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HomeMy WebLinkAboutComprehensive Shoreline Access/Recreation and Parks Master Plan-19991 1 C � '. lease do not remove.M.... Division of Coastal Management TOWN OF EMERALD ISLE COMPREHENSIVE SHORELINE ACCESS/ RECREATION AND PARKS MASTER PLAN MARCH, 1999 PREPARED BY: HOLLAND CONSULTING PLANNERS, INC. WILMINGTON, NORTH CAROLINA The preparation of this document was financed in part through a grant provided by the North Carolina Coastal Management Program, through funds provided by the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as amended, which is administered by the Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. 1 TOWN OF EMERALD ISLE COMPREHENSIVE SHORELINE ACCESS/ RECREATION AND PARKS MASTER PLAN MARCH, 1999 PREPARED BY: HOLLAND CONSULTING PLANNERS, INC. WILMINGTON, NORTH CAROLINA The preparation of this document was financed in part through a grant provided by the North Carolina Coastal Management Program, through funds provided by the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as amended, which is administered by the Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. F ' TOWN OF EMERALD ISLE COMPREHENSIVE SHORELINE ACCESS/RECREATION AND PARKS MASTER PLAN TABLE OF CONTENTS ' 1. A. B. Page INTRODUCTION...................................................1 Purpose..........................................................1 Goals and Objectives ................................................ 1 ' II. A. IDENTIFICATION OF EXISTING FACILITIES .................. Public Recreation Areas . .............. 2 2 1. Blue Heron Park .............................................. 2 ' 2. 3. Cedar Street Park ................................... Community Center . .......... 2 . 5 4. Merchant's Park .............................................. 5 ' S. 6. Ocean Oaks Park.............................................5 Ocean Regional Access . 5 7. Third Street Park ............................................ 10 ' 8. 9. Bicycle Path ................ Ocean and Sound Access Sites .................................. 10 10 10. Neighboring Facilities ........................................ 17 ' B. 11. Commercial Project Access .................... and Private Recreational Facilities . .......................... 17 17 ' III. A. RECREATION AND PARKS DEPARTMENT PROGRAMS ...................... Youth . 18 18 B. Adult ...........................................................18 ' C. Youth/Adult.................................................19 ..... D. Special Events 21 ' IV. FACILITY USAGE..................................................22 V. COMPARITIVE ANALYSIS OF EXISTING FACILITIES ........................ 22 ' A. Facilities of Other Oceanfront Communities ...... 23 B. National Recreation and Parks Standards ............................... 25 C. State Shoreline Access Standards ...:................................. 33 VI. FUTURE RECREATIONAL FACILITY NEEDS ............................... 36 ' V1I. GENERAL DELINEATION OF PROPERTIES FOR ACQUISITION/DEVELOPMENT .... 38 A. Discussion of Development Potential .................................. 38 1. Continued Development of Existing Parks and Facilities .............. 38 ' 2. Development of Additional Parks and Shoreline Access Sites .......... 38 VIII. PRIORITIES FOR FACILITIES DEVELOPMENT ............................. 40 ' A. Town of Emerald Isle Capital Improvements Program (CIP) ................. 40 B. Summary of 2005 Facility Demand .................................... 41 C. Final Recreation and Parks Recommendations ........................... 42 D. Funding Sources .................................................. 42 1. Potential State and Federal Shoreline Access Funds ................. 43 a. Coastal and Estuarine Water Beach Access Program ........... 43 b. Water Resources Development Grant Program ............... 43 C. Fishing Access Program ................................. 44 d. Boat Ramp Program .................................... 44 e. Secondary Roads Program ............................... 45 f. Other Programs ....................................... 45 2. Potential Local Funding Sources ................................ 45 3. Potential Sources of Non -Shoreline Access Funding ................. 45 a. North Carolina Department of Transportation ................ 45 b. Division of Archives and History ........................... 46 C. Rural Tourism Development Grants ........................ 46 d. Land and Water Conservation Fund ........................ 48 e. Clean Water Management Trust Fund (CWMTF) .............. 48 f. Parks and Recreation Trust Fund (PARTF) .................... 49 IX. CONCLUSION/SUMMARY............................................ 50 , TABLES Page Table 1 Town of Emerald Isle Synopses of Existing Ocean Accessway Facilities / Sound Accessway Facilities .................... 13 Table 2 Town of Emerald Isle Classification of Park Sites ............ 27 Table 3 Comparison of Emerald Isle's Recreation and Parks Facilities to National Standards ................................... 32 Table 4 Comparison of Emerald Isle's Shoreline Access Sites ......... 35 Table 5 Town of Emerald Isle Summary of Year -Round Population Growth, Selected Years 1996-2005 ....................... 36 Table 6 Demand for Additional Parks Acreage and Facilities .......... 37 Table 7 Facility Demand Through the Year 2005 ................... 41 MAPS Pale Map 1 Blue Heron Park Site .................................. 3 Map 2 Cedar Street Park Site ................................. 4 Map 3 Community Center Footprint ........................... 6 Map 4 Merchant's Park Site .................................. 7 Map 5 Ocean Oaks Park Site ................................. 8 Map 6 Regional Beach Access ................................ 9 Map 7 Third Street Park Site ................................. 12 Map 8A/C Public Recreation Areas ............................... 14/16 Map 9A/C Service Area Radii .................................... 29/31 Ll ' I. INTRODUCTION ' A. Purpose ' The establishment by government of great public grounds for the free enjoyment of the people ... is.. justied and enforced as a political duty. - The Yosemite Valley: A Preliminary Report, 1865. The authors of The Yosemite Valley Report would no doubt wholeheartedly approve of Emerald Isle's continued efforts to provide adequate shoreline access and recreational facilities to its residents and guests. The purpose of this plan is to identify the shoreline access, park, and recreation needs of Emerald Isle's residents and guests. This plan will provide the Emerald Isle Recreation and Parks Department with a comprehensive guide for meeting those needs. Specifically, this plan includes an identification of existing facilities and programs, a comparison of existing facilities to those of other eastern North Carolina municipalities and to national recreational standards, and an identification of existing deficiencies and future recreational facility needs. In growth impacted areas such as Emerald Isle, real estate for shoreline access, parks, and recreation is often at a premium and needs to be acquired in advance before the land is lost forever to development. As a result, this plan will also provide a general delineation of potential properties for acquisition and/or development. Emphasis will be placed on the provision of new shoreline access sites. This plan was partially funded through the Local Planning and Management Grant Program administered by the North Carolina Division of Coastal Management. B. Goals and Obiectives The Emerald Isle 1998 Shoreline Access/Recreation Plan is intended to respond to the following goals and objectives: GOALS * Develop a shoreline access/recreation plan which will be consistent with the town's FY96 CAMA Land Use Plan. * Establish priorities for acquisition and development of shoreline access sites and recreation areas. * Establish a shoreline access/recreation plan which is supportive of 15A NCAC 7M.0300 * Establish a shoreline access/recreation plan which is supportive of AEC protection. 9 OBJECTIVES Coordinate Emerald Isle Recreation/Shoreline Access planning with Carteret County Recreation/Shoreline Access planning. Conduct a comprehensive comparison between Emerald Isle's recreational facilities and other oceanfront municipalities. Produce a plan which is comprehensive in its assessment of recreational needs/issues (not limited to shoreline access needs/issues). Provide a thorough assessment of existing public and private recreational facilities. Assess the need for existing and future Emerald Isle recreational needs based on national recreational standards. Assess the need for on -street and off-street parking facilities at shoreline access sites. IDENTIFICATION OF EXISTING FACILITIES Public Recreation Areas 1. Blue Heron Park Blue Heron Park is located off the 7500 block of Emerald Drive (NC 58) directly north of Town Hall and east of the town's Community Center. This 2.4 acre parcel, of which approximately 1.0 acre is occupied by the Town Hall, includes a picnic shelter with tables and grills, playground equipment, two lighted tennis courts, one lighted basketball court, horseshoe pits, restrooms, and parking for approximately four cars. However, additional parking is available at the adjacent Community Center. This facility was completed in 1989. Map I illustrates the park site. 2. Cedar Street Park Cedar Street Park is located off the 7700 block of Emerald Drive and consists of approximately 0.3 acres. This park was completed in 1996 and includes parking for approximately ten cars, dock, picnic area, and Land Eez wheelchair access to the Bogue Sound shoreline. Map 2 illustrates the park site. 2 LI 11 r--, L L Blue Heron Park Creek Archer Playground Horseshoe Pft Water ourKain Restrooms m c co a Tenni urts Basketball Court Community Center Picnic O Shelter with Tables 3 Grills i v � E a uw _o W H N E 41 U O U Q N � W Q Town Hall W ' Legend fF Table and Grill 4.-b Bicycle Rack i Fence Note: Site plan not drawn to scale. The preparation of this map was financed in part through a gout provided by the North Carolina Coastal Manage nent Program. through UW* provided by the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972. as amerWW, wftrh is WmiwWred by ris Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Maraganent National Oceanic and Abmsphe is Admivstration. 3 Cedar Street Park MAP 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 ------------------------------- Bogue Sound (9;6 cab Parking Area Sound Drive a� c v a) U Legend R Picnic Table & Handicap Access L�fl Observation Deck 4�01 Bicycle Rack 4 The preparation of this map was financed in part through a grant provided by the North Carolina Coastal Management Program, through funds provided by the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as amended, which Is administered by the Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Note: Site plan not drawn to scale. n ' 3. Community Center ' The town's Community Center is located off the 7500 block of Emerald Drive adjacent to the Town Hall. The 14,697 square foot Community Center and gymnasium, completed in 1991, have added greatly to the town's recreational facilities. The Community Center ' includes administrative offices, aerobics room, weight room, multi -use room, game room, small conference room, collegiate size basketball court, and restrooms complete with showers and lockers. Map 3 provides a footprint of the Community Center. ' 4. Merchant's Park This facility is located on the state right-of-way south of the 8400 block of Emerald Drive. Amenities at the park include parking for 25 cars, picnic tables, grills, shelter with restrooms, bicycle racks, and a water fountain. There is no ocean or sound access available from this park. The development of Merchant's Park was made possible through the cooperation of the North Carolina Department of Transportation, the Emerald Isle Business Association, and the Town of Emerald Isle. ' Map 4 illustrates the park site. ' 5. Ocean Oaks Park The Ocean Oaks Neighborhood Park is located in the Ocean Oaks Subdivision just off ' Coast Guard Road. The development of this park was made possible through coordination between the Town of Emerald Isle and the Bogue Banks Water Company. The water corporation permitted the town to install playground equipment, a grill, picnic ' table, bike rack, and one handicapped parking space on a portion of a parcel it was using to operate a pumping station. Although the pumping station is no longer in use, it is still located on site. The town maintains the recreational facilities at the park while the water ' corporation owns the property. Map 5 illustrates the park site. 6. Ocean Regional Access ' The Ocean Regional Access site is located on the 2700 block of Emerald Drive. This park was developed with CAMA grant assistance on 2.3 acres of property acquired in three ' phases between 1991-1996. Amenities at this ocean access site include parking for approximately 200 cars, bath house, outdoor showers, crossover, picnic shelters, tables, grills, and bicycle racks. ' Map 6 illustrates the Ocean Regional Access site. Community Center MAP 3 i Glee* ' Gre j , to Parking Area Blue Heron ���� ORS CoggY Park COMMi+ R /n C InL%n%ty COORD OOM enter GAM E ROOM >- �¢ ROOM oMcR" � Parking FQ CPFNI FkFRC4SFROOM OUT CHFCK 9 ATH aAN STpRAGF �oRp Area 0 TO GYM E W 0 U Q Town Hal l The preparation of this map was inanced In part through a gram provided by the NO* Carolina Coastal Management Program, through funds provided by the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1 gn. as amended, wtuch is administered by the Office of Ocesn and Coastal Resource Management, National Oceanic and Atrnosphenc Administration. Note: Site plan not drawn to scale. r Merchant's Park Emerald Drive Picnic Shelter with R 4yr * Restrooms Water Fountain ►Im, Legend financed in The preparation of this map was part through a grant provided by the North Cardin a a Picnic Table Coastal Management Program through funds provided by the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as Bicycle Rack amended. which is administered by the Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management, National �C Grill oceanic arW Atmosphenc Admnstrabo, Flag Pole Rope Fence Note: Site plan not drawn to scale. 7 ' Ocean Oaks Park V ad duo s'- Goa ' Legend *- Grill ' GL�, Handicap Parking R Picnic Table '4�0 Bicycle Rack � y Rope Fence H2O: Abandoned water pumping station MAP 5 laygroun Area dQ�aGe ine��o P The preparatory of this map was financed in part trough a gngnt pad by the NoM Carolina Coastal Management Proyrm a rmoisids provided by the Coastal zone Management Act of 1972. as amended, which is administered by the Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Managemerd. National Oceanic and Afmosphedc Admniskation. Note: Site plan not drawn to scale. 8 MAP 6 Regional Beach Access NC 58 Parking � o Area Parking N Area UA110 Ocean Drive Bath House 1 V , Picnic ' sheRer i 1 ' Atlantic Ocean Legend Picnic Table cve Bike Rack > Flagpole * Emerald Isle Fishing The preparation of thls map was financed in part Handicap Parking Pier Monument through a grant provided by the North Carolina Coastal Management Program, through iaWs provided by the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1072, as ------• Boardwalk ----Wood Fence amended, which is administered by the Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management, National -+-- Rope Fence Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Beach Access Bath House: includes outdoor showers and restrooms Picnic Shelter: includes tables and grills Note: Site plan not drawn to scale. z I. 7. Third Street Park Third Street Park is located at the 300 block of Ocean Drive. This facility provides pedestrian and Land Eez wheelchair access to the ocean. Amenities at this site include parking for approximately ten cars, boardwalk, and observation deck. Map 7 illustrates the park site. ' 8. Bicycle Path The bike path is a four foot extension on both sides of Coast Guard Road extending ' approximately 2 miles from Highway 58 to Ring Drive. This project was funded through the NC Department of Transportation. F1 9. Ocean and Sound Access Sites The Town of Emerald Isle includes numerous ocean and sound access sites in addition to those already discussed in this plan. Site maps and detailed descriptions of Cedar Street Park, the Ocean Regional Access, and Third Street Park have been provided because these sites are the town's most significant ocean and sound access sites and provide the most in terms of amenities. The town has a total of 56 ocean access sites and 37 sound access sites. The following provides a list of these sites. All of the access sites are dedicated easements and none of the sites are lighted (lights discourage sea turtle nesting). PUBLIC OCEAN ACCESS SITES Signed and have crossovers: 1 st Street Beachview 3rd Street Sea Crest 8th Street Whitewater 14th Street Ebbtide 15th Street Santa Maria 18th Street Nina Street 19th Street Bluewater Drive 20th Street Craig Street 21 st Street Tracy Street 22nd Street James Street 23rd Street Purdie Street Ocean Reef Lee Avenue Gregg Street Seagull Street Tammy Street Ocean Crest Hubert Street Fawn Drive Georgia Street Deerhorn Drive 10 Pi 11 Howe Street Alex Street Bryan Street Edna Street Cedar Tree Lane Hurst Street Channel Drive Unimproved, but are signed: 9th Street 13th Street 17th Street 24th Street Rip Tide Street 11007 Inlet Drive PUBLIC SOUND ACCESS SITES Doe Drive Sea Dunes Drive Conch Drive Ocean Oaks Drive Randy's Way (Page Place) Wyndtree Drive l l th Street 16th Street 21 st Street 25th Street Pinta Street Signed and have walkways: 13th Street (Boat Ramp -Neighborhood -No Parking) Piney Street Ridge Road Lee Avenue Cedar Street Unimproved, but are signed: 8"' Street 16t' Street 171h Street 18`h Street 22"d Street Ocean Reef Park Drive West of Alex Court West of Edna Street Cedar Tree Lane Clark Street Shorewood Drive Whitewater Drive Marsh Cove Ebb Tide Street Santa Maria Street Pinta Street Nina Street Indigo Street 7200 Sound Drive Hickory Street Live Oak Street Table 1 provides a synopses of the town's existing ocean and sound accessway facilities. Maps 8A, 8B, and 8C illustrate the general location of all of the town's recreation and park facilities including parking areas. 11 ' Third Street Park ■ 1 Legend H Observation Deck ' Picnic Table Handicap Access - - - First Line of Vegetation I � �—°- Fence Ocean Drive DID Atlantic Ocean D m W MAP 7 The preparation of this map was financed in part through a grant provided by the North Carolina Coastal Management Program, through funds provided by the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as amended, which is administered by the Ofke of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Note: Site plan not drawn to scale. 12 Table 1 Town of Emerald Isle SYNOPSES OF EXISTING OCEAN ACCESSWAY FACILITIES Accessway Open to Handicapped Off Street Non -Street Type Public Crossovers Decks Docks Accessible Signed Parking Street R/W R/W Paved Local 54 43 — — 2 54 2 0 54 — Neighborhood 1 1 1 — 1 1 1 — — Regional 1 1 1 — 1 1 1 1 1 — OCEAN TOTALS 56 45 2 — 4 56 4 1 55 — SYNOPSES OF EXISTING SOUND ACCESSWAY FACILITIES Accessway Open to Handicapped Off Street Non -Street Type Public Crossovers Decks Docks Accessible Signed Parking Street R/W R/W Paved Local 36 5 2 — 1 26 — 16 24 6 Neighborhood 1 — 1 1 — 1 Regional — — — — — — — — — — SOUND TOTALS 37 5 3 1 1 27 1 17 24 7 Source: Town of Emerald Isle Recreation Department. 13 MAP 8A -- I St I t , ,� . - 1 . LEGEND OCEAN AND SOUND ACCESS SITES OPEN IMPROVED OPEN UNIMPROVED PARKOJG 0 1. CEDAR STREET Is SPACES) A BLUE HERON PARK 2 OCEAN DRIVE BETWEEN 3RD AND 4TH STREETS (13 SPACES) B CEDAR STREET PARK 3. COMMERCIAL AREA SOUTH OF WATERS EDGE MOBILE HOME PARK (50 SPACES) C COMMUNITY CENTER 4. ISLAND HARBOR MARINA (75 SPACES) D MERCHANTS PARK 5. e. PARK STREET (74 SPACES) REGIONAL BEACH ACCESS SITE (170 SPACES) E OCEAN OAKS PARK F OCEAN REGIONAL ACCESS The preparation of this map was financed in part through a grant provided by the North Carolina Coastal Management Program. through funds provided by the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972. as amended. wnich is administered by the Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. 9 CAMRON LANGSTON BRIDGE TOWN OF EMERALD ISLE PUBLIC RECREATION AREAS 14 4 MAP 8B I � I i I BOGUEI I i 1 I I I I • I 1 1 1 1 ti a ti 1 1 rT cr C 1 r-- 1 ► 1 a ; ° 1F �a p 3 r 1 u 1 1 1 1 •I■ • ■ I • sr A TL ANT/C LEGEND OCEAN AND SOUND ACCESS SITES OPEN IMPROVED OPEN UMIMPROVED PARKING O 1. CEDAR STREET (5 SPACES) A BLUE HERON PARK - 2. OCEAN DRIVE BETWEEN 3RD AND 4TH STREETS (13 SPACES) B CEDAR STREET PARK 3. COMMERCIAL AREA SOUTH OF WATERS EDGE MOBILE HOME PARK (50 SPACES) C COMMUNITY CENTER 4. ISLAND HARBOR MARINA (75 SPACES) D MERCHANTS PARK ' S. PARK STREET (74 SPACES) E OCEAN OAKS PARK 6. REGIONAL BEACH ACCESS SITE (170 SPACES) F OCEAN REGIONAL ACCESS The preparation of this map was financed in part through a grant provided by the North Carolina Coastal Management Program, through funds provided by the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972. as amended, which is administered by the Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. S O UNO OCEAN aN TOWN OF EMERALD ISLE PUBLIC RECREATION AREAS irwcr . rav 15 4 MAP 8C ' I I BosvE sovao i I I __ ,■ I I I I 1 t , I � � I , Avow M., I, i I I• ■ i. , I■ i i 1'. N N ♦ N ^ N N N N N ArAl G N t t t E E t t w , t t 2 t 4 ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ N . I I �` Iti e 1 I I t t w ^ Y aunv ~ [ I+ tip^ 1 I; 1 w cww I 1 1 1 I I I ~ 1 I 1 1 • ■ ■ ■ � � ■ I ■ ■ � ■ � ■ � ■ • © 3• i ■ I ■ • I ■ ■ •I i•• •*2 * ■ I I I I , I ( is g I a s f s ! r NiI AV M A f a ~ p � *5 A TL AMT/C OCEAN LEGEND OCEAN AND SOUND ACCESS SITES OPEN IMPROVED ■ OPEN UNIMPROVED MRKING O t. CEDAR STREET (5 SPACES) A BLUE HERON PARK 2 OCEAN DRIVE BETWEEN 4TH STREETS SPACES) B CEDAR STREET PARK 3. COMMERCIAL AREA SOUTHOP WATERS EDGE MOBILE HOME PARK (50 SPACES) OF C COMMUNITY CENTER 4. ISLAND HARBOR MARINA (75 SPACES) D MERCHANTS PARK 5. PARK STREET (74 SPACES) E OCEAN OAKS PARK 6. REGIONAL BEACH ACCESS SITE (170 SPACES) F- OCEAN REGIONAL ACCESS The preparation of this map was financed in part through a grant provided by the North Carolina Coastal Management Program. through funds provided by the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972. as amended. which is administered by the Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. F TOWN OF EMERALD ISLE PUBLIC RECREATION AREAS Auce r. soio- 16 7 10. Neighboring Facilities In addition to these facilities located in town, there are several recreational facilities of regional significance located nearby: * the county -owned Western Carteret Park Community Center located in Cedar Point provides Emerald Isle with access to: 2 soccer fields, I youth baseball field,1 multi- purpose field, and 1 softball field; * Fort Macon, a state-owned facility 2.3 miles to the east of Atlantic Beach; * Hammocks Beach, another state-owned facility 12 miles south of Emerald Isle near Swansboro; and * Theodore Roosevelt Park, a county -maintained facility 1.5 miles away near Salter Path and Hoffman Beach. Emerald Isle Branch Library, located on Leisure Lane across from the Emerald Isle Town Hall. 11. Project Access Project Access is a special project intended to increase the number of beach and sound handicap access points and also to provide Land Eez wheelchairs (customized for beach use) to enhance the mobility of the physically handicapped. Concerned Emerald Isle families, businesses, and the Town of Emerald Isle have worked together to develop Land Eez access sites at Third Street Park, Blackskimmer, Cedar Street Park, Randy's Way, and Channel Drive. Beach wheelchairs are available from the Emerald Isle Fire Department (near Town Hall), and are available at no charge to anyone who needs them. Chairs come apart easily for transport in a car trunk. B. Commercial and Private Recreational Facilities ' There are three privately -owned recreational facilities in Emerald Isle (two on the ocean side; one on the sound side). Ocean side facilities include: ' * motel and pier, end of Bogue Inlet Drive * resident parking and ocean access for Ocean Forest Subdivision The facility on the sound includes the marina facility at Old Ferry Road, with a fishing and boat supply concession, boat ramp, docking facilities, and boat slips for rent. 1 17 III. RECREATION AND PARKS DEPARTMENT PROGRAMS The Recreation and Parks Department organizes programs and events which cater to participants ' of all ages. The following provides a summary of youth, adult, and youth/adult programs, and special events administered by the Town of Emerald Isle Recreation and Parks Department. A. B Youth Mothers Morning Out Youth ages 2 - 4 27 participants The children meet twice a week for three hours. They learn finger play, sing songs, enjoy circle time, playing with peers, and preschool activities. Summer Camp Youth ages 6 - 12 120 participants Offers four two -week sessions from 8 am to 5 pm. The children enjoy fun educational activities in their community. The groups participate in field trips daily, enjoy crafts, structured group activities, and outdoor adventures. After School Program Grades K - 5 20 participants Children come to the Community Center after school for fun activities while parents finish their day at work. Activities include homework, snack time, game room and gym activities, arts & crafts, and group play. Indoor Soccer Clinic Youth ages 10 -16 Approximately 30 participants Organized instruction to teach basic soccer skills and game play situations. Held in the gym for one week. Adult Basket weaving Approximately 12 participants An eight -week course is taught to adults. The class caters to individuals of both beginner and advanced skill levels. Bridge Approximately 32 participants The bridge group meets on a designated night at the Town Hall. The group is experienced but welcomes beginners with some general knowledge of the game. 18 1 ' Ball Room Dancing Approximately 10 participants ' Instructor teaches a series of ball room dancing to both beginner and intermediate level couples. ' Stamp Club (youth welcome) 12+ participants The Stamp Club meets twice a month at the Community Center. They exchange stamps ' and document current value of one's collection. Mixed Media ' Approximately 8 participants Instructor provides assistance to participants during class. The class has a variety of media including oil, acrylic, chalk, pen and pencil. Hypnosis Seminars 4-12 participants The seminars are offered for weight loss and cigarette smokers. The instructor is a ' certified Hypnotherapist with experience in relaxation techniques. Adult Basketball League Approximately 175 participants Organized league play held in the gym. C. Youth/Adult ' Art Lessons Ages 6 - Adult Approximately 28 participants ' A variety of art lessons are taught by the instructor. The class includes clay, pottery, pen/pencil, and painting. Shag Lessons Youth - Adult Approximately 20 participants The class meets for eight weeks. Both individuals and couples are encouraged to participate. They learn the basic steps for shag music. Home Companion Course Canines and owners of all ages Approximately 20 participants Instructor teaches owners how to train their pets on a leash, simple commands, and the basic K-9 friendly rules for domesticating your pet in today's environment. Shell Club Youth - Adult Participation varies The Community Center hosts the NC Shell Collecting Club's yearly conference and shell display. 19 Potluck Dinners All ages Participation varies The Community Center hosts a potluck dinner for members and guests quarterly. Music is provided for entertainment by the "For Dancers Only." Aerobics Teens - Adults Participation varies A variety of exercise classes are offered for a wide age group. Fifteen classes per week are offered. The instructors do a complete program with the beginner and advanced level participant in mind. Indoor Soccer Games Youth - Adult Approximately 20 participants Pick-up games for all interested players. Held once a week in the gym. Volleyball Games Youth - Adult Approximately 20 participants Pick-up games for all interested members. Held twice a week in the gym. Spring Kayak Workshops Youth - Adult Approximately 10 participants Small clinics held at random in the spring for kayak enthusiasts. Workshops are held on the beach and in the sound. Basketball Games Youth - Adult Approximately 15 participants Pick-up games for all interested players. Games are held in the gym two nights a week. Tennis Lessons Youth - Adult Approximately 20 participants An ongoing program offered to better one's tennis skills and ability. Held on the tennis courts behind Town Hall. Swimming Lessons Youth - Adult Approximately 35 participants Organized lessons for a wide range of abilities. Held in summer months at Bridgeview Campground. 20 1 Tread Wall Climbing Center Youth - Adult ' Approximately 90 participants Climbing activities are accomplished via a 12-foot wall that rotates as the climber ' advances. Stationed in the gym, participants are free to use the wall at will. The climbing center is also used for organized games and activities throughout the year. ' D. Special Events Halloween Carnival ' Youth ages 0+ 75 - 100 participants The Community Center hosts a carnival to offer children a safe environment for ' Halloween. The children enjoy playing carnival booth games and activities. Breakfast with Santa ' Youth ages 0+ Approximately 75 participants Children come to the Community Center for breakfast with the arrival of Santa Claus. ' Santa spends quality time with each child as they share their Christmas wish list. Easter Egg Hunt ' Youth ages 0 - 12 Approximately 85 participants A celebration for Easter. ' Emerald Isle Sea Kayak Festival ' Youth - Adult Approximately 75 participants A weekend of clinics and workshops for beginner and skilled kayakers. Events are held ' at different locations in the sound and in the ocean. Little Angel 8K Road Race Youth - Adult Approximately 100 participants Road race for runners of all ages. Located at the ocean regional access. Overall winners ' and age group winners are awarded trophies. St. Patrick's Festival ' Youth -Adult Approximately 18,000 participants The festival began in 1991 with an attendance of about 8,000. The 1999 festival had a ' record attendance of 18,000. The event is sponsored by The Emerald Isle Business Association and this department. It features around 80 arts and crafts vendors, 15 food vendors, children's activities and live entertainment on three stages. ' 21 IV. FACILITY USAGE All of Emerald Isle's park facilities are utilized on a regular basis by numerous residents and guests visiting the town. However, because the majority of the town's facilities are not staffed and there is no other means by which to precisely monitor visitation, it is difficult to derive figures for facility usage. The following figures have been estimated by the town's Recreation and Parks Department staff based on general observations. The reader should be cautioned that these figures are intended only to provide a general indication of visitation. Facility Visitors per day Blue Heron Park (includes courts) 60 Cedar Street Park 35 Community Center 175 Merchant's Park 25 Ocean Oaks Park 15 Ocean Regional Access In season 500 Off season 75 Third Street Park 30 Source: Town of Emerald Isle Recreation and Parks Department V. COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF EXISTING FACILITIES The adequacy of Emerald Isle's recreation and parks facilities may be examined through comparisons between the town's facilities to those of other oceanfront communities and to national recreation standards. However, it should be noted that Emerald Isle is unique in its geographical, cultural, social, economic, and environmental characteristics which make comparisons difficult. Furthermore, the national facility standards utilized in this study were developed in 1983 by the National Recreation and Parks Association and published in the Recreation. Parks and Open Space Standards and Guidelines. This publication was intended to provide national guidelines which could serve as an expression of reasonableness and adequacy with respect to quality service delivery. However, these guidelines reflected professional judgement, rather than an assessment of community needs, and no two communities are the same. In addition, many communities have found the national guidelines difficult to meet. 22 1 A. Facilities of Other Oceanfront Communities ' The following provides a summary of recreation and parks facilities offered by seven other oceanfront communities in North Carolina: ' Atlantic Beach (population 2,255) Located on the eastern end of Bogue Banks, Atlantic Beach maintains 52 ocean access sites ' of which three are considered improved. The three improved sites include two ocean regional access sites and one boat ramp. The town has only one non -shoreline related recreational site, a small unimproved mini -park. ' Carolina Beach (population 4,690) Located approximately 90 miles south of Emerald Isle in New Hanover County, the Town ' of Carolina Beach maintains six public beach access sites, three parks, one recreation center, and two stages (one with a gazebo) for special events. However, it should be noted that there are approximately 20 beach access sites and several sound access sites located in Carolina Beach which are maintained by either the State of North Carolina or ' New Hanover County. The following provides a summary of the facilities offered at the town's parks and recreation center: ' Mike Chappell Park * One (1) softball field. * One (1) multi -purpose field. * Two (2) tennis courts. ' * One (1) volleyball court. * One (1) playground. ' Lake Park * One (1) picnic shelter. * Six (6) gazebos surrounding the lake. ' * Bathroom facilities. * One (1) playground. Wilson Park ' * One (1) basketball court with one (1) goal. * One (1) playground. ' Recreation Center * Six (6) basketball goals (indoor). ' * One (1) handball court. * Arts and crafts area. * Aerobics room. ' * Fully equipped kitchen. 1 23 1 Indian Beach (population 184) Indian Beach, which neighbors Emerald Isle to the east, maintains one improved ocean access site. No other facilities are offered by the town. However, there is one regional ocean access facility in Salter Path which is maintained by Carteret County. Salter Path is located in the middle of Indian Beach and divides the town into eastern and western sections. Long Beach (population 5,072) Located approximately 105 miles south of Emerald Isle in Brunswick County, the Town of Long Beach provides 55 ocean access sites, ten sound access sites, one park, and one recreation center. In addition, the town maintains a bike route which includes approximately 8 miles of signed roadway. The route connects both ocean and soundside areas and extends past 34 of the town's shoreline access sites. The following provides a summary of the facilities offered at the town's park and recreation center: Middleton Park * Two (2) lighted paved tennis courts. * Wooden Benches. �k Trash receptacles. * One (1) little league field. * One (1) softball field lighted with dugouts and bleachers. * One (1) paved lighted basketball court. * Unpaved parking. * Lighted covered shelter. * Two (2) small wooden buildings with concession area. * Restroom facilities. �k Eight (8) metal swings. �k One (1) fiireman's pole. * Picnic tables. �k One (1) water fountain. �k Three (3) outdoor electric outlets. �k One (1) covered recreational bulletin board. * Wooden jungle gym. Long Beach Recreation Center * 37 parking spaces. * Seven (7) swings. �k One (1) metal "jungle gym". * One (1) circular slide. * Two (2) barbeque pits. * Two (2) picnic tables. �k One (1) water fountain. * Two (2) area lights. �k Bicycle parking racks. �k Shuffle board court. * Recreation center building. 24 North Topsail Beach (population 1,091) The Town of North Topsail Beach, located approximately 40 miles south of Emerald Isle, does not operate any recreational facilities. Onslow County maintains four regional beach access sites and the North Carolina Wildlife Commission operates one regional boat access area within the town. However, these facilities sustained considerable damage during Hurricane Fran and although open for use, have not been completely rebuilt to pre -storm condition. Pine Knoll Shores (population 1,586) Pine Knoll Shores is located between Indian Beach and Atlantic Beach approximately 5 miles east of Emerald Isle. The town does not provide any public ocean or sound access sites. All recreational facilities including boat ramps, tennis courts, golf course, and ocean access sites are privately owned. Topsail Beach (population 434) The Town of Topsail Beach which is located in Pender County, approximately 50 miles south of Emerald Isle, provides 19 ocean access sites and one sound access site. All of the access sites are unimproved. No public parks or improved access sites are provided by the town. Compared to the recreation and parks facilities available at the seven oceanfront municipalities previously described, the facilities offered by Emerald Isle are well above average. In fact, it is probably safe to say that there are very few oceanfront municipalities in North Carolina whose recreation and parks facilities are equal to those provided by Emerald Isle. ' B. National Recreation and Parks Standards ' Each of Emerald Isle's existing park facilities may be classified by function as either mini, neighborhood, or community parks. The National Recreation and Park Association provides the following descriptions and standards for each of these park classes. Mini -Park Mini -park is the smallest park classification and is used to address limited or isolated ' recreational needs. Examples include: �k Concentrated or limited populations. ' * Isolated development areas. Unique recreation opportunities. ' In a residential setting, vest-pocket parks serve the same general purpose as mini -parks and totlots of the past. They are also intended to address unique recreational needs, such as: ' * Landscaped public use area in an industrial/commercial area. Scenic overlooks. ' * A play area adjacent to the downtown shopping district. 1 25 Although the past classification mini-parkwas often oriented toward active recreation, the new classification vest-pocket has a broader application that includes both active and passive uses. Examples of passive uses includes picnic areas, arbors, and sitting areas. Locational Criteria: Although demographics and population density play a role in location, the justification for Vest -Pocket Park lies more in servicing a specific recreational need or taking advantage of a unique opportunity. Given the potential variety ofvest-pocket park activities and locations, service area will vary. However, in a residential setting, the service area is usually less than a 1/4 mile in radius. Accessibility by way of interconnecting trails, sidewalks, or low -volume residential streets increases use opportunities and therefore is an important consideration. Size Criteria: Typically, vest-pocket parks are between 2,500 square feet and one acre in size. However, park areas less than 5 acres would technically be considered a mini -park. Anything larger would be considered a neighborhood park. Neighborhood Park Neighborhood parks remain the basic unit ofthe park system and serve as the recreational and social focus of the neighborhood. They should be developed for both active and passive recreation activities geared specifically for those living within the service area. Accommodating a wide variety of age and user groups, including children, adults, the elderly, and special populations, is important. Creating a sense of place by bringing together the unique character of the site with that of the neighborhood is vital to successful design. Locational Criteria: A neighborhood park should be centrally located within its service area, which encompasses a 1/4 to'/z mile distance uninterrupted by non-residential roads and. other physical barriers. These distances might vary depending on development diversity. The site should be accessible from throughout its service area by way of interconnecting trails, sidewalks, or low -volume residential streets. Ease of access and walking distance are critical factors in locating a neighborhood park. A person's propensity to use a neighborhood park is greatly reduced if they perceive it to be difficult to access or not within a reasonable walking distance. Frequently, neighborhood parks are developed adjacent to elementary schools. Size Criteria: Demographic profiles and population density within the park's service area are the primary determinants of a neighborhood park's size. Generally, 5 acres is accepted as the minimum size necessary to provide space for a menu of recreational activities and 7 to 10 acres is considered optimal. Community Park Community parks are larger in size and serve a broader purpose than neighborhood parks. Their focus is on meeting the recreation needs of several neighborhoods or large sections of the community, as well as preserving unique landscapes and open spaces. in l� 11 They allow for group activities and offer other recreational opportunities not feasible —nor perhaps desirable —at the neighborhood level. As with neighborhood parks, they should be developed for both active and passive recreation activities. Locational Criteria: A community park should serve two or more neighborhoods. Although its service area should be 0.5 to 3.0 miles in radius, the quality of the natural resource base should play a significant role in site selection. The site should be serviced by arterial and collector streets and be easily accessible from throughout its service area by way of interconnecting trails. While community parks should be strategically sited throughout the community, their locations can be significantly impacted by other types of parks. Most notable among these are school -parks, natural resource areas, and regional parks —each of which may provide some of the same recreational opportunities provided in community parks. The level of service these other parks provide should be used, in part, as justification for or against a community park in a specific area. Size Criteria: Demographic profiles, population density, resource availability, and ' recreation demand within its service area are the primary determinants of a community park's size. Although an optimal size for a community park is between 20 and 50 acres, its actual size should be based on the land area needed to accommodate desired uses. Table 2 provides a summary of Emerald Isle's parks by park class. It should be noted that the town's parks have been classified to a larger degree on function than on the physical size of each facility. In addition, Cedar Street Park and Third Street Park, both shoreline access facilities, have been included in the classification below because they also serve as park facilities for the town. The remainder of Emerald Isle's ocean and sound access sites are not considered parks and have not been included in the following table. Table 2 Town of Emerald Isle Classification of Park Sites Mini -Park Cedar Street Park Merchant's Park Classes Neighborhood Park Ocean Oaks Park Third Street Park Community Parl< Blue Heron Park As Table 2 indicates, out of the town's five total park sites, two can be considered mini -parks, two neighborhood parks, and one as a community park. Map 9 illustrates the general service area for each park and the relationship of Emerald Isle's park sites to existing development. 27 It should be stressed that the service area radii indicated on Map 9 have been based on National Recreation Standards as determined by the National Recreation and Parks Association and are intended only to provide a general estimate of park service areas. The establishment of these service areas does not necessarily mean that individuals from outside a given park's service area will not commute to the park. The Blue Heron Park is a known example where, in some cases, people commute to the park from outside the 3 mile service radius that has been provided. However, for the purpose of analysis, the 3 mile service radius as provided by the National Recreation and Park Association for Community Parks has been utilized. In addition, while reviewing Map 9 it is also important to be aware that because the town's Community Center serves the entire town, service radii are not necessary and have not been mapped for this facility. Generally, the Town of Emerald Isle appears to have fairly adequate recreational facilities in terms of spatial coverage. The central and western/central portions of the town are served by Blue Heron Park, Cedar Street Park, Merchants Park, and Ocean Oaks Park while the far eastern portion of the town is served by Third Street Park. Although the Emerald isle Community Center serves the entire town as a source for recreational activities, there do appear to be two (2) geographic areas where the addition of a park could benefit recreation and park coverage and service. These two (2) areas are described as follows: �k west from the 10,000 block of Coast Guard Road to the end of the island. * between the 4,500 block and 800 block of Emerald Drive. Although the areas described above appear to need recreation and parks facilities, the reader is cautioned that it may be difficult for the town to provide facilities in these areas due to the shortage of real estate in town. There are very few vacant parcels of land left in Emerald Isle that are large enough to accommodate recreation and parks facilities. Potential properties for acquisition/development will be discussed in Section VII of this plan. In addition to the recreation and parks service area approach previously discussed, the adequacy of Emerald Isle's recreation and parks system can be examined through the utilization of additional national recreation standards. These standards are based on the acreage of park sites and the number of facilities per capita. Table 3 provides a summary of Emerald Isle's parks and recreation facilities and how they compare to generally accepted national recreation standards. 28 E f /V I +�j • tors a. CAM13PIDGE ANGSTON � c 1 .r•r 1141 I r , I,I•I' I I - I I ' ` I MOBILE HOM SITE$ ( 1 r � � �� � ( I i1•"i � 'tr � t 1 • tit la 1 It(t--_/MI rT ..wsirA, 1 ear •�"� • .d ! f 5. x r` 1I� •• • • I • 1 • EKF/L:. 8 1 ^y;1 .fir •(� •!► .1 • r 1 ii ♦ (►• �: f .(► is ' I n t '°�1 t_N e!: 1 ► Cr .I cxws,e I f 1•• •: �'I f �(► • j • 1 e t! :) p r a l = r► •. � r ,µIT . >~*•�" I • � � . •1 ► � .. 1 � ♦ ' f•: " n 1 INN • f 'r ' •� � ! a,sr '�`=t;,y,.r � r' ! • � • ► • . • : • •. • id N •`„ t =''t t • • .Ir n .:% • �•• • • r • ♦♦ 1 �, t• r I• I 1 r i t; !• �I cewcFr A TL ANT/C I I Radius for Blue Heron Park LEGEND ( � RESIDENTIAL IXiT Si - ,gESIDENTIAL UNITS SINCE 1= Q BLUE HERON PARK - 3 MI. RADIUS The part tnr gh of this map was y the d in port through a grunt provided by tns ® COMMERCIAL ©CEDAR STREET PARK -19 MI. RADIUS North Corollna Coastal Management Program. through tends provided I> the MOBILE HOME CONCENTRATIONS I O3 COMMUNITY CENTER -SERVES ENTIRE TONM; RADIUS NOT NECESSARY Coastal Zone Management Act df 19T2. as gmendeq which is aaministered by the ==;< COASTAL WETLAND Oi MERCHANTS PARK -tl4 MI RADIUS Office of Ocean and Coastal kesource Management. National Oceanic anc 1 - 54 BLOCK NUMBERS Atmospheric Administration. M« 114 MI. RADIUS Q OCEAN OAKS PAPK -12 MI. RADIUS ••�•�• 1/2 Mt. RADIUS •�� 3 MI. RADIUS © THIRD STRE=T PARK- 12 MI. RADIUS WATERSHED NONMRY LINE I v I ;C i I Q 20 MOBILE HOMES f . - •� .. i• • «••••••• •• • •e e, se••.••. •etra MAP 9A TOWN OF ZWERAL D /SL E SERVICE AREA OF EXISTING PARK SfTES 42 at 4J i \ I t h I dry ..,,;• J.♦,( • .. , . 1 ••• . ♦, . •Ile h y ti .' • « • • • ...• 3 • • 1 !y1 1 ebwq ux�lnws • • • • is • I I • • •.• •• � • � � � gt 11 � - - l ( i a I I 1 I I I le •f.. 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SERVES ENTIRE TOWN: RADIUS NOT NECESSARY Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972. os amended, which is administered by the COASTAL WETLAND Q MERCHANTS PARK- 114 MI. RADIUS Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management. National Ocemec ano I - 54 BLOCK NUMBERS Atmospheric Administration. ��� 114 MI. RADIUS OS OCEAN OAKS PAPK -12 Mi. RADIUS ••�•�• tl2 kiltRADIUS • 3 MI. RADIUS © THIRD STREET PARK - 12 Mi. RADIUS WATER311ED BOU/C.RY La1E MAP 9B TOWN OF FNERAL D ISLE' SERVICE AREA OF EXISTING PARK SITES 30 Radius for Blue Heron Park Q� _ _ _ • I 030201060200512 I 03020106030082 I t - samogot '; '� cer•r I ' I �.:�' 114 -`' I s W I. ..... LERELx • • T T.- � i J. t4-1 • 1 I I I i I I I B O G!/E S O !/NO ( wl I I I I I I I I I f t • •• 'LA. �•• v •• •W' ••• •• 1 • •••• 'a~ ' ' • .':'.� • • ••i ElER.4D i i • •• • E •• ••• •••••• • i • • i ••••i •• • i ••• ••� • A••i • • ♦w •••• • ••••! ' • I e • i a I• J ...�•e•• • •••• M•• ••• •••••• {• ••••••• ••••••• • •••• ••• ............•• • • •N••1• •N .• •• ••�• I 1 1 I I I / A TL,4NT/C 0CE.4N N LEGEND RESIDENTIAL UNIT(S) A 1REStDENTIAL UNIP' SINCE im Oj BLUE HERON PARK-3 The preparation of this map was financed MI. RADIUS M part though o grant provided by the ' ®nt COMMERCIAL CEDAR STREET PARK -114 MI. RADIUS I MOBILE HOME CONCENTRATIONS 0 COMMUNITY CENTER SERVES TOWN: Program, �Irthrough funds provid 0eby the Coastal Zone MGnagement Act of 1972. by Ine COASTAL WETLAND - ENTIRE RADIUS NOT NECESSARY Ot MERCHANTS PARK -114 MI. RADIUS as amended, which is administered Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management, National Oceanic and 1 - 54 BLOCK NUMBERS Atmospheric Administration. 1/4 MI. RADIUS O5 OCEAN OAKS PARK- 112 MI. RADIUS ' ••�•�• 1/2 MI. RADIUS •�� 3 MI. RADIUS © THIRD STREET PARK - 1R Ali. RADIUS WATERSHED BOUNDARY LINE MAP 9C TOWN OF ZWER.4L O ISLE' SERVICE AREA OF EXISTING PARK SITES 31 Table 3 Comparison of Emerald Isle's Recreation and Parks Facilities to National Standards STANDARDS FOR PARKS Park Classification Standard Acres Emerald Isle's Existing Acreage Per Additional Acreage Per 1,000 People Existing Acreage 1,000 Persons (C) Demand (C)* Neighborhood Parks 3 ac 1.9 ac (A) 0.62 ac +7.3 ac Community Parks 5 ac 6.6 ac (B) 2.20 ac +8.7 ac Total Recreation & Parks 10 ac 8.5 ac 2.80 ac +22.2 ac (A) Includes mini -park acreage (Cedar Street 0.3 acre, Merchant's Park 1.0 acre, Ocean Oaks 0.3 acre, and Third Street 0.3 acre) (B) Includes Blue Heron (1.4 acres) and Community Center (5.2 acres) (C) Based on a 1996 population of 3,068. STANDARDS FOR SELECTED FACILITIES Emerald Isle's Existing Facility Standard Existing Facilities Demand" Baseball 1 per 10,000 persons 0 No demand League Softball 1 per 4,000 persons 0 No demand Practice Fields 1 per 3,000 persons 0 +1*" Youth Baseball Fields 1 per 3,000 persons 0 +1*" Tennis Courts 1 per 1,000 persons 2 +1 Basketball Goals 1 per 500 persons 4 (2 of which are indoor) +2 Football/Soccer 1 per 6,000 persons 0 No demand Amphitheaters 1 per 20,000 persons 0 No demand Swimming 900 square feet per 1,000 persons 0 +2,761 square feet *These columns represent the number of additional park acres the town currently needs to serve its existing population. "These columns represent the number of additional facilities the town currently needs to serve its existing population. *"This demand is currently being met through the utilization of Western Carteret Park. Source: National Recreation and Parks Association. 32 Table 3 indicates that based on Emerald Isle's 1996 (the most recent data available from the Office of State Planning) population of 3,068 and national park standards, there should be an existing demand for an additional 22.2 acres of parkland in Emerald Isle. In addition, Table 3 indicates that the town falls short of the per capita national standards in the provision of practice fields, youth baseball fields, tennis courts, and basketball goals. The fact that Emerald Isle's recreation and parks facilities fall short of the per capita national standards should not be alarming for the following reasons: The Recreation. Parks. and Open Space Standards and Guidelines publication was intended to provide national guidelines which could serve as an expression of reasonableness and adequacy with respect to quality service delivery. However, these guidelines reflect professional judgement, rather than an assessment of community needs, and no two communities are the same. Furthermore, many communities have found the national guidelines difficult to meet. Therefore, the pursuit of achieving national recreation standards should not take the place of common sense and recognizing the needs of the community. Finally, the fact that Emerald Isle's geographical setting provides a unique opportunity for a variety of outdoor recreational activities reduces some ofthe pressure on the town to pursue national guidelines. The numerous shoreline access sites in town provide access to open space along the shoreline where residents can enjoy recreational activities such as swimming, fishing, and walking. These access sites definitely add to the town's recreation and parks inventory and provide a service which the national recreational standards do not take into account. C. State Shoreline Access Standards The public has traditionally and customarily had access to enjoy and freely use the ocean beaches and estuarine and public trust waters of the coastal region for recreational purposes and the State has a responsibility to provide continuous access to these resources. It is the policy of the State to foster, improve, enhance, and ensure optimum access to the public beaches and waters of the 20-county Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA) region. Access shall be consistent with public rights of private property owners and the concurrent need to protect important coastal natural resources such as sand dunes and coastal marsh vegetation. The State has created a Public Beach and Coastal Waterfront Access Program (PBCWAP) for the purpose of acquiring, improving, and maintaining waterfront recreational property at frequent intervals throughout the coastal region for pedestrian access to these important public resources. As stated in the introduction, this plan was funded in part through the PBCWAP administered by the Division of Coastal Management. The North Carolina Administrative Code (NCAC) 7M Section .0303 provides the following standards as guidance to local governments in the provision of public access. Public Beach Access Sites * Local/Neighborhood Access Sites - one per block in the community; �k Regional Access Sites - one per locality or one per four miles, whichever yields the most public access; 33 r �J I J R n JIB * Multi -Regional Access Sites - one per barrier island or one per 10 miles, whichever yields the most public access. Public Waterfront Access Sites (or in the case of Emerald Isle, Sound Access) * Local Access Sites - one per block; �k- Neighborhood Access Sites - one per 50 dwelling units; * Regional Access Sites - one per local government jurisdiction; * Multi -Regional Access Sites - one per coastal county. Parking facilities for these projects shall be based on seasonal population estimates. The state provides the following definitions for the various categories of access sites referred to above: Local Access Sites are defined to include those public access points which offer minimal or no facilities. They are primarily used by pedestrians who reside within a few hundred yards of the site. Generally, these accessways are a minimum of ten feet in width and provide only a dune crossover or pier, if needed, litter receptacles and public access signs. Vehicle parking is generally not available at these access sites. However, bicycle racks may be provided. Neighborhood Access Sites are defined as those public access areas offering parking, usually for five to twenty-five vehicles, a dune crossover or pier, litter receptacles, and public access signs. Such accessways are typically 40 to 60 feet in width and are primarily used by individuals within the immediate subdivision or vicinity of the site. Restroom facilities may be installed. Regional Access Sites are of such size and offer such facilities that they serve the public from throughout an island or community including day visitors. These sites normally provide parking for 25 to 80 vehicles, restrooms, a dune crossover, pier, foot showers, litter receptacles, and public access signs. Where possible one-half acre of open space in addition to all required setback areas should be provided for buffering, day use, nature study, or similar purposes. Multi -Regional Access Sites are generally larger than regional accessways but smaller than state parks. Such facilities may be undertaken and constructed with the involvement and support of state and local government agencies. Multi -regional accessways provide parking for a minimum of 80 and a maximum of 200 cars, restrooms with indoor showers and changing rooms, and concession stands. Where possible two acres of open space in addition to all required setback areas should be provided for buffering, day use, nature study, or similar purposes. Table 4 provides a comparison of the Town of Emerald Isle's shoreline access sites to the state's guidelines as defined in NCAC 7M.0303 and previously stated in this plan. 34 Table 4 Comparison of Emerald Isle's Shoreline Access Sites State Guideline Existing Sites Existing Demand Public Beach Access Sites Local/Neighborhood 1 per block 55 0" Regional 1 per locality or 1 0 1 per 4 miles Multi -Regional 1 per barrier island or 1' 0 1 per 10 miles Public Sound Access Sites Local 1 per block 32 +21" Neighborhood 1 per 50 dwellings 5 +43"* Regional 1 per corporate area 0 + 1 Multi -Regional 1 per county 1 0 ' The Fort Macon State Park located east of Atlantic Beach serves as a multi -regional beach access site. " The Town of Emerald Isle includes 53 blocks. " Based on 1990 census data, Emerald Isle included 2,418 dwelling units. The Newport River Estuarine Access Site at the foot of the Highway 70 high rise bridge serves as a multi -regional sound access site. Source: National Recreation and Parks Association and Holland Consulting Planners, Inc. Based on the state's recommended standards for the provision of public access, Emerald Isle exceeds the state standards for public beach access sites but trails the state standards for public sound access sites by a fairly large margin. Emerald Isle would need an additional 21 local access sites, 43 neighborhood access sites, and one regional access site, all on the sound side of the town, to meet the state's recommended standards. Although meeting the state guidelines for the provision of sound access sites may not be a realistic or obtainable goal for the Town of Emerald Isle, the state standards summarized in Table 4 do indicate that emphasis should be placed on providing additional sound access sites in Emerald Isle. 35 1 F_� L VI. FUTURE RECREATIONAL FACILITY NEEDS In addition to planning for Emerald Isle's existing recreation and parks needs, the town must also consider population growth and anticipate what the future recreation and parks demand may be. According to the Emerald Isle 1996 Land Use Plan Update, the town's population in the years 2000 and 2005 will be 3,480 and 3,959, respectfully. Table 5 provides a summary of year round population growth. Table 5 Town of Emerald Isle Summary of Year -Round Population Growth, Selected Years 1996-2005 1996* Emerald Isle Population 3,068 % Change 2000 2005 '96= 05 3,377 3,658 19.2% Sources: Town of Emerald Isle 1996 Land Use Plan Update; North Carolina State Date Center. As indicated in Table 5, Emerald Isle's population may be expected to increase by approximately 600 persons between the years 1996 and 2005. Table 6 provides a summary of parks and facilities demand based on national standards and the population projections provided in Table 5. Based on national recreation standards and the population growth that has been forecast in Emerald Isle, the town will need to acquire 28.1 additional acres for parks and construct several additional facilities to meet demand. However, as previously discussed, these standards are to serve only as a guideline and should be tailored to suit each individual community. A prioritization of needed facilities will be discussed in a latter section of this plan. L 36 Table 6 Demand for Additional Parks Acreage and Facilities STANDARDS FOR PARKS Additional Year Additional Year Cumulative Acreage Standard Acres Existing Acreage 2000 Acreage 2005 Acreage Demand Through the Park Classification Per 1,000 People Demand' Demand (A) Demand (B) Year 2005 Neighborhood Parks 3 ac +7.3 ac +0.9 ac +0.8 ac +9.0 ac Community Parks 5 ac +8.7 ac +1.5.ac +1.4 ac +11.6 ac Total Recreation & Parks 10 ac +22.2 ac +3.1 ac +2.8 ac +28.1 ac STANDARDS FOR SELECTED FACILITIES Additional Facility Cumulative Facility Existing Facility Demand Through Demand Through Standard Demand' the Year 2005 (C) the Year 2005 Baseball 1 per 10,000 persons No demand No demand No demand League Softball 1 per 4,000 persons No demand No demand No demand Practice Fields 1 per 3,000 persons +1 No demand +1*' Youth Baseball Fields 1 per 3,000 persons +1 No demand +1" Tennis Courts 1 per 1,000 persons +1 No demand +1 Basketball Goals 1 per 500 persons +2 +1 +3 Football/Soccer 1 per 6,000 persons No demand No demand No demand Amphitheaters 1 per 20,000 persons No demand No demand No demand Swimming 900 square feet per 1,000 persons +2,761 square feet +531 square feet +3,292 square feet These columns have been carried over from Table 3 on page 30 of this plan. '* This demand is currently being met through the utilization of Western Carteret Park. (A) Based on a town -wide population increase of 309 persons. (B) Based on a town -wide population increase of 281 persons. (C) Based on a town -wide population increase of 590 persons. Source: Holland Consulting Planners, Inc. 37 u 1 VII. GENERAL DELINEATION OF PROPERTIES FORACQUISITION/DEVELOPMENT A Discussion of Development Potential 1. Continued Development of Existing Parks and Facilities All of Emerald Isle's Recreation and Parks facilities are well -maintained and in good operating condition. However, because all of Emerald Isle's park facilities are utilized on a regular basis by numerous residents and guests visiting the town (see Section IV, Facility Usage), improvements are in demand. The Recreation and Parks Department has identified the following necessary improvements at existing park facilities. * Expansion of the weight room and aerobics room at the Emerald Isle Community Center. * Need for additional playground equipment at Blue Heron Park. 2. Development of Additional Parks and Shoreline Access Sites As discussed in Section V, Part B of this plan, the Town of Emerald Isle appears to have fairly adequate recreational facilities in terms of spatial coverage. The central and western/central portions of the town are served by Blue Heron Park, Cedar Street Park, Merchants Park, and Ocean Oaks Park while the far eastern portion of the town is served by Third Street Park. Although the Emerald Isle Community Center serves the entire town as a source for recreational activities, there do appear to be two (2) geographic areas where the addition of a park could benefit recreation and park coverage and service. These two (2) areas are described as follows: t* west from the 10,000 block of Coast Guard Road to the end of the island. ' * between the 4,500 block and 800 block of Emerald Drive. Although the areas described above appear to need recreation and parks facilities, the ' reader is cautioned that it may be difficult for the town to provide facilities in these areas due to the shortage of real estate in town. ' The availability of vacant land in Emerald Isle has become almost non-existent. According to the town's 1996 Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA) Land Use Plan, between the years 1985 and 1996, vacant land in town decreased from approximately 965 acres to only ' 38 acres. It is probably safe to say that since that time, the availability of vacant land has decreased even further. As a result, it is imperative that the Town of Emerald Isle plan well in advance for its future recreation and parks facilities. In a short time, there will be ' virtually no vacant parcels of land left sufficient enough in size to accommodate recreation and park facilities. 1 38 With the intention of making the most out of any town acquired acreage, it is recommended that Emerald Isle develop sites to include both shoreline access and recreational/park facilities. , As discussed in Section V, Part C of this plan, the town should place its emphasis on the provision of additional sound access sites as opposed to ocean access. However, considering the shortage of vacant land in town, the reality is that the town needs to pursue acquisition of any available sites whether they are located on the sound or the ocean. The town's Recreation and Parks Department has expressed an interest in several potential sites for acquisition/development. However, it is of the town's best interest not to specifically identify these sites at this time. With the exception of one site in the central portion of town, all sites are located at the western end of town. Potential sites are located adjacent to the ocean and adjacent to the sound. In addition, the town may consider applying to the Clean Water Management Trust Fund to assist in funding a stormwater management project within block(s) 43 and/or 44. It is anticipated that such a project would also include the provision of open space and passive recreation. If the town is interested in expanding its recreation and parks resources, it is important that action be taken on the acquisition of sites as soon as possible because of the lack of additional ocean access alternatives in Emerald Isle. Once these areas are developed privately, the opportunities for public acquisition will more than likely be gone forever. Emerald Isle will concentrate on potential recreation and parks sites which meet the following criteria: Capable of accommodating parking facilities. 1 * Potential for development of active (tennis, basketball, multi -purpose athletic ' fields, etc.) and passive (focuses on observing the natural environment: maritime forest, wetlands, unique plant species, etc.) recreational uses. * Although sites of any size will be considered, the present focus is on larger sites capable of accommodating a variety of uses. * Vehicular access to the shoreline at the "point" will be a consideration at the western end of town. �t Although outright ownership is preferred, Emerald Isle would be receptive to leasing a site as an alternative. Although the town has identified the above selection criteria, the town will consider all potential sites on a case -by -case basis. Based on the findings included in this plan, through the year 2005, Emerald Isle has ,a cumulative acreage demand for 28 acres of additional recreation and park land to meet national recreation standards. However, if the town desires to simply sustain its existing 39 ratio of acreage per 1,000 population (2.8 acres of total park land per 1,000 population), ' an additional 1.7 acres would be required by 2005. In addition, in order to accommodate the recreational needs which have been identified, the town will need to construct additional facilities (i.e., tennis courts, multi -purpose athletic field, swimming). It would ' be desirable for this to be accomplished in concert with the construction of a future shoreline access site. I VIII. PRIORITIES FOR FACILITIES DEVELOPMENT A. Town of Emerald Isle Capital Improvements Program (CIP) On January 31, 1998, the Emerald Isle Board of Commissioners was asked to rank the town's ' proposed Capital Improvement Projects (CIP) in terms of priority. Out of the 24 CIP projects ranked, eight are relevant to the Recreation and Parks Department. These projects are listed below and numbered according to their prioritized ranking assigned by the Board of Commissioners. 4. ADDITIONAL PUBLIC ACCESS. This item has rated highly for the past several years. Funds could be for sound side as well as ocean side projects, possibly including a pier or boat launching ramps. The county has agreed to set -aside $200,000 for public access on Western Bogue Banks if the town will match their funds. ' 8. ADDITIONAL STORAGE FACILITIES. Needed to house equipment and bulk storage. Parks and Recreation has added small additional space in the rear of its maintenance building ' but at some point in time, another building will be needed as will raw land for bulk storage. A building was discussed last budget year but was dropped for lack of funding. ' 9. NEW PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT. For the past several years, this item has received very little attention despite the tremendous amount of usage by children at Blue Heron Park behind Town Hall. The existing equipment is old, homemade, and out-of-date. 11. SENIOR CITIZENS FACILITY/YWCA-YMCA. Town officials feel that the existing Community Center is the extent of the town's obligation to its constituency in this area. This does not ' preclude an expansion of the existing Community Center building and does not preclude the provision of either of these other two facilities if privately funded or funded by some other governmental entity or agency. ' 12. AIR CONDITIONING FOR GYM. This item tends to come up from time to time but has not been rated highly for consideration. Generally, the gym has little activity during the Summer or when the weather is hot as people spend more time out-of-doors. There are occasions during League basketball play in which games have to be called off because the gym floor "sweats" when the temperature is high. However, this rarely occurs and certainly does not constitute the expenditure of approximately $35,000 in equipment cost plus the monthly costs of the system operation. 19. AMPHITHEATER. A relatively inexpensive item that could provide a lot of interest to and use by the constituency. Estimated cost with in-house labor of about $7,500. 1 40 20. SWIMMING POOL. Always listed but NO interest by the Board for obvious reasons of liability and costs. Most vocal participant members of the Community Center want to add such items but do not want to pay for them. Estimated costs of Pool "operation" alone is some $90,000 yearly. 21. FISHING PIER. Since the destruction of the old Emerald Isle Pier and since the town now owns that property, the possibility of a town -owned public pier at the Regional Beach Access Site has been discussed. This would be a very expensive proposition without some type of funding assistance. NOTE: Skateboard Park. There have been many requests over the years for a skateboard park within the town. The issue has been researched and the Board determined at the time that the legal liability was the major issue blocking this project. Based on the analysis included in this plan, which utilizes national recreational standards, there is a demand for additional public access sites and a swimming facility in Emerald Isle. In addition, this plan has determined that the town has no demand for an amphitheater (national standard: 1 amphitheater per 20,000 persons). Unfortunately, there are no prescribed standards for the remaining CIP's ranked above and as a result, this plan makes no recommendations regarding their provision. The issue regarding the provision of a swimming pool is one that the town should periodically revisit. According to the town's Recreation and Parks Department, there are statistics which indicate that less than 50% of the county's youth can pass a basic swim test. This is an alarming statistic for a coastal county. In addition, swimming has long been known for its therapeutic benefits. With the growing retirement population of the town, a swimming pool could serve as a valuable asset. Although the geographical setting of the town on the Bogue Sound and Atlantic Ocean presents opportunities for swimming, this resource is seasonal and does not provide a controlled environment. A controlled environment is a necessity for swimming lessons, water aerobics, physical therapy, and for individuals with beginning/intermediate swimming skill levels. Therefore, it is recommended that the town remain receptive to the idea of providing a swimming facility in the future. B. Summary of 2005 Facility Demand Table 7 below provides a summary of the town's facility demand through the year 2005. Table 7 Facility Demand Through the Year 2005 Practice Fields Youth Baseball Fields Tennis Courts Basketball Goals Swimming 41 Facility Demand Through the Year 2005 +1 +1 +1 +3 +3,292 square feet I� d C ' The facility demand summarized above is based solely on national recreational standards. As previously discussed in this plan, these standards are to serve only as a guideline and should be ' tailored to suit Emerald Isle. ' C. Final Recreation and Parks Recommendations Based on the analysis included in this plan, local demand, and discussions with Recreation and ' Parks Department personnel, the following priorities have been established. 1998-2002 Acquire an additional shoreline access/park site and develop shoreline access facilities. * Expand storage facilities for the Recreation and Parks Department. I Install new playground equipment at Blue Heron Park. * Expand the weight room and aerobics room at the Community Center. ' 2003-2005 * Develop one multi -purpose athletic field, one tennis court, and one basketball court at the ' shoreline access/park site acquired above. * Re -assess the demand for a community swimming pool. 1 It should be noted that as additional recreation and parks facilities are developed, there will be an associated demand for additional Recreation and Parks Department Personnel. At the present time, Emerald Isle's Recreation and Parks Department employs 5 full-time and 18 part-time ' employees. Based on the town's 1996 population of 3,068 persons, there are approximately 1.6 full-time and 5.9 part-time Recreation and Parks Department staff per 1,000 persons in the town. ' Assuming population growth as indicated in Table 5, the town will need to hire one additional full-time employee and three part-time employees by the year 2005 to maintain the Recreation and Parks Department's current level of service. Furthermore, if the town expands its recreation and parks facilities beyond those currently in use, even more staffing will be necessary. As a result, it is recommended that as Emerald Isle expands its facilities, it periodically evaluate its personnel needs and budget additional staff members as needed. D. Funding Sources ' Funding for recreational facilities including shoreline development projects, shoreline access beautification, and shoreline restroom facilities, is increasingly difficult to secure. Government resources have steadily dwindled during the'90s. Federal funding of extensive municipal projects ' no longer exists. Development efforts are forced to increasingly look at local government and private resources as the primary sources of funding. This section will discuss the funding resources available to Emerald Isle for comprehensive shoreline development. In order to ' implement a comprehensive shoreline development plan, the town should pursue both shoreline access and non -shoreline access funding. Potential sources of these funds are discussed separately. ' 42 Potential State and Federal Shoreline Access Funds The number of state and federal agencies funding public access projects changes from year to year, and so to a certain extent town officials will need to keep abreast of these changes through regular contact with these agencies. In general, it is a well -recognized fact among state/federal elected officials and employees that the demand for access to our coastal shorelines continues to increase and as a result, local governments are looking to other agencies to assist in bearing the cost of providing suitable facilities. Agencies that provide assistance in the construction and/or acquisition of public access projects include the Coastal and Estuarine Water Beach Access Program, Land and Water Conservation Fund, Civil Works Program, Marine Resources Commission Fishing Access Program, Wildlife Resources Commission Boat Ramp Program, and Department of Transportation Secondary Road Program. a. Coastal and Estuarine Water Beach Access Program The Coastal and Estuarine Water Beach Access Program is administered by the Division of Coastal Management in the Department of Environment, Health and Natural Resources. The program makes funds available to local governments on a matching basis for land acquisition and public access facility development. Some examples include the construction of parking areas, restroom facilities, and handicapped accessible accessways. Grant packages are normally available in March of each year. In recent years, grants have averaged from approximately $38,000 to $48,000. The local government contribution must be at least 25% of the total cost. Contact: Ms. Kathy Vinson Division of Coastal Management NC Dept. of Environment, Health and Natural Resources Hestron Plaza II 151-B Highway 24 Morehead City, NC 28557 Phone: (919) 808-2808 6. Water Resources Development Grant Program This program is administered by the Division of Water Resources in the Department of Environment, Health and Natural Resources. The program makes funds available to local governments on a matching basis for general and recreational navigation, flood control, drainage, stream restoration, beach protection, recreation, and aquatic weed control. There are two funding cycles each year, with applications generally due by January 1 and July 1. State funds are available for the non-federal share of the project at the following participation level: navigation (80%), recreational navigation (25%), water management (66-2/390/), 43 F Ii 1 1 stream restoration (66-2/39/o), beach protection (75%), water based recreation (509/o), and control (5091o). Grants have averaged approximately $32,000. Contact: Mr. John Sutherland Division of Water Resources NC Dept. of Environment, Health and Natural Resources P.O. Box 27687 Raleigh, NC 27611 Phone: (919) 733-4064 C. Fishing Access Program The Marine Resources Commission has a Fishing Access Program for the purpose of increasing land -based fishing opportunities. The program makes funds available to local governments on a 25% local/75% reimbursed matching basis for facilities such as fishing piers, bulkheads with cantilevers, capping jetties, and catwalks on bridges. Funds are available for projects on coastal waters under the jurisdiction of the Division of Marine Fisheries, but not for inland waters. Initial inquiry is made by means of a letter of notification of intent to apply to the Division of Marine Fisheries. Grants have normally ranged from $10,000 to $40,000. Contact: Mr. Murray Wolf ' Division of Marine Fisheries Department of Administration P.O. Box 769 ' Morehead City, NC 28557 Phone: 1-800-682-2632 ' d. Boat Ramp Program ' The Wildlife Resources Commission has a Boat Ramp Program and makes technical assistance available to local governments for the purposes of constructing boat ramps on either public property or on private property with at least a 20-year lease to the Commission. The Wildlife Resources Commission will construct and maintain the ramp; however, they have limited funds for constructing new ramps and are focusing efforts on maintaining the launching areas they have previously constructed. In addition, priority projects are scheduled in advance for a two-year ' period. Sites for possible consideration should be brought to the attention of Charles R. Fullwood, Director of the Wildlife Resources Commission. ' Contact: Mr. Don Tobaben Wildlife Resources Commission ' NC Dept. of Environment, Health and Natural Resources P.O. Box 27687 Raleigh, NC 27611 ' Phone: (919) 733-3633 44 e. Secondary Roads Program The Department of Transportation's Secondary Road Program can be used for the construction of public roads that would be added to the state's secondary road network. One example of this type of project is the construction of a short access road to an estuarine access site on the Newport River in Carteret County. Contact: Mr. Jack Murdoch Department of Transportation, Secondary Road 1 S. Wilmington Street Raleigh, NC 27611 Phone: (919) 733-3250 f. Other Programs Other state programs for land acquisition include the Division of Coastal Management's Estuarine Sanctuary Program and Natural Areas Acquisition Program. These programs are generally funded, and projects must meet state and federal criteria and requirements. Usually, Division of Coastal Management staff establish acquisition priorities; however, local efforts can bring potential projects to the attention of the state. Examples of this include both the Masonboro island and the Permuda Island acquisition projects. In both instances, local citizens' efforts helped to make state officials aware of the value of protecting the properties in their natural state through public acquisition. 2. Potential Local Funding Sources The local government has perhaps the heaviest financial burden with respect to providing public access. Not only must the local government pay for land acquisition and/or construction (with or without grant assistance), but then it must also pay for the daily maintenance of the accessways and the long-term maintenance of the access facilities. Some of the potential funding sources available to the town include general fund revenues, general obligation bond revenues, impact fees, occupancy tax revenues, subdivision regulation dedication requirements, parking fees, volunteer efforts, foundation grants, and donations. 3. Potential Sources of Non -Shoreline Access Funding a. North Carolina Department of Transportation Beautification projects are also funded by the DOT. The Intermodal Surface Transportation EfficiencyAct of 1991, which reauthorized federal aid for highways and public transit for fiscal years 1992 through 1997, provided funding for "transportation enhancements." Enhancements include the following activities: I H �J 1 ' * Scenic easements, scenic sites, scenic highway prorams, landscaping, and other scenic beautification. * Preservation of abandoned railway corridors (including conversion and use for pedestrian or bicycle trails). ' * Historic preservation; historic sites; historic highways program; rehabilitation and operations of historic transportation buildings, structures or facilities (including historic railroad facilities and canals). ' * Pedestrian and bicycle facilities. * Control and removal of outdoor advertising. * Archaeological planning and research. * Mitigation of water pollution due to highway runoff. Enhancements in North Carolina are handled through the state's Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP) process. The town should contact the DOT and/or its DOT board member to discuss specific projects. ' Contact: North Carolina Department of Transportation 1 S. Wilmington Street Raleigh, NC 27611 Phone: (919) 733-3250 b. Division of Archives and History The Division ofArchives and Historyprovides both planning assistance and specific P P g P project funding. Grants are available on a 50/50 matching basis to assist in the ' delineation of historic districts. In addition, state grants of up to $100,000 are available for the development and adaptive reuse of historically significant properties. However, it is not likely that Emerald Isle would have any properties which would meet the criteria for this grant. The funds are competitively awarded and do not require a match. Contact: Division of Archives & History 109 E. Jones Street Raleigh, NC 27611 Phone: (919) 733-7305 ' C. Rural Tourism Development Grants Rural Tourism Development grants are available through the North Carolina ' Department of Commerce. Funding varies from year to year depending upon the state budget allocation. In addition, specific program guidelines are subject to change annually. The following provides a summary of the fiscal year 1994-95 program: 1 46 1) Description of the Program - The Rural Tourism Development Grant Program was created by the North Carolina General Assembly to enhance economic growth through tourism development in the rural areas of the state. The program for fiscal year 1994-95 consisted of a $400,000 fund intended "... to encourage the development of new tourism projects and activities in rural areas of the state." For the purpose of this program, the Travel and Tourism Division has adopted the definition of "Rural" established by North Carolina's Rural Economic Development Center, specifically those counties having population densities of less than 200 persons per square mile. This includes 85 North Carolina counties, but specifically does not include Cumberland, Gaston, Davidson, New Hanover, Guilford, Buncombe, Alamance, Rowan, Cabarrus, Catawba, Forsyth, Mecklenburg, Durham, Orange, and Wake. Additional consideration is given to more economically distressed rural counties. Proposed projects should be of a durable and lasting nature, visible in the community to inspire others to succeed, and capable of generating measurable, verifiable, long-term economicgrowth through increased tourism. 2) Purpose - The Rural Tourism Development Grant Program is designed to: * Encourage the initiation and implementation of creative new tourism -related projects and activities having the capacityto enhance long-term economicgrowth in North Carolina's rural areas through increased travel activity; Encourage the implementation of cooperative regional tourism development projects and activities, not exclusive of efforts within individual communities or among communities within a given rural county; �k Provide funds through grants to destination marketing and non-profit organizations for the development and recruitment of tourism businesses and attractions; �k Foster the development and growth of regional tourism marketing and development organizations in rural areas of the state; * Leverage funds from non -state sources for tourism development projects and activities. 3) Eligibility - Any statutorily empowered tourism marketing/development agency, or legally chartered non-profit North Carolina organization in a designated rural county that includes tourism marketing and/or development among its major activities, may apply for funds under this program. Documentation of legal status, tax exemption, and a federal identification number is required with the application. 4) Maximum Grant Amount- No recipient or new tourism project received a total of more than $25,000 of these grant funds for the 1994-95 fiscal year. 5) Matching Formulae - The matching formulae favors economic growth in the less affluent areas of our state. Ranked on the basis of lowest per capita income, slowest population growth, and highest unemployment, organizations in counties 1 through 20 will be required to provide one non -state dollar for every four state dollars awarded. Those in counties 21-50 must provide one non -state dollar for every three state dollars, and in counties 51-85, one non -state dollar will be required for each dollar received from the state. In fiscal year 1994-95, Pamlico County ranked 58. 47 �I J II LI J J 6) Appropriate Uses of Grant Funds -Appropriate projects for which grant funds might be used include: * Research - marketing and other types of necessary research or studies upon which to base a long-range, tourism -based economic development plan; * Planning - needs assessment and implementation of a long-range, tourism -based economic development plan; * Capital Projects - equipment purchase, renovation or construction of facilities. Capital uses are only permitted in support of program development, and expenditures for office equipment may not exceed 25%ofthe total grantawarded; * Training - development and presentation of hospitality, management, marketing, and/or other types of tourism training programs to enhance long-term economic growth by improving a community's competitive position; * Technical Assistance/Contractual Services - services provided by outside vendors under contract that will result in enhanced long-term economic growth and the creation of new jobs. Contact: David Little Department of Commerce Division of Travel and Tourism 430 N. Salisbury Street Raleigh, NC 27611 Phone: (919) 733-4171 d. Land and Water Conservation Fund The Land and Water Conservation Fund is administered for the U.S. Department of Interior through the N.C. Department of Environment, Health and Natural Resources, Division of Parks and Recreation. This program makes funds available to local governments on a matching basis for land acquisition and recreation facility improvements. This program has provided numerous grants over the past years, but the amount of funds available is limited and thus grant applications are very competitive. Grants have normally ranged from $35,000 to $75,000. Contact: Division of Parks & Recreation NC Dept. of Environment, Health and Natural Resources 127 N. Cardinal Drive Wilmington, NC 28405 Phone: (910) 350-3900 Clean Water Management Trust Fund (CWMTF) Any of the following are eligible to receive a grant from CWMTF for the purpose of protecting or enhancing water quality: 1. A State agency. 48 2. A local government or other political subdivision of the state or a combination of such entities. 3. A non-profit corporation whose primary purpose is the conservation, ' preservation, and restoration of our State's environmental and natural resources. No match is required; however, Trustees may choose to fund projects at less than 100% of the application request. Grant monies from CWMTF may be used for any of the following purposes: 1. Acquire land for riparian buffers for environmental protection of surface ' waters or urban drinking water supplies, or for establishing a network of greenways for environmental, education, or recreational uses. 2. Acquire easements in order to protect surface waters or urban drinking , water supplies. 3. Coordinatewith other public programs involvedwith lands adjoiningwater bodies to gain the most public benefit while protecting and improving ' water quality. 4. Restore degraded lands for their ability to protect water quality. 5. Repair failing waste treatment systems: if (a) an application to the Clean ' Water Revolving Loan and Grant Fund has been submitted and denied in the latest review cycle; (b) repair is for a reasonable remedy to an existing waste treatment problem; and (c) the repair is not for the purpose of expanding the system to accommodate future anticipated growth of a community. Priority shall be given to economically distressed units of local government. 6. Repair/eliminate failing septic tank systems, to eliminate illegal drainage connections, and to expand waste treatment systems if the system is being ' expanded as a remedy to eliminate failing septic tank systems or illegal drainage connections. Priority shall be given to economically distressed units of local government. ' 7. Improve stormwater controls and management. 8. Facilitate planning that targets reductions in surface water pollution. ' Contact: Clean Water Management Trust Fund 2313-B Executive Park Circle Greenville, NC 27834 ' Phone: (919) 830-3222 f. Parks and Recreation Trust Fund (PARTF) ' In 1993, the General Assembly established PARTF to provide funding for the state parks system, local park and recreation projects, and coastal beach/estuarine ' access projects. The Parks and Recreation Authority directs expenditure of the funds. 49 1 [I 1 IX. Thirty percent of the trust fund is used for matching grants to local governments for public park and recreation development, renovation, and/or land acquisition. Counties and incorporated municipalities are the only eligible applicants and must possess long-term control of the subject property. School administrative units may jointly apply with either an incorporated city or county. Approximately $6 million will be available for local projects during fiscal year 1998- 1999, with $250,000 maximum on individual grants. Applicants must make a dollar -for -dollar commitment of local revenue to match state funds received under the program. Contact: Division of Parks and Recreation NC Department of Environment and Natural Resources 12700 Bayleaf Church Road Raleigh, NC 27614 Phone: (919) 846-9991 CLOSING REMARKS The shortage of vacant land in Emerald Isle places the town in the position of having to plan for future Recreation and Parks resources well in advance. The reality is that once the few remaining vacant parcels in town are developed, it will become nearly impossible for Emerald Isle to expand its parks system. It is critical that the town pursue land acquisition as soon as possible or opportunity may be lost. History has shown that recreational facilities in Emerald Isle are in high demand and new facilities will be heavily used and appreciated. Although the majority of the readers of this plan are acutely aware that planning for Recreation and Parks facilities is not a means to an end but rather an ongoing, constantly evolving process, we must remind ourselves that, preparation of this plan is just a small step that must be followed by many large strides. As we approach the beginning of a new millennium, it is important to remember the value of recreation and the impact that it has on our mental well being and success. 011