Square and other commercial centers northeast of the N.C.
101/U.S. 70 intersection.
Physical and Environmental Constraints
The Environmental Determinants Map identifies three groups of en-
vironmental constraints to development that should be applied to the
Beaufort Land Use Plan Update:
o Hazard to life, health and property.
o Resources requiring protection.
o Land suitability for urban land use.
Other fragile areas displayed on the map include Beaufort's Histor-
ic District and the Rachel Carson National Estuarine Sanctuary. In
addition to these categories, Areas of Environmental Concern (AEC's),
which are identified and regulated by North Carolina's Coastal Area
Management Act, are also highlighted.
Hazard to Life, Heaalth and Property
A hazard assessment for flood prone areas in Beaufort was prepared
as part of the 1984 Storm Hazard Mitigation and Post Disaster Recon-
struction Plan. Hurricane hazard areas consist primarily of the 100 year
flood zone, which is delineated by the town's Federal Flood Insurance
Program rate maps, dated Oct. 18, 1983, and shown on the Environmental
Determinants Map. Generally, base flood elevations shown in areas west
of Live Oak Street are 7 feet AMSL; base flood elevations east of Live
Oak Street are 8 feet AMSL.
A significant amount of Beaufort's land area, approximately 30
percent, lies below the 100 year flood plain. However, more than half
of the land area in Beaufort is above the 500 year flood plain. This
designation means than there is a one percent chance of flooding in
these areas every 500 years.
Other Hazard Areas
Other areas in the Beaufort vicinity which are potentially
hazardous include the Beaufort - Morehead airport, and the State Port
Terminal in Morehead City. The airport is located on a promontory north
of Town Creek, and to the greatest extent possible, flight approaches
are scheduled to avoid crossing populated and developed areas. Most of
the hazardous materials travelling to the State Port enter from the west
through road and railroad right of ways terminating in Morehead City,
and thus do not enter Beaufort.
15

The preparation of this map was financed in part through a grant pro-
�%
+ vided by the North Carolina Coastal Management Program, through
t t •:'•
".
funds provided by the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as
,1 ,- •�
amended, which is administered by the Office of Ocean and Coastal
Resource Management, N.O.A.A.
SEE MAP f4 FOR EXTRATERRITORIAL t1URWDICTION
BEAUFORT, N.C.
i ENVIRONMENTAL
DETERIMINANTS
MAP 3
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Resources Requiring Protection
Land Suitability for Urban Development
The soils analysis for Carteret County, completed in 1984, was used
to develop a general soils map for the Beaufort area. Soils were anx
lyzed according to their development suitability for five indicators:
o bearing capacity
o drainage
o depth of seasonal high water table
o septic tank capability
o local roads and streets
Based on these five indicators, soils are classified on the En-
vironmental Determinants map in one of four categories:
o suitable
o moderately suitable; some drainage needed
o marginally suitable if drained
o highly unsuitable, flooding common
Most soils in developed areas within Beaufort fall into either the
suitable or moderately suitable categories (see Environmental Deter-
minants Map). Suitable soils generally have only slight limitations for
all types of construction except shallow excavations, i.e., basements.
All soils in the Beaufort area have severe limitations for shallow ex-
cavations, which is common in low-lying coastal areas. Limitations for
septic tanks range from moderate to severe for this category.
Soils in the suitable category include State Loamy Sand, Kureb
Sand, and Wando Fine Sand.
Moderately suitable soils pose constraints on construction of
buildings and roads which can, in most cases, be overcome by adequate
drainage. However, limitations on septic tanks are severe for this
category. Either central wastewater treatment or substantial site im-
provements are required.
Soils in the moderately suitable category include Mandarin Sand,
Augusta Fine Sandy Loam, and Altavista Fine Sandy Loam.
Marginally suitable soils generally place severe limitations on any
development but are not subject to regular flooding. Substantial site
modifications and/or provision. of central. sewer would be necessary to
develop sites with these soils.
Marginally suitable soils 'include Tomotley Fine Sand Loam, Deloss
Fine Sand Loam, Arapahoe Fine Sandy Loam, and Leon Sand.
Carteret type soils fall into the last classification, highly
unsuitable. This soil has severe limitations in all five categories and
is subject to flooding.
17

Agricultural -and Forested Lands
_Beaufort's largely rural extraterritorial jurisdiction contains
extensive amounts of agricultural and forested lands. Although some
conversion to residential uses will occur during the ten year planning
period, it is expected that the bulk of these rural areas will remain in
agricultural or forested uses, as residential development will tend to,
congregate along waterfront areas. Much of the land under active
cultivation lies inland, between U.S. 70 and N.C. 101, and is classified
rural (see Land Classification, inside back cover).
Beaufort Historic District
A National Register Historic District was established in Beaufort
in the 1970's, but a local historic district had not been established
until 1985. The boundaries appear on the Environmental Determinants
Map. The local district designation includes an area bounded by
Taylor's Creek and Beaufort Channel to the south and west, Pollock
Street to the east, and Broad Street to the north. The district also
includes Courthouse Square, just north of Broad Street at Turner and
Craven Streets.
The Beaufort Historic District has been described as "perhaps the
most distinctively coastal" historic community along the North Carolina
coast. Few of the structures in the district are of exceptional archi-
tectural merit as individual buildings, but the author of the National
Register nomination summary praised its overall architectural/historical
impact as extraordinary. Notable characteristics which are repeated
with a distinctively "Beaufort" style in many buildings include roof -
lines, chimneys, porches and mantels.
Rachel Carson Estuarine Sanctuary
The Rachel Carson Estuarine Sanctuary was established in .1983 and
is composed of 2025 acres of islands, marshes, intertidal flats, tidal
creeks, and shallow estuarine -waters. The site, which lies just across
Taylor's Creek from the Beaufort waterfront, includes Carrot and Horse
Islands, Bird Shoal, and Town Marsh. The sanctuary supports a locally
high concentration of flora and fauna, including a population of feral
horses. The diversity of its bird and plant populations caused The
Nature Conservancy to purchase Carrot Island in the late'1970's.
The Rachel Carson Sanctuary provides an excellent laboratory for
the study of habitat succession, bird and invertebrate populations,
feral horses and other aspects of the estuarine system. The site has
long been used for estuarine. research due to its proximity to Duke
University Marine Lab and the National Marine Fisheries Lab (both on
Pivers Island), and the University of North Carolina Institute of Marine
Sciences and the N. C. Division of Marine Fisheries Lab (both in More-
head .City).
The sanctuary site has been acquired by the State of North Carolina
.and. will be managed in. its natural state primarily for educational and
scientific research.
18

Areas of Environmental Concern
Areas of Environmental Concern (AECs) are sensitive environmental
and cultural areas protected by the Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA).
General categories of these areas are identified through State guide-
lines according to the Administrative Procedures Act, as administered by
the Division of Coastal Management. Special areas of local or regional
environmental or cultural significance can be nominated as AECs by in-
dividuals, groups or governing bodies.
AECs lying within Beaufort's jurisdiction include Coastal Wetlands,
Estuarine Waters, and Estuarine Shorelines. Development or other land
and water uses within AECs generally require CAMA permits. The State
has established extensive guidelines regarding activities within AECs,
but generally does not preclude any land use by right. As part of an
effort to share implementation of the Coastal Area Management Act with
local governments, the State's land use planning guidelines require that
local governments identify acceptable land uses within AECs within their
planning jurisdiction. Descriptions of AEC's within Beaufort's
jurisdiction are given below.
Coastal Wetlands. Coastal wetlands are defined generally as any
marshland subject to regular or occasional flooding by tides. These
wetlands are the breeding and nursery grounds for fish and shellfish
species.
Estuarine Waters. Estuarine Waters are defined as all waters of the
Atlantic Ocean within the state boundaries and all waters of the bays,
sounds, rivers and tributaries seaward to the dividing line between
coastal fishing waters and inland fishing waters, as defined by North
Carolina law. Their productive significance is similar to that of
coastal wetlands. Additional benefits include the stimulation of the
coastal economy through operations required to serve coastally-oriented
commercial and sporting industries.
Estuarine Shorelines. These shorelines are norrocean shorelines
which are especially vulnerable to erosion and flooding. They extend
landward a distance of 75 feet from the mean water level along all
estuarine waters.
The significance of estuarine shorelines lies in their proximity to
sensitive coastal systems. Estuarine shorelines are also subject in
many areas to intense development activities which may have a
potentially detrimental impact on those sensitive systems.
Public Trust Areas can be generally defined as all estuarine water
areas and all lands under such waters, and may also include artificially
created bodies of water (and the lands underneath) to which the public
has rights of access and/or navigation.
Management guidelines and rules for uses for all Areas of Environ-
mental Concern are described in the most recently amended version of
Section 15: 7H of the North Carolina Administrative Code. These rules
are available through Division of Coastal Management offices in both
Raleigh and .Morehead City.
19

GROWTH TRENDS AND IMPACTS ON COMMUNITY FACILITIES
Population
The 1980 Census found that Beaufort had a population of 3,826
persons. This represented an increase of 14 percent over the 1970
population of 3,368. This yields an low average increase per year of
less than one and a half percent over the decade.
The N. C. Office of State Budget and Management publishes official
population estimates for North Carolina municipalities. The latest
figure available is for July. 1, 1983. Estimates of 1984 population will
be available in mid -September. The 1983 estimate, 4,224, represents a
ten percent increase over the 1980 census count, indicating that growth
rates have increased to slightly more than 3 percent per year since
1980.
It is difficult to project population in a meaningful way for a
community the size of Beaufort. Factors other than birth, death and
migration rates based on past trends can sometimes provide more mean-
ingful insight into potential population increases. Factors affecting
future population in Beaufort include:
o The availability of land suitable for development of
resort/retirement homes in Beaufort and its immediate area.
o The annexation of new areas into the town limits; presently, a
limited amount of vacant land remains within the city limits.
o - Whether or not water and sewer services are available in
developing areas.
o The desirability of Beaufort and vicinity as a
resort/retirement location.
o The continued economic viability of the area.
Assuming the market for first and second home and retirement devel-
opment, as well as the economy in general, remains healthy, the Beaufort
area should see continued residential development over the next decade.
The density of that development - and thus the size of the future popu-
lation - depends on the availability of land and the availability of
urban services.
Present trends show a tendency toward low density (three-quarter
acre+ single family lots) water oriented development in the extraterri-
torial area. Many of the most desirable waterfront areas are remote
from present central water and sewer lines. Within the present town
limits (and' the water and sewer service area), the trend is toward
infill multi -family and condominium development at higher densities
(from 8 to 20 units per acre). Much of the remaining vacant land inside
the town limits would require the extension of water and sewer lines and
streets and roads in order to serve it for residential use.
20

Based on a ratio of 150 gpd per person, the planned sewer and water
system improvements will be adequate to serve about 5000 additional
people in Beaufort.
If population increases in Beaufort continues at a rate of 3 % per
year (the 1980 to 1983 rate), the following population trends can be
expected.
PROJECTED PERMANENT POPULATION 1985 to 1995
1985 1990 1995
4427 5129 5945
Based on these projection rates, additional sewage treatment system
improvements will be needed by 1990. If the population growth rate
increases at a faster rate than 3 percent per year, expansion of ser-
vices will be needed sooner.
21

POLICIES
RESOURCE PROTECTION
Areas of Environmental Concern
The Town of Beaufort will support and enforce through its CAMA
permitting capacity the State policies and permitted uses in the Areas
of Environmental Concern (AEC's). The State policy statements for AEC's
offer protection for Beaufort's fragile and significant environmental
resources through CAMA permitting procedures. In accordance with those
policies set forth in subchapter 7H of the North Carolina Administrative
Code, Beaufort adopts the following policies concerning AEC's within its
jurisdiction.
The Estuarine System
In recognition of the enormous economic, social and biological
values the estuarine system has for North Carolina, Beaufort will
promote conservation and management of the estuarine system as a whole,
which includes the individual AEC's: coastal wetlands, estuarine waters,
public trust areas, and estuarine shorelines.
The management objective for the system shall be to give highest
priority to the protection and coordinated management of all the ele-
ments as an interrelated group of AEC's, in order to safeguard and
perpetuate the above stated values, and to ensure that any development
which does occur in these AEC's is compatible with natural characteris-
tics so as to minimize the likelihood of significant loss of private
property -and public resources.
In general, permitted land uses in the coastal wetlands, estuarine
waters, and public trust areas should be those which are water depen-
dent. Examples of ,such uses may include: utility easements, docks, boat
ramps, wharfs, dredging, bridges and bridge approaches, revetments,
bulkheads, culverts, groins, navigational aids, mooring pilings, naviga-
tional channels, simple access channels, and drainage ditches.
Specific policies regarding acceptable and unacceptable uses within
the individual AEC's of the estuarine system are stated below. In all
cases the particular location, use, and design characteristics shall be
in accord with the general use standards for coastal wetlands, estuarine
waters, and public trust areas as stated in NCAC Subchapter 7H.
o Coastal Wetlands: Coastal wetlands in Beaufort are located
along Taylor's Creek, which parallels the downtown waterfront
area on the north side, and Town Marsh, Bird Shoal and Carrot
Island on the south side. Activities in the coastal wetland
areas shall be restricted to those which do not significantly
affect the unique and delicate balance of this resource.
Suitable land uses include those giving highest priority to
the protection .and management of coastal wetlands, so as to
safeguard and perpetuate their biological, social economic and
aesthetic values and to establish a coordinated management
22

system as a natural resource essential to the functioning of
the entire estuarine system. Highest priority of use shall be
allocated to the conservation of existing coastal wetlands.
Second priority shall be given to those uses that require
water access and cannot function elsewhere.
Acceptable land uses may include utility easements, fish-
ing piers, and docks. Unacceptable uses may include, but
would not be limited to, restaurants, businesses, residences,
apartments, motels, hotels, floating homes, parking lots,
private roads, and highways.
The fundamental policy objective for coastal wetland
areas in Beaufort is to preserve as much marsh in its natural
state as possible. The marsh also provides shoreline protec-
tion from boat traffic and may require some fill due to ero-
sion caused by boat traffic. Any other project related fill
should be directly related to erosion control or water depen-
dent activities.
Carrot Island, Town Marsh, Bird Shoal, which make up the
Rachel Carson National Estuarine Sanctuary, and all other
marsh areas should be left in their natural state . The only
possible exception to this policy would be as a last resort
for placement of spoils from maintenance excavation of Tay-
lor's Creek.
It is recommended that public access to the National
Estuarine Sanctuary be by private boat only. No commercial
ventures of any type should be allowed. Additionally, no off -
road vehicles including mini -bikes or any type of motorized
vehicle should be allowed in this area.
The harbor refuge area south of the airport should be
developed and maintained as a safe refuge for boating, parti-
cularly in the event of stormy weather.
o Estuarine. Waters: In recognition of the importance of estua-
rine waters for the fisheries and .related industries as well
as aesthetics, recreation, and education, Beaufort shall pro-
mote the conservation and quality of this resource. Acti-
vities in the estuarine water areas shall be restricted to
those uses which do not permanently or significantly affect
the function, cleanliness, salinity, and circulation of estua-
rine waters. Highest priority of use shall be allocated to
the conservation of estuarine waters and its vital components.:
Second priority shall be given to uses which require water
access and cannot function elsewhere.
Appropriate uses may include simple access channels,
structures which prevent erosion, navigational channels, boat
docks, marinas, piers, and mooring pilings.
The development L-id maintenance of Taylor's Creek as a
navigable channel and promotion of the harbor refuge area are
23

appropriate uses and activities that are of particular impor-
tance to Beaufort's economic well being.
o Public Trust Areas: In recognition of certain land and water
areas in which the public has certain established rights and
which also support valuable commercial and sports fisheries,
have aesthetic value, and are resource's for economic develop-
ment, Beaufort shall protect these rights and promote the
conservation and management of public trust areas. Suitable
land/water uses include those which protect public rights for
navigation and recreation and those which preserve and manage
the public trust areas in order to safeguard and perpetuate'
their biological, economic, social, and aesthetic value.
In the absence of overriding public benefit, any use
which significantly interferes with the public right of navi-
gation or other public trust rights which apply in the area
shall not be allowed. Projects which would directly or indi-
rectly block or impair existing navigational channels, in-
crease shoreline erosion, deposit spoils below mean high tide,
cause adverse water circulation patterns, violate water quali-
ty standards, or cause degradation of shellfish waters shall,
in general, not be allowed.
Uses that may be allowed in public trust areas shall not
be detrimental to the public trust rights and the biological
and physical functions of the estuary. Examples of such uses
include the development of navigational channels or drainage
ditches, the use of bulkheads to prevent erosion, the building
of piers, docks or marinas.
o Estuarine Shoreline: NCAC Subchapter 15 Section .7H defines the
estuarine shoreline as the area 75 feet landward of estuarine
water. Beaufort recognizes: 1) the close association between
estuarine shorelines and estuarine waters, 2) the influence
shoreline development has on the quality of estuarine life,
and 3) the damaging processes of shorefront erosion and flood-
ing to which the estuarine shoreline is subject.
Beaufort supports the Division of Coastal Management in
their efforts to preserve the Estuarine Shoreline AEC, and the
Army Corps of Engineers in their dredging operations and their
efforts to find suitable locations for spoil material.
Suitable land uses within the estuarine shoreline AEC are
those compatible with both the dynamic nature of estuarine
shorelines and the values of the estuarine system.
Residential, recreational, and commercial land uses are
all appropriate types of use along the estuarine shoreline
provided that all standards of NCAC 15 Subchapter 7H relevant
to estuarine shoreline AEC's are met, and all local land use
regulations are met.
24

Natural and Cultural Resource Areas
These fragile coastal natural resource .areas are generally recog-
nized to be of educational, scientific or cultural value because of the
natural features of the particular site. Individual AEC's included in
this general category are: coastal complex natural areas, coastal areas
that sustain remnant species, unique coastal geologic formations, signi-
ficant coastal architectural resources, and significant coastal -archaeo-
logical resources. This AEC category is unique in that individual
natural and cultural resource AEC's are established through a special
designation process which involves a detailed nomination and review
process prior to formal recognition by the Coastal Resources Commission.
Uncontrolled or incompatible development may result in major or
irreversible damage to fragile coastal resource areas which contain
environmental, natural, or cultural resources of more than local signi-
ficance. In recognition of this, Beaufort will seek to protect such
natural systems or cultural resources; scientific, educational or asso-
ciated values, and aesthetic qualities.
Beaufort supports the policies and guidelines stated in Subchapter
7H of NCAC 15 regarding these irreplaceable resources.
Stormwater Runoff
Urban type development, often well outside designated AEC's, can
pose a serious threat to the health and productivity of the estuarine
system through the rapid discharge of pollutants washed off impervious
surfaces such as streets, roofs, and parking lots by rain and stormwa-
ter.
Beaufort's Subdivision Regulations include a drainage plan review
as part of the requirements for subdivision approval and group housing
approval. Drainage impacts on adjacent property and surrounding surface
waters has long been of concern in low-lying Beaufort. Drainage plans
associated with new development should be reviewed to ensure that imper-
vious surfaces are kept to a minimum, and that storm water from large
impervious areas is not directly discharged to estuarine waters.
one method of promoting developers to minimize stormwater runoff
impacts is to encourage the use of best available stormwater management
practices. Examples of these practices include: using pervious or semi -
pervious materials, such as turfstone, pebbles, or gravel -run, for
driveways, parking lots and walkways; retaining natural vegetation along
marsh and waterfront areas to retain their natural filtering properties;
and allowing storm water to percolate into the ground rather that dis-
charging it directly into coastal waters:
The Town will continue its practice of reviewing all subdivisions
and group housing development plans for stormwater drainage improve-
ments. THe review is made by the Public Works Director who makes recom-
mendations to the Board of Adjustment.,
25

Marina Development
Recognizing the extensive limitations placed on the alteration of
natural systems by*State and. Federal law, the key area of jurisdiction
for Beaufort on this issue lies within its local regulatory and zoning
authority.
There are several marinas already in existence within Beaufort's
planning jurisdiction and the -potential exists for others. Beaufort
specifies permissible locations and standards for the development of
marinas through its zoning ordinance.
It is the policy of Beaufort to consider the appropriateness and
desirability of any specific -proposal to construct a marina on the basis
of expected impacts. These impacts include, but are not limited to,
aesthetics; hours of operation; traffic generation including the ability
of the existing road network to adequately handle peak traffic loads;
environmental impacts including water quality and dredge spoil disposal
sites; and consistency of the proposal with other policies of the Land
Use Plan.
Floating Home Development
Beaufort enforces an ordinance regulating use of Taylor's Creek for
mooring of live -aboard vessels. Such vessels are permitted provided
they comply with all requirements of the Town of Beaufort, including
payment of mooring fees (if anchored more than 48 hours) and discharge
of sewage. The majority of vessels mooring in Beaufort are sailboats.
Development of Sound and Estuarine Islands
Beaufort's policy regarding any such areas is to place them in the
Conservation land classification. Any development on such islands must
be consistent with State and local policies regarding the Conservation
land class.
PHYSICAL CONSTRAINTS TO DEVELOPMENT
Beaufort adopts the following policies regarding physical con-
straints to development:
Septic Tank Suitability
In conformity with State health regulations, growth and development
will be discouraged in areas where septic tanks will not function and
where sewer services are not available. Most areas within the city
limits of Beaufort have sewer services. Further development is encour-
aged where these services are already provided.
Package Treatment Plants
Most areas within the Town of Beaufort are served by central sewage
treatment facilities. The Town is in -the process of rehabilitating its
26

existing system, which will provide additional sewage treatment capaci-
ty. The Town's policy is to encourage utilization of the central treat-
ment facility and to discourage the use of package treatment plants.
Tap -in to the central system is required within the town limits and as a
condition of annexation.
RESOURCE PRODUCTION AND MANAGEMENT
Beaufort's natural resources play a vital role in its economy; its
beach and water areas are important to fisheries and recreation. Pro-
tection of these resources is a prime concern of the Town of Beaufort.
Commercial and Recreational Fisheries
Beaufort will encourage preservation and expansion of its fisheries
industry, both sports and commercial. Protection of coastal and estua-
rine waters is a prime prerequisite of this policy objective. Habitats
for shellfish and finfish in all portions of their life cycle must be
preserved in order to maintain fishing as a viable economic and recrea-
tional activity.
Therefore, any development which will adversely affect coastal and
estuarine waters will be discouraged. Only those developments which are
water dependent, such as docking facilities, treatment plants, and
marinas shall be allowed to be placed near and to effect coastal and
estuarine water habitats. In the design, construction, and operation of
water.dependent developments, every effort must be made to mitigate
negative effects on water quality and fish habitat. These efforts will
be made at the owner's or operator's own expense.
The establishment of the harbor.refuge area will continue to be
promoted to provide a safe harbor during inclement weather conditions.
Additionally, the Town will encourage the establishment of additional
small boat maintenance facilities and small boat launching ramps.
Productive Agricultural and Forested Lands
Lands which are presently in productive agricultural or forestry
.uses will be encouraged to continue in those uses.. In general, growth
and development will be discouraged in productive agricultural lands
when such growth .is not in accordance with other land development poli-
cies of this Plan. This policy will be implemented through land classi-
fication and zoning controls.
Off -Road Vehicles
The Town enforces a local ordinance restricting the use of off -road
vehicles entirely, including trail bikes or, mini -bikes, on Bird Shoal,
Carrot Island, Town Marsh, and all cemeteries within Beaufort.
27

PROVISION OF SERVICES TO DEVELOPMENT
Public Water Supply
The Town of Beaufort is committed to providing water service
throughout Beaufort. New developments within the Town limits are re-
quired to tie-in to the central water system. Delivery of water ser-
vices in the extraterritorial area may require annexation and/or that
the cost of installation and water service delivery be borne by the user
or developer.
The Town is committed to making improvements to its water storage
system which will provide Beaufort with combined ground and elevated
storage capacity equal to or greater than a one day reserve supply.
Public Sewage System
The Town of Beaufort is committed to the implementation of improve-
ments to its sewage treatment system which will be adequate for the
needs of existing development within the city and which will provide
additional capacity for future development.
New developments within the Town limits are required to tie-in to
the central sewage treatment system. Delivery of sewage treatment
services in the extraterritorial area generally requires annexation and
that the cost of installation and service delivery be borne by the user
or developer.
Solid Waste Disposal
Beaufort will continue to provide solid waste disposal for its
citizens using the waste disposal facilities of Carteret County.
Transportation
Beaufort supports the following policy concerning roadway improve-
ments and recommends these actions to the N.C. Dept. of Transportation:
o Construction of a a highrise bridge to replace the obsolete
drawbridge over Gallants Channel. This work should be placed
on the D.O.T. 10 year work program.
o Repair or rehabilitation of U.S. 70 from Gallants Channel to
Live Oak Street, including improving subsurface drainage con-
ditions which cause the road to deteriorate.
o Widening of U.S. 70 north of its intersection with N.C. 101 to
north of Beaufort Square Plaza.
o Installation,of traffic signals at the following locations:
o The intersection of U.S. 70 and N.C. 101.
o The entrance to Beaufort Square Plaza on U.S. 70.
28

o Replace the present drainage culverts on S.R. 1174 (Turner
Road) with drainage structures adequate to handle spring tide
loads.
Further, the Town of Beaufort seeks the cooperation of N.C.D.O.T.
in placing sidewalks and making other necessary improvements along Front
Street Extension (S.R. 1312) from Fulford Street to its terminus near
the State maintained boat ramp area and town park. This right of way,
which is controlled by the State, needs drainage improvements, including
curb and gutter, in addition to sidewalks.
The Town also feels that the lack of public transportation is
becoming more of a problem and would like to promote the establishment
of a bus or other group. transportation service in the future. Such a
service might include trips to ad from Morehead City, between downtown
Beaufort and Beaufort Square, and possibly a run as far east as the
community of Atlantic.
Parking
All new development in Beaufort must provide off-street parking in
accordance with the Town's zoning ordinance. Additionally, the Town
will continue to develop more parking spaces in the commercial water-
front district to enhance tourism development. Parking in the water-
front area was increased by 100 parking spaces during the summer of 1985
through Town actions. Future plans call for the widening of Front
Street from Pollock east to Live Oak to provide additional on -street
parking.
Fire Protection and Rescue Squad
Beaufort supports the provision of fire protection and rescue
services to its residents through use of volunteer departments and will
continue to provide financial support to these -departments.
Police
Beaufort is committed to providing police protection services ade-
quate for community safety and in keeping with its population within the
Town limits.
Recreation
Beaufort is committed to providing recreation areas, services and
facilities adequate to serve its population. The Town will continue to
work jointly with Carteret County to provide a year round recreation
program.
Waterfront Access
The Town of Beaufort wishes to continue to improve access to water-
front areas for a variety of recreational purposes. The Town is commit-
ted to providing facilities which enhance access and use of access
areas, including walkways, docks, passive recreation areas and parking
29

areas, by means and methods which minimize potential environmental and
aesthetic impacts.
Water access improvements in Beaufort should include consideration
for the following types of access:
o Visual access and the preservation of existing views. Im-
provements to enhance visual access could include landscaping
certain areas (including parking areas); providing walkways in
areas where parking is not feasible; and protecting existing
views through local controls such as height limitations. The
development of the waterfront park, the protection of the
almost completely open waterfront view along the entire length
of Front Street, and the Town's height limitation of 35 feet
put Beaufort in excellent shape regarding these goals.
o Access for swimming, fishing, or boating. Where feasible,
these activities should be kept separate to avoid use con-
flicts. The scale of such facilities should be in keeping
with surrounding uses and the scale of the existing site. The
close proximity of waterfront and other uses in very limited
amounts of space have sometimes created water access use
conflicts in Beaufort.
The Town should develop a strategic plan for water access improve-
ments which could then be implemented over a period of years. These
improvements should be scheduled to make maximum use of State Shoreline
Access funds. Careful attention should be given to the improvement of
smaller sites along the waterfront in order to make maximum use of
access to the shore, using creative, lower cost approaches where practi-
cal. In light of the Town's excellent record of preserving visual open
space, future efforts might best be concentrated on improving active
recreation access facilities in keeping with community needs and the
Town's resources.
ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Beaufort views itself as primarily a residential community with
limited potential for other types of growth, due to its existing charac-
ter as an historic, residential community, and to the lack of available.
land within the town limits for additional development. New development,
whether within the town limits or in the extraterritorial area, should
consistent with Town policies on the provision of services and local
land use regulations.
Economic development efforts, particularly those involving the
Beaufort - Morehead City Airport, will be coordinated with the Carteret
Economic Development Commission. Additionally, the Town will cooperate
with Carteret County, airport officials, NCDOT, and the FAA in estab-
lishing any height restrictions in the vicinity of the airport.
Energy Siting Facilities
Because of Beaufort's proximity- to sensitive marshes and estuarine
waters, the Town Planning Board and Board of Commissioners will require
priorknowledge' and approval of any proposed energy facilities, inclu-
ding the location and storage of toxic and hazardous materials.
30

General Land Use Policy
It is the policy of the Town to allow new residential, recreation-
al, commercial and light industrial development within the community,
provided that such developments are in keeping with the character of the
Beaufort community. Any development within the Town's jurisdiction must
be consistent with other relevant land use policies and all local land
use regulations.
Residential Development
Beaufort wishes to encourage the maintenance of existing residen-
tial areas as desirable places to live for its residents, and to ensure
that newresidential development is compatible with existing residential
scale and density. The location, density and scale of new residential
development, including mobile homes, will be controlled with this direc-
tive in mind through the Town's zoning and other land regulatory ordi-
nances.
Commercial Development
Downtown Waterfront Commercial Area
The Downtown Waterfront area is one of the most important compo-
nents of Beaufort's community image. This area is attractive to visi-
tors and tourists and, despite concerns over the adequacy of parking,
will likely continue to attract commercial and recreational investment
which can be an asset to the community.
The Town will continue to seek the enhancement of the waterfront
commercial district by encouraging continued revitalization of, and
investment in, existing businesses and structures. Any new uses should
be compatible in terms of use and scale. Innovative methods of provi-
ding parking and increasing the availability of parking should be en-
couraged on the part of businesses and other users located in the area.
Outlying Commercial Areas
The Town of Beaufort recognizes that most new commercial uses,
particularly those emphasizing high volume, will tend to locate near the
intersection of N.C. 101 - U.S. 70 or along U. S. 70 north of this
intersection. The Town's policy regarding commercial development in
these outlying areas is that such development be in keeping with the
existing character of the community, should be constructed and designed
as to minimize impacts on major highways as transportation systems, and
should not encroach on existing or planned residential areas..
Redevelopment of Developed Areas
The redevelopment efforts of Beaufort have resulted in a highly.
successful and visible example of waterfront improvement. It is the
Town's desire that this effort shall always be considered as an on -going
project and will continue to be updated as needed.
31

The recent citizen's survey identified the U.S. 70 - Cedar Street
area as an area with potential for redevelopment. Most comments reflec-
ted a desire to improve the visual impression of this area, which is the
entrance to Beaufort from Morehead City.
Tourism
Recognizing that tourism is an important component of its economy,
Beaufort will continue to promote and encourage tourism through methods
which are in keeping with the existing character of Beaufort and consis-
tent with its planning policies.
Historic District
The Town of Beaufort recently established a Historic District
Commission to review new development and exterior changes to structures
within a local historic district. The Town's policy regarding the
Historic District is to promote, enhance and preserve the existing
character of the district.
Beaufort may wish to conduct additional architectural and archaeo-
logical surveys of its historic district. If so, the Town may want to
consider becoming established as a Certified Local Government for histo-
ric preservation funding purposes through the N. C. Division of Archives
and History. This designation could increase Beaufort's chances for
funding of locally desirable survey or other preservation work.
Industrial Development
Because of Beaufort's desire to maintain its attractiveness as a
community and to protect its tourism industry, the Town wishes to en-
courage the establishment or expansion of industrial developments which
are "clean" in nature and which are in keeping with the existing charac-
ter of Beaufort. Preferred development would include small or medium
scale light industrial uses which do not produce or handle any toxic,
'hazardous, or odorous materials or substances.
Commitment to State and Federal Programs and Assistance to Channel
Maintenance Projects
Beaufort supports those state and federal programs and policies
which effect its jurisdiction, consistent with locally adopted plans,
policies and ordinances.
Beaufort supports the continued maintenance of existing channels
within .its jurisdiction and will cooperate with efforts necessary for
channel maintenance.
STORM HAZARD MITIGATION AND POST DISASTER RECONSTRUCTION PLAN
Storm Hazard Mitigation
A significant amount of the land area in Beaufort lies within the
hazard areas defined in Before the Storm (McElyea, Brower, and God-
schalk, UNC Center for Urban & Regional Studies, 1982), the Division of
32

Coastal Management's guide to pre -hurricane and post -disaster planning.
Applicable hazard areas within Beaufort included the Estuarine Shoreline
AEC (Hazard Area 1, the most severe category), and FEMA A -zone lines
(Hazard Area 3).
In most cases, these lands are subject to local, state and federal
standards which will limit the placement or replacement of structures
within the hazard area.
In general terms, Beaufort's existing policies meet the require-
ments for storm hazard mitigation planning' in Before the Storm . These
policies consist of a combination of accompanying Land Use Plan policies
and regulations established by the Town's land development ordinances.
Specifically:
o Lands in the estuarine shoreline AEC are subject to
development limitations which are in the process of
being strengthened by the Coastal Resource Commission.
The expected effect will be to further limit the amount
and placement of development in these fragile areas.
This will indirectly provide a further limitation on
new construction which would be at risk from hurricanes
and tropical storms.
o Lands in FEMA A -zones are subject to elevation star-
dards and insurance requirements which help ensure that
damage to any new development which occurs will be
minimized in the event of a hurricane or tropical
storm.
o The Town's policies and ordinances support and are
consistent with State policies and regulations for
development in Areas of Environmental Concern.
o All.new development must conform with the provisions of
the North Carolina Building Code.
o The Town's flood plain development policies conform
with all Federal and State requirements.
Post Disaster Reconstruction
The Beaufort Post Disaster Reconstruction Plan has been provided as
a separate document. A summary of Post Disaster Reconstruction policies
and procedures is outline below. These policies presume intergovernmen-
tal coordination with the Carteret County Evacuation Plan and recovery
procedures operations.
The Town's Post Disaster Reconstruction Plan is organized in the
following sections: .
o Introduction
0 organization of Local Damage Assessment Team
o Damage Assessment Procedures and Requirements
33

o Organization of Recovery Operations
o Recommended Reconstruction Policies
The following provides a summary of the plan's most important
provisions and policies from each of these five sections.
(1) Introduction. Defines plan purpose and use; identifies three
distinct reconstruction periods: Emergency, Restoration and
Replacement/Reconstruction. Outlines sequence of procedures to -be
followed to meet State and Federal Disaster relief regulations: 1)
Assess storm damage and report to County, 2) County complies and
summarizes individual community reports, 3) State compiles County
data and makes recommendation to the Governor, 4) Governor requests
presidential declaration, 5) Federal relief programs available.
(2) Organization of Local Damage Assessment Team. Outlines personnel
available and sets up means for mayoral appointment of team.
(3) Damage Assessment Procedures and Requirements. The purpose of this
phase is to rapidly determine immediately following a storm
disaster: 1) number of structures damaged, 2) magnitude of damage
by structure type, 3) estimated total dollar loss, and 4) estimated
total dollar loss covered by insurance. To accomplish this, the
plan establishes four categories of damage: 1) destroyed (repairs >
80 % of value), 2) major (repairs.> 30 % of value), 3) minor
(repairs < 30 % of value), and 4) habitable (repairs < 15 % of
value). A color coding system is recommended for this phase of
damage assessment. Total damage in dollars is estimated by taking
the tax valuation times a factor to make prices current, then
factoring these figures according to number of structures in each
of -the above damage classifications. Estimated insurance coverage
is made by utilizing information as to average coverage obtained by
insurance agencies on an annual basis.
(4) Organization of Recovery Operations. The Mayor and Board of
Commissioners assume the duties of a Recovery Task Force. The Task
Force must accomplish.the following:
o Establish re-entry procedures.
o Establish overall restoration scheme.
o Set restoration priorities.
o Determine requirements for outside assistance and re-
questing such assistance when beyond local capabilities.
o Keep appropriate County and State officials informed
using Situation and Damage Reports.
o Keep the public informed.
o Assemble and maintain records of actions taken and
expenditures and obligations incurred.
34

o Proclaim a local "state of emergency" if warranted.
o Commence cleanup, debris removal, and utility restora-
tion activities undertaken by private utility compan-
ies.
o Undertake repair and restoration of essential public
facilities and services in accordance with priorities
developed through situation evaluations.
o Assist individual property owners in obtaining informa-
tion on the various types of assistance that might be
available from Federal and State agencies.
(5) Recommended Reconstruction Policies. The policies outlined are for
the Mayor and Commissioners to consider after a storm occurs. It
is impractical to determine at this time what specific responses
are appropriate, since the circumstances surrounding a given storm
can vary greatly. The following policy areas are discussed:
Permitting. Permits to restore previously conforming structures
outside AEC's issued automatically. Structures suffering major
damage allowed to rebuild to original state but must be in
compliance with N.C. Building Code, Zoning, and Flood Hazard
Regulations. Structures with minor damage allowed to rebuild to
original state before the storm. Structures in AEC's allowed to
rebuild only after determination has been made as to adequacy of
existing development regulations in these special hazard areas.
Utility and Facility Reconstruction: Water system components
repaired or replaced must be floodproofed or elevated above the 100
year flood level. Procedures established to effect emergency
repairs to major thoroughfares if necessary.
Temporary Development Moratorium. To be considered after major
storm damage for AEC's if existing regulations appear inadequate to
protect structures from storm damage.
CONTINUING PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
Beaufort realizes an important part of any planning program is
citizen involvement, and throughout the planning process during the 1985
Update, has encouraged its citizens to become involved in the land use
planning process. The press was notified of meetings at which the plan
was to be discussed through press releases and the public was invited.
The Beaufort Board of Adjustments (which includes the Town Board of
Commissioners) was the group responsible for the development and review
of the land use plan, and meetings to discuss plan development were
generally held at regular Board of Adjustment sessions. The Land Use
Plan Update was discussed at public meetings on the following dates:
November 12, 1984; January 14, 1985; March 4, 1985; April 29, 1985; May
13, . 1985; June 3, 1985; and July 1, 1985.
35

A questionnaire was developed by the Town's planning board in
conjunction with the consultant and was distributed to Town residents
and residents of, the extraterritorial jurisdiction in. May, 1985. Over
a 400 of the 2000 surveys distributed were returned. The survey results
were most helpful in identifying and confirming the feelings of the
community at large on such issues as growth levels and the location of
new growth, urban service delivery and extension, and the desirability
of additional tourist accommodations in Beaufort.
Beaufort's policies on public involvement are as follows:
o All land use plans and updates will be prepared with public
participation.
o Citizen participation in the land use planning process will
be accomplished through:
o Education: the public will be kept informed of progress
on the land use plan through the use of a variety of
media. Methods which can be used include, but are not
limited to, news releases, news reports on meetings
dealing with the land use plan, public meetings and
presentations, television public service announcements
and flyers.
o Direct participation: citizens will have an opportunity
to attend public meetings dealing with the land use
plan, submit comments on an informal and formal basis,
and review the final draft at required public hearings.
Citizen's surveys can reach every household in the
city, providing a broad based opportunity for
participation.
36

LAND CLASSIFICATION
The Land Classification Map is a generalized map differentiating
between development -oriented areas and areas which have been set aside
for natural resource protective purposes.
Beaufort's land classification designations are consistent with the
land classification system described in the State Land Use Planning
Guidelines (NCAC 15, Subchapter 7B). The Town's land classification map
has been coordinated with and is consistent Carteret County's system.
The majority of Beaufort has been classified as "developed". Portions
of the extraterritorial area, notably the Beaufort - Morehead City
airport and subdivided residential areas, are classified transition.
The majority of the extraterritorial area remains undeveloped and is
classified rural The coastal wetlands, floodplain areas, estuarine
waters and Rachel Carson National Estuarine Sanctuary have been placed
in the "conservation" category. The classifications were based on the
following descriptions.
Developed
This classification is intended to provide for continued intensive
development and redevelopment of existing areas that are at or approach-
ing the following densities:
o. 500 dwelling units per square mile, or.
o Three (3) dwelling units per acre, or
o Where a majority of lots are 15,000 square feet or
less, and
which are currently served by public water, sewer, recreational facili-
ties, and police and fire protection.
Transition
The intent of the transition classification is to provide for
future intensive urban development at the densities specified above
under the developed classification. These areas are or will be served
with the same urban services as those areas in the developed land class-
ification.
Rural
The purpose of the rural class is to .provide for agriculture,
forestry, mineral extraction and various other low intensity uses,
including low density dispersed residential uses where urban services
are not and will not be required. Any development in this class should
not significantly impair or permanently alter natural resources.
Conservation
The purpose of the conservation class is to provide for the effec-
tive long term management and protection of significant, limited or
irreplaceable areas. Management is needed due to the natural, cultural
37

recreational scenic or natural productive values of both local and more
' than local concern.
This class is generally applicable to major wetlands, undeveloped
shorelines, and areas. of important wildlife habitat. The Rachel Carson
National Estuarine Sanctuary is a significant component of the conserva-
tion land class in Beaufort.
38

The preparation of this map was financed in part through a grant pro-
vided by the North Carolina Coastal Management Program, through
funds provided by the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as
amended, which is administered by the Office of Ocean and Coastal
Resource Management, N.O.A.A.
LAND CLASSIFICATION
DEV
DEVELOPED
TRAN
TRANSITION
RUR
RURAL
CON
CONSERVATION
BEAUFORT, N.C.
Prepared By: SATILLA PLANNING
200 Osborne Street
St. Marys, Georgia
Mapping Date: AUGUST, 1985
NORTH 0' 800' 1600' 2400'
MAP 4