Land Use Plan Update-1995

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1995 LAND USE PLAN UPDATE
TOWN OF BRIDGETON, NORTH CAROLINA
Prepared for:
Town of Bridgeton, NC
1996 Board of Commissioners
Michael Whaley, Mayor
Barbara Howlett, Mayor Pro Tem
Robert Toler
Robert Toler
Frank Benton
Prepared By
1995 Board of Commissioners
Peter Harmatuk, Mayor
Janet Williams, Town Clerk
With Technical Assistance From:
Mid -East Commission
P.O. Box 1787
Washington, NC 27889
Jane Daughtridge, AICP
Planner -In -Charge
Rhoda Raymond
Planner/GIS Technician
Local Adoption: May 6, 1996
CRC Certification: May 24, 1996
Keith Tyndall
Donna Harmatuk
Donna Harmatuk
Barbara Howlett
The preparation of this document was financed in part through a grant provided by the North Carolina Coastal
Management Program, through funds provided in part 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.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The Town of Bridgeton is one of the smallest in Craven County, but its population
of 485 is increasing at a rate of about 0.5% per year and is projected to continue that trend.
The town is located along the northeast side of the Neuse River in close proximity
to the City of New Bern, connected by the Neuse River bridge along U.S. Highway 17. This
bridge is scheduled for relocation in the State's Transportation Improvement Plan, and the
old bridge will be removed. The community once was supported by industry related to
forestry and chemicals, but Georgia Pacific is no longer operating and the chemical interests
have moved the bulk of their operations elsewhere. Still, the economic condition of citizens
is relatively healthy and the percent of persons in poverty actually decreased between 1980
and 1990. The industrial base at this time is centered around boat building and fish packing,
with metal fabrication and chemical industries still present as well. Commercial interests
support the primary daily needs of a small community as well as limited services for highway
travellers.
It is presumed that Bridgeton could benefit from some of the growth in retiree
relocation and sailing or other boating enthusiasts present in nearby Pamlico Count and
New Bem. Although most of its waterfront properties are already developed, some
opportunity for expansion exists if improvements can be made to the sewer system to
accommodate such growth. Relocation of the bridge could provide a positive, unifying
influence in the community to remove nuisance pass -through traffic which has split the town
into two distinct sectors in the past.
The town exercises local zoning, sub -division review, mobile home park regulations,
and flood damage prevention requirements to supplement enforcement of the State building
code. The town shows evidence of both coastal and "404" jurisdictional wetlands, but does
not object to development in these areas when mitigation plans are acceptable to State and
Federal authorities. The entire jurisdiction is within FEMA Zone A6, special flood hazard
area. Man-made hazards are few, but their presence was experienced recently with the
explosion of a passing fuel truck inside the town limits. Fortunately, damage was not
catastrophic in this incident.
Historic resources are present in the area, but public opinion has not given these
resources priority for conservation at this time. The rived waterfront represents a significant
natural resource for the town and there is great local interest in creating more opportunities
for the public to interact with the water by creating access points at stub streets or on
property currently used for scout activities. It is also anticipated that the State will dedicate
the property at the foot of the existing bridge to the Town when the bridge is relocated.
Water is provided by Craven Sanitary District. Sewer is provided by the Town. The
existing system is a small package system with a design capacity of 50,000 gpd. usage is
around 80% but fluctuates considerably with weather conditions. This problem with capacity
limits new development potential and the town is seeking funding assistance to upgrade the
facility as soon as possible.
A review of the policy statements in their 1989 Land Use Plan indicates that the
Town experienced an overall implementation rate of 81% for policy statements that were
pursued or attempted during the planning period. New policies in the category of Resource
Protection essentially rely on state and federal regulators for direct protection of natural

resources. Local zoning and flood regulations support these protective efforts. In the
' categories of Resource Production & Management and Economic and Community
Development, the Town acknowledges state and federal authorities but relies most heavily
on local ordinances to guide appropriate development and redevelopment. Continued Public
' Participation policies provide ample opportunities for the public to know about and express
opinions in local matters relating to growth and development. Storm Hazard issues are
managed largely by the County's Emergency Management Plan with input from local
governments. The town is subject to high winds and flooding during severe storm events.
Land Classification footprints a mostly developed classification, with areas on the east
side of Highway 17 expected to receive services to stimulate growth within the planning
' period (Urban Transition). The 75 foot estuarine shoreline is the only area classified as
Conservation. Some multi -family residential development and limited commercial/industrial
activities already exist in this area, but recent amendments in the zoning ordinance have
steered industrial uses away from the waterfront area in an effort to encourage more public
access opportunities, commercial marina trade and added residential uses.
The town's initial Land Use Plan was certified in 1989. This represents their first
' update effort.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
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BRIDGETON LAND USE PLAN
TABLE OF CONTENTS
I. Background
II. I Date Collection & Analysis
A. Population
B. Housing
C. Economy
Implications
M. Land Use
A. Existing Conditions
B. Recent Development & Future Growth
C. Land Use Concerns
D. Devlopment Controls
E. Development Constraints
1. Land Suitability
2. Facility Limitations
Implications
Projected Demand
IV. Assessment of 1989 Initial Land Use Plan Policies
V. Policy Statements
Resource Protection
Resource Production & Management
Economic & Community Development
Continuing Public Participation
Public Survey Results
Storm Hazard Mitigation, Post Disaster Recovery, & Evacuation Plan
A. Storm Hazard Mitigation
B. Post Disaster Reconstruction
VI. Land Classification
VII. Relationship of Policies and Land Classification
MAPS:
Map 1: Existing Land Use
Map 2: Development Constraints
Map 3: Land Classification
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35
M.
Appendix A

BACKGROUND/DATA COLLECTION & ANALYSIS
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' TOWN OF BRIDGETON
' 1995 LAND USE PLAN UPDATE
' I. BACKGROUND
' Bridgeton was originally settled around the turn of the twentieth century. The settlement can be attributed
to the lumber and associated industries, which experienced a boom from 1905 to 1929. In 1907, the town
incorporated.
The name "Bridgeton" originated from the town's location at the foot of the Neuse River bridge connecting
' the town to New Bern; however, Bridgeton "was historically separate from New Bern, both physically and
economically" (Little 19). Growth of the town was a result of the location of lumber mills in Bridgeton, and not
as a result of its proximity to New Bern.
Some buildings in present day Bridgeton date back to the lumber boom. Historic buildings in town include
the Methodist Church (cornerstone 1904), the Christian Church (cornerstone 1909), and the Baptist Church
(cornerstone 1920).
' The location of the Neuse River Bridge has had an impact on the business district over time. For many
years, the commercial center of town was on Bridge Street, leading directly from the bridge and extending for two
blocks. The construction of the concrete bridge led to a shift of the business district by four blocks from Bridge
Street onto highways 17 and 55.
' II. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS
' A. Population
Bridgeton is one of eight incorporated areas in Craven County. The County itself occupies about
760 total square miles of eastern North Carolina and is the 16th largest county in the state.
Between 1980 and 1990, the population of towns in Craven County grew at widely varying rates.
Cove City and Dover experienced population losses. Update Table 1 shows the population changes over
time. Bridgeton's population gain was the smallest among municipalities which grew. The adjusted census
' count for 1990 was 498 persons, compared to 461 in 1980. (All tables here include the unadjusted figure
of 485 because the Census does not adjust any variable other than total population.) The 1993 estimate for
Bridgeton is 505 persons, representing a three year gain of just over 1 %.
' The age structure in Bridgeton has shifted since 1980 with the greatest gain in age group 35-44,
which increased from 9 % of the population to 18 %. The largest decrease was in the age group 55-64, but
there was also a significant loss in the age group over 65. Slight losses are also represented in the age
groups 14 and under. The implications of this change reflect a stabilizing effect on the economy as working
' age population matures but remains in the workforce. At the same time, losses in the younger age groups
might result in heavy reliance on in -migration for future population growth. Update Table 2 shows the age
breakdown. Nationwide, demographers note that the population is aging. Median age for Bridgeton
' actually shifted in the opposite direction between 1980 and 1990, moving from 36.2 years in 1980 to 35.1
years in 1990. This would be consistent with the losses in the upper age groups. Additionally, 39 % of
the population reported living outside the county five years prior to the 1990 census, indicating a large in-
' migration.

' TABLE 1
POPULATION 1980-1990
' PERCENT PROJECTED PERCENT
YR 1990 YR 1980 INC/DEC YR 2000 INC/DEC
Craven County
81,613
71,043
14.88%
93,955
15.12%
Bridgeton
485
461
5.21%
509
4.95%
Cove City
484
500
-3.20%
468
-3.31%
Dover
464
600
-22.67%
348
-25.00%
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Havelock
20,268
17,718
14.39%
• 22,818
12.58%
New Bern
17,363
14,557
19.28%
20,169
16.16%
River Bend
2,408
959
151.09%
3,857
60.17%
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Trent Woods
2,366
1,177
101.02%
3,555
50.25%
Vanceboro
946
833
13.57%
1,059
11.95%
Source: LINC
State Data Center
2/95
TABLE 2
TOWN OF 13RIDGETON AGE STRUCTURE
'
1980-1990
1980
% OF
1990
% OF
'
UNDER 5
MALE
17
FEMALE
7
TOTAL
24
TOTAL
5.21%
MALE FEMALE
8 15
TOTAL
23
TOTAL
4.74%
5 TO 14
40
25
65
14.10%
32
30
62
12.78%
15 TO 24
35
40
75
16.27%
46
31
77
15.8U
25 To 34
30
30
60
13.02%
35
44
79
16.29%
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35 TO 44
21
22
43
9.33%
51
39
90
18.56%
45 TO 54
9
25
34
7.38%
21
24
45
9.28%
55 TO 64
44
41
85
18.44%
22
24
46
9.48%
65 +
30
45
75
16.27%
23
40
63
12.M
TOTAL 226 235 "1 100.00% 238 247 485 100.00%
' SOURCE: LILAC, STATE DATA CENTER, 2/95
' B. Housing
The Town's 1980 population was housed among 214 dwelling units (Update Table 3). The
number of housing units increased nearly 46 % between 1980 and 1990 to 312 units. Of these, 212 were
' reported as occupied. Owner occupied units decreased from over 48 % in 1980 to about 33 % in 1990,
confirming the local opinion that many residents have moved to other places and converted their homes to
rental units. A significant portion of the additional units represents the town's only multi -family
' development, built in 1989. The number of vacant units has significantly increased from 24 in 1980 to 100
in 1990. More than half (170) of the units were built before 1960. Total households increased slightly,
as did the number of one -person households. This may imply that there are more elderly widows or
' widowers than in 1980. Nearly 10 % of the housing stock is made up of mobile homes, but this represents
about a 7 % decrease since 1980. Household size increased from 2.3 persons in 1980 to 2.4 persons in
1990. This is also the opposite of national trends in 1990 which showed household size decreasing.

TABLE 3
CRAVEN COUNTY HOUSING DATA
1990
HOUSING
VACANT
RENTER
OWNER
MOBILE
PERSONS
UNITS
UNITS
OCCUPIED
OCCUPIED
HOMES PER HSHLD
Craven County
32,293
2,751
10,837
18,705
5,380
2.65
BRIDGETON
312
100
117
95
31
2.41
Cove City
193
7
42
144
39
2.56
Dover
189
18
38
133.
21
2.8
Havelock
6,096
435
3,972
1,689
479
3.12
New Bern
8,024
760
3,575
3,689
575
2.32
River Bend
1,173
150
226
797
0
2.19
Trent Woods
919
21
52
846
11
2.62
Vanceboro
- 417
36
150
231
59
2.43
SOURCE:
STATE DATA
CENTER
2/95
C. Economy
The economic condition of Bridgeton citizens is healthy, even though the unemployment rate
increased from 5.6 % in 1980 to 8.1 % in 1990. Income increased significantly at all levels. Actual per
capita income increased over 130 % between censuses. Adjusted for inflation, spendable income increased
just over 35 %. The number of persons in poverty decreased nearly 20 % between the 1980 and 1990
censuses. Update Table 4 shows socio-economic data from the 1990 Census Sample Data.
TABLE 4
CRAVEN COUNTY INCOME
1990
1989
1979 1989 1979
1990 1980
INCOME
INCOME MEDIAN MEDIAN
PERCENT PERCENT
PER CAP.
PER CAP. FAMILY FAMILY
POVERTY POVERTY
Craven County S11,619
S5,650 S29,109 S14,945
13.59 18.49
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BRIDGETON $11,607
$5,024 S26,484 $12,941
7.69 25.93
Cove City $8,435
$4,723 $22,083 $16,786
21.28 15.22
Dover S7,618
$4,336 $17,778 $13,083
25.05 20.49
Havelock S9,204
$4,916 S24,421 $12,477
10.55 11.97
New Bern $10,893
$5,629 $25,102 $14,159
23.2 27.75
River Bend $18,089
N/A $41,366 N/A
3.47 N/A
Trent Woods $25,819
S13,345 $53,639 $28,833
2.7 1.44
Vanceboro S10,285
S5,727 S25,833 S14,000
25.05 17.01
SOURCE:
STATE DATA CENTER 2/95
New Bern is the commercial
center of the County, however Bridgeton
has a number of commercial
enterprises and is home to several industrial sites. Many of the commercial operations are highway -related
uses such as gas stations, convenience stores and motels.
The largest employment sectors in 1990 were Retail Sales (16.7
%), Construction (10.3 %), and
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Public Administration (10.3 %).
The Town has 3 industrial or manufacturing firms inside its planning jurisdiction. The largest
local employer is Bridgeton School which employs about 60 persons.
Water -related enterprise includes
a boatyard located on A Street.
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The following businesses
are now operating in the Town of
Bridgeton:
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TABLE 5. BRIDGETON BUSINESS ESTABLISHMENTS
TYPE OF BUSINESS
Industrial/Manufacturing
Yachts
Metal Fabrication
Chemicals
Fish Packing
Retail/Service
Barber Shop
Beauty Shop
Pet Groomer
Auto Body Shop
Service Stations
Used Car Lots
Radiator Shop
Real Estate Office
Sign Shop
Tile Contractor
Fire Extinguisher shop
Furniture Store
Hardware store
Convenience Stores
Supermarket
Blueberry farm/outlet
Poultry Market
Produce Market
Trading Card Shop
Florist
Gift Shop
Motel
Restaurant
NUMBER OF ESTABLISHMENTS
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Source: CAMA Land Use Plan Committee (Town Board), March, 1995.
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The North Carolina Department of Transportation is currently working toward replacement of the
existing Neuse River Bridge with a highrise facility in a different location. This project will re-route traffic
and may open the possibility for a public waterfront area in the future. Highway oriented business will
undoubtedly shift to accommodate any new traffic pattern; however, most activities in Bridgeton are
' oriented toward residential uses and neighborhood retail and services. The anticipated traffic shift will
actually enhance community character, blend areas currently divided by a major highway, and improve
overall safety by eliminating long -haul truck traffic through town.
With the closing of military installations in Pensacola, Florida, there were plans to shift those
operations to Cherry Point Naval Air Station, bringing an influx of about 3,000 military families. An
alternative proposal to shift the personnel to Virginia Beach instead of North Carolina was presented and
' adopted so that the actual in -migration has been less significant than anticipated throughout most of this
planning process. It now appears that a total of about 1,300 civilian personnel will be reassigned to Cherry
Point and this represents the full extent of this realignment for our area.
The continuing growth of the area as a haven for retirees and sailing enthusiasts could also
' represent future development possibilities, either directly or indirectly, through retail and service industries
to accommodate the nearby population.
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Implications
Bridgeton may benefit from growth in the nearby area. People are expected to be moving into the town
' and the surrounding area based on proximity to New Bern and Cherry Point and the Neuse River. A major
highway divides the Town presently but planned highway improvements to replace the Neuse River Bridge will have
a significant impact to re-route future traffic flow and recombine the presently divided sections of town. The town's
' sewer system, currently under improvement, is already instigating the possibility of an annexation. Soils throughout
the area poorly accommodate septic tanks, so public sewer service is a continuing criteria for future development.
As the Town continues to grow, the need for proper land use planning increases. This plan represents a
major local effort to prepare the community for the changes it is likely to experience over the next ten years.
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LAND USE

1 III. Land Use
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A. Existing Conditions
The Town encompasses an area of about .35 square miles. The planning area is essentially
rectangular, excepting the irregular waterfront boundary. U. S. 17 bisects the area and intersects with
Highway 55 at the foot of the Neuse River Bridge.
Most of the area within the Town limits has been developed (see map 1). Development is largely
residential in nature, however there are also a good many commercial and industrial uses for such a small
community. There is no central business district. Along the highway are retail operations. Near the
railroad tracks in the northernmost portion of the jurisdiction is a grocery store and several industrial uses.
The Town has a large industrial area adjoining the rail line. A considerable amount of residential
development has occurred, but the majority of units were associated with a multi -family development
abutting A, B, and Mill Streets.
B. Recent Development and Future Growth
There have been few changes in land use since 1990. A total of 27 zoning permits were let
between 1990 and 1994, but only 3 were for new development of all types. The remaining 24 were
primarily for residential additions. Only one zoning permit was issued for new residential development,
and that was for a mobile home in 1994. The Table below shows zoning permits issued for new
development between 1990 and 1994.
Local development has been severely limited over time by lack of septic alternatives; however this
condition changed in 1992 when the Town installed its sewage treatment facility. The system is in need
of expansion at this time to adequately accommodate new development. This topic is discussed further in
the section on Development Constraints.
TABLE 6. ZONING PERMITS FOR NEW DEVELOPMENT
Residential
Mobile Homes:
Conventional Dwelling:
Multi -Family Units:
Business
Body Shop
Warehouse
TOTAL
Source:
1990
1991
1992
1993
1994
TOTAL
0
0
0
0
1
1
0
0.
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
1
0
1
1
0
0
1
1
3
Bridgeton Zoning Permit records
Map 1 in Appendix A shows the existing land uses in the Town of Bridgeton.
C. Land Use Concerns
The Town has few land use concerns at this time. There is a good deal of mixed uses along the
Highway 17 corridor, but they do not appear to pose significant incompatibility problems for the Town.
In fact, a recent zoning amendment creates a mixed use district near the bridge.
Mobile home development is a concern for the town, but control of mobile homes is addressed
in the zoning ordinance.
The multi -family townhouse development on Mill Street is considered undesirable by some
residents, but there have not been significant problems associated with traffic or parking.
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D. Development Controls
Land development in the Town is controlled by a variety of local, state and federal regulations.
Plans and policies enacted by the Town, the County and various state agencies influence local land use
decisions as well. For example, State Building Codes are enforced for the Town by Craven County
Building Inspector. Point source wastewater dischargers are controlled by the State Division of
Environmental Management; and dredge and fill activities on 404 wetlands are limited by the US Army
Corps of Engineers. CAMA permits are required of all development within 75 feet of the normal high
' water mark along all of the Town's waterfront, as well as for development in the public trust areas,
estuarine waters and coastal wetlands of Bridgeton.
1. Regulatory Controls
Local ordinances controlling land use decisions are described below.
The Bridgeton Zoning Ordinance was adopted in 1980 and updated in 1987. Various amendments have
been made over time. Currently under revision, the zoning ordinance will reflect an added mixed use
district and there has been a rezoning of Industrial acreage to a Waterfront Industrial designation.
' Subdivision Regulations were adopted in 1991.
Mobile Home Park Relations are included in the zoning ordinance.
Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance was adopted in 1987.
The State Building Cod was originally adopted in 1963 and is enforced by the County Building Inspector.
2. Development Plans
rThe state's Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) lists one project currently under way that
will effect development in the Bridgeton area. It proposes a relocation of the Neuse River bridge.
' The Town has no official Capital Improvement Plan. The Town has not received Community
Development Block Grants (CDBG) for housing improvements in the past but considered application for
another in 1995. The need for sewer improvements to support the required annexation has blocked that
project for the time being.
The Bridgeton CAMA Land Use Plan was first adopted and certified in 1989. This document is
the first update of that original plan.
Reconstruction in the event of a natural disaster would be directed by the County's storm plan
developed by the Craven County Emergency Management Coordinator.
' 3. Development Policies
The Town's official Utilities Extension Policy is reflected in its Sewer Use Ordinance which was
adopted in 1992. Water extensions are under the control of First Craven Water District.
The CAMA Land Use Plan lists policies on resource and development issues within the
jurisdiction.
E. Development Constraints
' 1. - Land Suitability
Several physical factors constrain land development in the Bridgeton area. Physical
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' constraints can be classified into one of three categories: physical limitations, fragile areas, and
areas of resource potential.
Physical Limitations for Development. A variety of factors determine the suitability of
land for development. These include soils and subsoil conditions, topography, potential for
flooding, and existing land uses in the development area (see map 2 in Appendix A).
a. Man -Made Hazards:
There are no significant man-made hazards other than lumber trucks, occasional
hazardous cargo hauled by rail or roadway, and heavy machinery transiting the area.
Underground fuel storage tanks probably still exist at convenience stores and service
stations. The Craven County Building Inspection Department oversees modification and
installation of underground storage tanks within the Town Limits. Encee Chemical has
reduced the scope of its operations in Bridgeton since the 1989 plan, and there is little
storage of chemicals at this site now.
' Bridgeton is not located in any high, moderate, or low danger areas associated
with low -flying military aircraft or military operations, according to the Naval Air
Systems Command.
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Man-made hazards do not represent a serious constraint to development in
Bridgeton.
b. Flood Hazard Areas:
A detailed flood insurance study was performed by the Federal Emergency
management Agency (FEMA) and submitted to the Town of Bridgeton on May 4, 1987.
According to the flood insurance map, all of the Town is located with a special flood
hazard area (Zone A6), or within the boundaries of the 100 year flood experience. The
100-year flood level in Bridgeton is 9.1 feet above NGVD (Navigational Geodetic
Vertical Datum), but the land surface is only 9 feet or less above NGVD. The principal
source of flooding in Bridgeton would be storm surge, generated by tropical storms and
hurricanes which would raise the water level in the Neuse River. In the past, several
hurricanes have caused widespread flooding and structural damage in Bridgeton.
The 100-flood zone location represents a constraint to development because it
places property at risk and because increased elevation restrictions and special building
requirements can result in increased building costs. In order to secure flood insurance
and finance development at a federally insured institution, developers must comply with
the Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance adopted by the Town in 1987.
C. Soil Limitations:
Based on Soil Conservation maps prepared for Craven County by the USDA Soil
Conservation Service, the soil types within the Bridgeton town limits are confined to the
Murville series and the Seabrook series, with some Dare Muck soils scattered along the
shoreline. The Seabrook soils are predominant in the southern third of the town, then
run through the town's center before tapering off in the northern third of town. The
Murville soils are also predominant in the northern half of town and to the east of US
Highway 17 in the northern two-thirds of town. Murville soils are also predominant
throughout the northernmost quarter of town.

constraints to development just by virtue of the fragile nature of water bodies and
shorelines.
Fragile Areas. Fragile areas are those which could be easily damaged or destroyed by
inappropriate or poorly planned development. More specifically these are: coastal wetlands, sand
dunes, ocean beaches and shorelines, estuarine waters and shore lines, public trust areas, complex
natural areas, areas that sustain remnant species, areas containing unique geological formations,
registered natural landmarks, and others such as wooded swamps, prime wildlife habitats, scenic
and prominent high points, and archaeological and historic sites. There are four fragile areas
defined in Bridgeton: Estuarine waters, estuarine shoreline, coastal wetlands,and underwater
archeological sites. The estuarine system Areas of Environmental Concern (AECs) are defined
in NCAC 7H. Each of the Bridgeton fragile areas is discussed below.
a. Estuarine Waters:
All surface waters of the Neuse River fronting the Town of Bridgeton are
classified by the Coastal Area Management Act as an Estuarine Waters AEC.
b. Estuarine Shoreline:
All of the land within 75 feet of the normal high water level of the Neuse River
is classified by the Coastal Area Management Act as an Estuarine Shoreline AEC.
C. Coastal Wetlands:
' The Coastal Wetlands AEC designation applies to all regularly and occasionally
flooded marshland subject to wind or water tides and exhibiting the presence of any of
ten species of plants associated with wet area. The original land use plan noted
' waterfront areas where at least two of the ten species were present.
Actual designation of a property as coastal wetland is the purview of the
Division of Coastal Management regulatory personnel; however, a wetland designation
does not necessarily eliminate the possibility of development. Property owners should
' be encouraged to consult with CAMA field personnel whenever waterfront property is
considered for development.
"404" wetlands are regulated by the US Army Corps of Engineers and deals
' specifically with dredge and/or fill activities. The COE wetland designation system is
slightly different from the one used by CAMA and has been under scrutiny nationally for
several years. The Corps also has certain exemptions or special allowances that can be
accessed for development which is deemed to have insignificant impact on the wetland.
Mitigation plans can also be presented by developers when dredge and fill activities can
be offset with reasonable alternatives. As with the coastal wetlands, property owners
anywhere in the coastal area are encouraged to contact the Army Corps of Engineers field
offices prior to any development to determine if wetlands are present and what action
may be necessary to legitimize the desired project.
d. Underwater Archaeological Sites:
A comprehensive inventory of architecturally orhistorically significant properties
has not been performed for Bridgeton. there has been some inquiry into potential historic
properties, but none have been nominated to the National Register at this point in time.
The remains of a schooner, were identified during an Army Corps of Engineers site
assessment for Eastern Shores Townhouses Marina in 1985. According to the N.C.
Underwater Archaeology Branch, there is a strong possibility that other such sites could
-exist along the Bridgeton waterfront. It is also possible that terrestrial sites and structures
of cultural significance could exist along the waterfront since the town has a long
association with the commercial waterfront area, but no sites have been identified to date.
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Waterfront property is currently utilized for a variety of purposes in Bridgeton
and there are no major constraints to future uses which are well planned and regulated.
Coastal wetlands exist within the current mix of developed uses as isolated pockets
without apparent continuity within the broader concept of a wetland system and might be
appropriate for development within the standards set by the State Division of Coastal
Management.
e. Public Trust Areas:
Public Trust AECs cover waters and submerged lands in the coastal region
where the public has rights of use and/or ownership, including rights of navigation and
recreation. The waters and underlying lands of the Neuse River adjacent to Bridgeton
are considered Public Trust Areas.
Areas of Resource Potential. State forests and parks, private game preserves, and areas
underlain with valuable mineral deposits are considered areas of resource potential. No such areas
have been identified in the Bridgeton jurisdiction.
2. Facility Limitations
As a community grows, service demands increase. More police and fire protection may
be needed; additional classrooms or schools may be necessary. Demand for public water and
sewer service increases. Planning for future service demands helps to avoid shortfalls in the
provision of public services. Development can be severely constrained when the demand for vital
services such as water and sewer, exceeds supply.
Bridgeton has grown in recent years. It is anticipated that the Town will grow slowly
but steadily over the next decade. Increases in Craven County as a whole between 1990 and 2000
are projected at 15.1 %. Bridgeton is predicted to grow nearly 5 % between 1990 and 2000.
Water Service. Over 99 % of all properties within the corporate limits are serviced with
public water.
The capacity of the First Craven Sanitary District's storage tanks total 600,000 gallons
or about 2 days of water supply. The two wells in the district draw from aquifers which have a
sustained yield of 300 gpm. Plant production for the district runs about 500 gpm, but the average
demand is only about 265 gpm. Overall, the average demand runs about 382,000 gpd, or about
224.7 gpd per customer. In Bridgeton, this would calculate to demand of only about 59,770 gpd.
The Town appears to have an adequate supply of water to serve demand. Even assuming
a usage increase to accommodate the proposed development, current water well capacity would
be adequate. Location of a new water -consumptive industry could dramatically increase demand.
Should such an industry propose to locate in the area, the Town should coordinate with the water
district.
Sewer Service. The Town's sewer system has a design capacity of 50,000 gpd. Average
demand fluctuates between 38,000 and 42,000 gpd. Under extreme weather conditions, the
system has reached near maximum capacity at 48,000 gpd. While the system represents a
significant improvement in town services since the last Land Use Plan, it is operating at about
80 % capacity, limiting the potential for new development. Current usage averages about 158
gallons per day per hook-up and there are 266 hook-ups. At this level of usage, the system would
max out at 316 customers. A major fast food chain has expressed interest in locating in
' Bridgeton, but current sewer capacity prevents new businesses with significant demand from
locating inside the city limits.
11

Public Schools. Bridgeton pupils attend New Bern/Craven County Schools. One facility
is located inside the town. Bridgeton school has a capacity of 450 students and hosts grades K-6
with an enrollment of 453 students. Presently, two relocatable classrooms are on site to help offset
overcrowding.
Protective Services. The Town of Bridgeton currently has no police department.
Protection is administered under the Craven County Sheriffs Department. Town officials have
considered low cost alternatives for providing police protection but have not committed to paid
service at this time.
Fire protection is currently provided by a volunteer department. The Bridgeton Volunteer
Fire Department maintains a membership of approximately 28 persons. The Department maintains
an inventory of 4 fire -fighting vehicles; three fire trucks and one equipment van. Fire ladders
I accommodate up to 35 feet in height. This height was required when Eastern Shores Townhouses
developed. The developer was required by the town to provide the added fire equipment needed
to service the new units.
1 Rescue services are provided by Bridgeton EMS. Though it is housed in Bridgeton, the
service is funded through Craven County. The squad is staffed by 45 volunteer EMTs and is
supported by 2 ambulances, 2 rescue boats, an equipment truck, a supply truck (for pulling the
boat), and a first responder truck. The EMTs' service area extends far beyond the Town of
Bridgeton planning area into Askin, Cayton, Sandy Point, and Fairfield Harbor. In addition, the
unit provides support services for the northern portion of New Bern. The squad has recently
upgraded their service level to EMT-D, allowing for Advanced Life Support and patient
defibrillation. The nearest hospital is Craven Regional Medical Center in New Bern. The rescue
squad recently received a land donation along Highway 17 near the Post Office. They are
planning to build a new facility on that site in the summer. The old site may be sold.
Public Administration. The Town employs four persons who provide administrative
support for all of the town's business and services.
' Roads. Lack of service by a major interstate highway is often cited as one of the major
factors that has limited growth in northeastern North Carolina. It is unlikely that this situation will
change in the foreseeable future given the limited federal funding available for highway
construction.
Highway facilities in the Bridgeton area will be able to accommodate the increased
demand projected for the next decade.
Implications
' The Town is expected to grow at a slow rate over the next decade, but potential military personnel or
retiree influx could significantly alter that expectation. The County Water District's public water supply is likely
to be able to meet the demands of the next decade without major improvements. Locally, the public school is at
capacity, but the Town has little influence over the consolidated school system. Highway capacity appears suitable
to serve local needs for the next ten years with consideration of the planned improvements. These improvements
are not expected to be in place for at least two more years. In areas such as police, fire, and public administration,
the Town realizes additional personnel and equipment may be needed to service demand as the community grows.
The Town's public wastewater system will not provide sufficient capacity for new residential and industrial growth.
Increasing the system's capacity will be intrinsic to new growth and should be aggressively pursued.
12

IPROJECTED DEMAND
' Bridgeton challenged the 1990 Census of Housing and Population results and they were awarded an
adjustment from 453 to 498. The Census also showed 100 vacant housing units in town, but no one can identify
these vacant units. There are currently 266 sewer customers, including 37 business establishments, and there are
about 6 households which have not yet tapped onto the sewer system. This would imply a total of 235 households.
Assuming the household size of 2.41 persons is correct, the current population would be estimated at 566 persons.
This is well above the State's population projection for the turn of the century (509). Projecting demand becomes
' very difficult when the official base information is questionable.
If we operate from the assumption that the yearly rate of growth will mirror the 1980-1990 rate (about 1/2
percent per year), and if we err conservatively and adjust the current population estimate to presumption of a smaller
household size (2.25) than reported by the flawed Census (2.41), the formula would yield a current population of
529. Extending from this base at the 0.5 % annual growth rate results in a conservative population estimate for the
year 2000 of about 542 persons. Again assuming the 2.25 person average household size, this nets an expected 240
households.
A further assumption for demand projection purposes is that there will be no net gain in the number of
businesses in the next 5 years. This is primarily assumed because of the limited sewer capacity. Securing funding
for and completing any substantial expansion of the treatment plant will likely take 3 to 5 years to accomplish.
Also, changes in the highway alignment may have an initial unsettling impact on highway commercial
establishments.
Land availability for new development purposes of any type is more than adequate to meet projected
demand and capacity. There are still a few vacant lots along the waterfront in the south end of town which are
suitable for single-family residential use. as well as scattered vacant land all along B and C Streets. The current
Highway 17 corridor also offers adequate land availability for any allowable uses. Realignment of the highway may
impact land availability near the current intersection of Highways 55 and 17, but generally, the five year growth
' expectation can be easily accommodated.
The Town continues to voice concerns about public access to the Neuse River, and there is an expectation
that land will be donated to the Town when the existing bridge is removed.
These are the primary demand issues facing the Town during the next update period.
I',
13

POLICIES

IV. ASSESSMENT OF 1989 INITIAL LAND USE PLAN POLICIES
In the 1989 Land Use Plan, the Town described specific policies to be pursued in the broad issue areas of
Resource Protection, Resource Production and Management, Economic and Community Development, Public
Participation, and Storm Hazard Mitigation. The Land Use Plan Update committee has reviewed these policy
statements to determine the Town's implementation performance. A very simple, self reporting evaluation process
was used: for each statement, the committee reported whether or not they had attempted or accomplished the stated
actions. If the stated policy had no application in the planning period, this was also noted but not counted against
the total score. Positive accomplishments or attempted actions were scored with a plus or a 1/2 score, based on the
committee's report of the Town's actions. If no action was attempted, a minus score was assigned. The total
number of policy statements was determined and the total number of attempts or accomplishments was tallied. The
implementation score is a simple percentage of the accomplishments against the total policy statements.
The Town's overall implementation score is 81 %. This represents actions or attempted actions on 39 of
48 applicable policy statements.
Resource Protection
A.1. Soils:
+ Enforce all current regulations related to septic tanks
+ coordinate all development activity with appropriate regulatory personnel
+ complete town -wide public sewer
adopt local ordinance requiring system tie-in within 90 days of system completion
+ require all new sewage generators to tie in to public sewer system
4 of 5
A.2. Flood Hazard Areas:
+ Continue to coordinate development within Special Flood Hazard Area with appropriate agencies
+ continue to enforce existing zoning and flood damage ordinance and storm hazard mitigation plan
+ During planning period, refine restrictions pertaining to waterfront development.. .
3 of 3
A.3. Groundwater/Potable water supply:
1/2 Coordinate local development activities involving chemical storage or underground storage tank
installation/abandonment with appropriate personnel; review and amend zoning ordinance with
regard to underground chemical and gasoline storage tanks to ensure minimum risk to local
groundwater
1/2 of 1
A.4. Manmade Hazards:
IN/A no policy statements required
' A.5. Stormwater runoff:
continue to enforce state and CAMA regulations relating to stormwater runoff resulting from
development; consider adoption of local stormwater management regulations to minimize
' contamination of waterfront resources
0 of 1
I
A.6. Natural Fragile Areas: '
+ continue to give priority to uses which are supportive of protection and coordinated management
1 14

11
of estuarine system and wetlands
+ continue to support State and Federal development permit system
+ encourage harmonious combination of single family residential, marine -related commercial and
public recreational or institutional uses along the riverfront; refine zoning ordinance to make
permitted and conditional uses more compatible in fragile areas
3 of 3
A.7. Cultural/Historic Resources:
Amend zoning ordinance to require coordination of development with Division of Archives and
History
coordinate code enforcement and redevelopment with Division of Archives and History to ID and
preserve significant architectural details and buildings
+ Coordinate public works projects with Division of Archives and History to ensure ID and
preservation of waterfront or terrestrial sites
1 of 3
A-8. Industrial Impacts on Fragile Areas:
+ Town will revise the industrial classification in zoning ordinance to better define types of
permitted uses in industrial zone located on the waterfront; no parcels in conservation areas will
be re -zoned for industrial use.
1 of 1
Miscellaneous Resource protection
A.9. Hurricane and Flood Evacuation Needs:
N/A Policies outlined elsewhere
A.10. Package Treatment Plant Use:
+ No additional package treatment plants will be constructed in the Bridgeton town limits; policy will
be incorporated in to the sewer use ordinance.
Iof1
A.11. Local Resource Development Issues:
N/A Discussed elsewhere
A.12. Marina and Floating Home Development:
+ regulated in zoning ordinance --continue to allow as long as no adverse impacts
+ Prohibit rezoning of existing waterfront residential to marine highway commercial or industrial
districts which allow marina development
' 3 of 4
1
+ Town does not support floating homes, but not addressed in zoning ordinance
In areas outside of town's limits (potential ETn, encourage mix of waterfront uses.
15

'
RESOURCE PRODUCTION AND MANAGEMENT
'
B.1.
Recreational Resources:
+ (a) Encourage compatible waterfront mix of uses
+ (b) refine existing zoning to provide more unified waterfront character
1/2 (c) define need for, finance, and construct publicly owned waterfront recreation facilities
21/2of3
B.2.
Residential and Commercial Development:
'
+ encourage regional tourism by following conservation and development policies in plan rather than
extending services as incentive
1of1
B.3.
Other Resources:
N/A No other resources were defined
ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
CA*
Water Supply:
+ (1) require all new residential and commercial on sewer to also be on First Craven Sanitary
water
+ (2) allow installation of private wells for irrigation only
+ (3) ensure policies above are carried out through zoning permit process
'
3 of 3
C.2.
Sewer System:
+ development outside the town limits which wants to tap onto sewer must petition for annexation
lofl
C.3.
Schools:
N/A No issues require a statement
' CA Stormwater:
review and revise zoning ordinance in re conservation areas and incorporate regulations affecting
stormwater management into a single ordinance
' 1/2 cooperate with State and Federal agencies in mitigating stormwater runoff impact by support of
DEM stormwater retention permitting process; apply for funds and utilize Powell Bill funds to
improve stormwater drainage systems on existing rights -of -way
' 1/2of2
C.5 Transportation:
+ (a) revise and amend zoning ordinance to provide commercial access, parking, and lot size
regulations to alleviate traffic congestion
+ (b) review local ordinances relating to speed and traffic flow
' + support county, regional, and state transportation plans
' + support Neuse River Bridge replacement. (NOTE: The statement that the Town objects to
abandonment of the existing swing bridge is not correct.)
4of4
16
11

' C.6. Community facilities:
develop a stand alone community services/facilities plan to assess needs, prioritize projects, and
identify funding sources
0 of 1
C.7
Redevelopment of Developed Areas:
'
(a) Adopt a Minimum Housing Code
'
1/2 (b) apply for Community Development Block Grant funds
(Tried but sewer capacity was inadequate)
+ coordinate redevelopment efforts with county Building Inspections Department
'
1 1/2 of 2
C.8
Urban Growth patterns Desired; Location of Industries:
+ confine heavy industry to current Industrial zones; draw commercial to Highway 17 corridor; draw
'
residential away from Highway 17; provide for restricted uses in waterfront conservation areas
(NOTE: All 8 sub -categories related to the above statement were addressed. This will count as
'
Iof1
1 statement.)
C.9.
Local Commitment to Providing Services to Development:
+ attempt to provide services in developing areas consistent with growth management policies
'
1 of 1
'
C.10.
Commitment to State and Federal programs:
+ actively support all programs consistent with stated policies.
1 of 1
C.11.
Tourism:
N/A Discussed elsewhere
' C.12. Estuarine Access:
N/A support shoreline access policies of the State; provide specific access site locations in its
community services/facilities plan
' C.13. Density of Residential Development:
+ Town will consider lot size in undeveloped residential areas as a constraint to development when
revising zoning ordinance
' 1ofI
CONTINUING PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
' + continue to solicit public input through advertised and publicized public meetings; keep citizens
informed
lofl
' STORM HAZARD MITIGATION
High winds:
+ continue to enforce wind resistance design standards of 110 mph wind loads (Building code design
standards increased over the planning period)
1 17

1
I
Flooding:
+ participate in Flood Insurance Program; enforce Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance; support
enforcement of CAMA and 404 permit processes
Implementation -Storm Hazard Mitigation:
+ (1) continue to enforce State Building Code
+ (2) continue to support enforcement of State and Federal programs
' 4of4
1
1
u
18
1

1
' V. POLICY STATEMENTS
RESOURCE PROTECTION
A. The only Areas of Environmental Concern in the jurisdiction are estuarine shoreline, estuarine waters,
coastal wetlands, and public trust waters of the Neuse River. The waterfront area of town is about 85-90%
developed in a broad range of uses, but residential uses predominate. There are two marinas along the waterfront.
One is associated with the multi -family condominium complex on A Street and the other is a commercial
establishment associated with boat building and sales.
The Town feels comfortable with this mix of uses and believes future development of residential or marina
activities in conjunction with local zoning restrictions would be appropriate, compatible, and desirable. Any
industrial development should be water -dependent and limited to the western area near the railroad tracks.
There is no Historic Preservation effort by the Town, although -several citizens are interested in historic
resources and the State's Division of Archives and History has identified an historic district eligible for listing in
the National Register of Historic Places. The citizen survey rated establishment of a Historic District last in priority
for the Town. Should the Town wish to reconsider, the State can assist in the designation process.
B. Resource Protection issues are limited in the Bridgeton jurisdiction. There are three basic approaches to
any resource issue: Preservation, Conservation, and Exploitation. The concept of Preservation implies that the
resource is so important, limited, and fragile that it should only be used in a way which does not diminish it or it
should not be used at all in order to keep it in its present state for future generations. This concept recognizes that
removing the resource from use will be controversial and will result in increased pressure from market forces but
it places the highest priority on keeping the resource in tact and out of use. The concept of Conservation implies
that the resource is relatively limited, slowly renewable, or non-renewable such that use should be restricted in order
to conserve the resource over a long period of time to be shared by future generations. This concept recognizes
that laws and regulations will interfere with the market forces pressing to utilize the resource and will slow
development but imposes those laws and regulations as the device for planned and managed resource use. The
concept of Exploitation implies that the resource is readily available, renewable in the short term, or easily replaced
with substitutes and may be used in an unrestricted manner based solely on market forces. This concept does not
require special laws and restrictions. It de -values the resource and allows for unlimited use.
Most of the policy statements in this Land Use Plan reflect a Conservation approach.
t(i) Constraints to Development:
(1) Soils. This issue has significantly decreased in importance for Bridgeton since the last Land Use
Plan, because the Town now has a public wastewater treatment system in place. All new
development is required to tap on to the Town's system, so septic tanks are no longer an issue.
' It shall be the policy of the Town of Bridgeton to continue maintenance and upgrade of its
wastewater treatment system in order to accommodate future development.
This shall be accomplished by utilization of the Capital Reserve/Sewer Expansion Fund and possibly
through Community Development Block Grant applications which can assist in such matters, and
exploration of any other grant opportunities for such purposes.
' (2) Flood prone areas. This issue affects the entire jurisdiction according to National Flood Insurance
maps.
It shall be the policy of the Town of Bridgeton to support regulations limiting the potential property
losses which might be incurred by flooding.
This shall be accomplished by continued enforcement of the local flood damage prevention ordinance and
through appropriate coordination with the public, Craven County Inspections Department, NC Division of
Coastal Management, FEMA, and the Army Corps of Engineers.
19

1
1
1
1
1
i
1
1
Local Resource Development Issues in re: AECs or near ORWs:
There are no Outstanding Resource Waters (ORWs) associated with the Bridgeton jurisdiction. The primary
development issue relative to Areas of Environmental concern surround the designation and allowable uses
of coastal wetlands, public trust areas, estuarine waters, or estuarine shorelines.
It shall be the policy of the Town of Bridgeton to support appropriate development of waterfront
properties already surrounded by urban uses according to the State's standards for development in
AECs.
The Town supports CAMA regulation of Areas of Environmental Concern.
Other hazardous or fragile land areas:
There are a few historic resources in the Town but citizens have not given them a priority for protection.
Man-made hazards are related to small chemical storage or bulk fuel storage situations and do not represent
a true resource issue for the town. It is likely that "404" Wetlands will be present within the community.
It shall be the Town's policy to rely on local zoning to regulate appropriate land uses andto rely on
the Army Corps of Engineers to regulate development in areas deemed to be "404" jurisdictional
wetlands.
Hurricane and flood evacuation needs and plans:
All evacuation needs are developed and enforced through the Emergency Management Coordinator for
Craven County.
It shall be the policy of the Town of Bridgeton to support and endorse the County's evacuation plan
relative to hurricanes and floods.
The Town will be represented on the planning committee for the overall hazard mitigation plan and will
sign endorsement of the document whenever updated.
Means of protection of potable water supplies:
The town is served by First Craven Sanitary District for its potable water needs. All water resources come
from groundwater and no significant recharge area is located within the Bridgeton jurisdiction. Therefore,
no local action can establish protection of potable water supplies.
It shall be the policy of the Town of Bridgeton to rely on State and Federal regulations related to
groundwater and water treatment as the means of protecting potable water.
Package treatment for sewage disposal:
The system utilized by the town is a package treatment plant. Once this system became the public service,
the town now requires new development to hook onto this system. Any development of such a size to
require a package treatment system would have to negotiate with the town through its sub -division
regulations and zoning ordinance. It is more likely that the Town would require contributions to upgrade
the existing public system rather than installation of a new private system.
20

It shall be the policy of the Town of Bridgeton to discourage private wastewater treatment package
systems.
This shall be accomplished by consistent enforcement of the town's sewer ordinance and zoning restrictions
for new development.
I(vii) Stormwater runoff:
There are few agricultural activities in the town's jurisdiction and no mining operations of any sort. The
issue of runoff relates primarily to residential development and public highways. The town recognizes the
value of water quality maintenance for the purpose of protecting fragile areas and providing clean water
for recreational purposes.
' It shall be the policy of the Town of Bridgeton to rely on State enforcement of stormwater runoff
regulations to minimize contamination of the Neuse River from urban uses or development.
' (viii) Marina and Floating Home Development:
There are two marinas in the Bridgeton jurisdiction and another commercial marina is likely to develop in
' the near future. One of the marinas is associated with a condominium complex and is not of a commercial
nature, nor is it likely to expand significantly over the planning period. There are no situations which
constitute floating home development at this time.
n
fi
11
It shall be the policy of the Town of Bridgeton to support development of marinas in appropriate
areas identified on the local zoning map and under the restrictions imposed by the Coastal Area
Management Act.
This shall be accomplished through strict enforcement of local zoning laws and cooperation with CAMA
permitting procedures as necessary to appropriately accomplish acceptable development.
(ix) Industrial impacts on fragile areas:
At present the only industrial site which may have had an impact on fragile areas in Bridgeton is the former
Georgia-Pacific site in the northwest section of town There has been a diesel spill on the property which
is being cleaned up now and there is asbestos in the boilers and pipes. There has been no known impact
on the wetland or water areas resulting from these conditions. The current zoning requirements and CAMA
regulations related to estuarine shoreline or surface waters are deemed to be adequate protections.
It shall be the policy of the Town of Bridgeton to help protect fragile areas from negative industrial
impacts by vigorously enforcing its zoning ordinance and by general support of State and Federal
requirements of industries in proximity to fragile areas.
This shall be accomplished through routine refusal of requests to rezone additional waterfront properties
for heavy industrial uses and through cooperation with the local CAMA permit officer related to industrial
development.
(x) Development of sound or estuarine islands:
This issue does not apply.
21

' (xi) Restriction of development in areas up to 5 feet above mean high water:
' The mechanisms for restriction of development in low-lying areas of Bridgeton are the North Carolina
building code and the local Flood Damage Prevention ordinance. According to the USGS map for the area,
elevation of 5 feet is prevalent along the waterfront area. The remainder of the town rises gradually to
only about 9 feet above sea level at the highest point.
It shall be the policy of the Town of Bridgeton to allow appropriate development in low-lying areas
subject to sea level rise in accordance with local, state, and federal regulations.
This shall be accomplished by consistent enforcement of local zoning, flood damage prevention ordinance,
state building codes, and federal flood insurance requirements.
i(xii) Upland excavation for marina basins:
The marinas currently sited in Bridgeton are direct access facilities. Because of the development pattern
already established in the town, there is no site in the jurisdiction which could reasonably be considered
for upland excavation for marina development.
This issue does not apply.
(xiii) Damage of existing marshes by bulkhead installation:
' There are no significant marshes in the Bridgeton jurisdiction, but it is possible that bulkhead installation
could occur along the waterfront areas.
' It shall be the town's policy to rely on the State's minimum. use standards to allow bulkhead
installation within the jurisdiction.
RESOURCE PRODUCTION AND MANAGEMENT
A. In the Bridgeton jurisdiction, there is one large agricultural interest, no direct forestry operations, no
' mining, one commercial fishing concern, and few publicly accessible recreational resources. Since Bridgeton is a
small town, there is little sentiment for development of policies which deal with prime farmland or commercial
forests, although the -economic impact of agriculture and forestry is felt here from the surrounding area. There are
no identified primary nursery areas for commercial fish species adjacent to the Bridgeton jurisdiction, but like other
' primary extraction industries, commercial fishing plays a small role in the local economy.
The production and management issue of most interest to the town is appropriate waterfront development
and public water access for recreation.
' B. These issues, like the Resource Protection group, are suited to the concepts of Preservation, Conservation,
and Exploitation described under Resource Protection. The applicable policy statements cited here follow a
' Conservation point of view to use and develop the resources, but it should be done in such a way as to prolong the
life and usefulness of the resource and not to destroy it.
(i) Productive Agricultural Lands:
While the town is generally known for blueberries, only one of the blueberry farms has any land inside
the city limits. Agriculture does not have a significant presence within the jurisdiction of the town of
Bridgeton.
No local policy is necessary.
22

(ii)
Commercial Forest Lands:
This issue does not apply.
(iii)
Existing and potential mineral production areas:
iThis
issue does not apply.
'
(iv)
Commercial and recreational fisheries:
No commercial fishing operations are based here, other than some crabbing in the river. Recreational
fishing takes place not only from boats, but also waterfront yards and the railroad trestle.
It shall be the policy of the town of Bridgeton to allow and encourage recreational fishing consistent
with state laws.
Thus, the town will rely on the Division of Marine Fisheries control to regulate fishing in the Bridgeton
jurisdiction.
'
(v)
Off -road vehicles:
This issue does not apply.
'
(vi)
Residential, commercial, and industrial land development impacts on any resources:
Bridgeton's waterfront constitutes its greatest physical resource. While the water is predominately abutted
by residential uses, the abandoned Georgia Pacific site is a concern not only for appearance, but also
pollution potential. The town recently amended the zoning ordinance to prohibit heavy industrial uses along
the waterfront.
It shall be the policy of the Town of Bridgeton to encourage residential and commercial development
on the waterfront consistent with local zoning and State requirements for development in AECs.
iImplementation
of this policy will occur through strict enforcement of the zoning ordinance and support
of State standards.
(vii)
Peat or phosphate mining impacts:
This issue does not apply.
'
ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
A. The primary constraint to development from the last land use plan was poor soils for septic tank placement.
In the past five years, the town began operation of a public wastewater treatment facility for its citizens, however,
the system is near capacity and needs to be upgraded to accommodate new growth. There is no extraterritorial
jurisdiction exercised by Bridgeton, and there is little land within the current town limits which would be appropriate
for further subdivision. Even so, there are many existing vacant lots which could be developed.
The Town's first preference for additional development would be single-family residential and commercial
or institutional development which would not over -burden municipal services. Industrial development would be
welcomed if municipal services could be provided and if no significant degradation to the community's quality of
life would result.
23

' B. The Town of Bridgeton relies on its local ordinances to regulate all new development. These regulations
work in conjunction with State building codes and in addition to County Laws and State and Federal environmental
' requirements.
(i) Types and locations of industries desired and local assets desirable to such industries:
' Industry in Bridgeton currently consists of chemicals and boat building. The primary inducement to all
of these industries is the availability of cheap land. The town encourages the conversion of existing heavy
industry to light industry, commercial, or service oriented uses.
' It shall be the policy of the town of Bridgeton to encourage light, non -environmentally intrusive uses
subject to the availability of municipal services.
' This shall be accomplished through enforcement of the existing regulations, including sewer ordinance,
zoning and subdivision regulations.
7
(ii) Local commitment to providing services to development:
The town of Bridgeton is currently attempting to upgrade local services, especially municipal sewer. The
search for funding sources is delaying the process. Currently, town services are availale only to areas
inside the corporate limits.
It shall be the policy of the town of Bridgeton to limit municipal services to areas inside the city
limits.
This shall be accomplished through the the enforcement of the sewer ordinance, which sets forth that
annexation must occur prior to the provision of city services.
(iii) Types of urban growth patterns desired:
It is anticipated that future growth patterns will result in in -fill of vacant areas within the town. This is
considered desirable and appropriate by the town. Annexations could add territory when local sewer
capacity is improved.
It shall be the policy of the town of Bridgeton to support current growth patterns through the
enforcement of local ordinances.
(iv) Redevelopment of developed areas, including relocation of structures endangered by erosion:
There is limited erosion in the Bridgeton area and no structures are currently endangered. Some areas of
town are in poor condition.
It shall be the town's policy to encourage redevelopment and rehabilitation of deteriorating properties.
This shall be accomplished by periodic investigation into Community Development Block Grant
Applications for housing rehab or other improvements to relieve blighted conditions.
(v) Commitment to state and federal programs:
The town of Bridgeton has continually participated in state and federal programs. Bridgeton is a member
of the Neuse River Council of Governments and the League of Municipalities. The town has received
federal grant monies for the fire department and sewer system. The town adopted the FEMA Flood
Ordinance. The town is currently interested in a CDBG application and CAMA Public Access Program.
It shall be the policy of the town of Bridggton to continue participation in existing state and federal
programs, especially with regard to expansion of sewer system.
24

' (vi) Assistance to channel maintenance and beach nourishment: This issue does not apply.
' (vii) Energy facility siting and development (including electric generating plants and inshore or OCS exploration
and attendant activities):
' The issues of energy development in the town of Bridgeton are not likely to occur. The town would
discourage electric generating plants should there be an interest. OCS has no impact locally, but the town
has no municipal objections to natural gas exploration.
' The local policy shall be to discourage development of electric generating plants.
(viii) Tourism:
Bridgeton has not been a major destination for tourism. Tourists tend to pass through Bridgeton en route
to New Bern and Morehead City. However, the town would like to encourage tourist growth. The new
' marina may draw some individuals seeking recreational opportunities. In addition, the town is attempting
to develop a blueberry festival, which would draw tourists in mid summer.
It shall be the policy of the town of Bridgeton to support tourism in their jurisdiction, through the
' development of recreational opportunities.
This shall be accomplished by support of marina development and local activities to encourage individuals
' to visit Bridgeton.
(ix) Public beach and waterfront access:
' There is no current public access park available to Bridgeton residents. The end of Bridge Street and
adjacent lot is utilized by town residents seeking a view of the river, but the site is not maintained. With
the replacement of the Neuse River bridge, the state is planning to dedicate land around the current bridge
' for a public park. The town hopes to develop more access points as mini parks on streets which stub out
at the riverfront throughout the jurisdiction, and plans to seek grants from Coastal Management's Public
Beach and Coastal Waterfront Access Program, land trust organizations and any other organization with
' available funding to try and remedy this deficiency. Specifically, the Town would like to improve Bridge
Street stub -out, Highway 17-foot of existing bridge, and "B" Street accross the railroad tracks on the Boy
Scout property.
' It shall be the policy of the town of Bridgeton to pursue funding sources for the development of
public access points from the Coastal Management Public Beach and Coastal Waterfront Access
Program.
' (x) Types, densities, location, units per acre of anticipated residential development and services necessary to
support such development (including solid waste disposal):
The town of Bridgeton has designed three zoning districts with varying degrees of intensity. The
waterfront lots have a minimum lot size of 15,000 square feet. The residential corridor, along the
highways, require a 5,000 square feet minimum, and RR20 has lot size of 20,000 square feet. Water
' supply is ample, but current sewer capacity is limited. Solid waste disposal is provided by a private
contract carver. Vacant land is primarily located to the east of US 17 and along the margins of the
jurisdiction. Vacant land also increases in the northern end of the jurisdiction. The development of lots
' along E Street for residential uses would pose a serious constraint to existing sewer capacity.
1 25

' It shall be the policy of the town of Bridgeton to allow more intense development away from the
P Y d8 P Y
waterfront, but less intense development along waterfront, as sewer capacity is expanded.
' This shall be accomplished through enforcement of zoning ordinance and subdivision regulations.
' CONTINUING PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
A. Describe the means for public education on planning issues:
' The town of Bridgeton adheres to state statutes concerning public involvement by advertising public
hearings on land use and planning issues as necessary. In addition, the Planning and Zoning board has a
regular meeting schedule, at which the public is invited to attend. The quarterly bulletin is also mailed to
town residents, keeping citizens informed of current issues and events in the town.
It shall be the policy of the town of Bridgeton to keep its citizens well informed of events occurring
' in the town.
This shall be accomplished through the dissemination of information by mail and meetings.
' B. Describe the means for continuing public participation in planning:
The town has developed and is now implementing a number of citizens' committees. The committees are
' focused around areas of concern for the town, including public image, street maintenance, sewer, fire and
rescue, and police. Each board member has been assigned to a citizen committee. Additionally, the citizen
survey described below has been publicly posted.
It shall be the policy of the town of Bridgeton to encourage public participation.
This shall be accomplished through the citizens committees and input at meetings.
' C. Describe the means for obtaining citizen input in developing land use plan policy statements:
' The town conducted a public survey which asked for opinions on issues addressed in the land use
plan and any other issues of interest to the town. The response was very good and the Town not only has
incorporated those views into this plan, but also posted the results in the Town Hall and referred to them
when developing its budget for the upcoming fiscal year.
The results of the survey are as follows:
26

PUBLIC SURVEY RESULTS
The Town of Bridgeton sent surveys to all households and establishments on the sewer customer listing.
Two hundred sixty-six surveys were sent and 71 were returned, for a sample result of nearly 27 %.
' Citizens were asked to mark each issue according to the degree of priority the respondent felt it deserved.
(1) High priority means you would be willing to pay more in order to have that item; (2) Medium priority means
you would do without some of the others in order to have that; (3) Low priority means it is needed, but other things
are more important; (4) Unimportant now is self-explanatory. The responses were then weighted with high priority
given a weight of 4 points, etc. in reverse order. The maximum possible score for any issue would have been 284
(71 X 4). Results of the survey were as follows:
1. Develop appearance standards for mobile homes. 203
T2. Upgrade and expand Town streets. 190
' 72. Support development of new retail business. 190
' 4. Prevent pollution due to inadequate storm drainage. 188
5. Improve storm drainage ditches. 186
' 6. Improve public safety by establishing a police department. 183
7. Promote new residential development. 182
' T8. Increase public access to the water. 172
1 T8. Promote services and facilities for the elderly. 172
10. Recruit industry which is not dependent on the water. 167
' 11. Conserve wetlands/areas of environmental concern. 157
12. Increase public access to boating/fishing. 156
13. Conserve primary and secondary fisheries nursery areas. 149
14. Recruit and expand water -dependent industry. 148
' 15. Develop the waterfront for tourism rather than industry. 143
' 16. Expand cultural and recreational facilities. 142
17. Promote tourism in nearby areas. 130
' 18. Initiate historic preservation efforts. 122
19. OTHERS (Write In): Need to clean up town/improve existing areas:yolice department: new
1 business: tax too high -no amenities: expanded sewer system: enforce laws -more aggressive board: loose animals:
support current business: waterfront access: residential zoning for waterfront: street repair.
27

PUBLIC SURVEY - PART H
PLEASE CHECK THE ONE ANSWER WHICH BEST DESCRIBES YOUR FEELINGS:
(1) Residential areas in Bridgeton
14.1 % generally give a good first impression to people passing through.
78.1 % are mostly in need of improvement. They leave a poor first impression.
-0- are quaint and attractive. They are a source of pride for the Town.
7.8 no answer
(2) Where business is concerned, I wish Bridgeton had
10.1 more specialty shops.
62.3 more retail stores of all types.
8.7 % more medical and personal services.
5.8 % none (i.e., no businesses)
13.1 no answer
(3) Cultural and recreational opportunities in Bridgeton are
20.0 o adequate if people would take advantage of them.
32.3 o not entertaining enough for our population. We need new things to do.
10.8 % not organized to include all the population.
9.2 not focused enough on the young.
10.8 % not focused enough on the elderly.
16.9 % no answer
(4) Marketing Bridgeton for future growth should include
33.3 % a strategy to attract retirees to move here from other parts of the Country.
12.7 % more focus on tourism as a source of business. Let strangers visit and leave rather than move in
to stay.
36.5 % I like Bridgeton just the way it is. Don't market it for growth at all.
17.5 o no answer
(5) State and Federal regulation of water quality, wetlands, and other natural resources has
66.7 % helped me understand some of the problems associated with developing land in areas that are near
the water. I am more sympathetic to conservation of our environment today than I was 10 years
ago.
9.5 % irritated me no end. The land is here for Man to use as he sees fit. Nothing in Nature is more
important than that.
4.8 % confused me. I still don't understand why there is a problem with development in coastal areas.
19.0 % no answer
(6) One thing I like BEST about Bridgeton is:
Small town/home town atmosphere
Location near water and New Bern
The people
Nice place to live
Churches
Townhomes are fenced
Safety
Fire protection
. Low cost housing
School
Can always leave
28

7 One thin I like LEAST about Bridgeton is:
�) g g
Poor community appearance
'
Lack of police department
Must travel to New Bern for most goods and services
Board revises ordinances to fit public opinion
Opposition to townhouses
Inadequate parking
Dogs on the loose
Little return on services for taxpayers
'
Division between natives and newcomers
No mail delivery
Lack of waterfront access
'
Noise
Lack of jobs for young people
Disrepair of streets
Lack of zoning enforcement
Lack of vision for future
Lack of annual event
'
Too many used car dealers
Townhouses are fenced in
People
Poor government
'
People who support growth
u
29
a

STORM HAZARD MITIGATION, POST DISASTER RECOVERY, AND EVACUATION PLANS
' A. Storm Hazard Mitigation: Discussion
Evacuation procedures are the responsibility of the Division of Emergency Management, but the Town
' served on a planning committee for a Multi Hazard Plan. The primary shelters serving Bridgeton residents
in the event of a storm are Farm Life in Vanceboro or a number of shelters, including Trent Park, H.J.
McDonald and Grover C. Fields (Old New Bem High School). Not all of these shelters may be open, but
the media will disseminate information on these shelters as they are opened.
Hazard mitigation, or actions taken to reduce the probability or impact of a disaster could involve a number
of activities or policy decisions. The starting point, however, is to identify the types of hazards (including
the relative severity and magnitude of risks), and the extent of development (including residential,
commercial, etc.) located in storm hazard areas.
Hurricanes are extremely powerful, often unpredictable forces of nature. The four causes of
'
fatalities and property damage are high winds, flooding, wave action, and erosion. Two of these, high
winds and flooding, apply to Bridgeton.
1. High Winds
High winds are the major determinants of a hurricane, by definition, i.e., a tropical
disturbance with sustained winds of at least 73 miles per hour. Extreme hurricanes can have
winds of up to 165 miles per hour, with gusts up to 200 miles per hour. These winds circulate
around the center or "eye" of the storm. Although the friction or impact of the winds hitting land
from the water causes some dissipation of the full force, there is still a tremendous amount of
energy left to cause damage to buildings, overturn mobile homes, down trees and power lines, and
destroy crops. Although North Carolina's barrier islands are often the first areas hit, inland areas
relatively close to sound areas, like Bridgeton, can also suffer major wind damage. Also,
'
tornadoes are often spawned by hurricane wind patterns. Wind stress, therefore, is an important
consideration in storm hazard mitigation planning.
'
2. Flooding
The excessive amounts of rainfall and the "storm surge" which often accompany
hurricanes can cause massive coastal and riverine flooding causing excessive property damage and
deaths by drowning. (More deaths are caused by drowning than any other cause in hurricanes.)
Flooding can cause extensive damage in inland areas, since many coastal areas have low elevations
and are located in high hazard or "Zone A" flood areas according to the Federal Emergency
'
Management Agency maps. Based on recent (1987) flood insurance maps prepared for Bridgeton,
all of the town is classified as being in the 100-year "high hazard" flood zone, or Zone A (see
Map 3.) Consideration of potential flood damage is important to Bridgeton's efforts to develop
storm mitigation policies. The 1993 real property valuation for the Town was $9,508,000.
3. Policy Statements: Storm Hazard Mitigation
In order to minimize the damage potentially caused by the effects of a hurricane or other major
storm, Bridgeton proposes the following policies:
1 30

I
Hijzh Winds
Bridgeton supports enforcement of the N.C. State Building Code. The town will continue
to enforce the State Building Code on wind resistant construction with design standards of 110
mph wind loads.
Flooding
Bridgeton is an active participant in the National Flood Insurance program and is
supportive of hazard mitigation elements. Bridgeton is participating in the regular phase of the
insurance program and enforces a Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance. The base flood elevation,
as set out in the ordinance, is 9.1 NGVD. Bridgeton also supports continued enforcement of the
CAMA and 404 Wetlands development permit processes in areas potentially susceptible to
flooding.
Implementation: Storm Hazard Mitigation
a. Bridgeton will continue to enforce the standards of the State Building Code.
b. The town will continue to support enforcement of State and Federal programs which aid
in mitigation of hurricane hazards, including CAMA and the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers 404 permit as zoning and flood damage prevention regulations.
B. Post -Disaster Reconstruction Plan
Bridgeton recognizes that in the event of a major storm, it will be very important to have a general
'
recovery and reconstruction plan. This section of the Land Use Plan will address this issue.
1. Appointment of a "Post -Disaster Recovery Team"
In the event of a major storm having landfall near Bridgeton, when evacuation orders are
issued the mayor shall appoint a 'Post -Disaster Recovery Team." The total team may consist of
the following:
a. Mayor
b. Fire Chief (team leader)
C. Town Zoning Administrator
d. Town Board of Aldermen members
The Fire Chief will serve as the team leader and will be responsible to the Mayor. The
base of operations will be the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) designated by the governing
body. The Post -Disaster Recovery Team will be responsible for the following:
'
a. Establishing an overall restoration schedule.
'
b. Setting restoration priorities.
C. Determining requirements for outside assistance and requesting such assistance when
beyond local capabilities.
d. Keeping the appropriate County and State officials informed.
n
31

2.
e. Keeping the public informed.
f. Assembling and maintaining records of actions taken and expenditures and obligations
incurred.
g. Recommending to the mayor to proclaim a local "state of emergency" if warranted.
h. Commencing and coordinating cleanup, debris removal and utility restoration which
would include coordination of restoration activities undertaken by private utility
companies.
i. Coordinating repair and restoration of essential public facilities and services in accordance
with determined priorities.
j. Assisting private businesses and individual property owners in obtaining information on
the various types of assistance that might be available to them from Federal and State
agencies.
Lnmediate Clean Up and Debris Removal
As soon as practical after the storm, the Post -Disaster Recovery Team will direct
appropriate town personnel, and as necessary, request State and/or Federal assistance to begin
clearing fallen tees and other debris from the town's roads and bridges.
Long -Term Recovery/Restoration
The Post -Disaster Recovery Team will be responsible for overseeing the orderly
implementation of the reconstruction process after a major storm or hurricane in accordance with
the town's building and land use regulations and policies.
Damage Assessments
Damage assessments will be necessary to determine as quickly as possible a realistic
estimate of the amount of damage caused by a hurricane or major storm. Information such as the
number of structures damaged, the magnitude of damage, and the estimated total dollar loss will
need to be developed.
As soon as practical after the storm, i.e., clearance of major roadways, the Post -Disaster
Recovery Team Leader shall set up a Damage Assessment Team (DAT) Zoning Administrator,
a local realtor or building contractor, and appropriate personnel from the Craven County Tax
Department. The DAT will immediately begin to make "windshield" surveys of damaged
structures to initially assess damages and provide a preliminary dollar value of repairs or
replacement. The following general criteria shall be utilized:
a. Destroyed (repairs would cost more than 80 percent of value).
b. Major (repairs would cost more than 30 percent of the value).
C. Minor (repairs would cost less than 30 percent of the value, but the structure is currently
uninhabitable).
32

d. Habitable (some minor damage, with repairs less than 15 percent of the value).
Each damage assessment will be documented according to the County tax records. Also,
town tax maps and/or records may be used for identification purposes. The total estimated dollar
value of damages will be summarized and reported to the Post -Disaster Recovery Team Leader.
NOTE: Any structure damaged over 50 % of its value is considered "destroyed" under CAMA
regulations and a new CAMA permit will be required for reconstruction if the structure is located
in an AEC.
Reconstruction Development Standards
Developed structures which were destroyed or sustained "major damage" and which did
not conform to the town's building regulations, zoning ordinances, and other storm hazard
mitigation policies, i.e., basic measures to reduce damage by high winds, flooding, wave action
or erosion, must be repaired or redeveloped according to those policies. In some instances, this
may mean relocation of construction, or no reconstruction at all. Building permits to restore
destroyed or "major" damaged structures which were built in conformance with the town's
building code and town storm hazard mitigation policies shall be issued automatically. All
structures suffering major damage will be repaired according to the State Building Code and town
Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance. All structures suffering minor damage, regardless of
location, will be allowed to be rebuilt to the original condition prior to the storm.
Development Moratoria
Because of the density of development at Bridgeton and the possible extensive damage
caused by a major storm, it may be necessary for the town to prohibit all redevelopment activities
for a certain period of time after a storm. This "moratorium" could allow the town time to
carefully assess all damage in view of existing policies, building regulations, and ordinances, in
order to help determine whatever existing policies, etc., should be revised to mitigate similar
damage from future storms. The intent of such a moratorium would be to learn all the lessons
possible and try and determine what steps and precautions the town can take in rebuilding so as
not to suffer damage to the same extent. If a moratorium is established, the time frame will be
commensurate with the extent of the damage. The actual time frame will be established by the
Board of Aldermen.
Repair/Reconstruction Schedule
The following schedule of activities and time frame are proposed with the realistic idea
that many factors of a hurricane may render the schedule unfeasible.
Activity
Complete and Report Damage
Assessments.
Begin Repairs to Critical
Utilities and Facilities
Permitting of Reconstruction
activities for all damaged
structures ("minor" to pre -storm
original status, "major" or
"destroyed" to State Building
Code and hazard mitigation standards)
Time Frame
Two weeks after storm
As soon as possible
after storm
After a 90-day
moratorium, and
completion of all
assessments
33

1
n
I
1
Repair and Replacement of Public Utilities
P
If sewer pump stations or the sewage treatment plant is damaged and it is determined that
the facilities can be relocated to a less hazardous location, then they will be relocated during
reconstruction. This activity will be coordinated with Carolina Power and Light Company, for
electrical service. The Mayor will be responsible for overseeing the repair or replacement of
public utilities.
34
0

LAND CLASSIFICATION

1
IVI. LAND CLASSIFICATION
The land classification system provides a uniform way of looking at how the planned use of land interacts
with environmentally -sensitive areas and with the development of a county or town. It is not a strict regulatory
device in the sense of a zoning ordinance or zoning map. It represents more of a tool to understand relationships
between various land use categories and how these relationships help shape local policy. Particular attention is
focused on how intensely land is utilized and the level of services required to support that intensity. The regulations
for the Coastal Area Management Act 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." (7B.0204) (b)
There are seven general land use classifications under CAMA regulations: Developed, Urban Transition,
Limited Transition, Community, Rural, Rural with Services, and Conservation. In applying the land classification
' system, each local government should give careful consideration to how, where and when certain types of, and
intensity of, development will be either encouraged or discouraged. A brief summary of the five broad
classifications, as contained in the CAMA rules, might illustrate this:
' "Urban land uses and higher intensity uses which presently require the traditional urban services should
be directed to lands classified developed. Areas developing or anticipated to develop at urban densities
' which will eventually require urban services should be directed to lands classified transition. Low density
development in settlements which will not require sewer services should be directed to areas classified as
community. Agriculture, forestry, mineral extraction and other similar low intensity uses and very low
density, dispersed residential uses should be directed to lands classified rural. Generally, public or private
water or sewer systems will not be provided in areas classified rural as an incentive for intense
development." (7B.0204) (c)
The purpose of the conservation class is to "provide for the effective long-term management and protection
of significant, limited, or irreplaceable areas." Consequently, urban services (whether public or private) should not
be provided to those areas as an incentive to "stimulate" more intense development. Each of these classes must be
' represented on a Land Classification Map.
The seven land classifications and Land Classification Map are therefore intended to serve as a visual
reflection of the policies previously stated in Section H. Ideally, the map which depicts these classifications should
' be as flexible as the policies that guide them. Of the stated five land classifications, only three, Developed,
Transition, and Conservation, are applicable to Bridgeton (see Map 5, Land Classification Map in Appendix A).
' These three land use classifications, as they will be applied in Bridgeton, are identified and defined below.
A. DEVELOPED
The developed class of land use provides for continued intensive development and redevelopment
of existing cities or municipalities. Areas to be classified as "developed" include lands currently developed
for urban purposes or approaching a density of 500 dwellings per square mile that are provided with
' usually municipal or public services, policy and fire protection. In other words, such areas must be
currently "urban" in character, i.e., have mixed land uses such as residential, commercial, industrial and
institutional, or other uses as high to medium densities.
' All of the developable land in Bridgeton located west of U.S. 17 comes under this classification.
Additionally, there are isolated areas of high -density developed property within the existing town limits east
' 35
1

of U.S. 17, most notably the areas of intensive mobile home development, which are scheduled to be
among the initial areas served by the town sewer system currently in the design phase. These areas have
I
also been classified as "developed.-
B. URBAN TRANSITION
Transition land is classified as those lands providing for future intensive urban development within
the ensuing ten years on lands that are most suitable and that will be scheduled for provision of necessary
urban utilities and services (whether from public or private sources). They may also provide for additional
growth when additional lands in the developed class are not available or when they are severely limited for
development.
According to the North Carolina Administrative Guidelines for CAMA Land Use planning (7B.0204), lands
'
classified "transition" may include:
1. Lands currently having urban services;
2. Lands necessary to accommodate the population and economic growth anticipated within the
planning jurisdiction over the next five to ten years;
3. Areas which are in, or will be in, a "transition" state of development; i.e., going from a lower
intensity to a higher intensity of uses, and will eventually require urban services.
Transition lands must further:
1. Be served or be readily served by public water, sewer, and other urban services including public
streets; and
2. Be generally free of severe physical limitations for urban development.
The "transition" class should not include:
1. Lands of high potential for agriculture, forestry or mineral extraction, or land falling within
extensive rural areas being managed commercially for these uses, when other lands are available;
2. Lands where urban development might result in major or irreversible damage to important
'
environmental, scientific, or scenic values; or,
3. Land where urban development might result in damage to natural systems or processes of more
'
than local concern; and
4. Lands where development will result in undue risk to life or property from natural hazards or
existing land uses.
Areas to be classified as "urban transition" in Bridgeton include all areas within the existing town
limits and located east of U.S. 17 not designated as "developed." These areas contain some isolated
residences and commercial properties which are currently provided public water services and available town
services, and which can easily be served by municipal sewer service during the planning period.
Additionally, these areas contain vacant land which is generally free of physical limitations to development
and able to accommodate residential and commercial development with less potential for negative
environmental impact than vacant land closer to the Neuse River. The areas defined on the Land
Classification Map as transition will undoubtedly undergo a change to higher -density development during
36
1

1 the planning period.
' There are areas adjacent to the eastern town limits which can also be technically classified as
"transition". However, although the development of these properties toward a higher -density use is a
probability during the planning period, such development is not within the town's current planning
jurisdiction or is it "necessary" to accommodate population and economic growth in Bridgeton during the
planning period. These areas have therefore not been classified in this initial land use plan; however, the
development of these areas is a planning issue facing the town.
11
J
The Developed and Transition classes should be the only lands under active consideration by a
municipality for intense urban development requiring urban services. The area within these classes is
where detailed local land use and public investment planning will occur. State and Federal expenditures
on projects associated with urban development (water, sewer, urban street systems, etc.) will be guided
to these areas.
C. CONSERVATION
The final land use category for Bridgeton is the "Conservation" class, which provides for effective
long-term management of "significant, limited, or irreplaceable areas". This management may be needed
because of its "natural, cultural, recreational, productive, or. scenic values" (7B.0204a4). This class should
be limited to lands that contain: major wetlands, essentially undeveloped shorelines that are unique, fragile,
or hazardous for development, necessary habitat conditions, and publicly owned water supply watersheds
and aquifers. Development should be limited to residential development and commercial uses, piers,
bulkheads, marinas and other appropriate uses which will not be detrimental to water quality and meet the
use standards set forth in Chapter 15 NCAC, Subchapter 7H and consistent with local zoning.
In Bridgeton, the environmentally -sensitive areas identified as Areas of Environmental Concern
(AECs), i.e., the coastal wetlands, estuarine waters, the 75 foot estuarine shorelines, and public trust
waters, are classified as "Conservation." The Boy Scout lot situated at the northern end of the shoreline
is designated for conservation, such that only a small structure such as a scout but would be encouraged
on this property. The potential "404" wetlands area located between Pine and Academy Streets west of
U.S. 17 could possibly be developed for urban purposes with permitting -type mitigation, if approved by
the Army Corps of Engineers. The area is located adjacent to existing industrial/highway commercial
districts that would severely inhibit an attempt at conservation and protection as a protected wetland.
D. LAND CLASSIFICATION SUMMARY
The proposed classification of land, according to the levels of intensity and provision of public
services in Bridgeton, were presented in parts A. through C., above. These classifications relate directly
to the "policy statements' contained in Section 11 of this plan. Additional information on the relationship
between the land classification system and policies will be presented in the following Section IV.
37
11

VIE[. RELATIONSHIP OF POLICIES AND LAND CLASSIFICATIONS
As required by the Coastal Area Management Act, the 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 class.
A. DEVELOPED AND TRANSITION CLASSES
As mentioned in the discussion of existing conditions, the majority of Bridgeton is developed, and
most of the urban transition tracts of land should be under development within the planning period. This
is the area where basic services such as water, sewer, and community support services are available and/or
will be available within the planning period. The developed and urban transition classes were specifically
designated to accommodate the more intensive land uses, including residential, commercial, and open
space, community facilities and transportation. Hazardous or offensive uses such as heavy industry and
hazardous chemical storage facilities are currently located in this area, but such uses are limited and
expansion is not encouraged. Land uses will be strictly regulated by the town's existing and amended
zoning and development regulations. Policy statements addressing these classes were primarily directed
at development issues, avoiding incompatible land use and unplanned development, and the issues of
municipal services, community facilities and transportation. The Town relies on enforcement of local
ordinance and County and State building codes to guide future growth development.
B. 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 such uses as residential development, commercial uses, piers,
bulkheads, marinas, and other uses which are judged not to be detrimental to water quality or the overall
' integrity of the environment through pollution, etc., and which meet the use standards as set forth in 15
NCAC 7H and consistent with local zoning. Policy Statements under Resource Protection, and Resource
Production and Management in Section II of this plan, address the town's intentions under this class.
Generally, the Town relies on State and Federal Regulations to protect natural resources and local
ordinance to restrict development. The town does not intend to impose any additional local restrictions on
development in these areas at this time.
38

APPENDIX A
m M� m m No m m m m m m m m m m m m

1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
MID -EAST
1 Conservation
UrbanTransition ''�,'.'�,''�,'.'•,'.
Developed
LAND CLASSIFICATION
TOWN OF BRIDGETON
NOTE: Due to map size and scale,
locations of Conservation classified
AECs are approximate and are included
for general informational purposes only.
Exact locations must be identified on site
by the appropriate permitting agency.
0 75' 150' 300'
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 Admistration.
MAP 3
LAND CLASSIFICATION
TO ORIENTAL
TO
NEW BERN

1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
M00 1
ID•EAST
9
or 25nageton lies enurmy W1L11111
the 100 year flood plain.
Soils:
Murville Mu
Seabrook Se
Dare DA
DEVELOPMENT CONSTRAINTS
Natural and Technological Hazards
TOWN OF BRIDGETON
Technological Hazards
Chemical and Fuel Storage:
Underground fuel storage p
Aboveground fuel storage
Bulk chemical storage
1995
0 75' 150' 300'
r
A Suou
MAP 2
DEVELOPMENT CONSTRAINTS
TO ORIENTAL
TO
NEW BERN
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.

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