CAMA Land Use Plan Update 1981-1981

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Division of Coastal Management
THE T014N OF EDENTON

TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHAPTER I - INTRODUCTION
', ..Purpose of Study
..Citizen Participation
..Current Plans, Policies and Regulations
r
CHAPTER II - ANALYSIS OF CHANGE
..Introduction
..Population
..Economy
..Retail Sales
..Existing Land Use
CHAPTER III - CONSTRAINTS TO DEVELOPMENT
..Introduction
—Summary
CHAPTER IV - ESTIMATED GROWTH DEMAND
..Introduction
..Population Growth
..Economic Growth
..Impact of Growth on Economic & Community Development
..Summary
CHAPTER V - DEVELOPMENT ISSUES
..Special Issues
..Standard Issues
..Economic and Community Development
CHAPTER VI - LAND CLASSIFICATION
..Introduction
..Land Classifications
PAGE
1
1
2
4
8
8
8
10
12
15
27
27
35
36
36
36
37
39
42
43
43
45
47
53
53
53
4

V
LIST OF EXHIBITS
PAGE
Exhibit
1
- Town Divisions
16
Exhibit
2
- Existing Land Use Map
17
Exhibit
3
- Soils With Severe Limitations
28
Exhibit
4
- Flood of 1960 ,
30
Exhibit
5
- Most Productive Lands
48
Exhibit
6
- Land Classification Map
54

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
I
CAMA LAND USE PLAN UPDATE, 1981
This planning document contains a comprehensive update of Edenton's
„ CAMA Land Use Plan, which was originally drafted and adopted jointly with
Chowan County in 1976. Both the land use plan update and the 1976 plan were
prepared in accordance with the land use planning guidelines established by
the North Carolina Coastal Area Management Act of 1974, although it should
be pointed out that the guidelines have been amended substantially since
1976. It is expected that this plan will be updated once again in 1986.
Many of Edenton's residents may wonder why Edenton should have a land
use plan. Most importantly it provides all Edenton residents with an
opportunity to manage the ever increasing land development pressures which
are evident in -coastal North Carolina. By managing these land development
pressures, Edenton will be able to preserve the very features which make
the area economically and aesthetically attractive.
Population and Economy
An analysis of Edenton's population revealed several significant
population trends. The most notable discovery was that Edenton and Chowan
County experienced population increases during the 1970's. Edenton's
population -increased by 6%, from 4,956 in 1970 to 5,240 in 1980 whereas the
countywide population expanded by 13%, or from 10,764 to 12,497. The larger
increase in county population reflects a continuing pattern of suburbani-
zation. This trend is further substantiated by the change in the number of
housing units during the past decade. The number of housing units in Edenton
Township increased by 48% but the number in Edenton grew. by 25%. Another
population trend that could have an affect on land use was the continuing
decline in the number of persons per household.
Since the economy of Edenton and Chowan County are so closely intertwined,
economic analysis was generally made on a countywide basis. Nonetheless the
economic analysis identified a growing economy in Chowan County. Significant
increases in employment and retail trade were documented. It was apparent
that Edenton serves as a retail center for an area including adjoining counties,
yet Edenton's retail market is affected by Norfolk.
Existing Land Use
In order to gain a better understanding of existing and potential land
use problems, land use throughout Edenton's jurisdiction was mapped out based
upon the findings of a "windshield survey". From this survey it was found
that residential was the largest urban use of land followed by public/
institutional, commercial, and industrial. However, more importantly, undevel-
oped and vacant tracts accounted for 85% of the land area in Edenton's
jurisdiction, indicating there is ample space for urban growth as well as an
opportunity to manage this growth.
The land use survey also identified two undesirable land use patterns,
mixed land uses and strip development. Most of the areas exhibiting these
patterns were developed before Edenton adopted a zoning and subdivision
ordinance, the primary tools for preventing mixed land use and strip development.

Constraints to Development
Consideration of constraints to land development is one of the most
important aspects of a land use plan, as it establishes an area's ability to
accommodate land development in the future. The capacity of local soils and
Edenton's waste water treatment plant were identified .as the primary concern.
Many of the soil types in Edenton's jurisdiction have limitations for septic
tank use and surface drainage, creating the need for special review of soil
potential whenever land development is proposed. Edenton's.sewage treatment
plant is presently operating above design capacity during wet weather, yet a
Edenton is working with state and federal agencies to resolve the problem.
Flood hazard areas also constitute a limitation to.development, as do
the fragile waters, and shorelines of Edenton Bay, Filberts, Queen Anne, and
Pembroke Creeks. Edenton's numerous historical and archaeological resources .
are a limitation in the sense that they should not be indiscriminately
destructed to make way for other less valuable land uses.
Estimated Growth Demand
Based on.the analysis of Edenton's population and economy, it was pre-
dicted that both population and economic growth could be expected for the
Edenton planning area. of course, there are a number of variables that
must be maintained in the future as they have in the recent past, such as
continuing growth in employment and retail sales. Edenton's population was
projected to increase from 5,240 in 1980 to 5,800, a gain similar to what
occurred during the 1970's.
From the population projection, it was determined that approximately
180 acres of land will be required to accommodate the growth projected over
the next 10 years. With the exception of Edenton's waste water treatment
plant, which exceeds design capacity during wet weather periods, it was
concluded that existing community facilities can accommodate the growth
anticipated in Edenton.
Development Issues and Policy Statements
Although Edenton reviewed many different development issues, there was
little need or sentiment for Edenton to adopt drastic policy changes or
initiative as part of this plan update. This was primarily because of the
moderate amount of land development, sound foundation of existing land use
policies, and the absence of public sentiment supporting change.
In any case, it must be said that Edenton has had a planning head -start
on many towns and counties, as evidenced by their involvement in community
development, historic preservation, downtown revitalization, and water-
front improvements.

CHAPTER I
The Town of Edenton/Chowan County prepared a Land Use Plan in 1976
in response to the Coastal Area Management Act, passed by the North
Carolina Legislature in 1974. The purpose and intent of the act is best
described in Section .0101 "Introduction to Land Use Planning" Subchapter
7B - Land Use Planning Guidelines (as amended 9/1/79):
.0101 Introduction
(a) The Coastal Area Management Act of 1974 establishes a
cooperative'program of coastal area management between
local governments and the state. Land use planning lies
at the center of local government's involvement,.as it
gives the local leaders an opportunity and responsibility
to establish and enforce policies to guide the development
of their community.
(b) The purpose of these state guidelines is to assist local
governments in each of the 20 coastal counties with the
preparation of their own individual land use plans. Each
county and the municipalities within the coastal counties
are encouraged to develop a plan which reflects the desires,
needs and best judgment of its citizens. The land use
plans prepared under these guidelines, when considered
together, form the basis for "a comprehensive plan for the
protection, preservation, orderly development and management
of the coastal area of North Carolina," which is the primary
objective of the Coastal Area Management Act of 1974.
Further in the guidelines in Section .0201 (c), the heart of why
North Carolina communities and counties need to prepare land use plans
is described.
.0201 Introduction
(c) Local governments, through the land use planning process,
address issues and adopt policies that guide the development
r of their community. Many decisions affecting development are
made by other levels of government, and local policies must
take account of and coincide with established state and
federal policies. `Most decisions, however, are primarily of
local concern. By carefully and explicitly addressing these
issues, other levels of government will follow local policies
that deal with these issues. Policies which consider the type of
development to be encouraged, the density and patterns of
development, and the methods of providing beach access are
examples of these local policy decisions.
1

More significant even that the "requirement" that communities
prepare Land Use Plan every five years is the uses that are made
of the local plans once they have been completed. In the publication,
The Impact of State Regulation of Coastal Land in North Carolina,
prepared by Charles D. Liner of the Institute of Government at Chapel
Hill, he noted the impact of local land use plans on state and
federal decisions:
,.
...Land -use plans have a potential effect on (local) land .use
because:
(a) CAMA Permits may not be issued for development that is
inconsistent with land -use plans (since'CAMA permits are
required only in AECs, this effect is limited to land
within AECs).
(b) Local ordinances and regulations that apply to AECs must
be consistent with the land -use plan; local ordinances and
regulations affecting land outside AECs are subject to
review by the Coastal Resources Commission, which is
authorized to recommend modifications to the local government.
(c) Federal actions involving grants, licenses, permits,'and
development projects must be consistent with local land -
use plans, as required by Section 307 of the FCZMA.
(d) In accordance with the Governor's Executive Order Number 15,
certain state agency actions and policies must be consistent.
with land -use plans.
CITIZEN PARTICIPATION
Determining problems in a community, or simply identifying what
the public perceives to be a problem, is one of the most difficult
steps in preparation of -a land use plan. However, in the planning
process public input is very important. Otherwise, elected and appointed
officials may find themselves with a plan that has no resemblance
to the actual attitudes of the public. Therefore, in an effort to
determine local opinion about planning and development, the Albemarle
Area Regional Planning and Development Commission prepared and
distributed a questionnaire to households throughout Chowan County
by -way `of schoolchildren.
The survey contained questions about the respondents personal
characteristics and questions regarding planning, land use controls,
public facilities, and growth. Because the survey was distributed
throughout the County, it provides an indication of the attitude both
inside and outside Edenton. This is important since Edenton exercises
extraterritorial jurisdiction and also because many of the actions
taken by Edenton have a direct or indirect impact countywide.
Although more of the respondents (57%) were from the Town of
Edenton, it is not unusual since 40% of the County's population is in
Edenton. The remaining respondents were distributed evenly across
the County. Just over 60% of the respondents were between the ages `
26 and 55 and slightly less than half (46%) were black. Females
filled out the questionnaire more often (68%) than did males (31%).
Over 80% have lived in Chowan County more than five years and many (63%)
are homeowners. Almost 80% earn their income inside of Chowan County,
with 48% of these coming from Edenton. In.contrast, Gates, Perquimans
and some other neighboring counties have over 50% of their workers''
K

traveling outside their home county for jobs. More than 70% of the
respondents supported an increase in population when questioned
about countypolicy towards population growth. However, answers to
questions weighing growth versus environmental damage were ones of
concern, as responses heavily favored protection of natural resources
and wildlife, improvement of community appearance, preservation of
historic properties, and planning of future development.
In addition to population growth, respondents saw a need for
more industrial and shopping facilities by greater than a 2 to 1 margin.
Encouragement of shorefront industry was not favored, as 52% agreed it
was undesirable. Support for increased tourism was very heavy.
Questions about the adequacy of public facilities drew varying
reponses. A large majority of the respondents felt water, fire protection,
building inspection, rescue services, and water access were adequate.
But the quality of other services, such as road maintenance, sewer
facilities, electric _service, storm water drainage and flood control,
community appearance, housing, planning,' zoning, town -county relationships,
solid waste disposal, schools, and cultural facilities, caused
disagreement among the respondents, as anywhere from 33% to 49% felt
these are inadequate.
While respondents agreed water access was adequate, a majority
supported development of public beaches, boat ramps and fishing piers.
Other types of recreation facilities were also favored, particularly
indoor activities like skating, bowling, and a recreation center.
Overall the responses to the survey expressed a desire for
population growth, controlled and orderly commercial, residential
and industrial growth, and improvements in public facilities.
In addition to the survey questionnaire, public input was solicited
at two public information meetings held before the Edenton Planning Board.
Progress reports were presented at these meetings and attempts were
made to solicit local opinion about land use problems and/or needs.
Comments gathered at the public meetings will be referred to in the appropriate
chapter.
Discussions with town and county officials provided a wealth of
information, as well as adding insight to the desires of the townspeople.
The Town Board was kept abreast during the planning process by
presentation of draft reports at several of their regular meetings.
This allowed the Board to give input prior to development of goals
and objectives by the Planning Board. It also kept the Board aware
of the plan's contents so that a "crash course" was not necessary
when it came time to consider adoption of the plan.
3

Current Plans, Policies and Regulations
Below is a list of the current plans, policies, and regulations
that are presently in effect in Edenton. Each one of these are
affecting land use in Edenton today. The existing plans will provide
information which will assist in,the preparation of this plan update.
They also serve as a base from which change can be measured. The
current policies and local regulations will be reviewed in view
of recommendations adopted in the 1976 CAMA plan and any problems which
may have developed over the past five years. The listing of relevant
state and federal regulations provides a basis for determining whether
local regulation of any possible land use problems is warranted. It
also acts as a guide to the Town and developers when a land development
project is proposed.
Current Plans
Airport Layout Plan Report for the Edenton Municipal Airport: This
report was presented to the Edenton-Chowan Airport Commission in April 1978
and was prepared by Talbert, Cox and Associates, Inc., consulting engineers.
The document contains an inventory of the existing facilities at the
Edenton Municipal Airport, which is located southeast of Town near Cape
Colony and County Club subdivisions.
The report anticipated an increase in airport traffic in conjunction
with industrial development. As a means of reducing conflict with
surrounding land use, which presently includes waterfront residential and
industrial development, the report recommends adoption of height controls
and zoning. The County is presently working with the North Carolina
Department of Natural Resources and Community Development to prepare
zoning for the airport area.
Thoroughfare Plan: The North Carolina Department of Transportation
presented a preliminary copy of this plan in July of 1980 and it is
currently under review by the Town Council. The plan is an update of
Edenton's original Thoroughfare Plan, which was prepared in 1969.
Many of the recommendations in the 1969 Thoroughfare Plan have been
implemented, including construction of U.S. 17 By -Pass and extensions of
Albemarle Street and Coke Avenue. A proposed loop road, which generally
would circle around the densely developed sections of Edenton starting
at West Queen Street extended around to N.C. 32 East, has not been
constructed. In fact Chowan Court Apartments and Boswell Street were
developed in the path of the proposed loop road.
The proposed thoroughfare plan includes several of the
recommendations contained in the 1969 Plan, including the loop road.
other recommendations are an extension of Freemason Street eastward
to connect with Hertford Road and an extension of E. Church Street
to connect with E. Queen Street.
Use of the zoning ordinance to control strip commercial development
is another recommended action. The plan also notes that the Town's
subdivision ordinance is an excellent tool for implementing the
Thoroughfare Plan by requiring dedication and construction of sub-
4

division streets in accordance with the plan recommendations.
Industrial Park Feasibility Study: This study was presented
to the Town of Edenton in 1975 and revised in 1976. It includes an
evaluation of four prospective sites for an industrial park. A
development plan for each site was prepared and each one was rated to
determine the most desirable location for an industrial park.
Based on these ratings, a site in the vicinity of Peanut Drive,
r U.S. 17 Business and By -Pass, and the Southern Railroad was chosen.
The report is presently being used as a marketing tool to recruit
new industry.
Program for Community Appearance and Commercial Area Improvement:
Prepared in 1973, this report contains a program for improving and
maintaining the visual environment in Edenton, plus recommendations
for improving the viability of downtown Edenton. The Town has
completed a number of improvements in the downtown area, such as sidewalk
planters and benches.
Community Facilities: This plan'was prepared for Edenton in 1976
by the North Carolina Department of Natural and Economic Resources.
It includes an assessment of the Town's physical plant as well as the
services provided to the community. Future needs are also included
in the report.
It was determined that some of the Town's facilities needed
immediate attention and others would need expansion or upgrading
before 1985. Some of the identified needs are listed as follows:
acquisition of a new landfill site, upgrade the capacity of selected
electric lines and the substation, add a water storage tank, purchase and
refurbish a recreation center, and provide a public beach, new tennis
courts and an athletic field. The Town and Chowan County were
successful in purchasing a new 'Landfill. Edenton was also able to work
out an agreement with the National Guard whereby the Town will receive
the old armory (including a gymnasium) and use it as a recreation center.
Community facilities will be discussed further in the chapter
entitled "Constraints to Development".
Urban Forestry Report: This report was presented to Edenton in 1979
as prepared by the North Carolina Department of Natural Resources
and Community Development. It contains an inventory and analysis
of Edenton's street trees plus recommendations for a maintenance,
planting, and removal program.
Wastewater Facilities Plan: Edenton's "201 Facilities Plan"
was drafted in 1976 by J.N. Pease Associates of Charlotte. The plan
includes an assessment of Edenton's existing wastewater facilities
and an estimation of facilities needed by the year 2000. The waste-
water plant has secondary treatment capacity of one million gallons
per day with an estimated effluent flow of 343,900 gallons per day.
However, the infiltration and inflow analysis concluded that wet flow
through the plant is above capacity because of ground water and
5

storm water entering the system, which is magnified during periods
of frequent rainfall.
The facilities plan recommended immediate upgrading of.the main
pump station to accomodate projected growth and upgrading the
treatment plant to meet existing effluent standards with reliability.
Based on the infiltration and inflow analysis, a complete evaluation
of the infiltration and inflow problem was recommended immediately.
The plan also identified anticipated growth areas and existing
development with septic tank problems. A program for extending sewer
to these areas in the future was recommended.
Land Use Plan: Prepared under the guise of the 1974 Coastal
Area Management Act, the Land Use Plan is the precedent of this plan
update. The 1976 CAMA Plan is different from the update in that it was
jointly prepared with Chowan County.
The plan identified a number of issues in Edenton and Chowan County,
including the following: septic tank malfunctioning, pollution of surface
water particularly the Chowan River, the impact of development on community
facilities, seasonal or second home development along the Chowan, land use
conflicts, substandard housing conditions, storm water drainage, and
a need for economic development. It contains a listing of objectives
which are intended to deal with the identified issues, plus a listing
of policies designed to implement the objectives.
Current Policies
Water and Sewer Policies: All new developments within the town
limits must connect to the municipal water and sewer system, and if
water or sewer is not available, the Town will extend it to the
development. If a development is outside the town limits but within
the extraterritorial jurisdiction, connection to the municipal water and
sewer system is required where economically feasible. Otherwise a private
well and septic tank are required by County ordinance.
Housing Policy: The Building Inspector has a policy whereby
vacant residences are inspected for housing code violations prior to
reoccupancy by a new tenant.
Current Regulations
Zoning Ordinance: Edenton first adopted a zoning ordinance in 1969.
and subsequently adopted a revised ordinance in 1975. The present
ordinance contains the usual residential, commercial and industrial
zoning districts. It also contains provisions for special uses and
sign control. One relatively unusual feature of the ordinance is
a historic district, which is designed chiefly to preserve the
architectural qualities of Edenton's older neighborhoods including
the downtown business district.
The zoning map and text have been amended several times since
adoption of the ordinance in 1975.
1-1

t
It is also noteworthy to point out the entire extraterritorial
jurisdiction is zoned low density residential (20,000 square feet
minimum) except for two highway commercial districts on N.C. 32 West.
7

CHAPTER II
INTRODUCTION
One element required in the CAMA planning process is to examine
any changes that have taken place since the 1976 CAMA Plan was prepared
for Edenton/Chowan County. As will be seen in the following pages,
Edenton/Chowan County's population base is expanding, employment
opportunities improving and in so doing reversing trends begun in the
fifties and sixties. Indication$ that these growth trends were beginning
was described in the 1976 CAMA Plan, but recent population and employment
figures confirm them. What will such changes mean if they continue in
the eighties? How will land use in predominantly rural Chowan County
be affected? The data and projections presented in this and subsequent
chapters provide.some indications.
The following discussion of Edenton/Chowan County's population
and economic characteristics emphasizes past 1976 data analysis.
POPTMATION
Prior to 1970 many towns and counties in eastern North Carolina
were experiencing a decline in population. But 1980 Census data
show this trend is reversing, as many of the same towns and
counties are now experiencing increases in, population. This is the
case for both the Town of Edenton and Chowan County.
The 1980 Census figures given in Table 1 indicate Edenton had a
6% increase in population and Chowan County a 16% increase. Equally
important to Edenton residents is the 13% increase in Edenton Township,
which is more than twice as large as that for the Town of Edenton.
Also note that Middle Township, which adjoins Edenton Township's
northern boundary, increased by 40% whereas Yeopim and Upper Township
experienced much smaller increases.
The large population increase in Edenton and Middle Township is
evidence of continued suburbanization around the Town of Edenton. In
fact these two townships accounted for 95% of the County's total
population growth.
8

Table 1 ... Population Change for Edenton and Chowan County, 1970-1980
% Increase,
Township
1970 Population
1980 Population
170-180
Edenton
6,814
7,718
13%
Middle
1,840
2,574
40%
Upper
1,278
1,294
1%
Yeopim
832
911
10%
County Total
10,764
12,497
16%
Edenton (town)
4,956
5,240
6%
,The growth in the number of housing units is another indicator
of population increase in Edenton. According to census data presented in
Table 2, the number of housing units in Edenton grew from 11634 in 1970
to 2,035 in 1980, for a 25% increase. Here again it is important to
note that Edenton Township experienced an increase greater than the Town
of Edenton, as it grew from 2,032 housing units in 1970 to 3,001 housing
units in 1980, amounting to a 48% increase and providing more evidence
of suburbanization around Edenton.
From the preceding discussion one might question why the percentage
of population increase in Edenton and Chowan County was not comparable
to the percentage increase in housing units, since the number of housing
units increased 44% countywide, but population increased only 16%. The
difference can be explained by a decrease in the average household size.
In Edenton, the average househole size dipped from 3.21 persons in 1970
to 2.73 in 1980. This represents a loss of approximately one person
for every second household. The 1976 CAMA Plan reported a significant
amount of outmigration of young people and a decline in the birth rate,
a fact which is reflected in the drop in average household size.
Table 2... Housing
Change for Edenton
and Chowan
County,
1970-1980
Housing
Units
%
Household Size
1980
Township
1970
1980
Increase
1970
1980
Vacancy Rate
Edenton
2,032
3,001
47.7%
3.34
2.82
10.5%
Middle
525
1,280
143.8%
3.50
2.84
29.8%
Upper
382
548
43.4%
3.33
2.92
18.1%
Yeopim
232
386
66.4%
3.59
2.90
16.6%
County Total
3,614
5,215
44.3%
3.38
2.84
16.4%
Edenton (town)
1,634
2,035
24.5%
3.21
2.73
6.8%
Seasonal population is one factor that must be addressed according
to LAMA guidelines. Unfortunately, the most recent data relative to
seasonal population comes from the 1970 Census, which listed 207 housing
units as "vacant seasonal and migratory" in Chowan County. The
preliminary counts of the 1980 Census do include a vacancy rate but it
includes both temporary vacancies and seasonal vacancies. The preliminary
1980 Census listed a 6.8% vacancy rate for Edenton. Undoubtedly, most
01

seasonal vacancies in Chowan County are located outside the Town's
planning area in developmients adjacent to the Cbowan River, such
as Arrowhead and Chowan Beaches in Middle Township and Cape Colony in
Yeopim Township. .
The 1976 CAMA Plan, although relying on 1970 Census figures,
pointed out Edenton's population had a higher percentage of elderly
persons than the State as a whole. Presumeably this has not changed
markedly because the birth rate has not increased since 1970 and there has
been no outstanding influx of young residents. When the 1980 Census
of population is completed, detailed information on age, sex, and racial
characteristics will be available.
ECONOMY
The economy of Edenton and Chowan County has historically been
centered around its agricultural and coastal resources, and although
this remains the case today, substantial movement,away from this
historical base has been recorded in the recent past. A noticeable
difference in Edenton and Chowan lifestyles will occur if the
local economy continues to shift away from dependence on agricultural
and coastal resources. This helps to explain why'it 'is important to
consider economic conditions as part of the land use plan update.
Employment
Estimates provided by the Employment Security Commission indicate
substantial employment gains have been made in Edenton and Chowan County
in the recent past. From the information presented in Table 3, one can
see that total employment in Chowan County increased 12% from 1970 through
1979.
Although total employment does show an increase, the County has also
experienced decreases in certain employment categories during this period.
The nationwide recession seemingly.was the primary cause for the
downturn in employment for the years 1971 through 1975. Decreases in
manufacturing employment (particularly textiles) and agricultural
employment accounted for almost all of the overall employment decrease
during this period. The decline in agricultural employment is part of
a nationwide trend and is a direct result of increased mechanization on the
farms and a decrease in the number of family farms.
. Employment in the nonmanufacturing category did not experience a
decrease during the 70's, yielding evidence that it was less severely affected
by the nationwide recession. Table 3 shows a 38% increase in
nonmanufacturing employment from 1970 through 1979, with trade and service
employment accounting for a majority of this increase. i
Even though Table 3 lists significant employment gains, it is
important to keep in mind the methods used to compile this data. The
estimates of civilian labor force, and total employment are based upon the
place of residence of the worker, meaning these figures include only
workers who live in Chowan County. The estimate of manufacturing
and nonmanufacturing employment is prepared based on the place of work,
resulting in a count of workers who reside in Chowan County as well as those
10

Table 3... Annual Average Labor Force Estimates 1970, 1975 & 1979
% Change
1970-1979
1979
1975
1970
Civilian Labor Force
11%
5,070
4,550
4,580
Unemployment, Total
-9%
210
360
230
Rate of Unemployment
-18%
4.1
7.9
5.0
Employment, Total
12%
4,860
4,190
4,350
Agric. Employment
-34%
330
450
500
Nonag. Wage & Salary
Employment
20%
3,790
3,130
3,170
All Other Nonag.
Employment
8%
740
610
680
INDUSTRY EMPLOYMENT BY PLACE OF WORK
% Change
1970-1979
1979
1975
1970
Manufacturing
6%
1,420
1,020
1,340
Food
120%
110
30
50
Textiles
-25%
630
.650
840
Lumber & Wood
67%
350
160
210
Other Manuf.
38%
330
180
240
Nonmanufacturing
38%
2,820
2,310
2,040
Construction
-11%
160
150
180
Trans., Co.., &
P. Util.
56%
140
110
90
Trade
46%
950
830
650
Fin., Ins., &
Real Estate
-13%
70
60
80
Service
64%
720
490
440
Government
26%
630
530
500
Other Nonmanuf.
50%
150
140
100
who commute into the County.
Job commuting plays a large role in the economy of eastern North
Carolina, where many people find it necessary or desirable to leave their
home area to find suitable employment. Edenton and Chowan County are no
different from the rest of eastern North Carolina in this respect. However,
Edenton and Chowan County are on the receiving end rather than the giving
end. As the 1976 CAMA Plan pointed out, Chowan County gains more workers
from in -commuting that it loses to out -commuting. This indicates that
Edenton, which is the employment center of Chowan County, serves as
somewhat of a regional employment center.
11

r
RETAIL SALES
Edenton and Chowan County have experienced a steady increase in
retail sales over the past twenty years, indicating expansion in the
retail sector as well as increases in employment, income, and population.
Table 4 shows retail sales in Chowan County increased from about 10
million in 1960 to almost 60 million in 1979, a 470% increase. The
table also includes retail sales after adjustments for inflation
have been made. According to inflation adjusted dollars there was a
130% increase in retail sales over the same period, which is a remarkable
increase when compared to a county -wide population increase of only
6.5% since 1960.
Table 4 also provides per capita retail sales. These figures show
retail sales grew at a faster pace than the population, which gives
creedence to the theory that Edenton and Chowan County receive a .
significant amount of sales from residents of adjoining counties. It
also points to an increase in disposable income among residents in the
trade area.
Table 4... Retail Sales for Chowan County 1960-1978
INFLATION
ADJUSTED
DOLLAR % DOLLAR %
YEAR VOLUME INCREASE VALUE* INCREASE
INFLATION
ADJUSTED
RETAIL SALES
PER CAPITA
1959-60
$10,127,838
$11,418,081
$ 973
1969-70
21,395,130 111%
18,396,500 61%
1,709
1974-75
34,822,639 63%
21,602,133 17%
1,875
1978-79
57,718,376 66%
26,307,372 22%
2,105
Source: N.C. Department of Revenue
*Adjustment for inflation is computed by dividing each year's retail sales
by the Consumer Price Index for that year, using 1967 as the base (100%)
year and 1960=88.7%, 1970=116.3%, 1975=161.2% and 1979=219.4%.
There are other indicators of Edenton's regional trade influence.
For example, in 1979 nearby Gates County had a population of about
8,500 and retail sales of $16,917,583 resulting in retail sales per
capita of $1,990. This is much lower than the per capita retail
sales in Edenton and Chowan County.
Although Edenton's retail market area includes a significant amount
of the surrounding population, Edenton and its market area is under the
influence of other retail centers, particularly the Norfolk SMSA to the
northeast. Table 5 gives evidence of this fact_ It depicts the percentage
increase of retail sales according to the type of product sold, such as
appliances or apparel. Sales of big ticket items, like autos or furniture,
increased at a rate significantly below the state as a whole. But sales
of apparel, general merchandise and building materials were equal to or
12

above sales statewide. This leads to the conclusion that many big ticket
items are purchased in the larger retail centers.
The large increase in sales of building materials provides more evidence
of growth in the number of housing units as reported in the preceding
discussion of population.
13

Table 5... Amount of Retail Sales by Category (Inflation adjusted*)
Category
1% Retail Sales
2% Auto & Planes
Apparel
Automotive
Food
Furniture
Gen. Merchandise
Building Materials
Unclassified Group
Total Sales
Dollar Volume
% Change-
% Change -
1976
1979
Chowan
North Carolina
2,309,268
2,569,296
+11%
+13%
1,633,350
1,658,284
- 2%
+18%
329,779
425,105
+22%
+24%
3,818,842
3,661,008
- 4%
+23%
6,384,909
6,388,993
0%
+14%
859,728
810,589
- 6%
+22%
5,076,119
7,324,957
+44%
+15%
1,103,427
4,331,337
+293%
+33%
2,873,323
3,679,373
+28%
+270
24,227,460
30,848,944
+27%
+20%
Source: N.C. Department of Revenue
* Each year's sales were divided by the Consumer Price Index for the
given year. (1976=178.3, 1979=219.4)
14

EXISTING LAND USE
The following pages contain an analysis of existing land use in
Edenton and its extraterritorial jurisdiction. The analysis was made
from the results of a "windshield survey" conducted by the Ferren Planning
Group at various times in October, November and December of 1980. The
survey was intended to identify: 1) significant land use compatibility
problems; 2) major problems which have resulted from unplanned
development which may have implications for future land usage; and
3) areas experiencing or likely to experience changes in predominant land
use.
Prior to conducting' the survey, it was determined that land uses
would be identified under five categories... residential, commercial,
industrial, public/institutional and vacant. In order to assess housing
types and conditions, it was necessary to further classify residential
uses into single-family and multi -family uses and standard or substandard
condition. -(The rating method of housing conditions is discussed later.)
To facilitate data compilation and analysis, it was,considered
necessary to divide the Town and its planning area into smaller
geographic divisions. These divisions consist of areas which were
considered to have similar land use characteristics. They are shown
on Exhibit 1. As can be seen, the planning area was divided first
into four major quadrants. Areas within each quadrant outside the town
limits, but within the planning jurisdiction are labeled with capital
letters. Those sections within the town limits are labeled with
lower case letters. As each area is discussed below a brief description
of its boundaries and existing land use characteristics will, it is
hoped, give evidence of why these areas were grouped in this way.
It must be noted that land uses were neither identified by acreages or
sections in the 1976 CAMA Plan, so few detailed comparisons of growth by land
use category can be made between then and now. They were identified,
however, in a 1966 "Land Development Plan... Inventory and Prospects"
prepared for Edenton. Some comparisons are made between 1966 and
1980-81 in the summary of city-wide land use. The total acreages for
all land uses within the planning jurisdiction are shown on Table 6 .
13artinn In
This section is bounded by North Oakum Street, Park Avenue, N.C. 32
and the town limits. It contains a total of 134.8 acres, 44 of which
are vacant. Of the 90.7 acres of developed land, 70% is used for
residential purposes; 18% is public and/or institutional lands and the
remaining 11.5% is used for commercial purposes. Most of the commercial
uses are located adjacent to older homes, especially along N. Broad Street
and Johnston Street. Of the 16.6 acres of public/institutional lands, a
nursing home occupies 8.5 acres and parks and one church make up the
remainder.
Section 2a & b
This section is bounded by N. Oakum Street, Blades Street and
Tyler/Paxton Lanes. U.S. 17 Business, north splits this section into
15

Table 6...Existing Land Use Acreages
INSIDE CITY
x�
la
2a
,
2b
3a
3b
4a
4b
4c
4d
CITY TOTALS
OUTSIDE CITY
lA
2A
2B
3A
4A
4B
EXTRATERRITORIAL
JURISDICTION TOTALS
PLANNING AREA
TOTALS
ACREAGE
TOT
RES
COM
IND
P/I
VAC
134.8
63.6
10.4
-
16.6
44.1
142.3
7.5
35.9
61.3
-
37.7
200.1
42.4
28.6
-
.6
128.5
314.9
33.6
4.3
28.9
.59
247.5
76.3
39.6
.8
7.0
2.7
26.2
555.2
135.9
24.5
-
78.1
316.6
199.9
54.8
7.9
9.2
46.1
81.9
86.8
15.1
7.1
7.7
52.6
4.3
124.8
78.6
12.5
.5
30.8
2.9
1835.1
471.1
132.0
114.6
228.1
889.7
899.9
24.6
11.5
-
-
863.8
541.0
6.5
3
-
-
531.5
745
2.5
-
-
-
742.5
955.1
9.5
-
-
-
945.6
1142.5
69.0
8.4
-
.5
1064.5
973.9
24.5
-
-
23.4
926
5257.3
136.6
22.9
-
23.9'
5074.9
7029.5
607.7
154.9
114.6
252
5964.6
Source: Ferren Planning Group, Windshield Survey, 12/80
18

subsections a and b. Section 2 contains 342.4 total acres. The largest
single developed land use is industrial land, located in the Edenton
Industrial Park, generally on Peanut Drive, which accounts for over
half (53.5%) of all industrial land in Edenton. Almost 50% of.all
commercial land in Edenton is located in this section. This includes
the larger commercial land users (i.e., car dealerships, a shopping
center, etc.) in town. Residential land in this section is concentrated
in subsection 2b, where 42.4 acres are used for this purpose. Almost
15 acres are occupied by two apartment complexes. The rest is in
single-family homes. Vacant land makes up 58.5% of all land in Section 2.
Section 3a & b
Section 3 is bounded by Tyler and Paxton Lanes, part of the Norfolk
and Southern Railroad's main line and S. Oakum Street.
Vacant land makes up 70% of all land in this section. Most (63.3%)
of this is located in subsection 3a. There are three commercial land uses
mixed into the residential areas in this subsection. The 28.9 acres of
industrial land are in one tract belonging to the Carter Ink Company.
Almost 80% of all developed land in subsection 3b is made up of a variety
of residential uses. The homes associated with the Edenton Cotton Mill
exhibit the characteristics typical of "mill villages" in towns
throughout the south. This is a very distinct area of Edenton in that
all the homes are owned by the mill and they all look alike to a great
extent. This area is both visually and physically separated from surrounding
areas by Cook Avenue and the railroad and by Church St. extended and King
St. extended. Mixed commercial (in -residential) land uses are evident
along S. Oakum Street.
Section 4
Section 4 is bounded by N.C. 32, Park Street, S. Oakum Street and,
of course, the western town limits. It is the largest of the four quadrants,
containing 50% of all land in Edenton and almost 60% of all of the
developed land. Subsection 4d contains the downtown area and most of
the historic district. At the same time, subsection 4a contains all of
the more recent single-family subdivisions platted during the last
several years. Two major natural features divide Section 4... Pembroke
and Filbert Creeks. Both creeks have attracted residential developments
along their banks, with several homes having boat docks in their back yards.
Residential land uses account for 50% of all developed land in this
quadrant. The second largest land users are public/institutional lands
(37%). The hospital and ancillary uses account for ±27 acres, with churches,
cemeteries, historic sites, schools and other public buildings occupying
the remaining 180± acres.
The educational and recreational center of Edenton is located in subsection
4c. This includes John A. Holmes High School, Walker Junior High, the
National Guard Armory (which is used jointly by the town's recreation
department), tennis courts and a fire station. More than any other section
of town, this one contains very obvious mixed land uses.. The lumber mill
behind Holmes High School is the most incompatible and probably the concrete
plant at the end of East Peterson Street is the second. The automobile
dealership, located in the middle of the block surrounded by West Hicks,
19

North Broad, West Peterson and North Granville, is sandwiched between
residential uses. There are two other businesses located on this
predominantly residential block. The first shopping center outside
of downtown Edenton is located on North Broad Street between Cemetery
and West Hicks Street. It shares the property with a small office complex
and is located directly across N. Broad Street from the National Guard
Armory/Recreation Center.
City-wide Summary
City-wide the predominant use of the land is for residential purposes...
49.8% of all developed land. Public and Institutional uses occupy 228.1
acres...24.1% of all developed land. Commercial and industrial lands
account for 14% and 12.2%, respectively.
As noted earlier, no acreage calculations were made in the 1976 CAMA
Plan, therefore, no areal comparison can be made. However, taking into
account annexations, the 1966 "Land Development Plan" can provide some
insight into growth which has taken place over the last 14 years.
Residential land amounted to 272 acres in 1966. In 1980 this had grown
to 471 acres, an increase of 199 acres, or an annual growth of 14.2
acres of residential land. Commercial land increased from 51 acres to 132
acres during the same period, an increase of 81 acres or'159%. Industrial
land amounted to 94 acres, compared to 115 acres in 1980. Probably the
most drastic increase was in public/institutional lands ... from 88 acres
in 1966 to 228 acres in 1980. This is explained in part by the addition
of land for the hospital, new parks and public acquisition of various
historic sites and other land required for public purposes.
Mixed land uses are found in the older sections of town and are
generally of a neighborhood store type. All of these, including the
bottling plant on East Eden Street and others, were in existence prior
to adoption of the Town's zoning ordinance. They are, therefore, non-
conforming land uses. These resulted from unplanned development. Fortunately,
these types of developments will not be permitted in the future except in
unusual circumstances due to strict enforcement of the Town's zoning ordinance.
Extraterritorial Jurisdiction
Outside of the town limits, but within its planning jurisdiction,
the predominant use of developed land is residential with a total of 136.6
acres. Residential development outside the town limits occurs in two
patterns ... either in subdivisions or in strip development along major roads.
The Allendale subdivision is the only one in the extraterritorial area with
interior paved streets. All other residential development is concentrated
along U.S. 17 (Bus.) South, Mexico Road and N.C. 32 north of U.S. 17 By -Pass.
Commercial uses occupy. only 22.9 acres outside the town limits and
public/institutional uses occupy only 23.9 acres. Together they take
up only .8 of one percent of the total 5257 acres within the extra-
territorial jurisdiction. Obviously then,.most of the land area is
vacant or used for agricultural purposes. Restated 96.5% of all land
in the extraterritorial jurisdiction is either vacant or in agricultural use.
20

Undeveloped Land and Vacant Lot Analysis
This land use category contains all land undeveloped for urban
purposes, such as vacant lots and agricultural tracts. Within the Town
limits there are 889.7 acres of vacant and undeveloped land. This amounts
to 48% of all the land inside the Town. The extraterritorial jurisdiction
has 5074.9 acres of vacant and undeveloped land. This amounts to 97% of
the total number of acres in the extraterritorial jurisdiction and is
therefore the predominant use of land in that area.
Quadrant 4a contains the largest amounts of undeveloped land within
the Town of Edenton, followed by Quadrants 3a and 2b. Quadrants 4c and
4d, the historical center of town, had negligible amounts of undeveloped
land. Each one of the quadrants in the extraterritorial jurisdiction has
a minimum of 500 acres of undeveloped land.
In addition to computing the acreage of undeveloped land, a vacant
lot inventory was compiled and compared to Edenton's zoning ordinance
to determine the availability of vacant lots for residential development.
Table 7 contains the results of the vacant lot inventory.
The format of the table allows one to determine the location of vacant
lots, lot sizes, zoning district, and whether or not the lots meet the
minimum requirements for residential developments. The table presents lot
sizes in six ranges, as follows: 20,000 square feet or more, 14,000 square
feet or more, 11,000 square feet or more, 10,000 square feet or more, 6,000
square feet or more, and less than 6,000 square feet. The ranges in lot size
correspond to the minimum requirements for the residential zoning districts.
For instance, a lot with 19,000 square feet would be placed in the category
of 14,000 square feet since it would not meet the minimum of 20,000 square
feet.
A lot was considered non -conforming if it did not meet the requirements
for residential use under its zoning district. Some lots located in an
R-20 district were considered non -conforming because they did not meet the
100' lot width requirement although they may exceed 20,000 square feet.
In other cases lots met the minimum width requirement but did not meet the
minimum area requirements, and in a few cases lots were located in a zoning
district which does not permit residential uses.
Although most of the vacant lots are listed as non -conforming in the table,
the zoning ordinance provides liberal exceptions for lots of record existing
prior to adoption of the zoning ordinance (8/75). Exceptions in the ordinance
permit construction of single family dwellings on lots which do not conform to
the dimensional requirements of a particular zoning district. This "exception
clause" means that almost all of the non -conforming lots can be built upon.
The inventory resulted in a count of 174 vacant lots within the Town
limits and although the extraterritorial jurisdiction was not inventoried
for vacant lots, there were probably less than 50 in the extraterritorial
jurisdiction. Overall only 58 vacant lots were in compliance with all zoning
ordinance requirements for residential development. The remaining 116 were
found to be non -conforming. Exceptions from the minimum requirements, as
previously mentioned, would permit development of most of the non -conforming
lots.
21

Table
7 ...Vacant Lot Inventory - Town
of Edenton
Lot Size (thousands
sq.ft.)zoning
Quad.
Sect.
20
14 11 10 6
5.9 District
Conforming
Non -conforming
1
a
3 10
R-20
13
2
R-10
2
1 1 2
R-6
2
2
2
a
1
1 4
R-20
1
5
2
b
1 2
R-20
3
5
R-11
5
1
1
I -W
2
3
a
1
2 19
R-20
22
10
R-11
4
6
3
- b
1 3
R-20
4
1 7
R-6
3
5
1
I -W
1
4
a 5
3
R-14
8
15
R-11
8
7
2
4
1 10 8
2
R-10
11
16
4
b 3
1
1
R-14
2
3
1
R-10
1
2
2
1
2
R-6
4
3
1
1
I-W
2
4
c 3
1
1 3 1.
3
R-6
3
9
1
M-A
1
4
d 3
4
9
R-6
4
12
CITY TOTALS 26 46 8 15 63 16 58 116
Source: Ferren Planning Group, Windshield Survey, 12/80
22

Within Section la most of the lots are located in Eden Heights (Dillard
Avenue). A majority of these lots were non -conforming, but they were
subdivided at approximately the same density as the existing development
in Eden Heights.
In Sections 2a, 2b and 3a there are 46 vacant lots, most of which are
located on Oakdale Drive, Paxton Lane and Tyler's Lane. Mnay of the lots are _
non -conforming, principally because of the R-20 lot width requirement.
In Section 3b most of the 13 vacant lots are owned by Edenton Cotton
Mills. Some were formerly occupied by housing units for mill employees.
A total of 50 vacant lots were counted in Section 4a. Most of these
were found in Morgan Park and Westover Heights subdivisions. An undeveloped
section of Boswell Street also has a substantial number of vacant lots. Most
of the non -conforming lots in this section are located on W. Albemarle Street
and Boswell Street.
Sections 4b, 4c and 4d are located in the historical center of Town.
Only'30 vacant lots were found in these sections. Many of these lots have either
never been developed or have had a structure removed.
Overall, 63 out of 174 lots are in the 6,000 to 9,999 square feet range, the
largest number of lots in any of the 6 ranges. The second largest number of
vacant lots were found in the 14,000 to 19,999 square feet range. Some of
the vacant lots are located in areas adjacent to Filbert's Creek or Edenton
Bay. In other cases, vacant lots adjoined nonresidential development,
perhaps resulting in an undesirable location for a residence. Some vacant
lots are located in undeveloped streets where water and sewer services have not
been installed.
Several conclusions can be drawn from this inventory of vacant lots.
The most significant perhaps is that the number of vacant lots is small when
compared to the total number of developed lots. Also, with a growth rate
of 40 housing units annually from 1970 to 1980 there may not be an adequate
number of vacant lots necessary for new residential development in the coming
years. However, large amounts of undeveloped land within the Town limits have
previously been identified and much of it is suitable for residential
development. On the other hand, continued development in County areas may
reduce demand for lots in Edenton, particularly with, the countywide water
system now in place. The survey results also indicate that some areas
of Town are improperly zoned, since development has occurred at the same
density as vacant lots, yet the vacant lots are considered non -conforming.
Housing Conditions
While carrying out the "windshield " land use survey, it was considered
necessary to determine the general conditions of Edenton's housing stock.
This provides local decision -makers with a better understanding of the locations
and severity of housing units which might require some form of redevelopment.
Residential structures were'assigned subjective ratings of condition during
the survey. Structures which.appeared to be structurally sound and well
maintained were classified as in "standard condition". Those requiring
"fix -up, paint -up" types.of maintenance were given a "minor condition" rating.
(These units can be classified as being in a standard structural condition.)
Those residential structures which appeared to have structural deficiencies
23

which would require major rehabilitation to bring them up to standard condition
were considered "Major need for repairs". Finally, those structures which
were uninhabited and uninhabitable were classified as "dilapidated".
A total of 1988 housing units were counted during the windshield survey.
During the 1980 Census 2,035 housing units were counted...a difference of
47 housing units. This difference is possibly due to omission of efficiency
or conversion apartment units which are sometimes impossible to detect in a
windshield survey.
The survey results indicate that Edenton's housing supply is primarily
single family dwellings. Inside the Town limits 1464 single family dwellings
were counted, or 74% of the total number of housing units. In the extra-
territorial jurisdiction 189 of 222 housing units were single family
dwellings, with the remaining housing units being mobile homes.
All multi -family dwellings in the planning area were located within
the Town limits. Almost half of the multi -family units were concentrated
in,three apartment projects. They are Chowan Court Apartments (50 units)
located on Chowan Court, Edenton Manor Apartments (100 units) on Tyler
Lane, and Davis Court Apartments (50 units) on West Albemarle Street.
The remaining multi -family housing units were in two, three or four unit
buildings. Many of the duplexes were located in the older sections of town
and many were conversions from single family dwellings. The 429 multi-
family housing units make up 22% of the total number of housing units inside
the Town limits.
A total of 128 mobile homes were counted throughout the planning area.
This amounts to 5% of the total number of housing units inside the Town and
15% of the total in the extraterritorial jurisdiction.
The survey results show that overall housing conditions were good.
Seventy-three (73%) percent of all residential structures were classified
as standard or in need of only minor repairs. However, the survey
indicates that there are concentrations of substandard housing.
Section la (see Exhibit 1 for section boundaries) is an area where 17 units
were found to be in need of major repair. Many of these substandard
dwellings are located on or near Dillard Avenue. Section 3b contains 15
substandard dwelling units, many of which are located on or near Oakum Street
and in an area adjacent to the Edenton Cotton Mill. There are substandard
housing units present in Sections 4b, 4c and 4d.
Some of the substandard dwellings are located in Edenton's historic
zoning district and many appear to have architectural significance.'
When the substandard dwellings are compared to the historic dwellings
that have been previously recognized and rehabilitated, one can see that
rehabilitation of many of the substandard dwellings could be successful.
Most of Edenton's historically and architecturally significant dwellings
are located in Sections 3b, 4b, 4c and 4d areas which have previously been
associated with incidences of substandard housing. If the existing
substandard dwellings remain in their present condition or deteriorate
further, it could result in disinvestment and subsequent deterioration of
the historic homes in the area.
24

Areas of mixed land uses appear to contain relatively substandard
housing conditions. These are areas where commercial, industrial
or other non-residential uses are near or adjacent to residences. Over an
extended period of time unplanned -for areas of mixed land use frequently
result in the homeowner and/or tenant losing interest in the dwelling
because of the noise, traffic, trash, and/or unsightliness often generated
by a non-residential use. The Oakum Street area is an example of this
N. Broad Street is an area that appears headed in the same direction.
The residential areas around the downtown also seem to be confronted
with the possibility of an expanding downtown, which might result in more
occurences of mixed land use.
In some sections of Edenton mobile homes were located on individual
lots adjacent to conventional dwellings. The location of mobile homes
next to conventional dwellings can sometimes devalue the conventional dwellings
and/or surrounding undeveloped land because the value of a mobile home
depreciates at a rapid rate when compared to that of a conventional
dwelling. This often leads to a situation where the conventional homeowner
is reluctant to maintain his home in standard condition because he may not
receive a reasonable return on his investment. However, proper land use
controls should allow suitable sites for all types of housing while protecting
the value of all housing types.
25

Table 8... Housing Conditions Survey
INSIDE CITY
RES.
STRUCTURES
HOUSING CONDITIONS
TOT
QUAD. & SECT.
SF
DUP
MULT
MH
STD
MIN
MAJ
DIL
HU
la
293
2
2
16
256
24
9
8
321
2a
17
-
-
1
16
1
-
-
18
2b
49
-
16
2
54
2
-
1
214
3a
73
1
-
2
64
2
5
3
77
3b
153
15
7
8
110
50
9
6
214
4a
272
-
16
61
280
3
3
2
433
4b
197
1
4
2
149
31
20
2
227
4c
74
8
1
1
33
31
16
3
95
4d
336
14
6
2
238
80
30
8
389
CITY TOTALS
1464
41
51
95
1200
224
92
33
1988
OUTSIDE CITY
lA
29
-
-
7
21
3
1
4
36
2A
10
-
-
12
7
2
-
1
22
2B
4
-
-
2
1
2
-
1
6
3A
13
-
-
-
10
3
-
-
13
4A
105
-
-
11
98
5
1
1
116
4B
28
-
-
1
28
-
-
-
29
EXTRATERRITORIAL
JURISDICTION
TOTALS 189 - - 33 165 15 2 7 222
PLANNING AREA
TOTALS 1653 41 51 128 1365 239 94 40 2210
Source: Ferren Planning Group, Windshield Survey, 12/80
26

CHAPTER III
INTRODUCTION
The following discussion centers on the areas where constraints
to future development may exist. These constraints are examined in
terms of: 1) the capacity of the land to accomodate new development,
2) hazard areas where future development should be prohibited; and
3) the capacities of public facilities and services to serve future
population growth and its ensuing development.
Soil Limitations
The 1976 CAMA Plan contained a rather extensive discussion of
soils in Chowan County and the various limitations for development
that are inherent in some of the soils associations. Since that
plan was completed, a complete detailed soils analysis has been
prepared for Chowan and Perquimans Counties. There are many uses
which can be made of this analysis in making development decisions
in these two counties and in Edenton. Generally, the information
more precisely defines the areas of eachsoil classification.
Knowing the degrees of limitation for each of these soils types,
provides sufficient data upon which determinations can be made in
sufficient detail about whether or not certain areas contain soils
which are suitable for future urban development.
It was considered sufficient to prepare one map showing soils
with severe limitations for urban types of development within the
planning area rather than preparing a generalized set of soils maps.
Therefore, Exhibit 3 shows all areas which contain three distinct
soil types, all of which have severe limitations for development.
.The limitations are due, in all three soils, to poor drainage,
severe wetness, flood -prone characteristics and low soil strengths
for accomodating building foundations.
The three soils shown on Exhibit 3 are Dorovan, Altavista.
Fine Sandy Loam and Dorovan Muck. The Dorovan and Dorovan Muck
soils occur along the shores of the major creeks in the planning
area and in the wooded swamps along the Albemarle Sound. The soils
analysis does point out that in some areas of the Altavista soil
some urban development may be accomodated, but is limited to
buildings without basements. None of these soils can adequately accomodate
27

proper operation of septic tanks. It can be stated, then,that only limited
future development should take place within the areas outlined on
Exhibit 3 due to severe soil limitations.
Flood Hazard Areas
At the time the 1976 CAMA Plan was being prepared for Edenton/Chowan
County, the flood insurance maps prepared by the Federal Flood Insurance
Program of the U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development were being
challenged by the Town of Edenton. It was felt that those maps showed too
much land area within the Town as being located within the 100 year flood
hazard area. Almost all of the towns and counties north of the Albemarle
Sound filed similar protests. As a result, the U.S. government agreed to
prepare new sets of flood hazard maps using a different methodology.
However, completion of these new flood maps is not scheduled until
sometime in 1982. 'Because it would be inappropriate to delay publication
of this plan for that length of time, it was considered necessary to present
other data available for flood hazard areas within the planning jurisdiction.
The "Land Development Plan for Edenton", published in 1968,
contained a map showing the areas flooded by the most recent severe
storm. This occurred in 1960. According to local sources, a storm and
resultant flooding of that magnitude has not occurred since that
date. The area flooded by that storm is shown as Exhibit 4 which is
reproduced directly from the "Land Development Plan". As can be seen,
all of the flooding occurred along Filberts Creek and its drainage
tributaries, with the largest area affected located due east of the
U.S. 17/N.C. 32 interchange. It should be noted that Filberts Creek
has been dredged and cleaned out by the U.S. Corps of Engineers so
that surface waters can drain more rapidly during periods of heavy
rain, thereby reducing the potential for flooding in this particular
area.
Within the total planning area, the only detailed information
available on areas prone to flooding can be found in the detailed
soils analysis, discussed under Soils Limitations. Generally,
the areas shown on Exhibit 3 as having severe limitations for development
are so limited due in large part to the frequent flooding of these
generally low-lying areas along the major drainage -ways.
Until the detailed study of flood hazards has been completed, it
is recommended that the area of the 1960 flood and the data from the
detailed soils analysis be utilized to define flood hazard areas within
the planning jurisdiction of Edenton. Developments proposed.in these
areas should be limited to those which could survive flooding with
minimal damage to property. These would include some recreational
• developments, necessary public developments (i.e. water, sewer lines,
etc.) and other low -intensity developments. The limitations for
development in these areas are specified in the Federal Flood Insurance
Program guidelines.

AREA FLOODED BY 1960 STORM
EDENTON NORTH CAROLINA
EXHIBIT 4
/, Cyr � \\.YYY.'\\1/ _- _ • I -ice. -f I
_ oil
1 f 1 4 L

FRAGILE NATURAL AREAS
Areas within the Edenton planning jurisdiction which meet the
definition of fragile natural areas set forth in the Coastal Area
Management Act are the public trust waters, estuarine waters, and
estuarine shorelines (a distance of 75 feet inland from the mean
high water mark) of Edenton Bay and Pembroke, Filberts and Queen
Anne's Creeks. Estuarine waters are generally those affected by
ocean and sound tides whereas public trust waters are navigable
waters used by the public including all surface waters connected to
estuarine waters.
Public trust waters, estuarine waters, and estuarine shorelines
are classified as Areas of Environmental Concern (AFC's) by the Coastal
Resources Commission. As such there are state and federal restrictions
on the types of development and uses which are permitted in these
areas.
Suitable uses (those which can be permitted) include utility
easements,fishing piers and docks (public or commercial, as long
as they do not impede the stream flow), agricultural uses - such
as farming or drainage, as permitted under the North Carolina.
Dredge & Fill Act; grounds and facilities for public recreation
and similar facilities operated on a non-profit basis. The
major concern with development in a community's estuarine system
is to safeguard and perpetuate its biological, social, economic
and esthetic values and to ensure that any development occurring
within the system is compatible with natural characteristics
so as to minimize the likelihood of significant loss of private
and public resources.
Areas with Resource Potential
The LAMA guidelines include agricultural lands, mineral sites,
publicly owned forests, parks, fish and gamelands, and privately
owned wildlife sanctuaries as those with resource potential.
With the exception of agricultural lands and fishing areas, none of
these resources have been identified in Edenton's planning area.
Edenton Bay, Pembroke Creek and Queen Anne's Creek are presently
used for recreational fishing, however, the Chowan River and Sound
are more widely used. A fishing pier, which fronts on Edenton Bay,
is provided by the Town of Edenton. Public and private boat access
to these water bodies are available in Edenton as well as in County
areas. Both water access and quality must be preserved in order to
maintain the recreational value of these water bodies.
• The amount of land available for agricultural purposes in Edenton's
jurisdiction is unknown, although the amount of undeveloped land is
approximately 6,000 acres (see Chapter II). Probably 1,000 acres
of this total can be considered undesirable for agricultural use
since it either floods on a regular basis or is an undeveloped lot.
On a countywide basis, approximately 40,000 acres were in cropland
use in 1978, with a market value of over $16,000,000. Agriculture
clearly plays a significant role in Edenton and Chowan County's economy.
In regards to urban development, agricultural lands act as a constraint
to development in that urban -type development should not be steered
towards the most productive agricultural lands.
31

FRAGILE MAN-MADE AREAS
I The most notable fragile man-made areas within the planning
jurisdiction are the historic sites and homes located both in
and around Edenton's Historic District. The types of developments
permitted within this district are specified in the zoning
ordinance, Section 7-13 "Historic District". Activities
within the historic district are overseen by the Edenton
Historic District Commission.
There are two bulk storage facilities within Edenton's planning
jurisdiction. One is located at the west end of Water Street on
the water. The other is located on the east side of the northern
section of -Coke Avenue. Bulk storage facilities are classified as
industrial land uses, although neither of these facilities are
located in industrial zones. They are, therefore, considered non-
conforming land uses.
A countywide survey of historical and archaeological resources
has been prepared by Chowan County. Edenton should use the survey
to assist in measuring the impact of land development proposals in
the extraterritorial jurisdiction on historical and archaeological
remains. In all likelihood, there are additional structures in Edenton,
but outside the historic district, which have historical or
architectural merit. The N.C. Division of Archives and History is
available to help identify these structures and/or formulate a
program to identify -preserve them. -
Water System Capacity
Edenton's water system serves almost every citizen within its corporate
limits. It also is connected to the Chowan County Water System at two
points in order to either provide or receive water which may be
required during an emergency.
The system's source of raw water is from three (3) existing wells.
One is located on W. Freemason Street at the Utility department headquarters.
A second well is located at the end of Grenville Street at N.C. 32,
and the third is located immediately north of Beaver Hill Cemetery.
The wells provide water to two treatment plants (one on W. Freemason
and the other near Beaver Hill Cemetery). They have a combined pumping
and treatment capacity of 1,200 gallons per minute. Treated water is
pumped to two elevated storage tanks, which have a combined storage
capacity of 800,000 gallons. Utility department staff reports the peak
day demand for the water system was met in the unusually dry and hot
summer of 1980, with demand reaching 750,000 gallons. There are two
major water users in Edenton. One is an elastic dying and sizing
company (George C. Moore Co.) which uses ± 10,000 gallons per day
(gpd) and the Seabrook Blanching Company which averages ±25,000 gpd.
If both treatment plants were operated 24 hours per day total system
capacity would reach 1,470,000 gallons. With a reported peak day of 750,000,
there would be a surplus of 720,000 gallons which could be used to
accomodate new developments.
32

Sewer Svstem Capacit
Edenton's sewage treatment plant according to the 1976 "Wastewater
Facilities Plan", (11201" study) is operating above capacity (1 million
capacity compared to 1.08 million peak load) due to major problems
of inflow and infiltration. Since the Plan was completed efforts
have been made to correct part of this problem, but as of this writing,
the treatment plant, located near Hornblower Point on the Albemarle
Sound, is still operating beyond its design capacity...especially during
wet weather periods when surface water inflow and ground water
infiltration are high. Also, due to new regulations of the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agencies, point -sources, such as wastewater
treatment plant effluents, are no longer permitted to be discharged into the
Albemarle Sound. Therefore, the City is presently investigating the
feasibility of using "land application" of these effluents as a method
of meeting these new regulations.
Until such time as the treatment plant can be operated at optimum
efficiency, no new water -intensive industries can be encouraged to locate
in Edenton. This is the case because those types of industries generally
require treatment of wastewaters in similar amounts to water consumed.
No industry which might require treatment of toxic wastewaters should be
permitted unless pretreatment at the source is required prior to entering
the town's public sewer system. Residential developments can be
accomodated by the present system if they are no larger than similar
developments have been in the past.
The conclusion is that the treatment capacity of the Town's sewage
treatment plant provides a major constraint to the location of new
industries in Edenton's sewer service area. However, even after a
ll
proposed renovations have been made to both the collection and treatment
system, water -intensive (wastewater -intensive) industries should not
be encouraged to locate in Edenton. This is discussed in depth in the
"Industrial Park Feasibility Study", prepared in 1976 for Edenton.
A major recommendation of that study was that..."Edenton attract 'dry'
industries in order to minimize the costs of improvements to water and
sewer systems". That same study also recommended that "light manufacturing
and assembly operations", would be most ideally suited to match Edenton's
labor force and physical characteristics (and its present water and
sewer system).
Chowan County provides "greenboxes", or solid waste containers at
various locations throughout the County. Collected. solid wastes are
then taken to a permitted landfill which is shared by and located in
Perquimans County. Local sources indicate the present landfill has
a useful life of three more years, assuming existing rates of usage.
Collection of solid wastes from the "greenboxes" is contracted out
to a private operator, except in Edenton where it collects its own greenboxes.
Edenton shares the County's landfill. The Town collects solid wastes
twice weekly.
Recreation
All publicly owned park lands in Chowan County are located within the
corporate limits of Edenton. In 1976 these lands included 11 recreational
areas consisting of 8 parks and/or playgrounds, playfields at John A.
Holmes High School and the shared space at the National Guard Armory.
Since that time the park and playground at the east end of Water Street
has been completed, as have two softball fields located off of Badham
Road and on U.S. 17 North at the former drive-in movie site. Other
33

playgrounds are located on low-income apartment and housing sites.
Summer recreation programs for all County residents, including Edenton,
are held at Chowan Junior High School (formerly Chowan High School),
the National Guard Armory and other school locations. There are three
lighted tennis courts at Chowan Junior High School and at the National
Guard Armory. They are all open to the public.
Recreation programs are supervised by the Edenton-Chowan Recreation
Department. Costs are shared, with Edenton providing 2/3 and Chowan
County providing 1/3 of the costs. The department is located in the
National Guard Armory on N. Broad Street in Edenton. While this
facility is now being shared with the National Guard, a new armory is
being constructed at the airport. Upon its completion, the recreation
department will be able to refurbish and utilize the entire armory
building and property.
There are only two points of access to public waters within Edenton's
corporate limits. .One is at the Edenton Marina, which is. a privately
owned establishment located on Pembroke Creek. A privately -owned open -to -
the -public boat ramp for small boats only is located across U.S. 17
Business from Edenton Marina and Pembroke Creek.
Schools
The Chowan County School Board operates one high school (Holmes,
located in Edenton), two junior high schools and three elementary
schools. The 1979-80 school year population consisted of 2,675
total students, compared to 2,820 the preceding year, The loss of
school -aged population in the County was discussed earlier. It should
be noted that this decline in student population resulted in the
closing of Chowan High School and the consolidation of all high
school classes at the John A. Holmes High School. Projections
of school population made by the State Department of Public Instruction
shows a continuing decline through the 1981-82 school year, with
slight increases thereafter. School -capacity, therefore, provides
no constraint for future development... either in the County or within
the Town of Edenton.
Streets & Roads
The "Thoroughfare Plan".for Edenton, prepared by the N.C. Department
of Transportation, states that the opening of U.S. 17 By -Pass resulted
in substantial reductions in the "average daily trips" counted in 1979 on
U.S. 17 Business (Broad Street and Queen Street) except in the Central
Business District. In that area traffic volumes decreased by only
10-15%. It stated further that..."On the average, all other major
street system volumes have grown slightly". However, according to
the comparison of design capacities and actual traffic volumes in
1979-80, (shown in Appendix A of the "Thoroughfare Plan"), only
Granville Street between Queen and Church Streets exceeds its design
capacity at the present time.
Major recommendations from the "Thoroughfare Plan" for "traffic
operations improvements" are shown below.
34

Traffic Operations Improvements
1. It is recommended that Freemason Street be extended from its
intersection with Coke Avenue to N.C. 32 at the intersection of
Old Hertford Road and N.C. 32. From this intersection to the
intersection of Broad Street would be the new alignment of N.C. 32.
Such an alignment would allow traffic to bypass the CBD and would allow
Church and Queen Streets to be developed into a one-way pair.
2. It is recommended that Queen Street and Church Street be developed
into a one-way pair between their respective intersections with Mill
Road Street and a point just south of Filbert Creek on the existing
Queen Street. Queen Street would allow for traffic flow in a southernly
direction while Church Street would provide a northernly flow.
This would allow parking to be maintained on both Queen and Church
Streets while providing adequate width for one -lane traffic movement.
The proposed one-way pair would also aid in improving signal progression
along Broad Street.
3. It is recommended that parking be eliminated along Granville, Water
and Oakum Streets south of Queen Street. This would allow for proper
two-way traffic flow.
4. It is recommended that a "NO U-TURN" sign be placed at the inter-
section of Water Street and Broad Street. This would prevent U-turns
being made by traffic traveling southward on Broad Street from
obstructing.movement on Water Street. Traffic wishing to return down
Broad Street would be required to utilize the traffic circle adjacent
to the municipal building. The traffic circle should be set up as
a one-way street with no parking permitted.
5. It is recommended that Blades Street be extended from its inter-
section with Coke Avenue to Old Hertford Road. This would provide a
connector between Coke Avenue and Old Hertford Road which would be
beneficial to future growth in that area.
6. It is recommended.that parking be eliminated on Albemarle Street so
as to provide adequate width for proper two-way traffic movement..
SUMMARY
Based on the preceding discussions it can be stated that the wet -
weather operation of the Town's sewage treatment plant over design
capacity appears to be the only major public facility constraint to
future development, especially future industrial development. As
solutions to this problem are agreed upon by local, state and federal
agencies, this constraint to development will become at least minimized,
if not completely removed.
Physical constraints to future development are the same as they
have been in the past. Some soils along major drainageways have severe
limitations for urban development. Flood hazard areas tend to follow
the same physical patterns as these soils with limitations (See Exhibit 3.)
While Edenton's subdivision regulations and the County's septic tank
ordinance recognize various physical limitations to development, the
completion and eventual incorporation of the Chowan-Perquimans County
Soil'Survey into the review process for new developments will ensure
the utilization of up-to-date information in making development decisions.
35

CHAPTER IV
INTRODUCTION
Having discussed many facets of how existing development has
occurred in Edenton, and having provided analyses of the relative
strengths & weaknesses of existing land use patterns, an attempt
will be made in this chapter to determine future demands which
will be placed on the land. These demands will include population
and economic growth and the relationships of that growth to future
land needs to accomodate it. The period of concern is from 1980
to 1990.
Much of this chapter is devoted to discussions of development
issues concerning economic and community development which are
prescribed by the land use planning guidelines of the Coastal
Resources Commission. However, if they were not required, it
would be necessary to discuss most of them because of their
applicability to future development in Edenton. From these
discussions and projections of future growth will emerge a set
of policy statements,(in the next chapter) which will include
existing Town policies toward development, as well as possibly.
new policies which may have heretofore not been considered.
POPULATION GROWTH
Recalling the increase in population referred to in Chapter II,
it is relatively safe to anticipate continued growth of County
and Edenton population in the future. While positive population
growth is anticipated... and shown on the following table of
population projections... it must be noted that there are numerous
variables and relationships between them which must be maintained
in the future as they have in the recent past. For example,
should one or two major industries in the County close down and
no new employment opportunities be made available to absorb the
resulting unemployment, it is reasonable to assume that there would
be a significant exodus of Edenton/Chowan County residents to other
employment centers. The exodus in this example would be comparable
to the one experienced in Chowan County during the,fifties and
sixties. Restated, then there has to be a balance between
employment opportunities, capacities of public facilities to
accomodate growth, availability of safe, affordable housing and many
other factors before population growth can be assured. At the
present time all of those variables appear to be in proper balance.
Because of that, reasonable projections of future population can be
made.
36

Table 9 shows projections of future population by five-year
periods. These projections were prepared by assuming 5 and 10 year
increases at least equal to those experienced during the 1970-1980
period. The 1980 population figure is the one shown on Table 1
in Chapter II, which came from 1980 preliminary Census counts. Both
Edenton and Chowan County are shown for comparison purposes.
Table 9...Population Projections - Edenton-Chowan County, 1980-1990
Trends
Projections
Change
Change
1970
1980
1985
No.
% 1990
No.
%
Chowan County 10,764
12,497
13,550
853
6.8 14,230
880
6.6
Edenton 4,956
5,240
5,540
300
5.7 5,800
260
4.7
Extraterritorial
605
725
120
20.0 865
140
19.3
Total Planning
Jurisdiction 5,845 6,265 420 7.2 6,665 400 6.4
Source: 1970 Census of Population, 1980 Preliminary Census County,
Projections by Ferren Planning Group, U.S. Bureau of the
Census
As show, the County as a whole can expect an increase of 853
more residents within the next five years and a total of 1733 more
between 1980 and 1990.
Of the projected 1733 increase, Edenton can expect 844 or about
50% of this increase. This represents an increase of 17% in the
Town's population over the next ten years. The 1980 population estimate
for the extraterritorial jurisdiction was derived by multiplying the
field survey housing count by the 1980 population per household for
Chowan County (assuming lower densities outside the town limits).
The projection of extraterritorial population through 1990 was made by
calculating a reasonable share of the Edenton township, less Edenton,
based on the township's share of population increase between 1970 and
1980. The impacts of these population increases on future development
is discussed later in this chapter.
ECONOMIC GROWTH
The forecasting of employment and other economic trends is, at best,
a "risky business". While portions of this plan have discussed past
trends and their impact on Edenton and Chowan, no attempt has been
made to prepare a complete socio-economic base study. Without such
a study projections of future economic growth cannot be quantitatively
made with any assurance of validity.
It is possible, however, to state that based on past trends in
employment, labor force, retail sales anc commuting patterns et.al.,
Edenton and Chowan County can anticipate positive growth in several
37

sectors of its economy over the next 10 years. This is especially
true in retail sales service and manufacturing employment.
For example, Table 10, below, shows a 3 year trend for non -
manufacturing floor space requirements. Retail floor space, amounted
to 9,000 square feet of building space per year. Were that trend
to continue over the next 5 years, an additional 45,000 square
feet of retail floor space would be required. Realistically, less
than that would probably be needed. However, this estimate does
point out that the retail sales sector of the economy is dynamic
and should continue to be so due to Edenton's place as a recognized
regional center for retail activities. The service employment
sector, spurred by employment at the Chowan Hospital and ancillary
medical facilities may not grow at the rate it has in the past,
but it should at least continue to provide a significant percentage
of the County's total employment.
Table 10...
Space Demand Estimates
by Major
Non -manufacturing
Employment
Categories
Space Need Space
Annual
Employment
Employ.
Employ.
Increase
Factor
Demand
Space
Category
1978
1975
75-78
(S.F./employ.)
75-78
Demand
Transp.,
Comm.,
Util.
140
110
30
200
6000 sf
2000
sf
Trade
920
830
90
300
27000 sf
9000
sf
Fin., Ins.,
Real Est.
70
60
10
200
2000 sf
670
sf
Services
740
490
250
300
75000 sf
25000
sf
Government
590
530
60
200
12000 sf
4000
sf
TOTALS
122000 sf
40670
sf
Industrial development, which provides new manufacturing jobs, is
in a somewhat unique position in the Edenton/Chowan County economy.
Manufacturing jobs in 1978 made up 32% of the total employment.
It would take only the location of one medium-sized industry (such
as Carter Ink) to significantly increase that percentage. Considering
the amount of industrial land available at Edenton's industrial
park and around the airport, along with public facilities to accomodate
new industry, there is reason to believe new industries will locate
in Edenton and Chowan County within the next 10 years.
38

Considering the projected growth in population and the anticipated
growth in the local economy, how then, will this growth take place?
Where will it take place and what types of growth can Edenton
reasonably expect and/or desire? An attempt to answer these questions
is made in the following paragraphs.
IMPACT OF GROWTH ON ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Using the population projections shown on Table 9 and the
existing land use acreages shown on Table 6, ratios of population
per acre of each land use were calculated for the area inside
the Town limits and outside of'those limits (in the extraterritorial
jurisdiction). By assuming that these ratios will remain constant
over the next ten years, they can be multiplied by the projected
1990 populations of each area, resulting in the total number of
,acres needed for each land use. To determine the additional number
of acres which will be needed during this period, the total 1990
acreages are subtracted from those in 1980. Table 11 contains the
results.
Table 11... Projections of 1990 Acreages by Land
Use
1980
1990
TOTAL
LAND USE
ACREAGE
POP/ACRE
ACREAGE
Residential
607.7
-
719.1
In -town
471.1
11.1
522.5
Out -town
136.6
4.4
196.6
Commercial
154.9
-
178.9
In -town
132.0
39.7
146.1
Out -town
22.9
26.4
32.8
Industrial
114.6
-
126.9
In -town
114.6
45.7
126.9
Out -town
-
-
-
Public/Inst.
252.0
-
286.4
In -town
228.1
23.0
252.2
Out -town
23.9
25.3
34.2
Total Developed
1129.2
-
1311.3
In -town
945.8
1047.7
Out -town
183.4
263.6
ADDITIONAL
ACREAGE
111.4
51.4
60.0
24.0
14.1
9.9
12.3
12.3
34.4
24.1
10.3
182.1
101.9
80.2
Recalling the "vacant land analysis" in Chapter II, there are
889.7 acres of vacant land within the corporate limits of Edenton and
5074.9 acres vacant in the extraterritorial jurisdiction ... a total of
5,964.6 acres. Considering the fact that only 182.1 acres will be
required for new development over the next ten years, there appears to
be'ample vacant land to accomodate it.
There are, however, some limitations, both natural and man-
made, as to where this future development may take place. These
limitations were described in Chapter III. For example, while there
It
39

are 926 vacant acres in section 4B, almost 700 of those acres are.
located in wooded swamp which runs generally south of the Town
limit line to the Albemarle Sound. Almost half of the 742 vacant
acres of vacant land in Section 2B is in the drainage basin of
Queen Anne's Creek and is made up of soils which have severe
limitations for urban types of development (See Exhibit 3).
The same is true to a lesser degree in 3A, B and a. The vacant
lands immediately adjacent to Pembroke Creek and Filberts Creeks,
with very few exceptions, fall into the same class of soil types.
These are natural constraints.
Some man-made constraints to development exist, especially
when considering the most appropriate location for this development.
They include such problems as the lack of surplus treatment capacity
at the Town's sewage treatment plant, state control of access to
U.S. 17 Bypass as well as constraints placed on the densities and
types of future development by the Town's own zoning ordinance
and subdivision regulations. All of these constraints as well
as those described in Chapter III have been considered in the
allocation of future development throughout the planning area.
RESIDENTIAL
The projections on Table 11 show a need for 51.4 acres of
new residential development'inside the Town limits by 1990 and a
need for 60 additional acres in the extraterritorial jurisdiction.
With a total need for 111.4 acres in the entire planning jurisdiction
this amounts to 11 acres of new residential development annually
during the next ten years.
During the last decade almost all new single-family development
in Town occurred generally west of Filbert's Creek and south of
U.S. 17 Business (Section 4a). Multi -family developments occurred in
4a and also 2b.
Although the amount of vacant land south of U.S.- 17 Business
is dwindling, it can be safely assumed that single-family developments
will continue in,the same area it has in the past. There are vacant
lots platted as part of existing subdivisions which will provide
some of the projected acreage for single-family development, but
an additional 30-35 subdivided acres will be needed to meet future
demand. Some can be accomodated in the northern part of 4a south
of West Albemarle Street. Some can be accommodated in 3a
(Paxton Lane Area) and in 2b south of U.S. 17 Business. As the
"vacant land analysis" pointed out, in -filling or new development
in the older,.established sections of town, notably in la, 3b and
4c and d, while possible, is unlikely. Therefore, new residential
developments are anticipated in those areas mentioned above.
In the extra -territorial jurisdiction, as inside the Town limits,
new developments will most probably occur near those which have
developed in recent years. This would include two main areas...
south of U.S. 17 Business east of the Town limits (4B) and along
both sides of Mexico Road (SR 1200) east of Pembroke Creek and west
of N.C. 32 (in Section 4A). This latter area warrants further
discussion.
40

Development along Mexico Road has taken the form of strip
residential... homes built side by side along either side of the
road. Two small subdivisions are the only exceptions. Should
demand for future residential development along this road become
evident, as is expected, the Planning Board and Town Council
should carefully consider any proposals for the continued strip
development on this road. By allowing the continuance of strip
development, the carrying capacity of this major artery into
Edenton will be further reduced, as more driveways are cut.
Possible alternative solutions to this particular problem are
discussed later in this report.
Multi -family development will most probably develop near
existing ones. It must be noted that market pressures for more
apartment units may increase if interest rates on new home mortgages
remain as high over the next few years as they have recently.
Should this happen Edenton will have to consider new locations
for multi -family developments.
rnMMF:RrTAT.
According to Table 11 there will be a need for 24 additional
acres for commercial purposes during the planning period...
14 acres inside the Town limits and 10 acres in the extraterritorial
jurisdiction. While this is not an enormous amount of land, the
location of future commercial space will be (and is) a large
question. Commercial development outside of the downtown area
has taken place in two shopping centers, both north of downtown.
Pressures already exist for commercial development around the
intersection of N.C. 32 and U.S. 17 Bypass. Considering the
discussion in Chapter II of Edenton's importance as a regional
commercial center, pressures for commercial developments located
at points with easy access from neighboring counties will most
assuredly increase, especially in Sections 4A and lA & a.
TMUSTRIAL
The 12.3 acres of projected industrial land should be accomodated
comfortably within the existing Edenton Industrial Park. This.is
especially true if Edenton actively solicits the types of industries
recommended in the study, "Industrial Park Feasibility Study for
the Town of Edenton, N.C., 1976". These included "light manufacturing
and assembly operations"...industries, according to that study,
which would be most ideally suited to Edenton's (and Chowan County's)
labor force and physical characteristics. This study also recommended
that only "dry" industries, those not requiring large quantities of
water as part of their processing, be encouraged to locate in Edenton.
By attracting "dry" industries, the existing constraints of the
Town's sewage treatment plant to accomodate major increases of
wastewater would be minimized.
Should a medium to large industry,seek to locate in Edenton,
but not in the industrial park there are large tracts of land suitable
for industrial purposes located adjacent to or near the Town's airport.
These tracts will become more attractive when Chowan County completes its
consideration of a zoning ordinance in the vicinity of the airport, and
41

when sewer service to that area becomes available sometime in
the future.
PUBLIC -INSTITUTIONAL
The projected 34 acres of new public/institutional lands which
will be required over the next decade, should take the form of new
churches, parks, land for local government services, etc. These
uses will develop throughout the planning area. There are
sufficient provisions in Edenton's zoning ordinance to permit
these types of uses in most of the existing zoning districts.
SUMMARY
The impact of the projected growth of population and
development on Edenton and its planning jurisdiction should not be
too severe. It should not take place at the same rate it has in
the past, but it will take place. Considering all constraints to
development, there should be sufficient developable land on which
this development can take place, both inside the town limits and in
the extraterritorial jurisdiction.
The potential probable locations of the various types of future
development discussed above are only possibilities because no one
can predict the availability of property for any particular
development in any particular location. One can only look at past .
development trends and project the continuation of those trends.
Because of this, Edenton can expect requests for zoning changes
from time to time, especially in those instances where land becomes
available in zoning districts which prohibit a particular type or
density .of land use. How then, can Edenton minimize the need and
therefore number of these requests and still accomodate the projected
development needs of the community over the next decade? This is
the subject of discussion in the following chapter.
CAM

CHAPTER V
SPECIAL ISSUES
The Coastal Resources Commission has specified four areas if feels
should be discussed in this plan update. They are:
...Development along U.S. 17 Bypass
...Waterfront/Downtown Development
...Airport Development
...Vacation/Second Home vs. Permanent Home Site Development
Each of these special issues is discussed below in terms of existing
policies related to these areas and in terms of proposed policies where
none presently exist.
Development Along U.S. 17 Bypass
The Town Council has adopted a policy aimed at encouraging development
along the U.S. 17 Bypass. This policy is in the form of a resolution
adopted during the Council's review of the Thoroughfare Plan, prepared
by N.C.D.O.T..in 1980. The Council officially asked D.O.T. to evaluate
the feasibility of providing two additional access points to the Bypass...
one at Albemarle Street and one at Paradise Road. Both streets presently
intersect with the Bypass, but access to it is limited to its intersection
with N.C. 32. The Council feels that these two additional access points
would provide local incentive for future development along the Bypass without
43

reducing the design capacity of this controlled access highway. The
Council's request is presently being.reviewed by the N.C.D.O.T. While
desiring to provide incentive for development along the Bypass corridor,
the Council stipulates that any future development in this area would
have to conform to all local development ordinances and regulations.
In discussing the proposed interchanges the Planning Board reached
general agreement that due to the reduction of revenues for state
highway projects it appears unlikely that the State Department of
Transportation would be able to construct these interchanges during
the planning period. The Planning Board did acknowledge that this
situation could improve. However, should enough funds become available
to develop only one of these interchanges, it was felt that the Paradise
Road interchange should receive first priority due to its proximity to
the existing industrial area. It is felt that the provision of a direct
point of access to U.S. 17 from the industrial area would more easily
facilitate truck movement and.thereby enhance that area's location in
terms of future industrial development.
While no new policy related to this subject is considered necessary,
the first priority designation of the Paradise Road interchange (should
a choicebecome necessary) was considered appropriate to place in this
plan to indicate a preference of one interchange over the other.
Waterfront/Downtown Development
The Town of Edenton has long range plans to purchase and develop
all waterfront property in the downtown area from Oakum Street to Granville
Street. The Town already owns most of this property and has developed two
recreational areas, one at the Municipal Building, which has a small boat
dock and fishing pier. The intent of the long range plan is to provide
maximum public access to public waters along the downtown waterfront.
The long range plan referred to has been adopted by the Town Council and
is, therefore, an official policy of the Town. No other policy is considered
necessary.
Realizing that the downtown area has, over the years, become surrounded
by residential and other uses, the Town Council continues to encourage
local downtown merchants to repair and upgrade buildings in the downtown
area. This encouragement has been exhibited through the Town's preparation
of a downtown development plan; provision of public off-street parking lots
in the downtown area; and by including almost all of the downtown area in
Edenton's Historical District, thus giving the owners of downtown buildings
certain tax incentives for upgrading existing buildings. All of these
actions, being the result of adopted policies,- represent the Town's general
policy of encouraging development of the downtown area of Edenton.
Therefore, no additional policy was considered necessary.
Airport Development
The Town of Edenton actively encourages and participates in the
development of the Edenton Municipal Airport. The Town Council and the
Chowan County Board of Commissioners have appointed representatives
of each body to the Edenton-Chowan Airport Commission, which oversees all
activities and development of the airport. The Town Council has adopted
the "Airport Layout Plan Report" and the "Airport Noise Impact and Land
Use Control Map", both prepared for the Airport Commission through
requirements (and funding) of the Federal Aviation Administration. These
plans provide for future development of the airport and its environs,
44

taking into consideration noise and compatible land use relationships.
In that regard, the Chowan County Board of Commissioners are presently
considering a preliminary zoning ordinance for the area around the
airport with future airport operations and developments. Because
both of the existing plans for the airport have been adopted by the
Town Council, no other policy was considered necessary.
Vacation/Second Home vs. Permanent Home Site Development
As far as can be determined, there are no vacation and/or second
homes located within the Edenton planning jurisdiction. The need for
land for permanent home development has been discussed in detail in the
preceding chapter and in the vacant land analysis in Chapter II. Policies
related to this need are discussed further under "Community and Economic
Development" in this chapter.
STANDARD ISSUES
RESOURCE PROTECTION
Types of Uses Appropriate Within AEC's
As discussed under "Constraints to Development", the Areas of
Environmental Concern (AEC's) within Edenton's planning jurisdiction are
the waters and shorelines of Edenton Bay and Pembroke, public trust waters
and estuarine waters and shorelines of Edenton Bay and Pembroke, Filberts
and Queen Anne's Creeks. There exist state and federal statutes which
limit the types of developments which can take place in AEC's.
The Town of Edenton has officially adopted as part of its Zoning Ordinance
(Section 10-10) the appropriate uses described in State Guidelines for
Areas of Environmental Concern (15 NCAC 7H) by reference and specifies that:
"Prior to the issuance of any initial zoning permit, zoning change permit,
or conditional use permit, the zoning administrator and local AEC
Permit Officer shall determine whether the proposed use or structure
is located within an area of environmental concern. This determination
shall result from both an on -site investigation and a review of the
official AEC overlay map. If the proposed use or structure is located
in an area of environmental concern, the zoning administrator and
local AEC Permit Officer shall certify that the proposed use or structure
complies with development standards of the State Guidelines for Areas of
Environmental Concern prior to issuing any zoning permit."
The suitable uses described in 15 NCAC 7H include utility easements,
fishing piers and docks (public and commercial as long as they do not
impede the stream flow), agricultural uses, such as farming or drainage,
as permitted under the North Carolina Dredge & Fill Act, grounds and
+ facilities for public recreation, and similar facilities operated on a
non-profit basis.
Historical and Archaeological Resources
Policy Statement - It shall be the policy of the Town of Edenton to notify
the N.C. Division of Archives and History when significant land develop-
ment proposals are initiated which are likely to have a detrimental effect
on archaeological or historical resources.
45

CONSTRAINTS TO DEVELOPMENT
The physical constraints to development were described in Chapter III.
The Town of Edenton has recognized these constraints and has included a
policy in its zoning ordinance related to those constraints. It "provides
that the Town will provide for the orderly growth of the Town of Edenton
and will insure that individuals purchasing building lots or living in
the area will be adequately protected by requiring the citizens to meet
minimum Town, County, State and Federal development standards of health,
safety and welfare". It further states that..."(new development) will have
a beneficial impact on the environment in that (because) areas not suitable
for development because of adverse physical conditions will not be developed.
In addition, acceptable standards for the provision of utilities, streets
I
and easements (are) required". This subject is discussed further in
Article III, Section 1.1 of the Town's subdivision regulations, where it states:
"Land subject to flooding and land deemed by the Planning Commission
to be uninhabitable for other reasons shall not be platted for
residential occupancy, nor for such other uses as may increase
danger to health, life, property, or aggravate the flood hazard.
Such land shall not be subdivided unless adequate methods approved
by the Town Engineer are formulated by the developer for meeting
the problem created by the subdivision of such land."
Other Hazardous or Fragile Areas
No other hazardous areas have been identified within the planning
jurisdiction. The only other fragile area is the wooded swamp. It is
included in the Town's policy on development in areas with natural
constraints. It is located in Section 4B, south of U.S. 17 Business
generally west of Filberts Creek. While not classified as an AEC, wooded
swamps are presently being studied by various university groups to determine
their environmental significance. Although not wet swamps (water does not
stand for long periods of time), they are located in areas with extremely
high water tables. These areas are generally unsuitable for any types
of urban development because of this. It is known that the wooded swamps
do serve two useful purposes. First, they provide a sort of natural
filtering service on inland surface waters, so that by the time those
waters reach the river or sound, nitrates or other agricultural chemicals
which may be carried by surface runoff, are naturally removed. Second,
during periods of major flooding, these swamps act to disperse flood
waters, thereby reducing their velocity. Also, particularly in Chowan
County, the wooded swamps act as a buffer between flood waters of the
Chowan River and the inland areas of the County. As discussed earlier,
all of the flooding within Edenton's planning jurisdiction is along the •
creeks. +
Until such time as more detailed studies of the environmental
significance of these wooded swamps are available, the swamps within
Edenton's planning jurisdiction will be subject to the same development
restrictions as in designated Areas of Environmental Concern.
01.

Hurricane and Flood Evacuation Plans
Edenton and Chowan County have adopted the "Chowan County Civil
Preparedness Hurricane Evacuation Plan", prepared in 1978 and revised as
late as February, 1981. No other policy is considered necessary.
RESOURCE PRODUCTION AND MANAGEMENT
Most Productive Areas
The detailed soil survey, mentioned numerous times in this plan, identify
the most productive agricultural lands and designate them by classes. For
purposes of this plan, lands designated as Class I and Class II are
considered the most productive lands, although as stated in the soils survey,
they may not be presently used to their maximum potential. The interesting
thing about these lands (shown on Exhibit 5 ) is that Class I lands which
are the most productive are located near the creeks. For the most part,
they are surrounded by Class II lands, which are situated almost entirely
in areas which are subject to frequent flooding. Both classes of land
are more familiarly known as "rich bottom lands". Because of this,
urban development would be less likely to occur on these lands than on land
which is classified as simply productive. Therefore, because the Town
already has a policy limiting development in areas with natural constraints
to development, no additional policy related to protection of "most productive
lands" is considered necessary. .
Other Resource Production and Management Areas
Within the planning jurisdiction of Edenton there are only a few acres
of commercial forest land. This activity is common to the eastern portions
of Chowan County. There are also no known existing or potential mineral
production areas, nor is there a commercial fishery. Off -road vehicles
do not present an environmental danger to any portion of the planning
jurisdiction. Another issue raised by the CAMA guidelines is that of energy
facility siting and development. Because unusual energy resources have not
been identified in Edenton, the.Town is of the opinion that a policy is unnecessary.
ECONOMIC &'COMMUNITY'DEVELOPMENT
LOCAL COM&IITMENT TO'PROVIDING SERVICES'TO'DEVELOPMENT
The subdivision regulations contain specifications which state when
the Town will, and when it will not extend public facilities to new
developments. Most are found in Article V, "Improvements". Generally,
it states that,..."no municipal services or facilities will be extended
or.furnished by the Town of Edenton to any subdivision established
(after adoption of the subdivision regulations), either inside or outside
the corporate limits until the subdivision has installed the required
improvements or has guaranteed to the Town Council that such improvements
will be installed, as provided in Article V, Section 2".
47

Where a subdivision is too far from existing water and sewer lines
to feasibly extend them to the subdivision, the developer must make
provisions for wells and septic tanks which can meet Health Department
regulations. Because these policies exist and are being implemented,
no new policies were considered necessary.
COMMITMENT TO STATE & FEDERAL PROGRAMS
Since the early sixties, Edenton has participated in and utilized
funds available from state and federal programs of various types.
While the availability of state and federal funds for local programs
has diminished in recent years, it shall, remain the policy of the
Town of Edenton to pursue state and federal funding for local programs
as they are made available. No viable alternative to this policy appears
available.
TOURISM
The history and historical sites and buildings of Edenton have long
been the major tourist attraction of the Town. The Town desires to
continue the attraction of new tourist's dollars. In that regard, it
shall continue to be the policy of the Town of Edenton to cooperate
with local groups associated with the development of tourism (i.e.,
the Women's Club, Edenton's Historic Commission, et.al.) to promote
increased tourism in Edenton. No alternatives to this policy seem
appropriate.
REDEVELOPMENT OF DEVELOPED AREAS
The Town of Edenton has taken actions to redevelop certain areas
of Town which contain substandard housing. A Community Development
Block Grant has been applied for to continue work already begun along
Oakum Street. It is the Town's intention of continuing rehabilitation
of the Oakum Street area to Church Street as federal funds for this
activity become available. Upon completion of work in this area,
The Town intends to seek federal funding to assist in the rehabilitation
of the Eden Heights area. All of the Town's redevelopment efforts
are and will be contingent on the availability of federal funds, since
financing such projects.locally would be prohibitive.
PUBLIC ACCESS TO PUBLIC WATERS
Article III, Section 2.I.2, "Waterfront Subdivisions" in the Town's
subdivision regulations includes provision for access to public waters,
based on subdivision size. It states, "Where a subdivision which adjoins
a waterfront... one or more lots, which adjoin the water's edge, shall
be reserved to provide water access for the owners of interior properties".
As stated under "waterfront/downtown development", the Town is,
through implementation of its downtown development plan, providing
maximum public access to the waters along the downtown waterfront.
Because the long range downtown development plan and the Town's
subdivision regulations both address this issue, no additional policy
statement is considered necessary.
49

TYPES AND LOCATIONS OF INDUSTRIES DESIRED
As discussed in Chapter III, "Constraints to Development", the
"Industrial Park Feasibility Study", prepared in 1976, recommended
that Edenton attract 'dry' industries in order to minimize the costs
of improvements to water and sewer systems. It also recommended that
"light manufacturing and assembly operations" would be most ideally
suited for Edenton/Chowan County's labor force and utility system.
Because of capacity problems with the existing sewage treatment plant,
the location of this type of industry appears to be the only reasonable
policy alternative.
To date Edenton has been able to attract such industries. Most
of them have located in the now -almost -full industrial park north of
Town. The Town has options and agreements with property owners in the
same area for conversion of vacant and farm land to industrial purposes
should an industry wish to locate in Edenton. While the exact number
of acres associated with these options and agreements is not available,
it is felt that only a few new industries would fill up the existing
industrial park as well as other land available in this area of town.
Once this takes place there would be no other land available or even
desirable for industrial uses south of U.S. 17 Bypass.
Alternatives
1. As all available land becomes utilized in and near the existing
industrial park, the Town could adopt a policy of directing all new
industry to the airport industrial area proposed by Chowan County.
By selecting this alternative the Town would not have to allocate
any more land for industry within its planning jurisdiction. However,
because of the City's existing policy of not extending sewer lines
outside of its corporate boundaries, Chowan County would have to
provide some means of developing sewer lines, pumping stations, etc.
to the Town's sewage treatment plant, which is located in the general
vicinity of the airport.
2. The Town could choose to identify land north of U.S. 17 Bypass which
would be suitable for industrial use and compatible with surrounding
land uses.
3. As all available industrial land is utilized, the Town could choose
to prohibit any future industrial development within its planning
jurisdiction.
Alternative Selection - Because the projected need for new industrial
land within the planning period is ±12 acres, a combination of Alternatives
1 & 2 is selected.
POLICY STATEMENT - It shall be the policy of the Town of Edenton to
continue to cooperate with the local Chamber of Commerce and, other local
and state agencies in trying to attract new industry to Edenton and
Chowan County. In this effort, the Town will attempt to locate new
industries in the existing industrial area. Should a prospective industry
require more space than is available in the industrial area, the Town
will encourage it to locate near the airport with the understanding
that it will be Chowan County's responsibility to establish a means for
50

providing sewer service from'that area to the Town's sewage treatment
plant.
TYPES AND DENSITIES OF URBAN GROWTH PATTERNS
The need for new urban land has been discussed at length in preceding
chapters. The additional projected 182.4 acres which will be needed
to meet future demand can be accomodated within Edenton's planning
jurisdiction.
Alternatives
1. The Town could choose to guide their future growth by continuing
to enforce its existing zoning ordinance.
2. The Town could choose to specify type and densities of future
development on the Land Classifications, which is part of this plan.
By so doing, the Town may need'to amend its zoning ordinance in
those instances where proposed future development may be in conflict
with existing zoning.
3. The Town could choose to let development take place without regard
to either the Town's zoning ordinance or subdivision regulations.
Alternative Selection - The Town selects Alternative 2.
POLICY STATEMENT - The Town of Edenton has designated types and densities
of future development on the Land Classification Map of this plan.
In instances where proposed types and/or densities are in conflict
with existing zoning, the zoning ordinance will be reviewed to
determine whether or not amendments to the zoning ordinance will be
required. The discussions of types and densities of:future development
under "Transition" in the Land Classification chapter of this plan
serves as an elaboration of their policy.
CHANNEL MAINTENANCE/DREDGE & FILL PROJECTS
Edenton has participated with the U.S. Corps of Engineers in the
channelizing of both Pembroke and Filberts Creeks in the recent past.
This participation took the form of purchasing rights -of -way for the
two projects. The Town also maintains a spoil area for local dredge
and fill projects which meets the physical criteria of state and
federal regulations.
Alternatives
1. The Town could choose to discontinue its cooperation and participation
in future channel maintenance and dredge and fill projects and
thereby allow nature to "run its course".
51

2. The Town could continue its policy of participating in projects with
state and federal agencies which meet all state and federal environ-
mental regulations, thereby providing maintenance of navigation
lanes for commercial and private boats. Such projects could also
provide flood relief to areas of town where clogged streams may
cause undue flooding upstream. (Such was the case on Filberts Creek).
3. The Town could choose to let state and federal agencies handle any
and all projects without adopting a local policy on the issue.
Alternative Selection - The Town selects Alternative 2.
POLICY STATEMENT - It shall be the policy of the Town of Edenton to
continue its cooperation with state and federal agencies in providing
maintenance of navigation demands in local waters. The Town will
continue to maintain a spoil area for such projects so that they may
be expeditiously completed.
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
The opportunity for public participation in the planning process
has been made during the preparation of this plan ... through public
information meetings, newspaper articles and announcements in the local
media of planning board meetings and subjects to,be discussed.
Alternatives
1. The Town could choose to not seek continued public participation in
the planning process after the completion of this plan.
2. The Town could choose to seek public participation in the planning
process when preparing typical planning documents.
3. The Town could choose to seek public involvement on a regular basis
during the preparation of plans and during the periods when plans
are being implemented.
Alternative Selection - The Town selects Alternative 3.
POLICY STATEMENT - It shall be the policy of the Town of Edenton to
encourage public input and involvement on a continuing basis.
Implementation - During the preparation of community plans, the Planning
Board will hold public information meetings to inform the citizens of
progress on and proposals being made in the plans being prepared.
When no community plans are being prepared, the Planning Board will
inform the local paper of the meeting time of each Planning Board
meeting and the subjects to be discussed. Semi-annually, the Planning
Board will prepare a news article describing actions it has taken and
plans completed during the preceding six months. This process will
continue until the next CAMA Plan update period at which time it will
be reviewed to determine its effectiveness.
52

CHAPTER VI
INTRODUCTION
The final step in the CAMA Plan update process is preparation of a
land classification map. The land classification mapping system was
devised by the Coastal Resources Commission to aid in implementation of
the policies adopted as part of the land use plan. It allows Edenton
to identify precise areas where applicable local, state, and federal
policies will apply. Designation of land classifications permits
Edenton to demonstrate where and at what density urban growth should
occur and areas where resource protection is a priority.
The system contains five separate classifications; developed, transition,
community, rural, and conservation. The following discussion contains
a definition of each classification and an analysis of their impact
on land use. The relationships between Town policies and the individual
classifications are also discussed. One final note —it is important
to remember that land classification is primarily a tool to assist
implementation of policies, not a strict regulatory mechanism.
LAND CLASSIFICATIONS
Developed Land
Areas classified as developed (see Exhibit 6) include lands presently
developed for urban purposes at or approaching a density of 500 dwellings
per square mile which are provided with municipal public services,
including at least public water, sewer, recreational facilities, and police
and fire protection.
The intent of the developed class is to provide areas for continued
intensive urban development and redevelopment. Areas classified as
' developed are generally those lands already used for urban purposes,
although there are scattered occurrences of undeveloped land. Most
of the land area within the Edenton town limits is classified as
s developed while there are no areas outside the town limits in the developed
class.
There are a few undeveloped areas in this classification which do
not have water and sewer service but as they become developed it will be
the developer's responsibility to provide these services in accordance
53

with Town policy. Edenton's historic district is another special land
use contained in the developed classification, and due to its fragile
nature, the Town has adopted a historic zoning district to preserve its
character.
Transition Land
The transition classification contains lands that currently have
some urban services plus additional lands necessary to accommodate
the population and economic growth anticipated within Edenton's planning
` area during the ensuing 10-year planning period. Lands classified as
transition must be served or be readily served by water and/or sewer
and other urban services, and generally be free of severe physical
limitations to development.
It is anticipated that most urban development during the ten-year
planning period will occur on the transition lands shown on Exhibit 6 .
Local, state and federal expenditures on projects associated with
intensive urban development, such as water, sewer, and streets will be
directed to transition and developed lands.
Transition lands are limited to areas within the city limits or in
close proximity to the city limits, in.keeping with the Town's policies
related to provision of services to development and location of high
density urban development.
Unlike the other land classification, the transition class has
been divided into five sub -classes; Residential low density, Residential
medium to high density, Planned Development, Commercial Clusters, and
Light Industrial. The transition class was divided into sub -classes
for two reasons. First, since most urban development in the planning area
will occur on.transition lands it is important to take a more detailed
approach to these areas. Second, because transition areas are largely
undeveloped it is important to indicate general areas where different
types of development should be guided in order to avoid land use compatibility
problems.
R-L - Residential low density - Lands with this designation are considered
most appropriate for single family residential development on lots larger
than 12,000 square feet. Public land uses like schools and parks are
also considered appropriate.
R-M and H - Residential medium to high density - This designation is intended
to provide land for single family, duplex and apartment development,
although these uses are not necessarily considered appropriate when
located side -by -side. Single family and suplex dwellings are envisioned
on lot sizes in the range of 8,000 to 12,000 square feet. A density of
10 to 15 apartment units per acre is considered desirable.
PD - Planned Development - The planned development designation refers to
` developments which may contain a mixture of land uses where the design
for each land use within the development is planned before any construction.
Generally, a planned development includes medium to high density residential
uses and recreation or open space for the residents along with commercial
establishments intended to provide goods and services for the residences
in the planned development. Particular attention is given to the overall
55

design of the development project in order to prevent land use conflicts.
The advantage of a PD is that it allows more efficient use of the
land and permits inclusion of shopping and service establishments
in the neighborhood.
The areas with the Planned Development designation are shown as
a means of indicating locations where developments of variable densities
and types could be permitted. However, this type of development would
require revisions to Edenton's zoning ordinance and careful review of
development proposals.
CC- Commercial Clusters --Lands with this designation are considered
appropriate for shopping center and grouped commercial -service development.
Commercial and service development in a clustered fashion should help to
alleviate the need and demand for strip development.
L-I - Light Industrial - The lands within this designation are considered
most desirable for industrial development and as such should not be
preempted by other land uses because of the importance of industrial
development to Edenton's.economic and community development. In Chapter IV
it was projected that 12 acres of industrial land would be required during
the planning period, am amount approximately equal to the industrial
space that remains undeveloped in the Peanut Drive (industrial park)
vicinity. Yet as mentioned above it is important to reserve land for
industrial development to avoid preemption, to provide alternative
locations, and to prepare for unanticipated industrial development.
As a result, Edenton included approximately 150 acres in the light industrial
class.
Community Land
The community classification is considered appropriate for areas
characterized by,a small grouping of mixed land uses such as residences,
churches, and schools which do not require public sewer service. The
purpose of the community class is to provide for clustered development
to meet housing, shopping, employment, and public service needs within
rural areas. These areas may require City water to eliminate a health hazard
because land use or development density prevents use of both private wells
and septic tanks.
The only area classified as community is located west of Edenton
adjoining Mexico Road and N.C. 32 West. A number of residences, businesses,
and churches are located in this area.
Rural Land
Lands classified as rural are those best suited for agriculture, forest
management, mineral extraction, and low density urban uses where urban
services will not be required and valuable natural resources will not be
over -exploited. The rural class is the broadest of the five land classes
in the sense that a wider range of land uses are appropriate.
Within Edenton's planning jurisdiction, rural lands are located almost
entirely in the extraterritorial area, with the lone exception being a tract
on the eastern side of Edenton south of N.C. 32 East.
Ki

1
Areas were classified as rural for many reasons, but primarily
because the lands are presently best suited for agriculture or forest
production and urban service$ are not expected to be available during
the planning period. The Edenton Zoning Ordinance is consistent with
the areas designated as rural in that all areas designated rural are
zoned RA-20, a district which permits low density residential uses and
has no restrictions on forest or agricultural activities.
Conservation Land
The conservation classification applies to land that should remain
essentially in its natural state, principally because the lands are fragile
or hazardous for urban development or have natural resources too valuable
to endanger. Lands considered appropriate for the conservation class
are those containing major wetlands, undeveloped shorelands that are unique,
fragile, or hazardous for development, wildlife habitat, publicly owned
watersupply watersheds and aquifers, and forest lands which possess severe
limitations for any types of development, and which will remain undeveloped
for commercial purposes.
Several areas in Edenton have been classified as conservation: the
estuarine waters of Edenton Bay, Pembroke Creek, Filbert Creek, and
Queen Anne Creek and wooded swamps. Development in these areas are
presently regulated by Edenton's zoning and subdivision ordinances and the
state guidelines for AEC's in a manner consistent with the conservation
class.
57

t