Land Use Plan-1996

TOWN OF BEAUFORT,
NORTH CAROLINA
1996 LAND USE PLAN
Adopted by the Beaufort Board of Commissioners: August 11, 1997
Certified by the Coastal Resources Commission: September 26, 1997
Holland Consulting Planners, Inc.
Wilmington, North Carolina
The preparation of this document was financed in part through a grant provided 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, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

TOWN OF BEAUFORT
FY95/96 LAND USE PLAN UPDATE
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
-
SECTION I:
ANALYSIS OF EXISTING CONDITIONS
A. ESTABLISHMENT OF INFORMATION BASE ..........................
1-1
B. POPULATION AND HOUSING. ..
1-4
1.
• ... • .......... • ...... • ..........
Population ......1-4
a. Permanent Population Growth, 1970-1994 ......... .....
1-4
b. Composition and Age ................................
1-6
2.
Town of Beaufort Seasonal Population .........................
• . • ...
1-7
a. Introduction and Methodology .........................
1-7
b. Seasonal Population
I-9
3.
Housing Characteristics ..:: : ::::::::::.:::.::::::::::::.
. 1-9
a. Tenure and Vacancy ................................
1-9
4.
Summary .................. .................. ..I-11
C. ECONOMY..............................................I-11
D. EXISTING LAND USE.........................................1-15
1.
Urban and Developed Land ................................
1-15
a. Residential......................................1-15
b. Commercial......................................1-22
C. Industrial .......................................
1-23
d. Institutional ......................................
1-23
e. Transportation and Public Utilities ......................
1-24
f. Airport .............. .........................I-24
g. Agricultural, Forested, and Vacant Land .................
1-24
h. Annexations .....................................
1-25
i. Basinwide Water Quality Management ...................
1-25
2.
Summary: Town of Beaufort Existing Land Use Problems ..........
1-29
3.
Existing Ordinance and Land Use Controls
1-30
a. Zoning Ordinance .:::::::........ . ......
1-30
b. Subdivision Regulations .............................
1-30
C. Flood Plain Development Ordinance
1-30
'
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d. Floating Home Ordinance .
1-31
e. Storm Hazard Mitigation and Post -Disaster Reconstruction Plan .
1-31
f. Thoroughfare Plan, .. .. .. .
I-31
g. Building Code ........• .• .... •• ... • . • • ....
1-31
h. Minimum Housing Code ... ............. ... ....
1-31
4.
Development Potential ...................................
1-31
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E. DEVELOPMENT CONSTRAINTS: LAND SUITABILITY .'................. 1-32
1.
Topography/Geology....................................
1-32
2.
Flood Hazard Areas .....................................
1-33
3.
Soils .................................... ..........1-37
4.
Manmade Hazards/Restrictions ................ ..........
1-41
5.
Fragile Areas..........................................
1-42
a. Coastal Wetlands .................................
1-42
b. Estuarine Waters .............. ......... ....
1-42
C. Estuarine Shorelines. ..... ....... .............
1-42
d. Public Trust Areas...................�..............
1-42
e. Historic and Archaeological Sites .... ...............
1-44
f. Rachel Carson Estuarine Sanctuary .....................
1-45
g. Freshwater Wetlands ...............................
1-45
h. Closed Shellfishing Areas ............................
1-45
6.
Areas of Resource Potential ...............................
1-46 .
a. Agricultural and Forest Lands .........................
1-46
b. Public Parks .....................................
1-46
C. Marine Resources .................................
1-46
F. DEVELOPMENT CONSTRAINTS: PUBLIC FACILITIES ....... :..........
1-47
1.
Water Supply .......................................
1-47
2.
Sewer .................................. .. ...I-48
3.
Solid Waste Disposal ....................................
1-51
4.
Schools ........................... .... ......... .1-52
5.
Transportation .........................................
1-53
6.
Police ................................................
1-54
7.
Fire................................................I-54
8.
Emergency Services .... ........ ................... ..
1-54
9.
Recreation ...................... ... ..............1-56
10.
Administration ..... ...................
1-57
.............
1-1
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SECTION 11:
PROJECTED LAND DEVELOPMENT ANALYSIS
A. PROJECTED DEMAND FOR DEVELOPMENT .........................
II-1
1.
Demographic Trends ................................ ...
II-1
2.
Commercial and Industrial Land Use ..... ............ .....
II-3
3.
Housing Trends ........................................
II-4
4.
Public Land Use ........................... ...........
II-4
5.
Project Public Facilities Needs/Availability ......................
II-4
6.
Airport Development ....................................
II-5
7.
Areas Likely to Experience Major Land Use Changes ..............
II-7
B. REDEVELOPMENT ISSUES ......................................
11-7
C. INTERGOVERNMENTAL COORDINATION AND IMPLEMENTATION .........
II-7
SECTION III:
LAND CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM ...........................
III-1
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SECTION IV: INTRODUCTION TO POLICY STATEMENTS .
A. VISION STATEMENT .........................................
B. RESOURCE PROTECTION POLICY STATEMENTS
IV-3
. IV-3
C. RESOURCE PRODUCTION AND MANAGEMENT POLICIES ..............
IV-10
D. ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT .....................
E. CONTINUING PUBLIC PARTICIPATION POLICIES ....................
IV-12
IV-17
F. STORM HAZARD MITIGATION, POST -DISASTER RECOVER,
AND EVACUATION PLANS ....................................
IV-18
SECTION V: RELATIONSHIP OF POLICIES AND LAND CLASSIFICATIONS
A. DEVELOPED CLASS ..........................................
V-1
B. URBAN TRANSITION CLASS ............ ....... .............
V-1
C. LIMITED TRANSITION ........................................
V-1
D. RURAL WITH SERVICES CLASS
V-1
E. CONSERVATION CLASS ......................................
V-2
F. SUMMARY ................................................
V-2
TABLES
Page
Table 1 Town of Beaufort and Carteret County, NC
Summary of Year -Round Population Growth by Township and
Municipality, 1970 - 1994 ............................
1-5
Table 2 Town of Beaufort, NC
Population Characteristics by Age Group, 1970-1990 ........
Table 3 Town of Beaufort, NC
1-6
Percentage Change in Population by Race & Sex, 1970-1990 ..
1-6
STable
4 Town of Beaufort, NC
Seasonal, Permanent, and Total Peak Population, 1995 ......
1-8
Table 5 Town of Beaufort, NC
Housing Summary: Tenure and Vacancy .................
1-9
Table 6 Town of Beaufort, NC
Housing Conditions, 1980-1990 .......................
1-10
Table 7 Town of Beaufort, NC
Per Capita Income, 1979-1990 ... ............. .....
Table 8 Town of Beaufort, NC
1-11
Employed Persons 16 Years and Older by Industry, 1990 .....
1-12
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Page
Table 9
Town of Beaufort, NC
Poverty Status, 1980 & 1990 .........................
1-13
Table 10
Town of Beaufort, NC
.Industrial Employers, 1995 ......... ............. ..
1-14
Table 11
Town ofBeaufort, NC
Existing Land Use Within Town Limits ...................
1-17
Table 12
Town of Beaufort, NC
Existing Land Use in Extraterritorial Area .................
1-18
Table 13
Town of Beaufort, NC
Existing Land Use - Total Beaufort Planning Area ............
1-19
Table 14
Town of Beaufort, NC
Building Permits, 1991 to 1995 .......................
1-20
Table 15
Town of Beaufort, NC
Marinas .... ........................... ......
1-22
Table 16
Carteret County Watershed Report
Watershed 03020106040010 and 03020106030070
Baseand Demographic Data ..........................
1-28
Table 17
Town of Beaufort, NC
Soil Conditions for Building Site Development .............
1-39
Table 18
Town of Beaufort, NC
Minimum Recreational Facility Needs ....................
1-56
Table 19
Town of Beaufort and Carteret County, NC
Summary of Year -Round Population Growth by Township and
Municipality, 1990-2005 ............................
II-2
Table 20
Carteret County, NC
Average Annual Year -Round Population Growth Rate and
Percent Change, 1993-2003 ..........................
II-3
MAPS
Map 1
1995 Land Use Patterns .............................
1-16
Map 2
FY96 CDBG Project Area ............................
1-21
Map 3
Watershed Boundary ...............................
1-27
Map 4
100-Year Floodplain Area ............................
1-35
Map 5
Areas Affected by Hurricane -Generated Storm Surge ........
1-36
Map 6
Soils Map .......................................
1-38
Map 7
Areas of Environmental Concern .......................
1-43
Map 8
Community Facilities ...............................
1-50
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Map 9 Bridge Relocation Route .............................. 1-55
Map 10 Land Classification Map ............................. III-3
GRAPHS
Graph 1 Town of Beaufort Water Use Supply and Demand Graph ...... II-6
APPENDICES
Appendix I Town of Beaufort Land Use Plan
Policies Considered But Not Adopted
Appendix II Town of Beaufort Land Use Plan
Citizen Participation Plan
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SECTION I: ANALYSIS OF EXISTING CONDITIONS
A. ESTABLISHMENT OF INFORMATION BASE
This 1995 Land Use Plan Update for the Town of Beaufort is prepared in accordance with
requirements of the North Carolina Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA). Specifically, this
document complies with Subchapter 713, "Land Use Planning Guidelines," of the North Carolina
Administrative Code, as amended, September 28, 1995.
The 7B guidelines define the following intent of land use plans:
"Local governments, through the land use planning process, address issues and
adopt policies that guide the development of their community. Many decisions
affecting development are made by other levels of government, and local
policies must take account of and coincide with established state and federal
policies. Most decisions, however, are primarily of local concern. By carefully
and explicitly addressing these issues, other levels of government will follow
local policies that deal with these issues. State and federal agencies will use
the local land use plans and policies in making project consistency, funding, and
permit decisions. Policies which consider the type of development to be
encouraged, the density and patterns of development, and the. methods of
providing beach access are examples of these local policy decisions.
The land use plan shall contain the following basic elements:
11 a summary of data collection and analysis;
2) an existing land use map;
3) a policy discussion;
4) a land classification map."
In addition to these basic elements, the 7B guidelines require that the following issues be
addressed in the plan:
1) Resource Protection
2) Resource Production and Management
3) Economic and Community Development
4) Continuing Public Participation
5) Storm Hazard Mitigation, Post -Disaster Recovery and Evacuation Plans
This land use plan provides a guide for development of the Town of Beaufort by addressing
issues and adopting policies that are relevant to the town. Specifically, this land use plan
provides the following:
1) an analysis of existing conditions, including a land use map;
2) a projected land development analysis;
3) a summary of public interests and participation;
4) a land classification system;
5) a detailed section on policy statements;
11

6) an analysis of the carrying capacity of public facilities with a demand/supply
analysis;
7) a summary of 404 wetland areas and issues;
8) an analysis of maritime forest issues; and
9) an explanation of the relationship of the policies to the land classification.
It should be noted that the policy section of the plan is the most important part of the
document. State and federal agencies will use the local land use policies in making project
consistency, funding, and permit decisions.
PREVIOUS POLICY STATEMENTS -
The 1990 Town of Beaufort Land Use Plan included policy statements which addressed the
five policy areas. Those policies supported, or in some cases exceeded, the 15A NCAC 7H
minimum use standards. The following identifies by policy area those policies which exceeded
the 15A NCAC 7H use standards:
Miscellaneous Resource Protection
Marina and Floating Home Development:
(c) Beaufort opposes the location of floating structures in all marinas, public trust areas, and
estuarine waters. Floating structures are defined as any structure or vessel used, designed, and
occupied as a permanent dwelling unit, business, office, or source of any occupation or any private or
social club, which floating structure or vessel is primarily immobile and out of navigation or which
functions substantially as a land structure while moored or docked on waters within county jurisdiction.
Floating structures shall not be used commercially or inhabited in one place for more than 15 days. The
Town of Beaufort will review and revise its local floating home ordinance to be consistent with this
policy.
Development of Sound and Estuarine Islands:
(a) Beaufort opposes any development on sound and estuarine islands located within its planning
jurisdiction.
Off -Road Vehicles:
Beaufort opposes the utilization of off -road vehicles in any areas classified as coastal wetlands and in
the entire Rachel Carson Sanctuary.
In addition to these specific statements, the 1990 policy statements generally expressed the
following:
-- Support for increased central sewer service. -
- Support for participation in the FEMA flood insurance program.
-- Support for conservation of groundwater resources.
-- Support for expansion of Radio Island.
-- With the exception of fuel storage tanks used for retail and wholesale sales,
Beaufort opposes the bulk storage of manmade hazardous materials within any
areas not zoned for industrial usage.
-- Support for expansion of Michael J. Smith Airport.
-- Support for state stormwater management regulations.
1-2

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-- Support for marina construction which is consistent with 15A NCAC 7H.
-- Support for bulkhead construction which is consistent with 15A NCAC 7H.
-- Support for the U.S. Conservation Service "Best Management Practices"
program.
-- Support for residential, commercial, and industrial development which is
-- consistent with 15A NCAC 7H.
Does not oppose offshore exploratory drilling for oil or gas.
-- Support for the state's shoreline area policies as set forth in NCAC Chapter 15,
Subchapter 7M.
' -- Support for environmentally safe industrial development.
-- Support for channel maintenance. -
-- Support for a strong tourist industry.
' -- Support implementation of the recommendations included in the 1990 Carteret
County Thoroughfare Plan.
Listed below are some of the sources and documents utilized during preparation of this Land
Use Plan:
Carteret County 1991 Land Use Plan Update
Town of Beaufort 1990 Land Use Plan Update
-- Town of Beaufort 1985 Land Use Plan Update
-- USDA, Soil Conservation Service, Carteret County
NCDOT, Planning and Policies Section
-- NCDOT, Transportation 2001, Transportation Improvement Program
Morehead City- Beaufort 1992 Thoroughfare Plan
Town of Beaufort Staff
-- Carteret County School Board
' -- North Carolina Office of State Budget and Management
North Carolina Division of Archives and History
Flood Insurance Study, Town of Beaufort
-- Town of Beaufort Zoning Ordinance
-- Town of Beaufort Subdivision Ordinance
-- North Carolina Division of Community Assistance
-- North Carolina Division of Coastal Management
-- North Carolina Department of Economic and Community Development
-- Town of Beaufort Storm Hazard Mitigation Plan and Post Disaster
Reconstruction Plan, 1984
-- U.S. Census, 1990
These sources were supplemented by "windshield" surveys conducted to obtain data on
existing land use patterns.
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B. POPULATION AND HOUSING
1. Population
a. Permanent Population Growth, 1970-1994
Carteret County is one of the state's fastest growing counties. Based on detailed
demographic estimates provided by the State Data Center for counties and municipalities
through 1994, Carteret County was the sixth fastest growing CAMA-regulated county and
was 24th in the entire state.
Table 1 provides a complete summary of year-round population growth within Carteret
County. Carteret County's rate of growth from 1970 to 1980 was twice the growth rate of
the 1960s. Since 1980, population growth, although extremely high, has occurred at a
continually decreasing rate. The N.C. State Data Center has forecast this trend to continue
through the year 2003. A large percentage of the growth in Carteret County from 1970-1994
has occurred in the incorporated beach communities and in areas near the extraterritorial
jurisdiction of existing municipalities. The Town of Beaufort, not including unincorporated
areas, had an increase in population from 1970 to 1994 of 629 permanent residents for a
18.7% increase. Unincorporated areas grew at a rate of 67.1 % for the same period. The
town's current estimate of the permanent population residing within the incorporated area of
Beaufort is 4,013 persons. Since 1994, a large percentage of the town's population growth
has resulted from annexation having taken place in July, 1995.
The population growth of Carteret County and the Town of Beaufort is the result of many
factors including: a national trend of migration to non -metropolitan areas; expansion of
military facilities and activities; industrial development; tourism; and the emergence of the area
as a retirement center.
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Table 1
Town of Beaufort and Carteret County, NC
Summary of Year -Round Population Growth by Township and Municipality, 1970 - 1994
Township Municipality or Area Year Round Population
1970 1980 1990 1994
Percentage Change
Overall
'70280 '80-'90 '90294 '70294
1) Atlantic
Total Township
814
810
805
803
-0.49%
-0.62%
-0.26%
-1.37%
2) Beaufort
Beaufort
3,368
3,826
3,808
3,997
13.60%
-0.47%
4.96%
18.68%
Unincorporated Areas
2,779
3,166
4,205
4,644
13.93%
32.82%
10.45%
67.12%
Total Township
6,147
6,992
8,013
8,641
13.75%
14.60%
7.84%
40.58%
3) Cedar Island
Total Township
290
333
385
407
14.83%
15.62%
5.71 %
40.34%
4) Davis
Total Township
456
492
535
553
7.89%
8.74%
3.40%
21.31 %
5) Harkers Island
Total Township
1,639
11910
2,237
2,375
16.53%
17.12%
6.18%
44.92%
6) Harlowe
Total Township
762
956
11190
1,289
25.46%
24.48%
8.31 %
69.15%
7) Marshallberg
Total Township
525
580
646
674
10.48% .
11.38%
4.32%
28.36%
8) Merrimon
Total Township
330
426
542
591
29.09%
27.23%
9.05%
79.10%
9) Morehead City
Atlantic Beach
300
941
1,938
2,267
213.67%
105.95%.
16.98%
655.67%
Indian Beach
0
54
153
177
N/A
183.33%
15.69%
N/A
Morehead City
5,233
4,359
6,046
6,384
-16.70%
38.70%
5.59%
22.00%
Pine Knoll Shores
0
646
1,360
1,543
N/A
110.53%
13.46%
N/A
Unincorporated Areas
6,396
9,803
10,985
11,485
53.27%
12.06%
4.55%
79.56%
Total Township
11,929
15,803
20,482
21,856
32.48%
29.61 %
6.71 %
83.21 %
10) Newport
Newport
1,735
1,883
2,516
2,778
8.53%
33.62%
10.41 %
60.12%
Unincorporated Areas
2,191
3,586
4,817
5,337
63.67%
34.33%
10.80%
143.61 %
Total Township
3,926
5,469
7,333
8,115
39.30%
34.08%
10.67%
106.71 %
11) Sea Level
Total Township
347
540
773
872
55.62%
43.15%
12.74%
151.15%
12) Smyrna
Total Township
517
637
782
843
23.21 %
22.76%
7.84%
63.11 %
13) Stacy
Total Township
257
322
401
434
25.29%
24.53%
8.33%
69.03%
14) Straits
Total Township
1,166
1,520
1,948
2,129
30.36%
28.16%
9.29%
82.58%
15) White Oak
Cape Carteret
616
944
1,008
1,179
53.25%
6.78%
16.96%
91.40%
Emerald Isle
122
865
2,434
2,798
609.02%
181.39%
14.95%
2193.44%
Cedar Point
0
0
628
688
N/A
N/A
9.55%
N/A
Unincorporated Areas
1,758
2,493
2,413
2,379
41.81 %
-3.21 %
-1.40%
35.33%
Total Township
2,496
4,302
6,483
7,044
72.36%
50.70%
8.66%
182.22%
Total Municipalities
Total Unincorporated Areas
Total County
11,374 13,518 19,891 21,811 18.85% 47.14% 9.70% 91.76%
20,229 27,574 32,662 34,813 36.31 % 18.45% 6.59% 72.09%
31,603 41,092 52,553 56,624 30.03% 27.90% 7.75% 79.19%
Sources: N.C. State Data Center; extrapolation of data for unincorporated areas by Holland Consulting Planners, Inc.
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b. Composition and Age
Tables 2 and 3 were completed using the data provided in the 1990 Town of Beaufort
Land Use Plan combined with the 1990 U.S. Census.
Table 2
Town of Beaufort, NC
Population Characteristics by Age Group, 1970-1990
'Town of Beaufort Carteret County
Age 1970 1980 1990 1970 1980 1990
0-4
5.8%
5.2%
6.7%
8.3%
6.8%
6.4%
5-19
27.2%
21.2%
. 17.0%
28.7%
23.1 %
18.7%
20-29
10.8%
15.8%
14.2%
15.3%
18.1 %
15.3%
30-39
10.6%
11.7%
13.9%
11.4%
13.8%
15.8%
40-49
12.5%
10.1 %
12.0%
12.5%
10.5%
13.5%
50-59
13.4%
12.6%
10.3%
10.3%
11.3%
10.5%
60-69
12.4.0/o'
:.. 1.3�4%...__
13.5%
8.0%
9.4%
11.0%
70 & up
7.3%
10.0%
12.4%
5.5%
7.0%
8.8%
Total
100.0%
100.0%
100.0%
100.0%
100.0%
100.0%
Source: 1990 Town of Beaufort Land Use Plan; 1990 U.S. Census.
Table 3
Town of Beaufort, NC
Percentage Change in Population by Race and Sex, 1970-1990
Town of Beaufort Carteret County
1970
1980
1990
1970
1980
1990
Male Population
47%
48%
45%
49%
50%
49%
Female Population
53%
52%
55%
51 %
50%
51 %
Total Population
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
White Population
69%
76%
74%
89%
90%
91 %
Non -White Population
31 %
24%
26%
11 %
10%
9%
Total Population
100%
100% .
100%
100%
100%
100%
Source: 1990 Town of Beaufort Land Use Plan; 1990 U.S. Census.
Table 2 indicates that the age groups 60-69 and 70 & Up have occupied an
increasingly larger percentage of the total population since 1970. In 1970, 19.7% of the
Beaufort population was 60 years old or older. By 1990, the percentage of persons 60 years
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old and up had increased to 25.9%. The town's 1990 percentage of elderly (60 & Up) is
considerably higher than the county (19.8%) and state (20.0%) percentages.
The town's preschool population experienced a decrease in population percentage of
.6% between .1970-1980, and then increased 1.5% between 1980-1990 to make up a total
of 6.7% of the population. The school age segment of the population decreased throughout
' the twenty-year period and in 1990 made-up a total of 17% of the Beaufort population. The
only other non -elderly age groups which experienced an increase in percentage of population
from 1970-1990 were the 20-29 and 30-39 age groups which increased 3.4% and 3.3%,
respectively. Overall, the trends in age group composition for the Town of Beaufort have
closely resembled that of the county as a whole.
' These increases in the elderly segment -of Beaufort's population are the result of a
national trend toward a higher median age and an increasing investment in waterfront property
by retirees. Carteret County as a whole has also experienced a positive net migration rate for
the 30-39 and over 60 age groups during the period 1970-1990. A positive net migration rate
means that the influx of people into the county for their age groups was greater than the
number of people moving outside of the county. The growth rate of the 30-39 and over 60
age groups can also be attributed to non -migratory, demographic factors including birth rates,
death rates, and aging patterns.
Table 3 indicates that from 1970-1990 the percentage of the non -white population has
decreased by 5 %. The relative decrease in non -white population since 1970 indicates that
the migratory pattern in Beaufort has been dominated by an incoming white population. The
Office of State Planning has forecast that between 1990-2000, Carteret County can expect
an out -migration of 0-4% for the non -white population and an in -migration of 4-8% for the
white population. It can be assumed that the Town of Beaufort should follow a similar trend
as the county as a whole.
Another point which can be noted through the study of Table 3 is the change in the
male/female ratio of Beaufort from 1970-1990. In 1970 the male/female ratio was 47:53 and
tin 1990 it was 45:55. The ratio for Carteret County remained closer to the 50:50 mark. This
difference in male/female ratios between Beaufort and Carteret County may be due to the fact
that Beaufort has a higher percentage of the population in the 60 & Up age group and the life
expectancy of females is greater than that of males.
' 2. Town of Beaufort Seasonal Population'
a. Introduction and Methodology
' Beaufort's permanent and year-round population is supplemented by a significant peak
seasonal population. The methodology used in this study will closely follow a demographic
analysis of recreational population for the Albemarle -Pamlico region prepared by Paul. D.
Tschetter of East Carolina University in 1988. The advantage of the ECU analysis is that it
relies on an extensive empirical enumeration of marine boat slips, motel rooms, and
"This section does not address or include figures for "day -visitor" usage of Carteret County recreational facilities,
' beaches, waters, and natural areas. Thus, the actual daytime seasonal population figures are significantly higher than
those stated in this section. Accurate "day visitor" data is not available.
I-7

campgrounds in addition to private seasonal housing units. The study also includes an
excellent approach to estimating average population by type of individual housing unit. For
purposes of the ECU study (and this demographic analysis), "total seasonal housing units"
includes 1) all single- and multi -family private housing units used by the overnight tourist
population rather than the permanent population; 2) all motel/hotel rooms (including bed and
breakfasts); 3) all seasonal and transient campground sites; and 4) all individual marina wet
slips capable of docking boats of a size and type which can house people overnight. Marina
facilities for fueling/repair only (no overnight dockage), and those that only dock commercial
fishing boats, are excluded from the enumeration of seasonal housing units.
As in the ECU study, an enumeration of seasonal housing units was conducted to arrive
at the totals presented in Table 4. The figures for marina boat slips, motel rooms, and
campgrounds are up to date as of September, 1995. Due to the lack of current data for
private housing units and permanent population for 1995, the figures from the 1990 U.S.
Census have been substituted. Therefore, the figures provided in this plan for seasonal
population and peak seasonal population may be slightly low for 1995 since.any growth in
private housing units and permanent population from 1990-1995 has not been considered.
Table 4
Town of Beaufort, NC
Seasonal, Permanent, and Total Peak Population, 1995
1995*
Number
Persons
Seasonal
Housing Type
of Units
Per Unit
Population
Motel/Hotel
114'
`4
456
Campsites
0
0
0
Boat Slips
183
3.25[1]
506
Private Housing Units [2)
236
5
1,062
Total
533
2,024
Permanent Population 3,808
Peak Seasonal Population 2,024
Total Peak Population 5,832
[1] Based on 85% occupancy rate. 100% used for all other categories.
[2] Includes units "vacant -held for occasional use" and "other vacant" as classified by the 1990 U.S.
Census.
* The figures for Motel/Hotel, Campsites, and Boat Slips are current as of September, 1995. The most
recent data available for Private Housing Units and Permanent Population is-1990.
Source: 1990 U.S. Census; Holland Consulting Planners, Inc.,
l_8 1

b. Seasonal Population
Table 4 illustrates that the Town of Beaufort has a total of 533 seasonal units, a peak
seasonal population of 2,024, and a total peak 1995 population of 6,037. "Peak seasonal
population" can be defined as the population that would be enumerated in all seasonal housing
units if all of those units were occupied at full capacity, based on average assumed household
' sizes for each type of unit (one exception is, in marina boat slips where the ECU study
suggests an occupancy rate of 85%). Although "peak seasonal population is based on a
number of variables, it is a very useful statistic for planning purposes, since it provides a
logically derived summary of the possible total occupancy in seasonal units during peak
overnight tourism periods (Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day weekends). "Total
peak population" is simply the sum of the permanent population and peak seasonal population.
3. Housing Characteristics
a. Tenure and Vacancy
The majority of Beaufort's housing stock is composed of year-round dwelling units.
Table 5 provides a summary of the tenure and vacancy status of the town's housing supply
from 1970-1990.
Table 5
Town of Beaufort, NC
Housing Summary: Tenure and Vacancy
-
---- --- --- --- -
1970
1980
-1990 -
'
Total Housing Units
1,269
1,734
2,085
Year -Round Housing Units
1,203
1,637
1,849
Occupied
1,132
1,557
1,721
Renter -occupied
236
557
762
Owner -occupied
869
1,000
959
Vacant
137
177
364
'
For Sale
17
9
34
94
For Rent
54
71
Seasonal Units [1 ] 66 97 236
[1] Includes units "vacant -held for occasional use" and "other vacant" as classified by the 1970-1990
U.S. Census.
Source: 1990 Town of Beaufort Land Use Plan; 1990 U.S. Census.
From 1970-1990, the town's total housing supply increased from 1,269 units to 2,085
units. This amounts to a net gain of 816 units and a 64.3% increase over the twenty-year
1-9

period. The number of owner -occupied housing units decreased and the number of renter -
occupied units increased from 1970-1990. In 1970, 76.8% of the occupied housing units
were owner -occupied. This figure dropped to only 55.7% in 1990.
The number of seasonal units in 1990 is 3.6 times higher than it was in 1970. The majority
of this growth occurred from -1980-1990, with the addition of 139 seasonal housing -units:
This table, in general, illustrates a trend away from the traditional owner -occupied housing
towards a rented and seasonal stock of housing in Beaufort.
Table 6 shows a total of 2,085 housing units in Beaufort in 1990. Only 3.2% of Beaufort's
housing stock was less than one year old and 59.5% was greater than twenty years old. The
maturity and condition of housing reflects Beaufort's strong historical preservation efforts,
which have maintained housing and increased the average age of housing within the town.
It may also be noted that single family, detached housing dominates the market at 57.70%.
Table 6
Town of Beaufort, NC
Housing Conditions, 1980-1990
Condition and Age
1990
Percent of Total
Total Year -Round Units
2,085
100.00%
Aga
0-1
67
3.21 %
2-5
207
9.93%
6-10
190
9.11 %
11-20
380
18.23 %
21-30
165
7.91 %
,
31-40
275
13.19%
41-50
230
11.03%
51 & Up
571
27.39%
Condition
Lacking complete bathroom facilities
0
0.00%
Lacking complete kitchen facilities
Type
4
0.20%
Total Year -Round Units
2,085
100.00%
Single family, detached
1,203
57.70%
'
Single family, attached
47
2.25%
Duplex
98
4.70%
3- and 4-unit
328
15.73%
5-unit or more
245
11.75 %
Mobile home
142
6.81 %
Other
22
1.06 %
Source: 1990 U.S. Census; Holland Consulting Planners,
Inc.
1-10

1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
4. Summary
The following provides a summary of significant demographic and housing findings:
Between 1980-1990, Carteret County experienced a 27.94% population
growth; 47.29 % in incorporated areas and 18.45 % in the unincorporated areas.
Beaufort experienced a slight drop in permanent population from 3,826 in 1980
to 3,808 in 1990. During the same time period, the total number of seasonal
housing units increased from 97 to 236. .
-- In 1995, the town can expect a peak seasonal population of 2,024. This figure
does not include "day visitors".
-- The average age of the town's population has continued to mature and in 1990
36.2% of the population was over fifty years of age.
-- The school -aged population has continued to decrease from a high in 1970 of
27.2% to a low in 1990 of only 17.0% of the total population.
- Since 1970, Beaufort's percentage of non -white population has decreased from
.31 % to 26% and the female population has increased to make up a total of
55 % of the population.
-- Beaufort's housing stock is primarily composed of year-round dwelling units, but
there has been a shift from a vast majority of the units being owner -occupied
to 44% being renter -occupied.
From 1970 to 1990, the town's total housing supply increased by 64.3%
In 1990, 77.75% of the housing stock was over twenty years old.
C. ECONOMY
As shown in Table 7, prior. to 1990, the Town of Beaufort maintained a per capita income
above that of the state and Carteret County.
Table 7
Town of Beaufort, NC
Per Capita Income, 1979-1990
1979 1985 1990
Town of Beaufort $6,274 $9,788
Carteret County $6,146 $9,296
North Carolina $6,132 $9,517
Source: 1990 Town of Beaufort Land Use Plan; 1990 U.S. Census.
$11,385
$13,227
$12,885

In 1990, Beaufort's per capita income was surpassed by the state by $1,500 dollars and the
county by $1,842 dollars. This may be due in part to the substantial decrease in the
educational service sector shown in Table 8 and a decline in the commercial fishing industry.
Table 8
Town of Beaufort, NC
Employed Persons 16 Years and Older by Industry, 1990
1980
1990
Change in
Number
Percent
Number
Percent
Percent of
Occupation
Employed
of Total
Employed
of Total
Total 80-90
Agriculture, forestry, fisheries,
mining*
153
9.86%
51
3.00%
-6.86%
Construction
27
1.74%
87
5.12%
3.38%
Manufacturing
Nondurable goods
67
4.32%
99
5.83%
1.51 %
Durable goods
104
6.70%
134
7.89%
1.19%
Transportation
68
4.38%
99
5.83%
1.45%
Communication, other public utilities
18
1.16%
18
1.06%
-0.10%
Wholesale trade
83
5.35%
74
4.36%
-0.99%
.Retail trade
279
17.98%
412
24.25%
6.27%
Finance, insurance, and real estate
63
4.06%
68
4.00%
-0.06%
Business and repair services
44
2.84%
39
2.30%
-0.55%
Personal, entertainment, and
recreational services
68
4.38%
77
4.53%
0.15%
Professional and related services
Health services
36
2.32%
139
8.18%
5.86%
Educational services
301
19.39%
120
7.06%
-12.33%
Other professional & related services
56
3.61 %
65
3.83%
0.22%
Public Administration
185
11.92%
217
12.77%
0.85%
Total Employed 1,552 100.00% 1,699 100.00%
"While these are grouped together, this category is primarily limited to fisheries employment within Beaufort.
Source: 1990 Town of Beaufort Land Use Plan; 1990 U.S. Census; Holland Consulting Planners, Inc.
In 1980, the commercial fishing industry ranked fourth in total employment behind educational
services, retail trade, and public administration. In 1990, the commercial fishing industry
dropped to a rank of 13th ahead of only business and repair services and communications,
other public utilities. The educational services sector was ranked 1 st in total employment in
1980 and dropped to fifth in 1990. According to the Carteret County School Board this
decrease in the Town of Beaufort's educational services sector was not the result of a loss
of jobs. In fact, Census data for Carteret County as a whole indicates an increase of 34% for
the educational services sector of employment between 1980-1990. The only explanation for
the decrease experienced in the Town of Beaufort is that a large number of those employed
in the educational services sector chose to move outside the town limits of Beaufort between
1980 and 1990.
1
1-12

' The 1990 Town of Beaufort Land Use Plan mentioned that the commercial fishing industry had
a significant "multiplier effect" in the local economy. This means that other sectors of
employment such as retail trade, wholesale trade, and manufacturing benefitted from a healthy.
commercial fishing industry. Since Beaufort once relied heavily on this industry, it is possible
that its demise has had a negative impact throughout the entire economy and may have
contributed to the decrease in per capita income relative to the state and county.
' Several occupations experienced increases in percentage of total employment from 1980-
P P 9
1990. The construction sector increased 3.4%, retail trade 6.3%, health services 5.9%,
manufacturing nondurable goods 1.5%, and transportation 1.5%. In 1990, the top five
occupations in terms of percent of the workforce were retailed trade, public administration,
health services, manufacturing durable goods, and educational services.
' A combination of the above shifts in the various occupational sectors may help to explain the
lower than average per capita income Beaufort experienced in 1990.
Table 9 illustrates that between 1980 and 1990, the number of middle class individuals
decreased while the number of people with an income below 75% of poverty level and an
income 200% of poverty level and above increased.
Table 9 -
Town of Beaufort, NC
Poverty Status, 1980 & 1990
1980 1990
' Percent Percent
Income Level Individuals of Total Individuals of Total
Income below 75% of poverty level 369 9.75% 430 11.33%
Income between 75 & 124% of poverty level 482 12.74% 444 11.70%
Income between 125 & 149% of poverty level 226 5.97% 202 5.32%
Income between 150 & 199% of poverty level 612 16.17% 417 10.99%
Income 200% of poverty level and above 2,095 55.36% 2,301 60.65%
' Total enumerated by poverty status 3,784 100.00% 3,794 100.00%
Source: 1990 Town of Beaufort Land Use Plan; 1990 U.S. Census; Holland Consulting Planners, Inc.
Beaufort has maintained a diversified industrial base. Table 10 provides a summary of the
' industries, employment, product, and union status.
1-13

Table 10
Town of Beaufort, NC
Industrial Employers, 1995
Name
Products/Services
Employees
Year Est. Union
Atlantic Veneer Corp. Hard & softwood veneers 640 1964 No
Aqua-10 Biological & botanical products 10 1976 No
Beaufort Fisheries Fishmeal & oil 60-100 1934 No
Parker Marine Enterprises Fiberglass boats 90 1968 No
Note: All of the above listed industries are located within the Beaufort extraterritorial jurisdiction.
Source: 1990 Town of Beaufort Land Use Plan; NC Department of Commerce.
The town's economy is enhanced by the strength of Carteret County's industrial development.
Since 1970, manufacturing has experienced substantial growth both in terms of employment
and earnings. In 1989, there were 62 manufacturing facilities located in Carteret County,
including the industries located within the Town of Beaufort. With the exception of the
Creative Outlet, Inc., all of the above industries are located outside of Beaufort corporate limits
but within the extraterritorial jurisdiction. Between 1990 and 1995, the number of employees
at the above industries remained stable. Although a sound industrial base is very important
to the economy of Beaufort, its primary driving force is tourism and recreation.
The area's extensive shoreline resources make it a primary vacation area for the entire east
coast of the country. While the greatest tourist impact on the local economy occurs from May
to September, visitation figures maintained for the county by the Carteret County Economic
Development Council indicate a substantialyear-round economic impact from both day and
overnight visitors. Restaurants and motels, sport fishing, retail trade, services, construction,
real estate, and finance industries all benefit from overnight and day visitors.
In summary, the Beaufort economy appears to be going through a period of transition in terms
of the occupational sectors and income levels. In part, the principal agents in the economy
were retail trade and health services. In the last ten years, there has been a shift away from
commercial fishing and educational services and toward a market dominated by retail trade
and tourism.
1-14

1
11
I
D. EXISTING LAND USE
The Town of Beaufort has managed to maintain a blend of the old and the new. New growth
has occurred while historically significant areas and individual properties have been protected.
During the 1990-1995 period, new development has slowed from that which was experienced
during the late 1980's. The town's focal point continues to be the Beaufort waterfront and
central business district.
This section provides a comparison of the 1990 and 1995 land uses. Map 1 delineates the
1995 land use patterns. In general, there were no major land use changes from 1990 to
1995. The greatest acreage change occurred in the single-family residential category. The
acreages and dwelling unit count summaries for both the city's incorporated area and the
extraterritorial jurisdiction are provided in Tables 11, 12, and 13.
1. Urban and Developed Land
a. Residential
Since 1990, total residential acreage within the town's planning jurisdiction increased
by 56.4 acres, an increase of 8.8%. The 1985 to 1990 increase had been over 23%. Most
of this growth, 39.9 acres, occurred within the town's. incorporated -area. Almost all of the
residential growth, 53.5 acres, was in single-family housing. .Most of this, 31.9 acres, was
located within the town's incorporated area.
Most of the single-family residential development which occurred within the town's
incorporated area from 1990 to 1995 occurred on Briar Patch Drive, Willow Street, West
Beaufort Road, and the east end of Lennoxville Road. Other single-family development within
the town was dispersed on scattered site family lots. In the extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ)
area, the single-family residential development is concentrated in the single-family subdivisions
located off of Steep Point Road east of U.S. 70, and in a single-family subdivision located
west of U.S. 70 just north of the corporate limit line.
1-15

PS
CS
A -
/PS
CS P 5 TOWN MARSH
PS
CS
Yin 1
VVV e1Rp ��L
Qy 4y
�TRR.TER •.
LEGEND
-
SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL:
%�^„`�
' '1
TRANSPORTATION 6 UTLJTES
DUPLEX A MULTI -FAMILY
•:'•'.•�
PUBLIC INSTITUTIONAL .
®
MOBILE HOME -
v.',-
PARKS & OPEN SPACE
_
COMMERCIAL
AGRICU1`UIM/VACANT
COMMERCIAL. WATER RELATED
EXTRA -TERRITORIAL BOUNDARY
®
INDUSTRIAL
CRY LIMIT BOUNDARY.
PS
PARTIALLY SUPPORTING WATER
-
ST
SUPPORT -THREATENED WATER
CS
SA WATER CLOSED TO SHELLFISHING
PNA
PRIMARY NURSERY AREA
b
CgRROT
d
The preparation of this map was
financed in part through a grant '
provided 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, National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration.
PON
ISLANp
O
SCALE
i
0 400 1200

' Table 11
Town of Beaufort, NC
Existing Land Use Within Town Limits
Land Use Acres
Density
Percent of Total Units (Units/Acre)
1990
1995
1990
1995
1990
1995
1990
1995
[1]
[21
[1]
[21
[1]
[2]
[11
[21
'
Single-family
308.6
340.5
39.0
40.5
1,358
1,428
4.40
4.20
Mobile Home
24.5
31.4
3.0
3.7
111
111
4.53
3.53
Multi -Family
73.4
77.0
9.0
9.2
669
402
9.11
5.22
'
Total Residential
406.5
448.9
51.0
53.4
2,138
1,941
5.26
4.32
'
Commercial
91.8
134.5
12.0
16.0
Industrial
12.8
15.1
2.0
1.8
'
Public and
Institutional
67.6
78.6
8.0
9.4
'
Utilities
4.4
4.4
1.0
0.5
Agricultural,
Forested and Vacant
200.4
158.4
26.0
18.9
'
Totals
783.5
839.9
100.0
100.0
[1 ] Source: 1990 Beaufort
Land Use Plan.
[2] Source: Field Survey,
Holland
Consulting
Planners, November, 1995.
1-17

Table 12
Town of Beaufort, NC
Existing Land Use in Extraterritorial Area
Land Use
Acres
Percent of Total
Units
Density
(Units/Acre)
1990
1995
1990
1995
1990
1995
1990 1995
[1l
[21
[1l
[21
[11
[21
[11 [21
Single-family
228.5
321.0
10.0
13.3
289
333
1.3 1.0
(includes mobile homes
on individual lots)
Mobile Home Parks
5.1
1.7
0.2
0.1
40
14
7.8 8.2
Total Residential
233.6
322.7
10.2
13.4
329
347
1.4 1.1
Commercial
14.0
18.9
0.6
0.8
Industrial
102.0
98.9
4.5
4.1
Public and Institutional
126.7
133.1
5.5
5.5
Airport
403.6
403.6
17.7
16.6
Utilities
3.8
3.8
0.2
0.2
Agricultural,
Forested and Vacant
1,402.9
1,438.1
61.3
59.4
Totals
2,286.6
2,419.1
100.0
100.0
[11 Source: 1990 Beaufort Land Use Plan.
[2) Source: Field Survey, Holland Consulting Planners, November, 1995.
1-18

'
Table 13
Town of Beaufort, NC
Existing Land Use - Total Beaufort Planning Area
Density
'
Land Use
Acres-
Percent of Total
- Units
(Units/Acre)
1990
1995
1990
1995
1990
1995
1990
1995 ,
[1].
_ [2] -
[1]
[2]
[1]
[2]
[1]
[2].
Single-family
537.1
661.5
17.7
20.3
1,647
1,761
3.1
2.7
(includes mobile homes
on individual lots) .
'
Mobile Home
29.6
33.1
1.0
1.0
151
125
5.1
3.8
Multiple Family
73.4
77.0
2.4
2.4
669
402
9.1
5.2
'
Total Residential
640.1
771.6
21.1
23.7
2,467
2,288
3.9
3.0
Commercial
105.8
153.4
3.5
4.7
Industrial
114.8
114.0
3.7
3.5
Public and Institutional
166.2
211.7
5.5
6.5
Airport
403.6
403.6
13.2
12.4
Utilities
8.2
8.2
0.3
0.3
Agricultural,
Forested and Vacant
1,603.3
1,596.5
52.7
48.9
'
Totals
3,042.0
3,259.0
100.0
100.0
[1 ] Source: 1990 Beaufort Land Use Plan.
[2] Source: Field Survey, Holland
Consulting Planners, November, 1995.
1-19

Table 14 provides a summary of the building permits issued from 1991 to 1995. Based
'
on Tables 11 and 12, the average single-family residential density has decreased slightly
within both the corporate limits and the ETJ.
I
There has been almost no change p
a since 1990 in the mobile home and du lex/multi-
family acreages. In fact, building permits were issued for only 33 apartment units.
Table 14
Town of Beaufort, NC
Building Permits, 1991 to 1995
1991 1992 1993 1994 1995
Residential Permits . - 18 13 12 25 7
t
Apartment Units 4 3 7 13 6
Commercial Buildings 6 2 3 4 4
'
The 1990 Town of Beaufort Land Use,Plan identified the elimination of substandard
housing as a need. It was recommended that the town pursue Community Development Block
Grant (CDBG) funding to assist with the elimination of substandard housing. Based on 1995
windshield surveys conducted by Holland Consulting Planners, Inc., approximately 350, or
17%, of the town's total dwelling units were. substandard. The area generally bordered by
Craven, Mulberry, March, and Cedar Streets includes the town's primary concentration of '
substandard housing. This area also includes the town's greatest concentrations of low to
moderate income and minority families.
In February, 1995, the Town of Beaufort submitted an application for $732,OOO in
FY95 CDBG funds to improve housing within a portion of this area. The application was not
funded in FY95. However, the application has been funded with FY96 CDBG funds. ,
Map 2 delineates the FY96 CDBG project area and identifies the condition of structures
within the area. The grant will accomplish the following: rehabilitate 21 dwelling units to ,
standard condition, demolish seven dilapidated dwelling units, relocate one rental household,
and install drainage improvements in a secondary (local option) target area located on the
block surrounded by Pollock, Marsh, Broad, and Cedar Streets. Implementation of this project I
will eliminate approximately 8% of the town's substandard housing.
At the time of plan preparation, only two new residential developments were being '
considered. One, located in the ETJ, was a subdivision containing 10 lots of 10 acres each.
Because of lot size, the subdivision would not require subdivision approval by the Town of
Beaufort or the dedication of public roads. A second residential subdivision was being ,
considered within the Town of Beaufort off of Lennoxville Road. It was anticipated that the
subdivision would be designed for 28 to 52 cluster type dwelling units. The town's planning
board was considering revising its zoning ordinance to accommodate this development.
1-20

IJ
In O rn 1,1
+�-+
C
School
O p O O p O Q 00 O p
CL
Mulberry Street
0
1
O
K
Pine Street
Cedar Street
Fri I 1 -1 -------
-1 F.
"E" - Classified for exterior deficiencies.
"I" - Classified for interior deficiencies.
MAP 2
BEAUFORT, NC
FY96 CDBG PROJECT AREA
EXISTING HOUSING CONDITIONS
The preparation of this map was financed in
part through a grant provided 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, National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
Scale: 1" = 15o,
KEY TO HOUSING NEEDS:
PROPOSED PROJECT LIMITS
FRAME BUILT DWELLING O
MOBILE HOME ❑
COMMERCIAL STRUCTURE ❑
MINOR/NON-NEED O = ❑
MODERATELY DETERIORATED @
SEVERELY DETERIORATED 0 Q
DILAPIDATED •
VACANT UNIT V
1-21

b. Commercial
As cited in the 1990 Land Use Plan, Beaufort historically has had a large amount of
commercial land use for a town of less than 5,000 population. Many comparable North
Carolina coastal communities have less than 5% of their incorporated land area devoted to
commercial usage. Beaufort had 12% and 16% of its incorporated area in 1990 and 1995,
respectively, devoted to commercial usage. Much of this commercial development may be
attributed to the town's waterfront development and position as a tourist center. While local
service retail development is increasing along U.S. 70 north of Beaufort, the waterfront area
continues to be the town's primary commercial service area.
From 1990 to 1995, there was very little commercial development within the town's
ETJ. This was a significant change from the 1985 to 1990 period when approximately seven
acres of the ETJ was commercially developed. During the 1990 to 1995 period, almost all,
or 42.7 acres of commercial development occurred within the town's incorporated area. Most
of this commercial development occurred along Cedar Street and U.S. 70 from Steep Point
Road, north to the town's corporate limit line. The largest single development was the Food
Lion Shopping Center located west of U.S. 70 adjacent to the town's northern corporate limit
line.
The U.S. 70 corridor continues to be rapidly commercialized. As stated in the 1990
Land Use Plan:
"Without proper control, the U.S. 70 north corridor will become a continuous
' strip of commercial development. Most of the development proposals have
been for integrated site developments or "shopping centers". Therefore, the
opportunity for good design and traffic control exists."
Congestion continues to be heavy along this corridor. In 1994, the annual average
daily 24-hour volume traffic count was 21,700 vehicles.
There are a total of 18 marinas/dockages located in Beaufort which include a total of
789 slips. Table 15 provides a summary of the marinas.
Table 15
Town of Beaufort, NC
Marinas
Marina Name Water Body Marina Type Total Slips
Airport Marina Town Creek 14
Beaufort City Docks
Beaufort Gulf Docks
Beaufort Inn
Beaufort Lndg. Vllg.
Hmown. Assoc.
Beaufort Marine Discount
Beaufort Yacht
Sales/Charters, Inc.
Taylor's Creek
Gallants Channel
Taylor's Creek
Bock Marine Builders, Inc. AIW
148
Marina 15
Res. Marina 35
13
Boatyard 100
1 1-22

Table 15 (continued)
Marina Name
Water Body
Marina Type
Total Slips
Discovery Diving Co.
Town Creek
Marina
24
Gillikin Craft, Inc.
Morgan Creek
3
Island Marina
Mouth of Newport
10
'
River
Lane's Marina
Morgan Creek
Marina
46
Mason's Marina
Core Creek/Core
'
Creek Swing Bridge
Morehead Sports Marina
Newport River
Marina
70
North West Creek Marina
'
Piver's Island Marina
Gallants Chnnl/
Piver's Isl. Bridge
Radio Island Marina
AIWW/Morehead
Marina
185
City Port Terminal
Town Creek Marina
Town Creek/
Gallants Channel
Mar./Boatyard
153
,
Source: NC Division of Coastal Management.
C. Industrial
Industrial development continues to occupy only a small portion of Beaufort's land area.
Most of the industrial development within the Beaufort area is located within the extraterritorial
jurisdiction. The largest industrial land use, Atlantic Veneer and Plywood, is located on the
east end of Mulberry Street. Other major industrial uses are concentrated around the Michael
J. Smith Airport. The total industrial acreage within the town's planning jurisdiction has
remained relatively unchanged with only a .8 acre decrease. However, the industrial acreage
within the corporate limits increased slightly by 2.3 acres. The industrial acreage in the ETJ
actually decreased by 3.1 acres. This was the result of industrial property on east Lennoxville
Road converting to the Taylor's Creek subdivision. Extension of water and sewer service into
the extraterritorial jurisdiction may encourage the spread of industrial development away from
the town. However, industrial development is expected to continue to occupy only a small
percentage of the land area within Beaufort's planning jurisdiction.
d. Institutional
The Town of Beaufort contains a significant amount of public and institutional land use.
The town serves as the county seat and contains the county's administrative, law
enforcement, and court facilities. The main county complex is located south of U.S. 70
between Turner and Craven Streets. There has been an eleven acre increase in institutional
land use acreage within the town between 1990 and 1995. Much of this increase was the
result of the annexation of the Duke Marine Laboratories located on Pivers Island. Within the
town limits, other institutional uses include Beaufort government facilities, mariners' museum,
public library, churches, cemeteries, and Beaufort Elementary School and Beaufort Middle
School
1-23

11
In 1990, there were only 126.7 acres of institutional land use within the extraterritorial
area. Most of that area was occupied by Beaufort or Carteret County facilities. Since, then,
the extraterritorial institutional land use has increased to 133.1 acres. This increase was
primarily the result of the development of church property adjacent to the northern corporate
limits line west of U.S. 70 north of Beaufort. (Note: Pivers Island is not included in the
town's ETJ.)
' e. Transportation and Public Utilities
' This category includes all roadways, utility holdings, town -owned services such as
water and sewer lines, and electric utility systems. The Michael J. Smith Airport is discussed
as a separate land use category. The town provides complete water and sewer service to the
' majority of the properties within the town limits. Subdivision developments within the
extraterritorial area have added new streets and utility systems since 1990. Approximately
1,100 linear feet of paved road have been constructed since 1990. Within the planning
period, further extensions of water and sewer utilities into the extraterritorial area will occur,
serving as a catalyst for development.
' The 1990 Land Use Plan cited as a major problem the disruption of vehicular and rail
access along U.S. 70 at Beaufort Channel when the road and rail drawbridges were raised.
Railroad service to the Town of Beaufort was discontinued in November, 1995. In
early 1996, the town was in the process of removing the abandoned railroad tracks and
attempting to acquire the railroad right-of-way. The disruption to vehicular traffic continues
' to exist.
f. Airport
11
The Michael J. Smith Airport is a major land use, occupying 403 acres. The facility is
located northwest of Beaufort between N.C. 101 and the Newport River. The 1992 North
Carolina Airport -System Plan identifies the airport as a general utility airport which can
accommodate virtually all small general aviation aircraft and some of the larger twin engine
aircraft. The airport has 67 based aircraft which have 48,980 annual operations (each take
off or landing constitutes an operation). Currently, the airport offers one FBO with hangar/tie-
down space, fuel, and maintenance/repair service. By 2010, it was anticipated that the airport
will develop into a transport airport designed and built for business jets and transport aircraft
with 70 based aircraft and 51,100 annual operations. Since 1990, the following airports
improvements have been accomplished:
-- Installed a non -directional beacon (a navigational device to assist pilots flying
in instrument conditions);
-- Upgraded the airport's lighting system;
-- Sealed the runways;
-- Installed an AWOS (Automated Weather Observing System).
g. Agricultural, Forested, and Vacant Land
The agricultural, forested, and vacant land area within the town's 1990 corporate limit
area decreased by approximately 42 acres from 1990 to 1995. However, approximately 43
acres of vacant land were annexed during the period. Within the extraterritorial area, the
1-24

agricultural, forested, and vacant land increased by approximately 35 acres. Most of this '
decrease occurred as a result of land lost to residential development. The decrease of vacant
land within the extraterritorial jurisdiction is expected to continue through the planning period.
h. Annexations
From 1990 to 1995, 8 minor annexations occurred totaling 56.38 acres in area. All ,
of the annexed areas except for the Duke Marine Laboratories, located on Piver's Island, and
a mobile home park were vacant. The vacant areas included approximately 43 acres. In
addition, the town's extraterritorial jurisdiction was extended to the north along both sides of '
U.S. 70. The additional ETJ included approximately 217 acres.
The town continues to annex property without having adopted a comprehensive '
annexation plan or policy. However, the town initiated a satellite annexation policy in
February, 1995. The following is a portion of the town's satellite annexation checklist which
will be used when considering a non-contiguous area for annexation. It should be noted that
the complete checklist includes additional, more specific criteria for single-family/tract
annexation, sub -division annexation, and industrial site annexation.
Legal requirements: Must meet all five '
-- Meets minimum 3 mile limit.
-- Town services can be extended.
-- Not a sub -division portion.
-- Area/total will not exceed 10% primary corporate limits.
-- All real property owners have signed request.
Factors to Consider:
-- Located on Highway 70 accessible to wastewater line.
-- Cost of providing town services.
-- Single-family parcel.
-- Multi -family parcel(s) or subdivision.
-- Business/Industrial site.
-- Located in area proposed for future annexation.
-- Affect of annexation on qualifying of area for involuntary annexation.
-- In compliance with Land Use Plan, town growth plan.
-- Significant health, educational, cultural, and economic benefit.
-- Anticipated ad valorem revenues.
i. Basinwide Water Quality Management
The Water Quality Section of the North Carolina Division of Environmental Management
(NCDEM) has initiated a basinwide approach to state water quality management. The overall
goal of basinwide management is to develop consistent and effective long range water quality
management strategies that protect the quality and intended uses of North Carolina's surface
waters while accommodating population increases and economic growth.
The State of North Carolina has been divided into seventeen major river basins. For
each river basin, water quality problems are identified and appropriate management strategies
1-25

' developed. The plan features basinwide permitting of pollution discharges, integration of
existing point and nonpoint source control programs, and preparation of a basinwide
management plan report.
The purpose of the basinwide management plan is to communicate to policy makers,
the regulated community, and the general public, the state's rationale, approaches, and long-
term strategies for each basin. Preparation of a basinwide management plan is a five year
process. In general, this process involves the following five major phases of development:
Collecting pertinent water quality and related information,
Analyzing the information and targeting problem areas,
-- Development management strategies,
Circulating a draft plan for public review and comment, and
Finalizing the plan.
Beaufort is located in the White Oak basin. The White Oak basinwide management
plan was submitted for staff review in January, 1996, and received Environmental
Management Commission approval in January, 1997.
' Some of the major issues being addressed in the White Oak basinwide plan are as
follows:
Long-term Growth Management
Wastewater management (non -discharge, regionalization, ocean outfall).
-- Urban stormwater runoff/water quality.
' -- Role of local land use planning.
Shellfish Water Closures
Increases in number of acres closed.
Examine link between growth and closures.
-- Opportunities for restoration and prevention.
' Animal Operation Waste Management
-- Between 1990-1991, swine population has more than doubled.
' Nutrients/Toxic Dinoflagellate
Reduction in nitrogen and phosphorous levels.
The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service has identified 24 watersheds within
the White Oak Basin. Each watershed has been assigned a fourteen -digit code for the purpose
of identification. The town's planning jurisdiction is almost equally divided between two
watersheds. Watershed 03020106040010 includes the eastern portion of town and
watershed 03020106030070 includes the western portion of town. The primary waterbodies
for these watersheds include the North and Newport Rivers. The watershed boundary is
delineated on Map 3. Table 16 provides a summary of base and demographic information for
each watershed.
1-26

M M M M MEW M MMMM M M M r M M M M
The preparation of this map was financed in
part through a grant provided 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, National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
WATERSHED 03020106030070
'a+w
MAP 3
BEAUFORT, NC
WATERSHED BOUNDARY
SCALE 01
0 400 1200
WATERSHED 03020106040010
�����► WATERSHED BOUNDARY
1-27

� i� lii� � i� � � iii� I' � � � � � � � � � !♦
Table 16
Carteret County Watershed Report
Watershed 03020106040010 and 03020106030070
Base and Demographic Data
Estimated Population Person Per Acre
Primary Area (Acres) % Chg. Incorporated Areas
14-Digit Code Waterbody Total Land Water 1980 1990 80-90 1980 1990 Overlapping Wsheds
03020106040010 North River 42,338.3 32,339.8 9,998.5 4,588 5,869 27.9% 0.14 0.18 Beaufort
03020106030070 Newport River 17,327.8 11,138.5 6,189.2 11,640 14,887 27.9% 1.05 1.34 Beaufort
Morehead City
Source: N.C. Division of Coastal Management.
1-28

,I]
Issues which directly affect Beaufort include:
-- Regulation of urban stormwater runoff
-- Control of agricultural runoff
-- Protection of groundwater quality
' -- Preservation of water quality in Taylor's Creek and around Carrot Island.
The majority, approximately 65 to 70 percent, of the developed property and
' impervious surfaces within the town's planning jurisdiction are located within watershed
03020106030070 (Newport River primary waterbody). However, the town's sewage
treatment plant discharges into Taylor's Creek in watershed 03020106040010 (North River
' primary waterbody).
2. Summary: Town of Beaufort Existinq Land Use Problems
' The Town of Beauforthas an active planning process. In 1990, the town's Board of
Commissioners served as the Board of Adjustment. The 1990 Land Use Plan recommended
' that this be eliminated and a separate Board of Adjustment established. Subsequent to 1990,
a separate board of adjustment was established. The Town of Beaufort Board of Adjustment
currently serves both Board of Adjustment and Planning Board functions. This board has been
' instrumental in the preparation of this land use plan and the definition of key land use issues
which should be addressed in the future planning and policy statements section of this plan.
In addition, input from the public at large was solicited throughout the process of updating this
plan. The following summarizes the key land use issues which should be addressed:
-- The effects of sea level rise on the Town of Beaufort.
-- Construction of a new bridge on U.S. 70 at Beaufort Channel to alleviate
disruptions to east -west traffic.
t--
Continued expansion of the Michael J. Smith Airport.
-- Extension of water and sewer utilities into the town's extraterritorial jurisdiction.
-- Coordination of the development/improvement of the Beaufort sewage
treatment system with Carteret County's plans and policies for the development
of sewage treatment system(s).
-- The impact of offshore drilling on the Town of Beaufort.
-- Protection of the Rachel Carson National Estuarine Sanctuary which includes
Carrot Island, Town Marsh, and Bird Shoal.
Control along U.S. 70 north.
-- of strip commercialization
'
-- Continued protection of the town's historic district.
-- Implementation of redevelopment/revitalization projects to eliminate substandard
'
housing.
1-29

-- Establishment of a comprehensive annexation plan.
-- Development of service industry to support tourism.
-- Protection of Areas of Environmental Concern
-- Establishment of a Growth Management Plan.
-- Urban stormwater and agricultural runoff are detrimental to water quality within
Beaufort's planning jurisdiction.
3. Existinq Ordinance and Land Use Controls
The Town of Beaufort has enforced zoning and subdivision regulations since 1977 and 1979,
respectively. These provide the basis of the town's planning and land use control programs.
The town has established extraterritorial jurisdiction and enforces land use controls within that
area. As annexation actions occur, the town should continuously extend its extraterritorial
area.
a. Zoning Ordinance
Beaufort's zoning ordinance is generally consistent with the N.C.G.S 160A-381 which
is the enabling legislation for the preparation of zoning ordinances for municipalities. The
ordinance provides for 14 separate zoning districts which may be divided into residential,
business, industrial, open space, and historic districts. In the spring of 1996, the town
amended the ordinance to allow cluster residential subdivision development.
A significant aspect of the zoning ordinance is the Historic District. The historic
heritage of Beaufort is among its most valued and important asset. It is the intent of the
Historic District regulations to promote the educational, cultural, and general welfare of the
public through the preservation and protection of historical buildings, places and areas, and
to maintain such lands as examples of past architectural styles.
b. Subdivision Regulations
The Town of Beaufort subdivision regulations are consistent with N.C.G.S. 160A-371
which is the enabling legislation for adoption of subdivision regulations of municipalities.
However, the regulations should be updated to ensure consistency with current state statutes
and to consider the following: allowance of private streets; updated requirements for
information to be shown on preliminary and final plats; and delineation of freshwater wetlands
and other areas of environmental concern.
C. Flood Plain Development Ordinance
The Town of Beaufort participates in the National Flood Insurance Program and
complies with all related regulatory requirements. Development proposals and subdivision
plats are reviewed to ensure consistency with the flood insurance program.
1-30

d. Floating Home Ordinance
' In 1983, the town adopted an ordinance establishing areas and required registration
and fees for live -aboard boats anchoring in Taylor's Creek. The ordinance prohibited the
discharge of untreated sewage or other waste materials. Subsequent to 1985, legal action
against the town's ordinance was pursued by an individual. The ordinance was found to be
' unconstitutional. Beaufort has not repealed the ordinance. However, the town should repeal
the ordinance and adopt a new Floating Home Ordinance which will be legally defensible.
1 e. Storm Hazard Mitigation and Post -Disaster Reconstruction Plan
In June, 1984, the Town of Beaufort adopted a detailed Storm Hazard Mitigation Plan
' and Post -Disaster Reconstruction Plan. The plan has satisfactorily served the town and will
continue to be utilized as the town's storm mitigation plan.
1
f. Thoroughfare Plan
The Carteret County Thoroughfare Plan was under review and study in 1995. The
draft document was endorsed by the Town of Beaufort but not yet adopted.
g. Building Code
The Town of Beaufort enforces the North Carolina State Building Code.
h. Minimum Housing Code
In 1989, the Town of Beaufort adopted a minimum housing code. The code sets
minimum standards to which residential structures must be maintained. The town's Building
Inspections Department enforces the code.
4. Develonment Potential
In 1990, a total of 1,603 acres of agricultural, forested, and vacant land remained within the
town's planning jurisdiction. Of this total, 200 acres were located within the corporate limits
and 1,403 acres were located within the town's ETJ. Some of this land is potential 404 or
coastal wetland areas and not available for development. How much is actually wetland can
only be verified through field inspection and analysis.
Based on continuation of the rate of consumption of agricultural, forested, and vacant land
which occurred from 1990 to 1995, total build -out of the existing corporate limits would
require approximately eight to ten years. Build -out of the ETJ would require approximately 20
to 25 years. Thus, without annexation, the majority of the development during and beyond
the planning period will occur within the town's ETJ.
The following factors will stimulate growth within Beaufort's planning jurisdiction:
-- Continuing improvements at the Michael J. Smith Airport are increasing the
ability of the facility to accommodate business/corporate aircraft operations.
1-31

-- Water and sewer service has been extended to all areas within the town's
corporate limits and throughout much of the ETJ. Since 1985 major
renovations to the sewer system have been accomplished.
-- Beaufort's physical features serve as a stimulant for growth. The town's total
planning jurisdiction contains only small fragile area or areas of environmental
concern. In addition, most of the town's land area is at least marginally suited
for development.
-- The town's Historic District and properties as well as the downtown commercial
area's waterfront location serve as strong tourist attractions.
_- The town's water system extends along U.S. 70 and S.R. 1300 (Merrimon
Road), north of Beaufort to the Merrimon Community.
-- Carteret County has experienced strong population growth. From 1980 to
1994, Carteret County was the sixth fastest growing CAMA-regulated county
and was 24th in the entire state.
E. DEVELOPMENT CONSTRAINTS: LAND SUITABILITY
1. Topography/Geology
The area within Beaufort and its extraterritorial jurisdiction is flat with the elevation generally
varying less than three feet. Elevations range from mean sea level to approximately twelve
feet above mean sea level. Topography is not considered to be a serious constraint to
development.
Carteret County is underlain by an eastward -thickening wedge of sedimentary deposits of
Pleistocene -age, ranging from 2,000 feet thick in the northwest portions of the county to
almost 7,000 feet thick beneath the easternmost sections of offshore strand. Because of the
depth of the surficial sand/siliceous deposits, little is known of the composition of underlying
deposits. Well logs indicate that shell fragments and calcareous material are consolidated into
a limestone at a depth of less than .120 feet west of Morehead City, and at increasing depths
further eastward. Microfossils obtained from some well samples indicate that the uppermost
consolidated limestone is probably part of the Yorktown formation.
The Beaufort water system obtains water from an aquifer located in the Yorktown/Castle
Hayne formations. Based on existing analysis of well yields, the groundwater supply is
adequate to serve existing demand. However, salt water intrusion may be an increasing
concern as demand for water grows. About 2,500 square miles of the Castle Hayne aquifer,
including the portion underlying Carteret County, have been designated as a capacity use area
by the NC Groundwater Section due to large (68 MGD in 1986) groundwater withdrawals by
the PCS phosphate mine near Aurora. A capacity use area is defined as an area where the
use of water resources threatens to exceed the replenishment ability to the extent that
regulation may be required.
1-32

r
' 2. Flood Hazard Areas
' The Town of Beaufort has a Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM). The town's Building Inspector
enforces the Floodplain Development Ordinance. The map designates "A" flood zones, which
are areas that will experience rising flood waters with little or no wave action. The "A" zone
is specifically defined as Special Flood Hazard Areas inundated by the 100-year flood,
tdetermined by approximate methods; no base flood elevations are shown or flood hazard
factors determined.
During the 100-year flood, the FIRM indicates that flood water from Town Creek will meet
water from Turner Creek, making the south end of the peninsula an island. Approximately 30
percent of Beaufort's planning jurisdiction is within the 100-year floodplain and over 50
percent of its area is above the 500-year flood level. Map 4 delineates the 100-year floodplain
area.
' In 1986, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers prepared maps of coastal North Carolina which
delineated storm surge flooding. The maps were prepared using a computer base model
named SLOSH, Sea Lake Overlaid Surge from Hurricanes. The model plots hurricane -related
' flooding which may result from a number of characteristics including wind speed, wind
direction, time tide, etc. The following defines the five storm surge categories:
Category 1. Winds of 74 to 95 miles per hour. Damage primarily to shrubbery, trees, foliage,
and unanchored mobile homes. No appreciable wind damage to other structures. Some
damage to poorly constructed signs. Storm surge possibly 4 to 5 feet above normal. Low-lying
roads inundated, minor pier damage, some small craft in exposed anchorage torn from
' moorings.
Category 2. Winds of 96 to 110 miles per hour. Considerable damage to shrubbery and tree
foliage; some trees blown down. Major damage to exposed mobile homes. Extensive damage
to poorly constructed signs. Some damage to roofing materials of buildings; some window and
door damage. No major wind damage to buildings. Storm surge possibly 6 to 8 feet above
normal. Coastal roads and low-lying escape routes inland cut by rising water 2 to 4 hours
before arrival of hurricane center. Considerable damage to piers. Marinas flooded. Small craft
in unprotected anchorages torn from moorings. Evacuation of some shoreline residences and
low-lying island areas required.
' Category 3. Winds of 111 to 130 miles per hour. Foliage torn from trees; large trees blown
down. Practically all poorly constructed signs blown down. Some damage to roofing materials
of buildings; some window and door damage. Some structural damage to small buildings.
Mobile homes destroyed. Storm surge possibly 9 to 12 feet above normal. Serious flooding
at coast and many smaller structures near coast destroyed; larger structures near coast
' damaged by battering waves and floating debris. Low-lying escape routes inland cut by rising
water 3 to 5 hours before hurricane center arrives.
Category 4. Winds of 131 to 155 miles per hour. Shrubs and trees blown down; all signs
down. Extensive damage to roofing materials, windows, and doors. Complete failure of roofs
on many small residences. Complete destruction of mobile homes. Storm surge possibly 13
to 18 feet above normal. Major damage to lower floors of structures near shore due to flooding
' and battering by waves and floating debris. Low-lying escape routes inland cut by rising water
3 to 5 hours before hurricane center arrives. Major erosion of beaches.
Category 5. Winds greater than 155 miles per hour. Shrubs and trees blown down;
considerable damage to roofs of buildings; all signs down. Very severe and extensive damage
1-33

to windows and doors. Complete failure of roofs on many residences and industrial buildings.
Extensive shattering of glass in windows and doors. Some complete building failures. Small
buildings overturned or blown away. Complete destruction of mobile homes. Storm surge
possibly greater than 18 feet above normal. Major damage to lower floors of all structures less
than 15 feet above sea level. Low-lying escape routes inland cut by rising water 3 to 5 hours
before hurricane center arrives.
Map 5 indicates the areas in Beaufort's planning jurisdiction which may be affected by
hurricane -generated storm surge.
Flooding resulting from sea level rise may be a long-term problem. Over the last 100 years,
the sea level has risen approximately one foot. Most experts agree that the rate of sea level
rise will increase over the next one hundred years. The maximum increase has been forecast
to be as much as four to seven feet. An increase of that magnitude would be disastrous to
the town and its extraterritorial area. Over 50% of the town's planning jurisdiction could be
inundated and most of the incorporated area would be flooded. The impact of sea level rise
has serious adverse implications for Beaufort. The rate of rise should be carefully monitored.
The vacant areas on the south side of Front Street are zoned R-8. This zoning allows only
non-commercial docks and piers. This type of control will reduce the adverse impacts of sea
level rise. However, the town should cooperate with Carteret County to develop additional
programs and controls to respond to the impact of sea level rise.
1-34

= 1=1 1=1 = = r
The preparation of this map was financed In
part through a grant provided 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, National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
CIrrRA,TFRRrOR
MAP 4 �`°�"OqR,.
BEAUFORT, N.C.
100 YEAR FLOOD PLAIN AREA
SCALE
0 400 1200 LEGEND
••••—•••• CITY LIMIT BOUNDARY
EXTRA -TERRITORIAL BOUNDARY
100 YEAR FLOOD AREA
FP
1-35

- � � I� liiiiiii� ii� illll■ii� �
MAP 5
TOWN OF BEAUFORT
STORM SURGE INUNDATION AREAS
LEGEND
Category 1 2 Surge Area
Category
3
Additional Surge Area
Category
4
-5 Additional Surge Area
SCALE IN MILES
The preparation of this map was financed in
part through a grant provided 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, National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. 1-36

3. Soils
A detailed soils survey of Carteret County has been completed by the Soil Conservation
Service. Based on that survey, there are 20 different soil types located within Beaufort's
' planning area. These soil types are delineated on Map 6 and their conditions for site
development are provided in Table 17. Most soils within the Beaufort planning area are either
suitable or moderately suitable for development. However, because of a high water table,
' limitations exist for shallow excavation.

The preparation of this map was financed in
part through a grant provided 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, National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
SC
AaA
Altavista
Ag
Augusta
Ap
Arapahoe
ByB
Baymeade '.
CH
Carteret
CnB
Conetoe
Cu
Corolla -Urban
De
Deloss
KuB
Kureb
Ln
Leon
Lu
Leon -Urban
MC
Mandarin -Urban
Mn
Mandarin
Mu
Murville
Nd
Newhan
Se
Seabrook
StA
State
Tm
Tomotley
WaB
Wando
WuB
Wando-Urban
MAP 6
BEAUFORT, N.C.
SOILS MAP
SCALE
0 400 1200
GRTM
CITY LIMIT BOUNDARY--••••-•»•-
EXTRA-TERRITORIAL BOUNDARY .•••.•�
1-38

Table 17
Town of Beaufort, NC
Soil Conditions for Building Site Development
Dwellings
Small
Soil Name and
Shallow
without
Dwellings with
Commercial
Local Roads and
Lawns and
Map Symbol
Excavations
Basements
Basements
Buildings
Streets
Landscaping
Altavista (AaA)
Severe:
Moderate:
Severe:
Moderate:
Moderate:
Moderate:
wetness,
wetness.
wetness.
wetness.
wetness.
wetness.
cutbanks cave.
Augusta (Ag)
Severe:
Severe:
Severe:
Severe:
Moderate:
Moderate:
wetness.
wetness.
wetness.
wetness.
low strength,
wetness.
wetness.
Arapahoe (Ap)
Severe:
Severe:
Severe:
Severe:
Severe:
Severe:
cutbanks cave,
flooding,
flooding,
flooding,
wetness.
wetness.
wetness.
wetness.
wetness.
wetness.
Baymeade (ByB)
Severe:
Slight
Moderate:
Slight
Slight
Severe:
cutbanks cave.
wetness.
droughty.
Carteret (CH)
Severe:
Severe:
Severe:
Severe:
Severe:
Severe: excess
cutbanks cave,
flooding,
flooding,
flooding,
flooding,
salt, ponding,
ponding.
ponding.
ponding.
ponding.
ponding.
droughty.
Conetoe (CnB)
Severe:
Slight
Slight
Slight
Slight
Moderate:
cutbanks cave
droughty.
Corolla -Urban
Severe:
Severe:
Severe:
Severe:
Moderate:
Severe:
(Cu)
cutbanks cave,
flooding.
flooding,
flooding.
flooding,
droughty.
wetness.
wetness.
wetness.
Hobuken (HB)
Severe:
Severe:
Severe:
Severe:
Severe:
Severe:
ponding.
flooding,
flooding,
flooding,
flooding,
flooding,
ponding.
ponding.
ponding.
ponding
ponding.
Kureb (KuB)
Severe:
Slight
Slight
Slight
Slight
Severe:
cutbanks cave.
droughty.
Leon (Ln)
Severe:
Severe:
Severe:
Severe:
Severe:
Severe:
cutbanks cave,
wetness.
wetness.
wetness.
wetness.
wetness,
wetness.
droughty.
1-39

Table 17 (continued)
Soil Name and Shallow
Map Symbol Excavations
Dwellings
without
Basements
Dwellings with
Basements
Small
Commercial
Buildings
Local Roads and
Streets
Lawns and
Landscaping
Leon -Urban (Lu)
Severe:
Severe:
Severe:
Severe:
Severe:
Severe:
cutbanks cave,
wetness.
wetness.
wetness.
wetness.
wetness,
wetness.
droughty.
Mandarin -Urban
Severe:
Moderate:
Severe:
Moderate:
Moderate:
Moderate:
NO
cutbanks cave,
wetness.
wetness.
wetness.
wetness.
droughty, too
wetness.
sandy.
Mandarin (Mn)
Severe:
Moderate:
Severe:
Moderate:
Moderate:
Moderate:
cutbanks cave,
wetness.
wetness..
wetness.
wetness.
droughty, too
wetness.
sandy.
Murville NO
Severe:
Severe:
Severe:
Severe:
Severe:
Severe:
cutbanks cave.
ponding.
ponding.
ponding.
ponding.
ponding.
Newhan (Nd)
Severe:
Severe: slope.
Severe: slope.
Severe: slope.
Severe: slope.
Severe:
cutbanks cave,
droughty, slope.
slope.
Seabrook (Se)
Severe:
Moderate:
Severe:
Moderate:
Moderate:
Severe:
cutbanks cave,
wetness.
wetness.
wetness.
wetness.
droughty.
wetness.
State (StA)
Severe:
Slight
Moderate:
Slight
Moderate: low
Slight
cutbanks cave.
wetness.
strength.
Tomotley (Tm)
Severe:
Severe:
Severe:
Severe:
Severe:
Severe:
wetness.
wetness.
wetness.
wetness.
wetness.
wetness.
Wando (WaB)
Severe:
Slight
Slight
Slight
Slight
Moderate:
cutbanks cave.
droughty.
Wando-Urban
Severe:
Slight
Slight
Slight
Slight
Moderate:
(WuB)
cutbanks cave.
droughty.
Source: U.S. Soil Conservation Service
1-40

' 4. Manmade Hazards/Restrictions
The most significant manmade hazard within Beaufort's planning jurisdiction is the Michael J.
' Smith Airport. The airport is located northwest of the town in an area of increasing
development. The Beaufort -Morehead City, Airport Authority is considering lengthening
Runway 8-26 to accommodate "light" jet aircraft. This extension could require relocation of
' a portion of NC 101 and result in further impact of air operations on surrounding areas. Other
manmade hazards within Beaufort's planning jurisdiction include the following:
' Atlantic Veneer, Mulberry Street, Beaufort
Propane/Propylene/Hydrochloric Acid/Caustic Soda-
Anhydrous/Isopropyl Alcohol/Casamite/Sodium Hypro-
' chlorite/Fuel Oil/Kerosene/Perchlorothylene/Ammonium
Chloride/Caustic Soda/Hydrogen/Sodium Hydroxide/Xylene/
Aliphatic Alcohol
Town .of Beaufort
A. Town Garage - Unleaded and Diesel Fuel
' B. Water Plant -Chlorine .
C. Waste Treatment Plant - Chlorine
Beaufort Gulf Dock, 330 Front Street, Beaufort
Fuel Storage
Beaufort Ice and Coal Company
' Ammonia (Ice Plant)
11
Beaufort Fisheries
Fuel Storage
Carteret Quick Freeze, End of Anne Street West, Beaufort
Ammonia (Ice Plant)
Town Creek Marina, West Beaufort Road
' Fuel Storage
U.S. Route 70
Transportation corridor utilized for the transmit of "hazardous materials."
As a result of recently adopted federal regulations concerning underground storage tanks, the
threat of explosion or groundwater contamination from existing underground storage tanks
should decrease.
Located immediately west of Beaufort's planning jurisdiction is Radio Island. The island
contains 25,000,000-gallon storage of jet aircraft fuel. The fuel from these tanks is shipped
westward by rail and does not pass through Beaufort. However, the threat of fire and
' explosions is a concern to the Town of Beaufort.

5. Fragile Areas
In coastal North Carolina, fragile areas are considered to include coastal wetlands, sand dunes,
ocean beaches, shorelines, estuarine waters and shorelines, public trust waters, complex
natural areas, areas sustaining remnant species, unique geological formations, registered
natural landmarks, swamps, prime wildlife habitats, scenic points, archaeological sites,
historical sites, and fresh water wetlands. The Town of Beaufort's planning jurisdiction
includes or is adjacent to estuarine waters and shorelines, coastal wetlands, and public trust
waters. Map 7 provides a delineation of the Areas of Environmental Concern. These are areas
which could easily be damaged or destroyed by inappropriate or poorly planned development.
a. Coastal Wetlands
The coastal wetlands are generally delineated on Map 7, Areas of Environmental
Concern. However, it is emphasized that the specific locations of coastal wetlands can be
determined only through on -site investigation and analysis. Coastal wetlands are defined as
salt marshes regularly- or irregularly -flooded by tides including wind tides, provided this shall
not include hurricane or tropical storm tides. This area contains some, but not necessarily all
of the following marsh plant species: Cordgrass, Black Needlerush, Glasswort, Salt Grass, Sea
Lavendar, Bulrush, Saw Grass, Cat -tail, Salt Meadow Grass, and Salt Reed Grass. The coastal
wetlands are vital to the complex food chain found in estuaries. They provide marine nursery
areas and are essential to a sound commercial fishing industry. Coastal wetlands also serve
as barriers against flood damage and control erosion between the estuary and uplands.
b. Estuarine Waters
Estuarine waters are generally those waters found in estuaries, bays, and salt water
shorelines. They are the dominant component and bonding element of the entire estuarine
system, integrating aquatic influences from both the land and the sea. The estuarine waters
are among the most productive natural environments within Beaufort's planning jurisdiction.
The waters support the valuable commercial and sports fisheries of the coastal area which are
comprised of estuarine dependent species such as menhaden, flounder, shrimp, crabs, and
oysters.
C. Estuarine Shorelines
Estuarine shorelines are those non -ocean shorelines which are especially vulnerable to
erosion, flooding, or other adverse effects of wind and water. They are intimately connected
to the estuary. The area extends from the mean high water level or normal water level along
the estuaries, sounds, bays, and brackish waters for a distance of 75 feet landward.
Development within the estuarine shorelines influences the quality of estuarine life and is
subject to the damaging processes of shorefront erosion and flooding.
d. Public Trust Areas
Public trust areas are all waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the lands thereunder from
the mean high water mark to the seaward limit of state jurisdiction; all natural bodies of water
subject to measurable lunar tides and lands thereunder to the mean high water mark; all
navigable natural bodies of water and lands thereunder to the mean high water level or mean
1-42

NOTES:
1. ALL AREAS LYING 0-75' LANDWARD OF THE
MEAN HIGH WATER LEVEL OF ESTUARINE
2. ALL WATERS IN BEAUFORT'S PLANNING
JURISDICTION ARE CLASSIFIED AS ESTUARINE
WATERS ARE ESTUARINE SHORELINE AREAS
WATERS AS DESCRIBED BY 15 NCAC 7H.0206,
AND CLASSIFIED AS CONSERVATION LANDS.
BECAUSE OF MAP SCALE. THESE AREAS
OR PUBLIC TRUST AREAS AS DESCRIBED BY 15
NCAC 7H.0207. ALL DEVELOPMENT SHALL BE
CANNOT BE ACCURATELY MAPPED. PRECISE
CONSISTANT WITH THE USE STANDARDS
LOCATIONS MUST BE DETERMINED IN THE
CONTAINED IN 15 NCAC 7H.0206 AND .0207.
FIELD. .
LEGEND
COASTAL WETLANDS
ESTUARINE SYSTEM ISLANDS.
•-� � ►- Y
CITY LIMIT BOUNDARY
EXTRA -TERRITORIAL BOUNDARY
011-: b+a
MAP 7
BEAUFORT, N.C.
AREAS OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERN
SCALE
0 400 1200
W-V
The preparation of this map was financed in
part through a grant provided 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, National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
1-43

' water: level as the case may be, except privately -owned lakes to which the public has no right
of access; all water in artificially created bodies of water containing significant public fishing
resources or other public resources which are accessible to the public by navigation; and all
waters in artificially created bodies of water in which the public has acquired rights by
prescription, custom, usage, dedication, or any other means. In determining whether the
public has acquired rights in artificially created bodies of water, the following factors shall be
' considered:
-- the use of the body of water by the public,
' -- the length of time the public has used the area,
-- the value of public resources in the body of water,
-- whether the public resources in the body of water are mobile to the extent that
' -- they can move into natural bodies of water,
whether the creation of the artificial body of water required permission from the
state, and
' -- the value of the body of water to the public for navigation from one public area
to another public area.
' These areas are significant because the public has rights in these areas, including
navigation and recreation. The public trust areas also support valuable commercial and sports
fisheries, have aesthetic value, and are important resources for economic development.
It is impossible to map the public trust area. The areas must be determined through
in -field analysis and definition.
e. Historic and Archaeological Sites
The Town of Beaufort is nationally recognized for the significance of its historic sites.
A National Register Historic District was established in Beaufort in the 1970's. However, a
local historic district was not established until 1985. The Historic District is delineated on Map
7, Areas of Environmental Concern.
The Beaufort Historic District was described in the 1985 Land Use Plan as "the most
distinctively coastal historic community along the North Carolina coast." While few of the
buildings have significant architectural merit, the area has maintained its overall architectural
and historic integrity. The specific local architectural details for which the area is noted
include roof lines, chimneys, porches, and mantels.
The following structures located in Beaufort are listed in the National Register of
Historic Places:
Carteret County Home
Gibbs House
Jacob Henry House
Old Burying Ground
Highway 101
903 Front Street
229 Front Street
Block between Ann,
Craven, and Broad
Streets
Local significance
National significance
State significance
Local significance
' I-44

The Beaufort Historical Association maintains a complex of restored buildings on Turner
Street within the Historic District. The complex is an assortment of restored period buildings
representing early coastal North Carolina life. The buildings are open six days a week, year
round, and costumed hostesses provide guided tours.
There are also some potentially significant historic and archaeological sites scattered
along Beaufort's shoreline areas. It is recommended by the town that the North Carolina
Department of Archives and Natural History be contacted prior to any land or river/sound
bottom disturbing activities.
f. Rachel Carson Estuarine Sanctuary
While the Rachel Carson Estuarine Sanctuary is primarily a coastal wetland AEC, it
demands special attention. In 1983 it was formally designated as part of the National
Estuarine Research Reserve System by the U.S. Department of Commerce. The Reserve was
dedicated as a State Nature Preserve in 1987. It encompasses 2,625 acres of islands,
marshes, intertidal flats, tidal creeks, and shallow estuarine waters that have been acquired
by the state. The property lies across Taylor's Creek from the Beaufort waterfront and
includes: Carrot and Horse Islands, Bird Shoal, Town Marsh, and Middle Marshes.
The area supports significant coastal flora and fauna, including a population of feral
horses. Thus, it serves as a natural outdoor laboratory for estuarine education. Estuarine
research has been performed on the site for decades because of its proximity to Duke
University Marine Laboratory, the National Marine Fisheries Laboratory, the University of North
Carolina Institute of Marine Sciences, and the North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries. As
part of the North Carolina Coastal Reserve, the Rachel Carson site is managed by the North
Carolina Division of Coastal Management for research, education, and compatible recreational
uses according to a federally -approved management plan.
g. Freshwater Wetlands
Freshwater wetlands are areas covered by water orthat have waterlogged soils for long
periods during the growing season. Plants growing in wetlands are capable of living in soils
lacking oxygen for at least part of the growing season. Some wetlands, such as swamps, are
obvious. Others are sometimes difficult to identify because they may be dry during part of the
year. Wetlands include, but are not limited to, bottomlands, forests, swamps, pocosins, pine
savannahs, bogs, marshes, and wet meadows.
. Section 404 of the Clean Water Act requires that anyone interested in depositing
dredged or fill material into "waters of the United States," including wetlands, must apply for
and receive a permit for such activities. Development interests and individuals who either
knowingly or through ignorance violate the provisions of Section 404 may face substantial
costs in restoring damaged wetlands as well as civil and criminal penalties. While there are
scattered wetland areas located within Beaufort's planning jurisdiction, the specific locations
of wetlands areas must be determined through specific on -site analysis. However, it appears
that the following wetland types are included within Beaufort's planning jurisdiction: upland
or tidal flat, salt/brackish marsh, managed pineland, estuarine scrub, shrub, and open water.
h. Closed Shellfishing Areas
Adjacent to Beaufort, the majority of the waters that have been closed to shellfishing
are located in Davis Bay, Turner Creek, Gallants Channel, and the waters surrounding Piver's
Island. The general location of these areas have been provided on Map 1.
1-45

0
Areas of Resource Potential
a. Agricultural and Forest Lands
Within Carteret County, there are extensive areas of prime agricultural lands. The best
soils for agricultural production are the Deloss-Tomotley-Arapahoe soils association.
Beaufort's extraterritorial area includes large areas of Arapahoe soils. Most of those areas are
in active agricultural production. The majority of the area within or adjacent to the town's
corporate limits are either in the Altavista -Augusta -State or Leon-Murville-Mandarin
associations. These soils are not considered prime agricultural soils. It is anticipated that
much of the prime agricultural land located within the town's extraterritorial jurisdiction will
continue to be converted to urban uses during the planning period.
b. Public Parks
Carteret County's Freedom Park is located within Beaufort's extraterritorial jurisdiction.
This facility contains a complex of baseball/softball fields which attract people from throughout
the county. While the Beaufort waterfront is not technically a park, it is an area that offers
visual access to the sound and is the location of many activities which are recreationally
related. The waterfront area does have some regional recognition and significance. The NC
Wildlife Commission leases land from the town at the foot of Front Street for a boat ramp.
Grayden Paul Park, located at the foot of Pollock Street, is maintained by the town as a water
access park. The facility includes a dinghy dock, a temporary (2-hour limit) boat dock, a
swimming dock, and a small gazebo. The Jaycee Park, a small town -owned park facility, is
also located on Front Street opposite the boat ramp. A regional CAMA shoreline access site
is located on Taylor's Creek. The facilities include: restrooms, 12 parking spaces, boardwalk,
pier, and a barbecue grill.
IC. Marine Resources
There are no major concentrations of subaquatic vegetation within Beaufort's planning
jurisdiction. However, the Rachel Carson Estuarine Sanctuary contains productive estuarine
waters. In addition, important coastal wetland areas exist along the North River. These areas
should be protected as an important part of Carteret County's marine environment.
' Commercial fishing and other marine activities have long been important to Beaufort's
economy and history. Beaufort desires to protect the integrity and quality of Carteret
County's marine environment.
I
- The North Carolina Division of Environmental Management assigns water quality
classifications to all waters of the State of North Carolina. The schedule of classifications is
provided by 15 NCAC 2B.0302 to .0317 (see Appendix 4). The classifications are based upon
the existing or contemplated best usage of the various streams and segments of streams
within a basin, as determined through studies, evaluations, and comments received at public
hearings. The state classifies tidal salt waters as follows:
Class SA:
Class SB:
shellfishing for market purposes and any other usage specified by
the "SB" and "SC" classification;
primary recreation and any other usage specified by the "SC"
classification;
1-46

Class SC: fish and wildlife propagation, secondary recreation, and other '
uses requiring waters of lower quality.
Most of the water within Beaufort's planning jurisdiction is classified SA. However, the '
waters within Taylor's Creek and Town Creek are classified SC. In addition, Turner Creek is
designated as a primary nursery area. Primary nursery areas are growing areas where '
populations of juvenile finfish and shellfish of economic importance occur.
In addition, surface waters (streams, lakes, or estuaries) are rated as either fully supporting
(S), support -threatened (ST), partially supporting (PS), or nonsupporting (NS) by the Division ,
of Water Quality Section. The terms refer to whether the classified uses of the water (such
as water supply, aquatic life protection and swimming) are being fully supported, partially
supported, or are not supported. For instance, saltwaters classified for commercial shellfish '
harvesting (SA) would be rated as fully supporting if bacterial levels in the water were low
enough to allow harvesting. However, if fecal coliform bacteria levels were too high to allow
shellfish to be harvested, but not too high to prevent swimming, then the waters would be I
rated as partially supporting since they only supportthe swimming. If the waters were
impacted to the point that even swimming was disallowed, the waters would be rated as
nonsupporting. Partially supporting (PS) and support -threatened (ST) waters have been '
identified within Beaufort's planning jurisdiction. The general location of these areas has been
provided on Map 1.
Also of significance to Beaufort's marine history and resources is the North Carolina Maritime '
Museum. The museum was originally opened in 1930 in Morehead City under the
management of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the N.C. Department of Conservation
and Development. In 1951, management of the museum changed to the State Museum of '
Natural History under the North Carolina Department of Agriculture. In the 1970s, the
museum was moved to Beaufort. In 1975, the museum hired a full-time curator and was
opened to the public year round. The museum is filled with exhibits documenting both '
maritime and natural history of the North Carolina coast. The museum is currently in the
process of acquiring additional land on West Beaufort Road for future expansion. The town
has indicated support for museum expansion.
F. DEVELOPMENT CONSTRAINTS: PUBLIC FACILITIES I
1. Water Supplv
Beaufort operates its own water system. Service is available to the entire town and can be
extended into the extraterritorial areas as areas are annexed. The system underwent
upgrading in 1985-1986 with the assistance of federal funding and a one -million dollar general '
obligation bond referendum. As required by N.C.G.S. 143-355(1) and (M), the Town of
Beaufort adopted a water supply plan on March 8, 1995.
The following information is provided by the town's water supply plan:
"The original water system was constructed in 1917. Although the town
originally owned the system, it was sold to Carolina Water Co., and then '
purchased back by Beaufort in 1975. In 1976, a number of improvements were
made to the system, which included a 200,000 gallon elevated tank and a new
well, #2. In 1988, another new well #3, another 200,000 elevated tank, and '
1-47

1
F
F
11
a 300,000 gallon ground storage tank with computerized controller were added
to the system. Ion Exchange Softening was also added. The system has
served the town well with sufficient growth potential for the immediate future.
The Town of Beaufort has, for the past four years, operated the North River
Water System, and the Merrimon Water System, both constructed and owned
by the County of Carteret. Both are new small community systems placed in
operation in June of 1990. The North River System is only 3.8 miles along
Highway 70 from the Beaufort City Limits. The Town of Beaufort is researching
the possibility of connecting the two systems creating one system with a larger
capacity.
The average annual daily water withdrawn from the town's three wells is .486
MGD. This does not differ significantly from the .49 MGD reported_ in the 1989
Water System Report, supporting the fact that unless annexation takes place,
no significant increase in water use will occur.
The maximum daily water use of .834 MGD reported in the 1992 system report
was a one day occurrence and has not been repeated to date.
The average monthly water use ranges from a high of .601 MGD in July to a
low of .427 MGD in January. Major non-residential users include the WWTP
at 16,000 GPD and the Water Treatment Operations at 13,000 GPD as #1 and
#2 high users, respectively. A cleaner uses 9,000 as #3 on the list with the
#10, a food store, at 2,000 GPD.
Water Source for the town is ground water from the Castle Hayne Aquifer.
Water is drawn from the aquifer by three deep wells. The wells are capable of
pumping 500, 500, and 800 GPM, respectively. No significant increase in
drawdown of the static or pumping levels has been noted although Beaufort
falls within the "Capacity Use Area" of Eastern North Carolina.
Others who draw from the Castle Hayne Aquifer are too numerous to list.
The Town of Beaufort has not experienced any water shortages in the last 10
years."
2. Sewer
The Town of Beaufort has accomplished major renovations to its sewer system within the last
five years. In 1985, the system was hydraulically overloaded due to stormwater infiltration.
The average flows ranged from 700,000 GPD to 1.5 million GPD.
Beaufort undertook an engineering study to identify the sources of infiltration and developed
a plan for the re-routing of some stormwater and the replacement of some old or broken city
sewer lines. In addition, the town undertook an expansion of the treatment plant. The
expansion was completed at a cost of 2.5 million dollars in November of 1988. The
Environmental Protection Agency funded 55% of the cost with the remaining funds provided
' by the state and town.
1-48

As a result of the overall improvements, 100,000 GPD of infiltration was eliminated. The
current flow averages 1 million GPD and ranges from 850 GPD to 1.1 MGD. The treatment
plant is a Class III treatment facility and provides secondary treatment. It has a NPDES limit
of 1.5 MGD. The treated wastewater is discharged into Taylor's Creek which contains tidal
SC classified waters. The town operates a certified laboratory which is staffed with one full-
time laboratory technician. Map 8 provides the plant location. As of May 1995, only one
NPDES permit had been issued in Beaufort in addition to that issued for the town's sewage
treatment plant. A permit for three million gallons per day had been issued for Beaufort
Fisheries, Inc., on Front Street Extension. The town's system accepts sewer from East
Carteret High School. However, additional provision of sewer service in the vicinity of the
high school is not anticipated unless annexation(s) occur.
In July, 1994, the Carteret County Interlocal Agency (CCIA) was formed to address the need
for regional sewage collection in the county. All nine incorporated municipalities within the
county, including Beaufort, are voting members of the agency. The task assigned to this
agency was that of determining if land application methods for wastewater treatment and
disposal were viable alternatives for the municipalities in Carteret County. Funding was
obtained from state, county, and local sources; the scope of work was defined; feasibility
study bids were let; and Camp, Dresser & McKee was chosen to perform the study. As a
result of the CCIA's efforts, major state funding was also granted for a long-term regional
wastewater study for Carteret, Craven, Onslow, and Pamlico counties which would be
undertaken during the same approximate time frame as the CCIA study.
The Interlocal Agency study has now been completed and the results and findings of the study
generally conclude that land application treatment and disposal methods alone cannot feasibly
meet the wastewater disposal needs of all of Carteret County's municipalities. Under current
state and federal guidelines, there is simply not enough suitable land area available in Carteret
County to handle the projected wastewater volume. However, the study does conclude that
land application in conjunction with existing treatment and disposal facilities could be a
feasible alternative provided state permitting allows for such a system.
At the present time, the CCIA is overseeing Phase II of the study funded in part through a
Division of Coastal Management regional planning grant. This study is intended to examine
the possibilities of increasing the permitted discharge at each of the three existing wastewater
treatment plants. In addition, this study will focus on funding scenarios for the construction
of a county -wide sewer system. Due to complications caused by Hurricane Fran, this study
has gone over schedule and is not expected to be completed until after August, 1997.
The findings of the Four County Regional Task Force Study were unveiled in August, 1996.
In this study, six separate scenarios were examined for the treatment and disposal of
wastewater for the four -county area. These scenarios are as follows:
1
J
7
I
1
-- Status quo. This plan calls for improving existing treatment plants and
continuing to rely on septic tanks in unincorporated areas. '
-- Consolidation of existing facilities with continued surface water discharge
(streams). Similar to the first option, this also would call for the upgrade of
existing facilities to handle independent package systems.
I-49

LEGEND
1 BEAUFORT MOREHEAD CITY AIRPORT
2 RESCUE SQUAD .
3 BEAUFORT MIDDLE SCHOOL
4 NEW WELL NO. 3 & TREATMENT FACILITY
5 SCHOOL BUS GARAGE
6 BEAUFORT ELEMENTARY
7 BEAUFORT HOUSING AUTHORITY
8 TOWN GARAGE
9 POWER SUBSTATION
10 BEAUFORT SANITATION & WATER DEPT.
& WELL NO. 2
11 CARTERET COUNTY COURT FACILITIES
12 CARTERET COUNTY ADMINISTRATION
13 COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT
14 FIRE STATION
15 BOARD OF EDUCATION
16 BEAUFORT LIBRARY
17 DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES
y►-F"%VI VI \ 1 9 1 V.—.
COMMUNITY FACILITIES
SCALE
0 400 1200
18 POLICE DEPT. & OLD R.R. STATION/
TOWN HALL
19 CHURCH PARKING LOT (Public Use)
20 BEAUFORT RESTORATION CENTER
21 PUBLIC PARKING
22 HAMPTON MARINERS MUSEUM
23 WATERFRONT PARK
24 POST OFFICE
25 GRAYDEN PAUL PARK
26 WELL NO. 1 & WATER TREATMENT
27 PUBLIC BOAT RAMP
28 TENNIS COURTS
29 SHOPPING CENTER
30 FREEDOM PARK BALL FIELDS
31 WASTEWATER TREATMENT FACILITY
32 PUBLIC BOAT RAMP
33 RANDOLPHJOHNSON PARK
I IT/ 1 IIAIT M^1141P AnW
The preparation of this map was financed in
part through a grant provided 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, National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
-50:'.

d
-- Ocean outfall discharge. This plan has two alternatives, both with multiple
treatment plants. Alternative one calls for one ocean outfall (a pipe which
carries treated wastewater miles into the ocean). Under the proposal, the pipe
would be somewhere in the Swansboro area. Alternative two calls for two
points of ocean entry, one near Swansboro and one north of Cape Lookout.
-- Maximum water reuse. The key concepts under this proposal are golf course
irrigation, wetlands restoration and forest land application. Secondary reuse
potential includes agricultural irrigation, landscape irrigation, and industrial
reuse. Under this proposal, in the extreme long-term, the water may be
reclaimed for a drinking source or used for deep well injection to provide a
saltwater barrier in the aquifer.
-- Maximum use of natural systems. This proposal calls for a surface discharge
system that relies primarily on land application or constructed wetlands as
means of effluent polishing (the purifying of treated wastewater).
-- Three service areas. This calls .for breaking the four -county area into three
groups: Onslow County and Carteret coastal communities, Craven County and
the remainder of Carteret County, and Pamlico County. Discharge limits of
wastewater would be restricted to current permitted flow with an emphasis on
improving water reuse. Septic tanks would continue to be used extensively in
unincorporated areas.
At the time the Four County study is completed, both the Interlocal Agency and the Regional
Task Force will meet with state officials to review the findings of both studies and what
options and alternatives may be permitted for both short-term and long-term strategies for the
treatment and disposal of area wastewater.
3. Solid Waste Disposal
Beaufort operates a town -wide refuse collection system. Twice per week pick-up service is
provided to 1,735 single-family homes, 425 apartments, and 138 businesses. Other pick-up
services include eight trash can racks on Front Street, 16 street containers, and four 55-gallon
drums located in parks. The collection route is about 14 miles long. The town no longer
provides collection services for businesses with dumpsters. A commercial dumpster service
is provided by Waste Industries, Inc. Collection is accomplished by a three-man crew using
one 30-yard rear loading packer. The collection averages one load per day. At times -during
the peak tourist season, a second truck is, needed.
Since 1992, the Town of Beaufort has reduced its total volume of waste by over 25 % through
its recycling program. Recycling bins are located at the town's garage on Hedrick Street for
glass, plastics, corrugated cardboard, and newspapers. The town operates its own cardboard
bailer and periodically sells its supply to the organization with the highest bid. The town has
made arrangements with Waste Industries to collect recyclables as needed. The town has
also initiated an asphalt recycling program which reuses asphalt in the construction of road
beds. The Town of Beaufort has become a leader in Carteret County in recycling.
I-51

Until 1993, Beaufort's solid waste was disposed of in the Carteret County landfill. In 1993,
the Carteret County landfill, located on Hibbs Road in the Newport Township, shut down
operations and stopped the acceptance of waste material. By 1994, the county had met all
of the necessary requirements and the closure was made official. The day after the Hibbs
Road landfill stopped accepting waste, the new Tri-County landfill was opened. The Tri-
County landfill is operated by the Coastal _Regional Solid Waste Management Authority
(CRSWMA). The management authority is a board of directors appointed by Carteret, Craven,
and Pamlico counties' Boards of Commissioners. There are seven board members. Pamlico
and Carteret counties each have two board members, and Craven County is represented by
three. The fundamental idea behind this regional approach is that one large landfill is less
expensive to construct and operate than three individual landfills. The landfill is located in
Craven County near Tuscarora. The present site will be expanded by approximately 400 acres
and modified to meet new federal and state regulations regarding environmental safeguards.
Both the Town of Beaufort and Waste Industries, Inc., dispose of waste in the Tri-County
landfill.
4. Schools
The Town of Beaufort is served by the Carteret County school system. Two facilities, the
Beaufort Elementary School and the Beaufort Middle School, are located within the Town of
Beaufort. The town's high school -aged students attend East Carteret High School, which is
located north of Beaufort adjacent to U.S. 70. The following provides a summary of school
enrollment:
1989
1995
Change
Beaufort Elementary School 679
530
-149
Beaufort Middle School 353
374
+ 21
East Carteret High School 749
782
+33
The following excerpt from the draft 1997 Carteret County Land Use Plan describes the status
of the county's school system:
"Carteret County's continued devotion toward improving education is evidenced
by the recent passage of a $29 million bond referendum in November, 1994.
The bond provides $6.2 million for educational technology. This includes the
purchase of instructional computer equipment and software, and the networking
of the county's fourteen schools. The majority of that equipment has been
purchased and received by the schools, and the networking project will be
completed in the fall of 1996.
The remaining bond money will fund construction and renovation projects. A
new high school and a new elementary school will be constructed in the
western part of the county. An option has ben exercised on 90 acres off
Highway 24 and final state approval for purchase should be received in the
spring of 1996. Plans call for both schools to be built on the same site with
natural buffers separating them.
1-52

1
Other bond projects include the construction of a new cafeteria and renovations
to the main building at Beaufort Elementary School, the construction of a new
classroom building with media center and office area at Smyrna Elementary
School, and renovations to the kitchen at White Oak Elementary School.
Community expectations for the Carteret County School System are high. The
overwhelming support for the bond referendum and the arrival of a new
superintendent have set a challenging course for this system. Carteret County
schools strive for excellence in education and continue to innovatively address
student needs. A five-year strategic plan provides direction for the school
system beyond the year 2000. Called a blueprint for action, that plan will soon
be revised and long-range plans will be extended through 2010. The plan was
developed by a team of parents, business leaders, teachers, retirees, school
administrators, support and classified school staff, and board of education
members.
Cape Lookout High School is the system's newest school. It opened in
January, 1995, and is an alternative school offering small class sizes and
individualized instruction. It is attended by students who are having difficulty
in the traditional school setting.
The county's voluntary year-round school pilot program was extended another
two years based on its success. Students at Newport Elementary School attend
four nine -week quarters. During the three-week breaks, enrichment and
remediation programs are offered. The year-round program is run along with a
traditional calendar program at Newport Elementary.
Geographically, growth is occurring in the western end of the county. Student
populations continue to decrease on the eastern side of the county. West
Carteret High, Morehead Middle, Broad Creek Middle, and Newport Elementary
are severely overcrowded. West Carteret High did get some relief when a new
two-story, 21-classroom addition opened in August, 1995."
1 5. Transportation
In April, 1990, the North Carolina Department of Transportation prepared a preliminary
thoroughfare plan for Carteret County. The preliminary plan included significant proposals
which would have a major impact on Beaufort and its extraterritorial jurisdiction. These
proposals include the following:
1 -- A connector between NC 101 and U.S. 70 (the corridor for this road has not yet been
determined).
-- Reroute U.S. 70 from Cedar Street to Turner/West Beaufort Road.
-- Utilize Orange and Turner Streets as a one-way pair providing access to the waterfront.
-- Elimination of the "Y" intersection with NC 101 and U.S. 70.
'1
1-53

-- Replacement of the drawbridge between Morehead City and Beaufort with a medium
height bridge. A medium height bridge is considered to be between 40-45 feet. In
FY98, a planning study will be conducted by the DOT Planning and Environmental
Branch to determine the exact recommended bridge height.
-- A possible minor thoroughfare is proposed to connect Steep Point Road just east of
U.S. 70 and Mulberry Street at its intersection with Ocean Street.
The draft thoroughfare plan was never approved by the Town of Beaufort because the plan
proposed. replacing the bridge in its present location. This would have required widening
Cedar Street to seven traffic lanes. A number of discussions took place with the North
Carolina Department of Transportation. Following a series of public hearings, the proposed
bridge relocation route was revised to that which is indicated on Map 9. The bridge
replacement is now centered in the 1995-2001 North Carolina Department of Transportation,
Transportation Improvement Program as project number R-3307.
Out of the transportation improvement projects listed, the most significant improvements will
be the replacement of the Beaufort Channel Bridge and the construction of a U.S. 70 NC 101
connector north of Beaufort. Both.would serve to reduce rapidly increasing traffic congestion
along Cedar Street and U.S. 70. The Cedar Street/U.S. 70 corridor is expected to continue
its trend of commercial development. Improved traffic flow is a very important planning issue.
6. Police
Beaufort maintains a fully -staffed police department which serves all areas within the town.
The staff consists of 16 officers, including the police chief. Three are on duty at all times.
The full-time staff is supported by eight auxiliary officers. Five patrol cars are maintained.
7. Fire
The town operates a full-time fire department. The department has a staff of seven full-time
engineers, and a fire chief. This staff is supported by 38 volunteers. Equipment includes two
1,000 GPM pumpers and one 1,250 GPM pumper. Carteret County contracts with Beaufort
to provide service to an area north of Beaufort. The area extends to the North River Bridge
on U.S. 70, to Back Creek on Merrimon Road, to Core Creek Bridge on NC 101, and also
includes Radio Island. The farthest distance is approximately nine miles from the station.
8. Emergency Services
The Beaufort rescue squad provides ambulance services. Six of the members are paid, and
the rest of the staff is composed of 14 volunteers. The town sells gas at cost to the Rescue
Squad and provides vehicle maintenance assistance.
1
F
1-54

GALLANTS CHANNEL BRIDGE
MAP 9 PROPOSED LOCATION
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PROPOSED LOCATION
The preparation of this map was financed in
part through a` grant provided 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, National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration •
lam.. ; . i ♦ •` l
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1 9. Recreation
Recreational facilities operated by Beaufort include: Waterfront Park; Grayden Paul Park; the
Taylor's Creek Town Dock; a park at the end of Front Street, which includes tennis courts and
a boat launch; and several neighborhood parks. Subsequent to the last Land Use Plan Update,
North Carolina Beach and Coastal Waterfront Access Grant funds have been utilized to
improve Taylor's Creek town dock area. In 1995, the town rezoned approximately one acre
of land on Pine Street, immediately west of Carteret Avenue, for use as a general recreation
park. This park will provide recreation equipment and be dedicated as the Randolph Johnson
Park. Other recreational facilities located within the town's planning jurisdiction include
Freedom Park and Beaufort Elementary School recreational area. Open space areas include
several historic cemeteries and the scenic drive along Front Street which provides a waterfront
view of Taylor's Creek and Carrot Island. The town employs a part-time recreation director.
Map 8 provides the park locations.
The North Carolina Division of Parks maintains recreation facilities standards. The following
table provides a comparison of town support facilities and the state standards.
Table 18
Town of Beaufort, NC
Minimum Recreational Facility
Needs
(Based on Year -Round Population)
NC Division of Parks
and Recreation
Beaufort
Existing
Facility
Standard
Facilities Need
Facilities
(Facilities/
(Based on 1987
Population)
year-round
population of
4,548)
Football/Soccer Field
1 /10,000
< 1
1 at Freedom Park
Softball Field
1 /3,000
< 1
2 at Freedom Park
Baseball Field
1 /6,000
< 1
1 at Freedom Park
Swimming Pool-25 yard
1 /10,000
< 1
None
Swimming Pool-50 meter
1 /20,000
< 1
None
Tennis Courts
2/4,000
2
Front Street
Tot Lots/Playgrounds
1/1,000
6
See Text
Community Center Gym
1 /25,000
1
Beaufort Central Gym
Neighborhood Center
1 /10,000
< 1
None
< = less than.
Source: North Carolina Division of Parks and Recreation.
Based on the comparison provided in Table 18, the Town of Beaufort meets or exceeds the
state recreation standards except for swimming pools and neighborhood centers. Because of
the outdoor water activities which exist in Carteret County, it should not be necessary for
Beaufort to provide swimming pools.
1-56

10. Administration
The Town of Beaufort maintains a staff for management of a wide range of urban services.
The administrative and service staff includes the following positions:
Administration 4
Inspections 2
Water and Sewer Department 15
Street Sanitation 13
The town maintains a Manager -Council form of government with a Town Manager employed
to supervise all departments.
1-57

SECTION II: PROJECTED LAND DEVELOPMENT ANALYSIS
A. PROJECTED DEMAND FOR DEVELOPMENT
1. Demographic Trends
Table 19 provides the estimated population for the Town of Beaufort and other Carteret
County municipalities and townships through 2005. Beaufort's population will comprise a
slightly smaller percentage of the county's total population by 2005. In 1990, Beaufort
contained approximately 7.2% of the county population. This percentage is expected to
decrease slightly to 6.6% by 2005. However, Beaufort will continue to be the second largest
town within Carteret County, ranking behind Morehead City.
Most of the land area within the town has been developed. The town's population cannot
grow appreciably without annexation. The extension of town utilities into the extraterritorial
jurisdiction area will both encourage and support annexation actions. Based on an average
household size of 2.4, approximately 930 people resided within the town's extraterritorial area
in 1995. This should increase to over 1,500 by 2005. Approximately one-third to one-half
of this population is located in areas which could easily be annexed. Thus, annexation could
result in an additional 15 to 20% growth of the 1995 population by 2005. .
11
1
U-1

Table 19
Town of Beaufort and Carteret County, NC
Summary of Year -Round Population Growth by Township and Municipality, 1990 - 2005
Township
Municipality or Area
Year Round Population
Percentage Change
Overall
1990
1994
2000
2005
'94-'00
'00-'05
'94-'05
1) Atlantic
Total Township
805
803
799
796
-0.49%
-0.35%
-0.84%
2) Beaufort
Beaufort
3,808
3,997
4,351
4,600
8.85%
5.72%
15.08%
Unincorporated Areas
4,205
4,644
5,467
6,045
17.71 %
10.58%
30.16%
Total Township
8,013
8,641
9,818
10,645
13.61 %
8.43%
23.19%
3) Cedar Island
Total Township
385
407
448
477
10.1 1 %
6.46%
17.23%
4) Davis
Total Township
535
553
587
611
6.15%
4.08%
10.48%
5) Harkers Island
Total Township
2,237
2,375
2,634
2,816
10.90%
6.91 %
18.56%
6) Harlowe
Total Township
11190
1,289
1,474
1,604
14.37 %
8.84%
24.48%
7) Marshallberg
Total Township
646
674
726
763
7.75%
5.06%
13.20%
8) Merrimon
Total Township
542
591
683
747
15.54%
9.46%
26.46%
9) Morehead City
Atlantic Beach
1,938
2,267
2,846
3,252
25.52%
14.30%
43.47%
Indian Beach
153
177
222
254
25.39%
14.24%
43.24%
Morehead City
6,046
6,384
7,017
7,462
9.91 %
6.34%
16.88%
Pine Knoll Shores
1,360
1,543
1,886
2,127
.22.21%
12.78%
37.82%
Unincorporated Areas
10,985
11,485
12,420
13,078
8.15%
5.30%
13.88%
Total Township
20,482
21,856
24,390
26,173
11.60%
7.31%
19.75%
101 Newport
Newport
2,516
2,778
3,269
3,614
17.66%
10.55%
30.08%
Unincorporated Areas
4,817
5,337
6,312
6,997
18.26%
10.86%
31.09%
Total Township
7,333
8,115
9,580
10,611
18.05%
10.75%
30.75%
11) Sea Level
Total Township
773
872
1,056
1,186
21.16%
12.28%
36.05%
12) Smyrna
Total Township
782
843
958
1,039
13.61 %
8.42%
23.18%
13) Stacy
Total Township
401
434
497
541
14.40%
8.85%
24.52%
14) Straits
Total Township
1,948
2,129
2,468
2,706
15.91 %
9.65%
27.10%
15) White Oak
Cape Carteret
1,008
1,179
1,499
1,724
27.16%
15.02%
46.25%
Emerald Isle
2,434
2,798
3,480
3,959
24.36%
13.77%
41.49%
Cedar Point
628
688
800
879
16.33%
9.87%
27.81 %
Unincorporated Areas
2,413
2,379
2,316
2,271
-2.66%
-1.92%
-4.53%
Total Township
6,483
7,044
8,095
8,834
14.92%
9.13%
25.41 %
Total Municipalities
19,891
21,811
25,369
27,870
16.31 %
9.86%
27.78%
Total Unincorporated Areas
32,662
34,813
38,840
41,673
11.57%
7.29%
19.70%
Total County
52,553
56,624
64,209
69,543
13.40%
8.31 %
22.82%
Sources: N.C. State Data Center; extrapolation of data for unincorporated areas by Holland Consulting Planners, Inc.
II-2

Based on Table 19, the average annual population growth rate for.the county, municipalities,
and unincorporated areas should continue to decrease during the planning period. This trend
is outlined in Table 20, below:
Table 20
Carteret County, NC
Average Annual Year -Round Population Growth Rate
and Percent Change, 1993-2003
Area Average Annual Year -Round Percent Change in
Population Growth Rate Growth Rate
1993-1998 1998-2003 '93-'98 to '98203
Municipalities 2.65% 1.92%-38.02%
Unincorporated Areas 1.95% 1.46%-33.56%
Total County 2.22% 1.64%-35.37%
Source: Holland Consulting Planners, Inc.
Despite the expected decrease in annual growth rate, the population growth rate in Carteret
County will still be considerably higher than the North Carolina rate over the next ten years.
From 1995-2005, the state population is estimated to show a 13.0% increase. The Carteret
County population is anticipated to grow 17.9% over the same period.
From 1993-2003, the county's municipalities should grow approximately 6.4% fasterthan its
unincorporated areas. The beach communities will continue to display high growth rates as
their recreational potential continues to attract retirees, younger professionals and
entrepreneurs. However, it is conceivable that growth in some of the beach communities may
not keep up with the projections in Table 20 due to building density restrictions or municipal
inability to provide services -- in particular, wastewater disposal. Morehead City is also
1 anticipated to experience appreciable population growth over the planning period as it develops
as a commercial center for the nearby waterfront recreational communities.
2. Commercial and Industrial Land Use
During the period 1990 to 1995, commercial and industrial development primarily occurred
in the extraterritorial jurisdiction. Growth within the incorporated area was limited because
of a lack of vacant land and availability of areas zoned for commercial and industrial
development. This pattern of development is expected to continue during the planning period,
1995 to 2000. Any major commercial development within the corporate limits will have to
occur through the redevelopment of areas presently developed.
* Within the extraterritorial area, development is expected to focus on the U.S. 70 corridor and
around the Michael J. Smith Airport. During the past two years, the U.S. 70 corridor has
experienced a number of rezoning actions to reclassify parcels from residential to commercial
categories. Pressure may be expected to continue through the planning period for commercial
rezonings. Caution should be taken to control strip commercialization and the traffic and
service problems associated with such development.
-3

The majority of the industrially zoned property within the town's extraterritorial jurisdiction is
the Warehouse -Industrial zoned property located at and adjacent to the airport. Other
warehouse industrial areas are located off Mulberry Street east of the town limits.
Off -shore drilling could have a major impact on development within Beaufort. If drilling does
occur, it is not known in what location oil or gas would be brought ashore. If oil or gas is
brought ashore outside of Carteret County, the on -shore development of facilities to support
drilling operations could be minimal. The town should carefully monitor drilling plans and be
prepared with regard to on -shore impacts when specific development plans are known.
3. Housing Trends
Since 1990, there has been no significant residential subdivision development within
Beaufort's planning jurisdiction. In 1995, approximately 75 vacant residential subdivision lots
existed. Residential building permits were issued at an average rate of 17 per year from 1991
to 1994. At this rate of construction, it would only require 4.5 years to build -out the vacant
lots. Thus, there is a limited inventory of subdivided residential lots. Further residential
subdivision development may be expected during the planning period in the ETJ.
Approximately 1,438 acres of agricultural, forested, and vacant land exists within the Beaufort
extraterritorial planning jurisdiction. Most of that land is zoned for R-20 residential
development. At an average density of two dwelling units per acre, a total of over 2,875
dwelling units could be constructed. At the current growth rate, full development of
residentially zoned property within the extraterritorial area would require over 150 years, if all
residential development occurs in the ETJ.
Within the town's corporate limits, preservation of historically significant residential areas will
continue to be emphasized. Only moderate residential development will occur within the
existing corporate limits because of limited vacant land. The vacant residentially zoned land
within the town is primarily zoned R-15 with some R-10 and R-8 zoning (R-15/15,000 sq. ft.
lots, R-10/10,000 sq. ft. lots, R-8/8,000 sq. ft. lots) Based on an average density of three
dwelling units per acre and approximately 75 acres of vacant residentially zoned property,
approximately 225 additional single-family dwellings may be constructed within the town
limits. At current growth rates, total build -out of all vacant single-family zoned property would
require approximately 25 years.
4. Public Land Use
No major changes to public land use are expected during the planning period with the
exception of the Randolph Johnson Park. Efforts to preserve, protect, and promote the town's
waterfront areas will continue. This will require commitment to the annual care and
maintenance of public areas including parking, parks, sidewalks, and other facilities.
5. Project Public Facilities Needs/Availability
The Town of Beaufort water supply plan is based on a total service area population of 4,300
by 2020. This plan forecasts a Beaufort population of 4,600 by 2005. If the forecast proves
11-4

correct, the peak day usage should be just below the town's 12-hour combined water yield
by 2005. The water supply plan usage forecast is depicted on Graph 1. If the town needs
to provide additional water services, the following two economically feasible options are
available.
1 The Town of Beaufort could extend lines some 3.8 miles and connect with the
North River Water System. This system was developed for a much greater
demand than is presently being used by the system. The system is owned by
Carteret County and presently operated by the Town of Beaufort.
2) The Town of Beaufort could construct an additional well close to treatment site,
#3. This site was designed and constructed to accommodate flows from an
additional well. The Castle Hayne Aquifer in this area yields from 500 to 800
GPM. Using 500 GPM would raise the safe yield to 1.66 MGD.
A comparison of water usage to wastewater discharge information reveals significant amounts
of inflow and infiltration. Although inflow and infiltration have already been significantly
reduced, the town should continue to reduce this problem. Wastewater capacity will greatly
depend on the town's ability to locate and reduce these sources.
Two factors will greatly influence continued discharge into Taylor's Creek. First, the Basin
Wide Management Plan being implemented by DEM provides total basin loading which will
dictate effluent limits. Second, is the movement by the Carteret County municipalities to
seriously address land application of treated effluent.
The Town of Beaufort has been and will continue to be an active participant towards a
regional approach, considering all alternatives to provide a more environmentally sound and
economically feasible method of wastewater disposal.
6. Airport Development
The Michael J. Smith Airport Master Plan proposed significant improvement of the airport.
P P P 9 P
Ultimately, runway 8-26 will be lengthened to 5,500 linear feet. This will require relocation
of a portion of NC 101. Lengthening the runway will significantly improve the airport's ability
to accommodate business/corporate jet aircraft. The runway lengthening is not expected to
occur until after the planning period. However, planning for the extension will begin during
the planning period.
The following summarizes the airport development projects which are expected during the
planning period:
FY1996 Install visual approach aids on runways 8-26 and Cost/$187,000
3-21, construct hangar area access taxiway.
FY1998 Conduct environmental assessment for extension Cost/$147,000
of runway 8-26 to 5,500 feet.
FY1999 Relocate and expand airfield electrical vault Cost/$57,600

1.4
1.2
>% 1
Q
GRAPH 1
Town of Beaufort -- Water Supply and Demand, 1992-2020
12 Hr. Combined Yield
c Day
Day
Year 2020
Source: NC Division of Coastal Management; Holland Consulting Planners, Inc.
M
M M � vim, " M M On- go am Im am W M W M go *111111 M

1 7. Areas Likely to Experience Maior Land Use Changes
No major changes in the existing patterns of land use are expected to occur throughout the
planning period. The town's planning and zoning program should continue to protect existing
land uses and to minimize the development of conflicting land uses. Close attention should
be paid to commercial development along the Cedar Street-U.S. 70 corridor. This commercial
development should be coordinated with traffic planning to reduce congestion. Also, care
must be taken to avoid conflicts with adjacent residential development. Ultimately, relocation
of the Beaufort Channel bridge and the associated re-routing of U.S. 70 will alleviate much of
this problem. However, this relocation is not expected during the planning period. As stated
earlier, residential development should continue as the primary development within the
extraterritorial area.
A long-range concern will continue to be the issue of sea level rise. During the next 30-year
period, approximately 20 to 30 percent of the land area within the town's jurisdiction could
r be inundated by rising sea water. The main area of Beaufort located south of Town Creek and
Turner Creek would become an island, being isolated from the mainland. Also, the existing
waterfront areas along Taylor's Creek would be lost. The town should begin planning for
possible sea level rise. Local ordinances should be reviewed for determination of changes
which may need to be made to protect developments from rising sea level and to
accommodate the movement of structures to higher ground.
Is
B. REDEVELOPMENT ISSUES
The Town of Beaufort has been extremely successful with its redevelopment efforts.
Beaufort's waterfront area along Taylor's Creek serves as an example to other coastal North
Carolina communities. The town has also successfully preserved its historic district. In 1970,
Beaufort implemented a HUD -funded community development rehabilitation project. Over 20
dwelling units received assistance. Future redevelopment efforts should focus on the
following:
-- Continued protection of both the historic district and the waterfront area.
I-- Redevelopment/visual improvement of the U.S. 70 - Cedar Street area.
-- Removal of substandard dwelling units through enforcement of the town's
minimum housing code.
During FY1996, it was expected that the town's initial Community Development Block Grant
housing rehabilitation project would be funded. This project will make a significant reduction
in the town's substandard housing. However, additional housing improvement projects should
be pursued during the planning period.
C. INTERGOVERNMENTAL COORDINATION AND IMPLEMENTATION
This plan was reviewed by the Carteret County Planning Department prior to certification by
the Coastal Resources Commission. This review was provided to help ensure consistency of
this plan with Carteret County's planning efforts. Intergovernmental coordination and
-7
r

cooperation will continue through the ten-year planning period. This will be essential to
accomplish effective planning for public utilities, thoroughfare projects, community facilities,
housing needs, and environmental protection. The Beaufort Board of Commissioners and
Board of Adjustment will be responsible for ensuring adequate coordination with Carteret
County, Bogue Banks and mainland municipalities, and other government entities as may be
required.
The Town of Beaufort has participated in several joint planning efforts with neighboring
jurisdictions, such as the joint land use planning meeting held in Beaufort on August 21, 1996,
and the North Carolina Municipalities meeting held in Emerald Isle on November 18-19, 1996.
In addition, Beaufort is also an active member of the Carteret County Interlocal Agency.
HE

SECTION III: LAND CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM
The CAMA regulations require the establishment of a specific land classification system to
support the local government's policy statements. This system should reflect developing land
use patterns within a community. The CAMA 15A NCAC 76 regulations state:
"The land classification system provides a framework to be used
by local governments to identify the future use of all lands. The
designation of land classes allows the local government to
illustrate their policy statements as to where and to what density
they want growth to occur, and where they want to conserve
natural and cultural resources by guiding growth."
The 15A NCAC 7H requirements provide for the following land classifications: developed,
urban transition, limited transition, community, rural, rural with services, and conservation.
In applying these classifications, Beaufort should carefully consider where and when various
types of development should be encouraged. Additionally, the areas of environmental concern
requiring protection should be identified and mapped. Each applicable land classification must
be represented on a land classification map.
The following land classifications will apply in Beaufort's jurisdiction:
DEVELOPED: Areas included in the developed land classification are currently urban in
character, with no or minimal undeveloped land remaining. Municipal types of services are
in place or are expected to be provided within the next five to ten years. Land uses include
residential, commercial, industrial, and other urban land uses at high or moderate densities.
With the exception of R-5 Cluster Development, residential densities are allowed in excess of
an average of three dwelling units per acre, with a minimum plot size of one acre and a
minimum single-family residential lot size of 5,000 square feet. Cluster developments shall
not exceed eight units per acre, with a minimum lot size of one acre.
URBAN TRANSITION: Areas included in the urban transition classification are presently being
developed for urban purposes, or will be developed in the next five to ten years. These areas
should eventually require complete urban services within the planning period. The urban
transition areas include mixed land uses such as residential, commercial, institutional,
industrial, and other uses approaching high to moderate densities. Residential densities are
allowed in excess of an average of three dwelling units per acre, with a minimum single-family
residential lot size of 10,000 square feet.
LIMITED TRANSITION: Areas included in the limited transition classification are areas which
will experience increasing development during the next five to ten years. Some municipal type
services will be required. The limited transition classification is intended for predominantly
residential use. However, some commercial, office, and institutional uses may be allowed.
Residential densities at an average of three units per acre or less are acceptable. Densities
within some areas of the limited transition classification may be higher. The minimum lot size
shall I be 10,000 square feet. Clustering or development associated with planned unit
developments are acceptable in this classification.
' III-1

RURAL WITH SERVICES: Areas included within the rural with services classification are
developed at low density. Land uses include residential use where limited water services are
provided in order to avert existing or projected health problems. Lot sizes will be large and the
provision of services will not disrupt the primary rural character of the landscape. The
provision of services should not be designed to serve as a catalyst for development.
CONSERVATION: The following areas of environmental concern are included in the
conservation classification:
Coastal Wetlands: This classification includes all areas of coastal wetlands which
include any salt marsh or other marsh subject to regular or occasional flooding by tides,
including wind tides. However, tidal flooding is understood not to include hurricane or
tropical storm tides. Uses will be all within the coastal wetlands areas that are
consistent with the 15A NCAC 7H use standards. In addition, the town supports
possible expansion of the Michael J. Smith Airport into coastal wetlands areas. All
specific coastal wetlands locations must be determined through on -site investigation 2
and analysis.
Estuarine Shorelines: All areas lying 0-75 feet landward of the mean high water level
of estuarine waters not designated as Outstanding Resource Waters are classified as
estuarine shorelines. Because of map size and scale, these areas cannot be accurately
mapped. Precise locations must be determined in the field. Uses will be allowed
within the estuarine shoreline areas that are consistent with the 15A NCAC 7H use
standards.
Estuarine and Public Trust Waters: All public trust areas and estuarine waters are
included in this classification. All waters of Carteret County are classified as estuarine
waters as described by 15A NCAC 7H.0206 or public trust areas as described by 15A
NCAC 7H.0207. With the exception of floating structures, uses consistent with 15A
NCAC 7H.0207 will be allowed. The town opposes the permanent location of floating
structures in estuarine and public trust waters and in marinas. Except for floating
structures policies, the Conservation policies are not more restrictive than the use ,
standards included in 15A NCAC 7H.
The land classifications are delineated on Map 10. The land classification map indicates a
continuation of existing development patterns. Some expansion of the developed
classification has occurred since 1985 to the east of town along Taylor's Creek and north of
the airport. In addition, the areas classified as rural occupy much less area than indicated in
the 1985 Land Use Plan.

LEGEND
DEV DEVELOPED
URBAN TRAN URBAN TRANSITION
LIMITED TRAN LIMITED TRANSITION
RURAL WITH SERVICES RURAL WITH SERVICES
CON CONSERVATION
CITY LIMIT BOUNDARYEXTRA-TERRITORIAL BOUNDARY
BOUNDARY ��—•
J
MAP 10
0 0 0 o0 BEAUFORT, N.C.
0 "J " 000 � LAND CLASSIFICATION MAP
Scale
NOTES:
L ALL AREAS LYING 0-75' LANDWARD OF THE
MEAN HIGH WATER LEVEL OF ESTUARINE
WATERS ARE ESTUARINE SHORELINE AREAS
AND CLASSIFIED AS CONSERVATION LANDS.
BECAUSE OF MAP SCALE, THESE AREAS
CANNOT BE ACCURATELY MAPPED. PRECISE
LOCATIONS MUST BE DETERMINED IN THE
FIELD.
2. ALL WATERS IN BEAUFORT'S PLANNING
JURISDICTION ARE CLASSIFIED AS ESTUARINE
WATERS AS DESCRIBED BY IS NCAC 7H.0206,
OR PUBLIC TRUST AREAS AS DESCRIBED BY IS
NCAC 7H.0207. ALL DEVELOPMENT SHALL BE
CONSISTANT WITH THE USE STANDARDS
CONTAINED IN 15 NCAC 7KO206 AND .0207.
Z
preparation of this map was financed In part
gh o grant provided by the North Carolina
Coastal Management Program, through funds
provided by the Coastal Zone Management Act rf
197Z as amended. which Is admirietered by the
Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource
Management, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration.
III-3

SECTION IV: INTRODUCTION TO POLICY STATEMENTS
This plan identifies issues dealing with growth, development, and the environment. This
section of the plan is intended to provide policies which will address growth management and
protection of the environment. The policies should be based on the objectives of the citizens
of Beaufort and satisfy the objectives of the Coastal Resources Commission. The policies
should not restrict healthy, environmentally sound development essential to Beaufort's future
well being.
It should be emphasized that the policy statements are extremely important and have a
day-to-day impact on businesses and individual citizens within Beaufort's planning jurisdiction.
The statements have an impact in three areas:
-- CAMA minor and major permitting as required by N.C.G.S. 113A-118 prior to
undertaking any development in any area of environmental concern.
-- Establishment of local planning policy..
-- Review of proposed projects requiring state or federal assistance or approval to
determine consistency with local policies.
For the issuance of CAMA permits within areas of environmental concern, the state's
minimum acceptable use standards are defined by 15A NCAC 7H. A local unit of government
must adopt policies which are, at a minimum, equal to and consistent with the state's
minimum use standards. Beaufort may adopt policies which are more stringent than the
minimum use standards. For example, the state standards allow marinas to be located within
primary nursery areas if some minimum conditions are met. Beaufort could adopt a policy
stating that marinas will not be permitted within primary nursery areas (This is only an
example, not a recommendation). If this were to occur, a CAMA permit for marina
construction in a primary nursery area would not be issued. IT IS CRUCIAL THAT A LOCAL
GOVERNMENT UNDERSTAND THE IMPACT OF ITS POLICIES WITHIN AREAS OF
ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERN.
The second area of land use PP
plan application is that of establishing policies to guide the
P
jurisdiction's local planning. This may apply both within areas of environmental concern where
CAMA regulations apply and in non-CAMA regulated areas of the county. Under North
Carolina legislation, land use plans are not regulatory controls. Non-CAMA related
recommendations must be implemented with local land use ordinances such as zoning or
subdivision ordinances. If this plan recommends that the average residential density should
be three dwelling units per acre within a particular area, then that density must be achieved
through local zoning ordinance or other regulatory control. (This should not be confused with
the interaction of the land use plan with the CAMA regulations and 15A NCAC 7H use
standards.)
The final area of application is that of "Consistency Review." Proposals and applications for
state and federal assistance or requests for agency approval of projects are normally reviewed
against a jurisdiction's land use plan to determine if the project is consistent with local
policies. Inconsistencies of a project with local policies could serve as grounds for denial or
IV-1

revision of a project. For example, an individual or agency may request state or federal
funding to construct a 30-unit low -to -moderate income housing project. If the proposed
location of the project is within an area in which this land use plan states that the residential
density should not exceed two dwelling units per acre, the project may be judged to be
inconsistent with the local land use plan.
The Coastal Resources Commission requires all governments to specify stated development
policies under each one of five broad topics as specified by 15A NCAC 7B. These topics
include:
-- Resource Protection
-- Resource Production and Management
-- Economic and Community Development
-- Continuing Public Participation
-- Storm Hazard Mitigation, Post -Disaster Recovery, and Evacuation Plans
During 1995 and 1996, the NCAC 713 CAMA planning guidelines were revised. The revised
guidelines included new requirements for the development of policy statements. These
changes included the following policy statement additions:
-- A general vision policy statement describing the type of
community that the local government would like to become
within the next ten years.
-- A basic statement as to the community attitude toward resource
protection.
-- A policy addressing the protection of wetlands identified as being
of the highest functional significance on maps supplied by the
Division of Coastal Management.
-- A policy addressing moorings and mooring fields.
-- A policy addressing water quality problems and management
measures designed to reduce or eliminate local sources of surface
water quality problems.
-- A statement as to the community attitude toward resource
production and management. .
-- A policy addressing commitment to state and federal programs,
including housing rehabilitation, community development block
grants, housing for low and moderate income level citizens,
water and sewer installation, and rural water systems.
-- A policy addressing assistance to interstate waterways.
Based on the analysis of existing conditions and trends, suggestions from the town's citizens,
and substantial input and guidance from the Town of Beaufort Board of Adjustment, the
policies in the following sections have been formulated to provide a guide for regulating
IV-2

development within Beaufort's planning jurisdiction. Policies which were considered, but not
adopted, are provided in Appendix I.
A. VISION STATEMENT
Beaufort valuesits rich maritime history and the picturesque landscape which this history
provides. These historical assets and the shoreline setting are the cornerstones of an
important tourist industry. As the town develops, these assets will be maintained and
protected. At the same time, the town will pursue development within its extraterritorial
jurisdiction which is consistent with the 15A NCAC 7H minimum use standards for AEC's.
It is the town's intention to protect its valuable maritime resources. Industrial development
will be encouraged within the town's extraterritorial jurisdiction outside of the AEC's. Finally,
it is a priority of the town to carefully control growth and development which is expected to
occur along the relocated U.S. 70 highway corridor which will be associated with the
construction of a new bridge across the Beaufort channel.
B. RESOURCE PROTECTION POLICY STATEMENTS
Community Attitude on Resource Protection
Beaufort has demonstrated a concern with resource protection. - This concern has been
displayed through the adoption of local ordinances and support for the 15A NCAC 7H
minimum use standards. Emphasis has been placed on restriction of floating structures and
preservation of estuarine shoreline areas, the historic district, the town's central waterfront
area, and Carrot Island.
Physical Limitations
Soils
restrictions on develo ment posed b soil
To mitigate septic tank problems and otherp p y
limitations, Beaufort will:
a Enforce through the development and zoning permit process, all current regulations
1 1 9 P 9P P 9
of the N.C. State Building Code and the N.C. Division of Health Services relating to
building construction and septic tank installation/replacement in areas with soils
restrictions.
(b) Coordinate all development activity with appropriate Carteret County and state
regulatory personnel, and in particular, with the Carteret County Sanitarian.
(c) Cooperate with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in the regulation/enforcement of the
404 wetlands permit process. With the exception of soils policy (d), the Town of
Beaufort will accept the permitting standards of the Corps of Engineers, and does not
adopt any policies which exceed the federal standards.
(d) Beaufort opposes the installation of package treatment plants and septic tanks or
discharge of waste in any areas classified as coastal wetlands, freshwater wetlands
IV-3

(404), or natural heritage areas. This policy applies only to areas shown as freshwater
wetlands, coastal wetlands, and natural heritage areas on Map 10, Land Classification
Map.
Flood Hazard Areas
(a) Beaufort will continue to coordinate all development within the special flood hazard
area with the town's Inspections Department, North Carolina Division of Coastal
Management, FEMA, and the U.S. Corps of Engineers.
(b) Beaufort will continue to enforce its existingzoning and flood damage prevention
9 9
ordinances and follow the storm hazard mitigation plan contained herein.
Groundwater/Protection of Potable Water Supplies
Beaufort's policy is to conserve its surficial groundwater resources by supporting CAMA and
N.C. Division of Water Quality stormwater run-off regulations, and by coordinating local
development activities involving chemical storage or .underground storage tank
installation/abandonment with Carteret County Emergency Management personnel and the
Groundwater Section of the North Carolina Division of Water Quality. The Town of Beaufort
Building Inspections Department will coordinate building inspections with state and federal
regulations governing underground storage tanks and will endeavor to advise building permit
applicants of those regulations.
Manmade Hazards
(a) Beaufort will support the technical requirements and state program approval for
underground storage tanks (40 CFR, Parts 280 and 281), and any subsequent state
regulations concerning underground storage tanks adopted during the planning period.
(b) Beaufort encourages the establishment of appropriate environmental and operational
safeguards for the expansion of fuel storage tank facilities on Radio Island. All
expansions must be in compliance with applicable state, federal, and local regulations.
Beaufort opposes the storage of any non -fuel hazardous materials on Radio Island.
(c) Agricultural quarantine and decontamination facilities should not be established on
Radio Island by the U.S. Navy or other agent of the federal government unless a full
Environmental Impact Statement with a finding of no significant effect on the
environment has been prepared and proper environmental safeguards are implemented.
The Environmental Impact Statement should include mitigation measures for the loss
of any public beach access.
(d) Beaufort will support development of sound attenuation zoning requirements for the
areas affected by the aircraft operating patterns at the Michael J. Smith Field. The
zoning for Michael J. Smith Field should be coordinated with Carteret County and
Morehead City.
(e) The Town of Beaufort requests notification, including full and complete disclosure of
all plans; for either public or private development of Radio Island. In addition, Beaufort
IV-4

I
requests that Carteret County notify the town in writing of all requests for special use
permits on Radio Island.
(f) With the exception of fuel storage tanks used for retail and wholesale sales, Beaufort
opposes the bulk storage of fuel or other man-made hazardous materials within any
areas not zoned for industrial usage.
(9) The Town of Beaufort adopts the following policies concerning operation, development,
and expansion of the Michael J. Smith Airport:
-- Any expansion plans for the airport must be consistent with the town's Zoning
Ordinance and Land Use Plan.
-- Beaufort does not object to increased air traffic which will not result in
increased noise impact(s) on properties located within airport flight patterns.
-- The Town of Beaufort supports any runway extensions or other airport
expansions which will not cause any changes to N.C. 101 which will result in
increased traffic in the vicinity of the Beaufort Middle School. The town's
preference for the extension of Runway 8-26 is to have the runway extended
to the northeast which would require the relocation of a portion of NC 101.
-- Beaufort requests notification of, and the right to review and comment on, all
plans being prepared or amended for the airport.
-- Specifically, the following airport development projects are supported:
FY1996 Install visual approach aids on runways 8-26 and 3-21,
construct hangar area access taxiway.
FY1998 Conduct environmental assessment for extension of
runway 8-26 to 5,500 feet.
FY1999 Relocate and expand airfield electrical vault.
(h) Expansions of Aviation Military Restricted Areas or Military Operations Areas in eastern
North Carolina must be consistent with civil aviation regulations, must comply with
' other applicable state and federal regulations, and must be supported by environmental
impact statements addressing the cumulative impact of such airspace uses.
(i) The town opposes any low level military training flights that are not in compliance with
the minimum safe altitudes for aircraft operation as described in the Federal Aviation
Regulations, Part 91.
Stormwater Runoff
(a) Beaufort recognizes the value of water quality maintenance to the protection of fragile
areas and to the provision of clean water for recreational purposes. The town will
support existing state regulations relating to stormwater runoff resulting from
IV-5

1� I
development (Stormwater Disposal Policy 15 NCAC 2H.001-.1003) through
enforcement of the town's subdivision ordinance.
(b) Beaufort supports control of agricultural runoff through implementation of U.S. Soil
Conservation Service "Best Management Practices" program.
(c) Beaufort will support the development of a comprehensive town -wide stormwater ,
drainage plan.
(d) Beaufort will cooperate with the NCDOT, the North Carolina Division of Environmental
Management, and other state agencies in mitigating the impact of stormwater runoff
on all conservation classified areas. The town will support the Division of
Environmental Management stormwater runoff retention permitting process through its
zoning permit system.
(e) The town will attempt to apply for grant funds, and utilize Powell Bill funds, to improve
stormwater drainage systems associated with existing rights -of -way.
(f) The town will develop a comprehensive master drainage plan.
Cultural/Historic Resources
(a) Beaufort shall coordinate all housing code enforcement/redevelopment projects which
involve any historically significant structure with the N.C. Division of Archives and
History, to ensure that any significant architectural details or buildings are identified
and preserved.
(b) Beaufort will coordinate all county public works projects with the N.C. Division of
Archives and History, to ensure the identification and preservation of significant
archaeological sites.
(c) Beaufort will continue to support and protect the town's Historic District.
Industrial Impacts on Fragile Areas
Only commercial and industrial uses that are water dependent and which cannot function
elsewhere or are supportive of commercial fishing will be allowed in conservation classified '
areas. Examples of such uses would include but not necessarily be limited to commercial
fishing and fish processing, marinas consistent with the policies of this plan, boat repair and
construction facilities, any business dependent upon natural salt water as a resource, and
restaurants that do not extend into or over estuarine waters and/or public trust waters. Where
zoning exists, all uses must be consistent with established zoning.
Miscellaneous Resource Protection
Package Treatment Plant Use
Beaufort will support the construction of package treatment plants which are approved and
permitted by the State Division of Environmental Management. If any package plants are I
IV-6

approved, Beaufort supports requirement of a specific contingency plan specifying how
ongoing private operation and maintenance of the plant will be provided, and detailing
provisions for assumption of the plant into a public system should the private operation fail
or management of the system not meet the conditions of the state permit (see policy (d) soils).
Marina and Floatinq Home Development
Beaufort will enforce the following policies to govern floating homes and marina development.
e 9P 9 9 P
Marinas are considered to be any publicly or privately owned dock constructed to
accommodate more than ten boats, as defined by 15 NCAC 71-1.208 (b) (5).
(a) Beaufort will allow the construction of open water and upland marinas within its
I planning jurisdiction which satisfy the use standards .for marinas as specified in 15A
NCAC 7H. This shall include marinas proposed for location within Conservation areas.
(b) Beaufort will allow construction of dry stack storage facilities for boats associated
either with or independent of marinas. All applicable zoning and subdivision regulations
must be satisfied. Construction of associated boat ramps, piers, and bulkheads within
conservation areas will be allowed if 15A NCAC 7H use standards are met.
(c) Beaufort supports the state's minimum use standards for the regulation of floating
' structures.
(d) Beaufort will annually survey all local anchorages and register all boats on the town's
tax rolls.
(e) The Town of Beaufort will regulate the number of automobile parking spaces required
to serve marinas as stated in the town's zoning ordinance. The following statement
taken from the ordinance summarizes the town's marina parking space requirements:
Use Classification
Parkinq Space Requirements
Marina and Accessory Uses:
Dry Boat Storage
1 automobile space per 4 dry boat spaces
Wet Boat Storage
1 automobile space per 4 wet boat storage spaces
Accessory Uses
1 space for each 2 employees at maximum employment on a
single shift, plus 2 spaces for each 300 square feet of repair
or maintenance space
Marine Services and Repairs
1 space per 4 dry boat storage spaces, 1 space per wet boat
storage spaces, 1 space for each 2 employees at maximum
employment, plus 2 spaces for each 300 square feet of repair
or maintenance space
Boat Launching Ramps
25 boat trailer spaces (minimum) at least 12 feet by 40 feet
The Board of Adjustment may grant a variance
to these requirements which will not result in a violation
of this land use plan.
IV-7

L�
Mooring Fields
Beaufort is concerned with the potential for the development of mooring fields. The town
supports the development of mooring fields and will enforce its ordinance regulating the '
establishment of mooring fields. The ordinance, as it is currently written, regulates the
establishment of mooring fields within the waters of Taylor's Creek. The town will consider
amending this ordinance to include all of the waters within Beaufort's planning jurisdiction.
Development of Sound and Estuarine Islands
(a) Beaufort opposes any development on sound and estuarine islands located within its
planning jurisdiction.
(b) Beaufort will support the following policies for the Rachel Carson Sanctuary:
-- Following research projects, responsible groups and organizations shall remove
all material utilized in the project which is not naturally found in the Rachel
Carson Sanctuary.
-- The Rachel Carson Sanctuary can be utilized for the deposit of dredge spoil. If
spoil is deposited in the Sanctuary, proper safety measures should be
implemented to protect the public and wildlife from hazards associated with
spoil sites such as "quicksand." However, if deposition must occur, the site
should be located and constructed so as to not obstruct the view of the sound
areas from the Beaufort waterfront.
-- Commercial boat access to the Rachel Carson Sanctuary should be limited. The
town will consider adoption of an ordinance to regulate commercial water taxi
or ferry service between the mainland and the Sanctuary areas.
-- Beaufort requests the right to review and comment on all plans for spoil sites
to be located within the town's planning jurisdiction.
Bulkhead Construction
Beaufort supports the construction of bulkheads as long as they fulfill the use standards set
forth in 15A NCAC 7H and the sea level rise policies as defined by this plan.
,
Sea Level Rise
Beaufort recognizes the uncertainties associated with sea level rise. The rate of rise is difficult
to predict. Those factors combine to make it difficult, if not impossible, to establish specific
policies to deal with the effects of sea level rise.
Beaufort will implement the following policies to respond to sea level rise:
(a) In response to anticipated sea level rise, Beaufort will review all local building and land
use related ordinances to establish setback standards, long-term land use plans, density
controls, bulkhead restrictions, buffer vegetation protection requirements, and building
designs which will facilitate the movement of structures.
IV-8

-- The decision -making process for the award of incentives grants should involve
river basin organizations representing local governments and other interest
groups in the review of all applications for state funding.
-- The ongoing effort of the Department of Environment, Health and Natural
Resources to develop administrative rules implementing the proposed Neuse
River Basin Management Strategy should continue to involve local government
officials in the development, review, and refinement of the proposal.
Rachel Carson Reserve
The Town of Beaufort supports the State's management of the Rachel Carson Reserve (also
known as Carrot Island - Bird Shoal) for research, education, and compatible public uses. The
town also approves the current policy of maintaining a viable population of feral horses on the
property.
C. RESOURCE PRODUCTION AND MANAGEMENT POLICIES
Community Attitude Toward Resource Production and Management
Beaufort will implement policies which support resource production and management. All
policies will meet or exceed 15A NCAC 7H minimum use standards. Resource production
should not be allowed to adversely affect Beaufort's sensitive coastal environment or natural
heritage areas.
Recreation Resources
(a) Beaufort will work cooperatively with Carteret County to provide a year-round
recreation program.
(b) Beaufort considers coastal wetland areas to be valuable passive recreation areas.
These areas should be protected in their natural state. Only uses which are permitted
by 15A NCAC 7H will be allowed.
(c) Beaufort supports public access to Radio Island shoreline areas.
(d) Beaufort will develop a shoreline access plan to define the need for additional publicly -
owned waterfront recreational facilities within its planning jurisdiction. This effort
should be closely coordinated with shoreline access planning by the county.
Productive Agricultural Lands
Beaufort supports and encourages use of the U.S. Soil Conservation' Service "Best
Management Practices" program.
Productive Forest Lands
There are no productive forest lands located within Beaufort's planning jurisdiction. A forest
lands policy is not required.
IV-10

U J
�J
Aquaculture Activities
Aquaculture is considered the cultivation of aquatic plants and animals under controlled
conditions. The following policies shall apply.
(a) Beaufort encourages all aquaculture activities which meet applicable federal, state and
local policies (see Aquaculture policies b) and c) and permit requirements. However,
Beaufort reserves the right to comment on all aquaculture activities which require
Division of Environmental Management permitting.
(b) Beaufort objects to any discharge of water from aquaculture activities that will degrade
in any way the receiving waters. Beaufort objects to withdrawing water from aquifers
or surface sources if such withdrawal will endanger water quality or water supply from
the aquifers or surface sources.
(c) Beaufort will support only aquaculture activities which do not alter significantly and
negatively the natural environment of conservation areas as shown on the Land
Classification Map.
■ Residential, Commercial, and Industrial Development Impacts on Resources
(a) Residential, commercial and industrial development should be allowed in coastal
wetlands which is consistent with 15A NCAC 7H and the policies contained in this
plan.
(b) Beaufort discourages any additional point source discharges of pollution into primary
nursery areas and shellfishing areas. In addition, Beaufort reserves the right to review
and comment on the approval of outfalls on a case -by -case basis.
(c) Residential development meeting the use standards of 15 NCAC 711.0209 shall be
allowed in estuarine shoreline areas.
(d) Only commercial and industrial uses that are water dependent and which cannot
function elsewhere or are supportive of commercial fishing will be allowed in
conservation classified shoreline areas. Examples of such uses would include but not
necessarily be limited to commercial fishing and fish processing, marinas consistent
with the policies of this plan, boat repair and construction facilities, any business
dependent upon natural salt water as a resource, and restaurants that do not extend
into or over estuarine waters and/or public trust waters. Where zoning exists, all uses
must be consistent with established zoning.
(e) In order to preserve natural vegetation and scenic views, "no buildings or houses or
structures excepting noncommercial docks or piers will be erected on the south side
of Front Street in this (R-8) district."
Off -Road Vehicles
' Beaufort opposes the utilization of off -road vehicles in any areas classified as coastal wetlands
and in the entire Rachel Carson Sanctuary.
■
IV-11

Peat or Phosphate Mining I
There are no significant peat or phosphate deposits located within Beaufort's planning '
jurisdiction. A policy statement is not required.
Marine Resource Areas
(a) Beaufort supports the use standards for estuarine and public trust are PP p as as specified
in 15A NCAC .0207.
(b) Beaufort reserves the right to review and comment on the policies and requirements ,
of the North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries which govern commercial and
recreational fisheries and activities. ,
(c) Beaufort will consider requesting funding assistance through * the Coastal Area
Management Act for the development of a long-term harbor management plan. '
D. ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Community Attitude on Economic and Communitv Develoament
Beaufort desires to expand its economic base. A reasonable policy of annexation will be ,
maintained. Beaufort will support growth and development at the densities specified in the
land classification definitions. The Town of Beaufort will pursue the development of an impact ,
study to determine the growth and development issues and needs associated with the
construction of the proposedNC101 corridor.
Water Supply
There are no significant constraints to development or land development issues relating to the
town's potable water supply. The town's water system will provide adequate water supply
throughout the planning period. The town's policies concerning water supply shall be:
(a) The town requires that all existing and new residential and commercial development
be connected to both the town water and sewer systems.
(b) The town will allow the installation of private wells for irrigation only through the
NCDEM permit process.
(c) The town will extend water services beyond its extraterritorial area if an adequate
demand for service exists.
(d) The Town of Beaufort will support a study of the limestone aquifer underlying Carteret
County by the United States Geological Survey. This study would aid in determining
the optimum locations for wells and the long-term viability of the town's water supply.
The issue of salt water intrusion should be addressed by the study. (Recommend '
deletion).
IV-12

Sewer System
There are no problems or constraints to development caused by the town's sewage treatment
system. The town will implement the following policies:
(a) The town requires that all existing and new residential and commercial development
' be connected to both the town water and sewer systems.
(b) Beaufort will support the development of central sewer service throughout its
' incorporated area and its unincorporated planning jurisdiction.
Solid Waste
' (a) Beaufort supports Carteret County's participation in a regional multi -county approach
to solid waste management. This includes disposal of waste in the Tri-County Regional
Landfill.
(b) The town will support efforts to educate people and businesses on waste reduction and
recycling. The town vigorously supports recycling by all users of the Tri-County
Landfill and supports setting up practical collection methods and education efforts to
achieve a high degree of county -wide recycling.
' (c) Beaufort supports the siting of recycling centers within public and commercial land
classifications.
Energy Facility Siting and Development
(a) There are no electric generating plants located in Beaufort's planning jurisdiction. The
town will consider the need for establishing energy facilities on a case -by -case basis,
judging the need for development against all identified possible adverse impacts.
(b) Beaufort has some concerns over offshore drilling. In the event that oil or gas is
discovered, Beaufort will not oppose drilling operations and onshore support facilities
for which an Environmental Impact Statement has been prepared with a finding of no
significant impact on the environment. Beaufort supports and requests full disclosure
of development plans, with mitigative measures that will be undertaken to prevent
adverse impacts on the environment, the infrastructure, and the social systems of
Beaufort and Carteret County. The town also requests full disclosure of any adopted
plans. Offshore drilling and the development of onshore support facilities may have
severe costs for the town and county as well as advantages. The costs should be
' borne by the company(ies) which profits from offshore drilling and onshore support
facilities.
Redevelopment of Developed Areas
The most important redevelopment issue confronting the Town of Beaufort would be
reconstruction following a hurricane or other natural disaster. The town will implement its
storm hazard mitigation post -disaster recovery plan to control redevelopment. However, the
town will allow the reconstruction of any structures demolished by natural disaster which will
comply with existing state and local codes.
IV-13

A second redevelopment problem is the preservation of housing. The town will enforce its
minimum housing code to ensure that minimum housing standards are met. Residential
revitalization projects will be pursued where substandard housing exists. State and federal
housing rehabilitation grants will be sought.
Estuarine Access
Beaufort supports the state's shoreline access policies as set forth in NCAC Chapter 15A,
Subchapter 7M. The town will conform to CAMA and other state and federal environmental
regulations affecting the development of estuarine access areas. The town will support
development of a detailed shoreline access plan during the five-year planning period.
Community Facilities
During the planning period, Beaufort will develop a community services/facilities plan (as a
stand-alone document, not as an expansion of this plan), which will define existing
deficiencies in police protection, fire protection, local administrative buildings, public
recreational facilities, public shoreline access, and public parks. This plan will not address
school system needs. The plan will prioritize needs and make specific recommendations
concerning financing and budgeting the high priority needs.
Types and Locations of Desired Industry
Beaufort desires to achieve responsible industrial development which will not adversely affect
the natural environment or the quality of established residential areas. Large vacant areas
exist within the town's planning jurisdiction which have the potential for industrial
development.
The following industrial development policies will be applied:
(a) Industrial sites should be accessible to municipal/central water and sewer services.
(b) Industries which are noxious by reason of the emission of smoke, odor, dust, glare,
noise, and vibrations, and those which deal primarily in hazardous products such as
explosives, should not be located in Beaufort.
(c) Industrial development and/or industrial zoning should not infringe on established
residential development.
Commitment to State and Federal Programs
Beaufort is generally receptive to state and federal programs, particularly those which provide
improvements to the town. The town will continue to fully support such programs, especially
the North Carolina Department of Transportation road and bridge improvement programs,
which are very important to the Town of Beaufort.
Examples of other state and federal programs that are important to and supported by Beaufort
include: dredging and channel maintenance by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers; federal and
state projects which provide efficient and safe boat access for sport fishing; and community
development block grants, housing for the elderly, low -to -moderate income housing, housing
rehabilitation, programs which help remove impediments to the handicapped, and North
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IV-14

Carolina Housing Finance Agency housing improvement programs. However, Beaufort does
not support expansion of military restricted airspace in eastern North Carolina.
' Assistance in Channel Maintenance
Proper maintenance of channels is very important to Beaufort because of the substantial
' economic impact of commercial and sport fisheries. If silt or other deposits fill in the channels,
safe and efficient movement of commercial and sport fishing and transport vessels could be
impeded. Beaufort will support and cooperate with efforts by the Corps of Engineers and state
officials to maintain channels.
Assistance in Interstate Waterways
Beaufort considers the interstate waterway to be a valuable economic asset. The town will
provide assistance in maintaining the waterway by helping to obtain or providing dredge spoil
' sites and, when possible, providing easements across county -owned property for work.
Tourism
Beaufort will implement the following policies to further the development of tourism:
(a) Beaufort will support North Carolina Department of Transportation projects to improve
access to the town.
(b) Beaufort will support projects that will increase public access to shoreline areas.
(c) Beaufort will continue to support the activities of the North Carolina Division of Travel
and Tourism; specifically, the monitoring of tourism -related industry, efforts to promote
tourism -related commercial activity, and efforts to enhance and provide shoreline
resources.
(d) Beaufort will preserve its historic district and Taylor's Creek waterfront areas.
(e) The Town of Beaufort supports the State's management of the Rachel Carson Reserve
(also known as Carrot Island - Bird Shoal) for research, education, and compatible
public uses. The town also approves the current policy of maintaining a viable
population of feral horses on the property.
Transportation
(a) Beaufort supports implementation of the following land transportation improvements:
-- A connector between N.C. 101 and U.S. 70 (the corridor for this road has not
yet been determined).
-- Reroute U.S. 70 from Cedar Street to Turner/West Beaufort Road.
-- Utilize Orange and Turner Streets as a one-way pair providing access to the
waterfront.
- Elimination of the "Y" intersection with N.C. 101 and U.S. 70.
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-- Replacement of the drawbridge between Morehead City and Beaufort with a
medium height bridge. A medium height bridge is considered to be between 40-
45 feet. In FY98, a planning study will be conducted by the DOT Planning and
Environmental Branch to determine the exact recommended bridge height.
,
-- A possible minor thoroughfare is proposed to connect Steep Point Road just
east of U.S. 70 and Mulberry Street at its intersection with Ocean Street.
,
Land Use Trends and Issues
The town's land use trends and issues have been thoroughly discussed in other sections of
this plan. Those trends include:
-- Increasing residential development within the town's extraterritorial jurisdiction
(ETJ).
-- Continued minor losses of agricultural and forestlands.
-- Continued commercial development along Cedar Street and US 70 from Steep
Point Road, north to the town's corporate limit line.
-- Increased traffic congestion along the US 70 corridor.
-- Construction of a new bridge on US 70 at Beaufort Channel to alleviate
disruptions to east -west traffic.
-- Continued extension of water and sewer utilities into the ETJ will serve as a
catalyst for development.
-- Continued expansion of the Michael J. Smith Airport.
These land use changes should be controlled through existing local, state, and federal land use
regulations including CAMA, "404" regulations, the town's subdivision and zoning ordinances,
and local building inspections program. The Town of Beaufort should work towards
establishing a comprehensive annexation plan and growth management plan during the
planning period.
E. CONTINUING PUBLIC PARTICIPATION POLICIES
As the initial step in the preparation of this document, Beaufort prepared and adopted a
"Public Participation Plan." The plan outlined the methodology for citizen involvement (See
Appendix II). Public involvement was to be generated through public information meetings and
advertising in local newspapers. The Board of Adjustment and Board of Commissioners were
the principal boards responsible for development of the Land Use Plan.
A public information meeting was conducted at the outset of the project on September 11,
1995, at 7:00 p.m., in the Beaufort Municipal Building. Also, a description of the land use
plan preparation process and schedule was published in the Carteret County News and Times.
Subsequently, meetings of the Board of Commissioners, Planning Board, Advisory Committee
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were held on: October 16, 1995; November 20, 1995; February 29, 1996; and April 25,
1996. All meetings were open to the public. The Board of Commissioners conducted a public
information meeting for review of and comment on the plan on September 9, 1996. The
meeting was advertised in the Carteret County News -Times.
The preliminary plan.was submitted to the Division of Coastal Management for comment on
' September 11, 1996. Following receipt of DCM comments, the plan was amended, and a
formal public hearing on the final document was conducted on August 11, 1997. The public
hearing was advertised in Carteret County News -Times on July 6, 1997. The plan was
approved by the Beaufort Board of Commissioners on August 11, 1997, and submitted to the
Coastal Resources Commission for certification. The plan was certified on September 26,
1997.
Citizen input will continue to be solicited, primarily through the Planning Board, with advertised
and adequately publicized public meetings held to discuss special land use issues and to keep
citizens informed.
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F. STORM HAZARD MITIGATION, POST -DISASTER RECOVERY, AND EVACUATION i
PLANS
The purpose of this section of the 1990 CAMA Land Use Plan is to assist the Town of
Beaufort in managing development in potentially hazardous areas through establishing storm
hazard mitigation policies and to reduce the risks associated with severe storms and hurricanes
by developing post -disaster reconstruction/recovery policies. In 1984, the town had a detailed '
plan prepared by Satilla Planning, Inc., and George Eichler and Associates. That document
was well received by Beaufort and its emergency related personnel and agencies. The town
desires to have that plan continue to serve as the town's storm hazard mitigation, '
post -disaster recovery, and evacuation plan.
The following section, which is taken from the 1985 Land Use Plan, provides a summary of ,
the 1984 Storm Hazard Mitigation Plan and Post -Disaster Reconstruction Plan:
Storm Hazard Mitigation: Discussion '
A significant amount of the land in Beaufort lies within the hazard areas defined in
Before the Storm (McElyea, Brower, and Godschalk, UNC Center for Urban & Regional Studies, ,
1982), the Division of 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). The '
floodplain areas are delineated on Map 4.
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 requirements 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:
,
-- Lands in the estuarine shoreline AEC are subject to development limitations
imposed by the CRC. 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.
,
-- Lands in FEMA A -zones are subject to elevation standards 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.
,
-- The town's policies and ordinances support and are consistent with state
policies and regulations for development in Areas of Environmental Concern.
,
-- All new development must conform with the provisions of the North Carolina
Building Code.
,
-- The town's flood plain development policies conform with all federal and state
requirements.
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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 outlined
below. These policies support intergovernmental coordination with the Carteret County
Evacuation Plan and recovery procedures operations.
The town's Post -Disaster Reconstruction Plan is organized in the following sections:
-- Introduction
-- Organization of Local Damage Assessment Team
-- Damage Assessment Procedures and Requirements
-- Organization of Recovery Operations
-- 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 compiles 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
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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
established 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). Any structure located in an AEC which is damaged more than 50%
of its value is considered destroyed by CAMA permitting standards, and a new permit
will be required for reconstruction of such structure. 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:
-- Establish re-entry procedures.
' - Establish overall restoration scheme.
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-- Set restoration priorities.
-- Determine requirements for outside assistance and requesting such assistance
when beyond local capabilities.
-- Keep appropriate County and State officials informed using Situation and
Damage Reports.
-- Keep the public informed.
-- Assemble and maintain records of actions taken and expenditures and
obligations incurred.
-- Proclaim a local "state of emergency" if warranted.
-- Commence clean-up, debris removal, and utility restoration activities undertaken
by private utility companies.
-- Undertake repair and restoration of essential public facilities and services in
accordance with priorities developed through situation evaluations.
-- Assist individual property owners in obtaining information 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 Regu-
lations. 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.
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SECTION V: RELATIONSHIP OF POLICIES AND LAND CLASSIFICATIONS
As required by 15A NCAC 7B planning guidelines, the Beaufort land use plan must relate the
policies section to the land classification map and provide some indication as to which land
uses are appropriate in each land classification. The Town of Beaufort's zoning ordinance is
consistent with the land classification map and supports the distribution of land uses shown
on that map.
A. DEVELOPED CLASS
Beaufort's primary growth should continue to occur within the corporate limits, along U.S.
70, and north of the airport and adjacent to the airport. Those areas are classified as
developed. These areas will require basic urban services. The developed class is specifically
designated to accommodate intense development and land uses, including single and
multi -family residential, commercial, industrial parks and open space, community facilities, and
transportation. Population densities will be high. The greatest demand for urban services will
exist within this classification.
B. URBAN TRANSITION CLASS
Urban transition areas will provide lands to accommodate future urban growth within the
planning period. The average development densities will be less than the developed class
densities and greater than the limited transition class densities. Development may include
mixed land uses such as single and multi -family residential, commercial, institutional,
industrial, and other uses at high to moderate densities. Urban services may include water,
sewer, streets, police, and fire protection. Population densities will be high. The urban
transition classification is dispersed in three separate areas in the Beaufort extraterritorial
jurisdiction.
C. LIMITED TRANSITION
This classification will provide for controlled development with some urban services. This
classification is necessary to provide for growth occurring northeast of Beaufort between the
corporate limits and Davis Bay, along the east side of N.C. 101 just inside the town's
extraterritorial boundary, and along a portion of U.S. 70 north of Beaufort. The orderly
development of the areas, including proper development of some municipal services, will
support the economic development and natural resource policies of this land use plan. The
predominant land use will be moderate density residential. Clustering or development
associated with planned unit developments may be appropriate within this classification.
D. RURAL WITH SERVICES CLASS
The rural with services classification is to provide for low density land uses including
residential use where limited water services are provided in order to avert an existing or
projected health problem. Areas meeting the intent of this class are appropriate for low
density residential uses where lot sizes are large and where the provision of services will not
disrupt the primary rural character of the landscape. Most development may be supported by
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a closed water system. The only rural with services classified area lies between N.C. 101 and
U.S. 70. This area will be developed, but probably not within the planning period.
E. CONSERVATION CLASS
The conservation class is designated to provide for effective long-term management of
significant limited or irreplaceable areas which include Areas of Environmental Concern.
Development in the estuarine system should be restricted to uses which satisfy 15A NCAC
7H use standards. Except for policies addressing industrial impacts on fragile areas;
development of sound and estuarine islands; and residential, commercial and industrial
development impacts on resources, the Conservation class policies and standards included in
this plan are not more restrictive than the 15A NCAC 7H use standards.
F. SUMMARY
The Town of Beaufort enforces both zoning and subdivision ordinances. The zoning ordinance
is consistent with this land use plan and includes 13 separate zoning categories. The
developed, urban transition and limited transition land classes are appropriate locations for the
following zoning categories: R-20 single-family, R-15 single-family, R-10 single-family, R-8
multi -family, central downtown business, waterfront commercial, general business, highway
business, marine business, light industrial, and industrial warehouse. The historic district
zoning classification is located in the developed classification in central or "downtown"
Beaufort. The open space zoning district is appropriate for the conservation classified areas.

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APPENDICES

' APPENDIX I
TOWN OF BEAUFORT LAND USE PLAN
' POLICIES CONSIDERED BUT NOT ADOPTED
' B. RESOURCE PROTECTION POLICY STATEMENTS
Manmade Hazards
-- Any expansion of fuel storage tank facilities on Radio Island should comply with
applicable state and federal regulations for which proper environmental safeguards have
been provided.
-- Beaufort does not object to the establishment of a closed loop system agricultural
"wash down" facility on Radio Island, if an environmental impact statement of no
significant effect on the environment has been prepared and proper environmental
safeguards are implemented. The Town of Beaufort opposes the wash down of any
equipment which has been exposed to any non-agricultural hazardous materials.
-- The Town of Beaufort supports any runway extensions or other airport expansions
which will not result in the closing of a section of N.C. 101, any permanent rerouting
of traffic presently utilizing N.C. 101, or any changes to N.C. 101 which will result in
increased traffic in the vicinity of the Beaufort Middle School. The town's preference
for the extension of Runway 8-26 is to have the runway extended to the northeast
which would require the relocation of a portion of NC 101.
-- Beaufort recognizes that it does not have any authority to regulate the area or elevation
of military flights. However, the town opposes any low level military training flights
that are not in compliance with the minimum safe altitudes for aircraft operation as
described in the Federal Aviation Regulations, Part 91.
Marina and Floating Home Development
-- The Town of Beaufort reserves the right to comment on the number of slips which are
being permitted within a marina.
-- The number of slips within a marina shall be limited to slips.
-- Beaufort opposes the location of floating structures in all marinas, public trust areas,
and estuarine waters. Floating structures are defined as any structure or vessel used,
designed, and occupied as a permanent dwelling unit, business, office, or source of any
occupation or any private or social club, which floating structure or vessel is primarily
immobile and out of navigation or which functions substantially as a land structure
while moored or docked on waters within county jurisdiction. Floating structures shall
not be used commercially or inhabited in one place for more than 15 days. The Town
of Beaufort will review and revise its local floating home ordinance to be consistent
with this policy (refer to paragraph d), page 1-30).

Mooring Fields
-- Beaufort is concerned with the potential for the development of mooring fields. The
town opposes the development of mooring fields and will enforce its ordinance
regulating the establishment of mooring fields. The ordinance, as it is currently written,
regulates the establishment of mooring fields within the waters of Taylor's Creek. The
town will consider amending this ordinance to include all of the waters within
Beaufort's planning jurisdiction.
Development of Sound and Estuarine Islands
-- The Rachel Carson Sanctuary will be utilized for the deposit of dredge spoil only as a
last resort site, and only if all other options have been exhausted. If spoil is deposited
in the Sanctuary, proper safety measures should be implemented to protect the public
and wildlife from hazards associated with spoil sites such as "quicksand." However,
if the Rachel Carson Sanctuary must be used for spoil sites, spoil sites should be
located and constructed so as to not obstruct the view of the sound areas from the
Beaufort waterfront.
Sea Level Rise
-- Beaufort will support bulkheading to protect its shoreline areas from intruding water
resulting from rising sea level.
C. RESOURCE PRODUCTION AND MANAGEMENT POLICIES
Residential, Commercial, and Industrial Development Impacts on Resources
-- Residential, commercial, and industrial development which is consistent with local
zoning and meets 15A NCAC 7H use standards will be allowed in estuarine shorelines,
estuarine waters, and public trust areas. Residential, commercial, and industrial
development in coastal wetland areas will not be allowed. This policy shall not apply
to the possible expansion of the Michael J. Smith Airport into coastal wetland areas.
-- In order to preserve natural vegetation and scenic views, the Town of Beaufort will
consider amending its zoning ordinance to include vista requirements in the R-8 zoning
district.
-- In order to preserve natural vegetation and scenic views, the Town of Beaufort will
prohibit the construction of structures on the south side of Front Street in the R-8 zone.
This policy is enforced by the Town's Zoning Ordinance.

1!
APPENDIX II
TOWN OF BEAUFORT
CITIZEN PARTICIPATION PLAN
PREPARATION OF LAND USE PLAN
FISCAL YEAR 1995-96
The Town of Beaufort has received a FY95-96 Coastal Area Management Act grant for the
' update of its existing Land Use Plan. Adequate citizen participation in the development of the
Plan is essential to the preparation of a document responsive to the needs of the citizens of
Beaufort. To ensure such input, the following citizen participation program will be utilized by the
' town.
The Board of Commissioners will work with the town's planning consultant to ensure that the final
product will survey existing land use, identify policies, recommend strategies/actions, and identify
Areas of Environmental Concern. The plan will focus on issues expected to occur during the
planning period, including infrastructure needs, housing needs, transportation planning, and
environmental. A completely new land classification map will be provided. Specifically, the
planning consultant and the Board of Commissioners will be responsible for ensuring
accomplishment of the following:
' -- Establishment of policies to deal with existing and anticipated land use issues.
— Preparation of a land classification map.
-- Preparation of hurricane mitigation and post -disaster recovery plans and policies.
— Assessment of opportunities for participation in state and federal programs.
— An updated Land Use Plan based on an effective citizen participation process.
' The following schedule will be utilized:
1. September, 1995 — complete identification of existing land use problems, develop
socioeconomic base data, and review community facilities needs.
2. September, 1995 — Conduct initial meeting with the Town of Beaufort Board of
' Commissioners, and have the Citizen Participation Plan adopted.
3. September, 1995 The Board of Commissioners will conduct a public information
meeting. The meeting will be advertised in a local newspaper. The town will specifically
discuss the policy statements contained in the 1990 Town of Beaufort Land Use Plan.
The significance of the policy statements to the CAMA land use planning process shall
be described. The process by which the Town of Beaufort will solicit the views of a wide
cross-section of citizens in the development of the updated policy statements will be
explained.
' 4. October, 1995 - May, 1996 — Continue preparation of a draft Land Use Plan and conduct
meetings with the Beaufort Planning Board.
' 5. June, 1996 — Present complete draft sections of the plan and preliminary policy
statements to the Beaufort Board of Commissioners.

6. July, 1996 — Review draft Land Use Plan with Board of Commissioners, conduct a public
information meeting for review of the proposed plan, and submit draft of completed Land
Use Plan to the Department of. Environment, Health and Natural Resources staff for
review and comment.
7. Following receipt of Coastal Resources Commission comments (estimate October or
November, 1996) -- Present proposed Land Use Plan to Board of Commissioners for
adoption, and conduct a formal public hearing.
All meetings of the Town of Beaufort Planning Board and Board of Commissioners at which the
update of the Land Use Plan will be discussed will be advertised in a local newspaper in a non-
legal ad section. In addition, public service announcements will be mailed to local radio stations
and posted in the Municipal Building. All meetings will be open to the public. The town will
encourage and consider all economic, social, ethnic, and cultural viewpoints. No major
non-English speaking groups are known to exist in Beaufort.
8/29/95