Beach Access Study-

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TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE NUMBER
` INTRODUCTION...........................................2
SURVEY OF EXISTING CONDITIONS ..........................3
Existing Policies Beach
4
• on use
aBeach
Ownership Patterns
5.
Existing User Groups and Associated conflicts
7
aOwnership
of Beach Accessways
8
Inventory of Existing Beach Accessways
10
Sample Beach Access Evaluation Form
12
Beach Access Evaluation Forms Summary
13
Beach Access Inventory Map
23
aDEVELOPMENT
PLAN ......................................
24
Future Access Needs
25
Major Accessways
26
aNeighborhood
Accessways
35
Vehicular Accessways
37
aUndesirable
Accessways
38
Beach Access Development Classification Summary
39
IMPLEMENTATION PLAN..................................42
Beach Access Acquisition and Preservation
43
Financing Beach Access Acquisition and
Development
45
Education
and Information
47
Beach Access Acquisition and Development
a
Implementation Policies
48
Summary
49
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INTRODUCTION
The continuing pressure for access to the shoreline from a growing
leisure oriented society requires that the State and local governments take
positive steps to mitigate the conflict between oceanfront property owners
and those seeking access to the shore. This plan for Holden Beach is such
a step and represents an initiative by the Town toward planning for both
its residents and visitors. The preparation of this study vas financed in
part by 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 Coastal Zone Management,
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
Technical assistance was provided by the Brunswick County Planning
Department
Deborah E. Ryan.....
Planner -in -Charge
Gaile
Pittman.,.....
Planner
Karen
O'Donnel.......
Planning Intern
Chris
Barna.........
Planning Intern
Wayne
Bowling ........
Draftsman
Lottie
t1oore.........
Typist
Tracy
Roycroft.......
Typist
Board.
The Holden Beach Access Study was prepared for the Holden Beach Town
John Tandy ........... Mayor
Dr. James Mulholland
John Clark
Lyndon Holden,
Roger Morton
Spero Poulos
The study was prepared by the Holden Beach Access Advisory Committee.
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SURVEY OF EXISTING CONDITIONS
An increasing conflict has resulted from the growing concentration of
a our nations population in coastal areas. Today, over 70 percent of the
U.S. population now lives within 70 miles of the coast. This growing
coastal density has resulted in an increased demand for public access to
athe beach.for recreation purposes.
Holden Beach is just one of the many beach communities in the area trying
to provide for this increasing demand. An objective of the 1976-Holden Beach
Land Use Plan was to "acquire title or permanent use of beach accessways.for
all citizens to.enjoy beach recreation activities." The impetus for this objec-
tive was loss of a number of public accessways over the previous five years.
Many alleyways and street ends included in original subdivision plats were
withdrawn from public dedication by the developers in 1972 and 1973. Alleyways
were distributed among adjacent property owners to increase their lot size and
many street ends were sold as building lots.
If Holden is to provide adequate Beach Access, significantly more is needed
than acquiring a handful of titles. The purpose of this study is not to establish
ownership or acquire the titles of accessways, but rather to determine what prob-
lems exist, why they have developed, and what can be done now to provide more
adequate beach access.
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Existing Policies on Beach Use
Town officials are becoming increasingly aware of the conflicts and
problems of beach use and beach access in Holden Beach. Several ordinances
have. been adopted in recent years to regulate use of the beach and require
developers to provide adequate beach access.
Subdivision Ordinance for the Town of Holden Beach
The Ordinance was created with purpose of establishing procedures
and standards that will regulate and control the subdivision of land within
the municipality of Holden Beach in order to promote the public health,
safety, and general welfare of the town. In addition, this Ordinance requires
developers to provide beach access every one quarter mile, but because so
much land was subdivided before this regulation was adopted, its affect
has been minimal.
a An Ordinance Regulating Vehicular Traffic on the Beach Strand Within the
Town of Holden Beach
The Ordinance establishes that a permit be obtained for the operation
of a motor or engine driven vehicle along the beach strand extending from
Lockwood Folly Inlet to Shallotte Inlet. Approved vehicles are permitted
on the beach at approved accessways only. Procedures for the permit process
are stated in the Ordinance, as well as restrictions regarding vehicle oper-
ations on the strand. Money collected from the issue of these permits is
used specifically to upgrade access points at Holden Beach.
aRules and Regulation on Net Fishing
The regulation suggests rules to be followed for net fishing within the
Town of Holden Beach. All commercial net fishermen. must have written per-
mission from the landowner and must follow the regulations stated for posts,
lines, trash, shacks, vehicles, and all other laws and regulations of the
Town of Holden Beach.
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Beach Ownership Patterns
Problems with Beach Access arise primarily bacause of the ownership
patterns along beach communities. While the public owns.the beach from the
high water mark seaward (actually it is held in trust by the State for its
public beneficiaries), from the mean high water mark landward is privately
�j owned:
u Both State and Federal Regualtions endeavor to insure beach access .to
the public. The Federal Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972 as amended in
1976 requires each State to define the term "beach" and provide a planning
process for the protection of, and access to, public beaches and other coastal
areas of environmental, recreational, historical, esthetic, ecological, or
cultural value.
The Federal Act further provided the impetus for the enactment of.the
a North Carolina Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA). An objective of CAMA
insures the public's right to enjoy the physical, cultural and recreational
qualities of the State's shorelines. As required by the Federal directive,
a CAMA defined the term "beach" in 1978 as the area extending from the mean
low water mark landward to where the first.line of vegetation occurs, a
distinct change in slope or elevation occurs, or the beach front owners have
specifically and legally restricted access above the mean high water mark.
Q It is expected that this definition will be revised as we learn more about
the dynamic nature of the "beach".
a Regardless of new information, development shall not interfere with the
public's right of access where acquired through public acquisition. CAMA
places the major responsibility of insuring adequate access to public trust
lands and waters on local government, but to be assisted by State and Federal
Governments. While the extent of State and Federal Governments assistance is
unclear, it is apparent that assistance for other beach projects (such as
beach renourishment) is dependent on whether adequate access is provided.
Adequate access should include not only access rights, but adequate identi-
fication, parking, and provisions to protect the frontal dunes.
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PUBLIC
Holden Beach Access Study
Beach Ownership Patterns
PRIVATE
TYPICAL SECTION
PUBLIC
..PRIVATE

User Groups and Associated Conflicts
In order to understand the problems that exist with beach access, the
different groups of people using the beach must be identified.
First. is the beach front property owner with obvious private access. If
access is not adequately provided for the pbulic, the beach front owner will
also suffer, because the public will be crossing over his private property to
reach'the beach. In order to protect his property, he should be equally inter
ested in beach access. Often, it is still hard to impress on him the public's
aright to access to the beach when he pays highly for the private luxury.
The second group which is perhaps the least provided for at Holden Beach,
is the non -beach front property owners. Their problems become extremely signi-
ficant when grouped together in dense subdivisions, as they are in the various
finger canal developments in Holden Beach, Basically, these residents need
accessways at relatively short intervals or else they will cross the beach front
property wherever it is most convenient to them, regardless of whether an official
access point exists.
a The next group of people are those living in the adjacent unincorporated
county, who most often drive a few miles to the beach for the day. This group
requires more public facilities in the way of parking, trash receptacles, and
bathrooms than the other groups because they are the furthest distance away from
their lodgings. t4ost tourists are also included in this group.
The fourth group includes those people requiring vehicular access to the
beach. Although this group consists primarily of fishermen, emergency vehicles
also require access at regular intervals along the beach.
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Ownership of Beach Accessways
The best planned and designed access points will be of little use unless
the public's right to use the property is adequately established. Ownership
of beach accessways on Holden Beach must be determined in order to locate
areas.where the public is legally guaranteed access. Because of past develop-
ment patterns, this is not an easy task. Primarily, there are three types
of ownership on Holden Beach: Private or Individual; Semi -Public; and Public.
Of the 68 accessways evaluated in this study, 25 are designated as Private.
They are listed in the Brunswick County Tax Records as property owned by
one particualr person. These private accessways are included in the study
because they are currently in use by the public (with or without the permis-
sion of the owners) or they have potential for development -into public access -
ways.
Two private accessways of particular interest are #1 and #2 at the
eastern end of the island. Because so much of the beach has eroded away in
this area, the lots are not currently suitable for building. Because of this,
the owners of the ocean front property seem unconcerned with the public's
use of their land. Although this situation may currently be acceptable, it
would be advisable for the Town of Holden Beach to take steps in permanently
securing the public's right of access in the future.
Other private accessways of particular interest are those in the areas
of the three finger canal developments. Specifically, accessways #44,
448, #50, #55, and #57 are all locations where the public is crossing over to the
beach without permission or knowledge of the owner. Ideally, these locations
would be the first considered in an access acquisition program, especially
since they are used almost exclusively by the finger canal lot owners or
their guests, rather than daily visitors from off the island.
Accessways owned by a number of property owners rather than one
individual are classified as Semi -Public. Their purpose is to provide
beach access to non -beach front property owners in developments north of
Ocean Boulevard.
The problem with Semi -Public accessways is not in their number, but
rather in their lack of facilities and maintenance. Better facilities
are needed at most, but is is difficult to say who should provide them.
When repairs are required, one or two individual owners must take it upon
themselves to make them if they are to be done at all. Because of this,
Semi -Public accessways suffer from inadequate upkeep.
Of the three types of accessway ownership, Semi -Public is the least
desirable, because no one person or institution is responsible for them.
They are not policed to insure only co -owners use them, nor could they be,
because of the large transient (tourist) summer population. In actuality,
a the public at large can and does use these accessways without being challenged.
Because of this, they are grouped info the public acessway category for the pur-
pose of this study.

It would be advisable for the Town of Holden Beach to assume the
responsibility for the upkeep and maintenance of as many of the Semi -Public
accessways as the Town judges suitable. In return for this service, the
accessways would ideally be deeded to the Town of Holden Beach with the
possible understanding that additional public use would not be further
encouraged, yet no longer discouraged.
Public accessways are those owned by the Town of Holden Beach. There
are only a handful specifically deeded to the Town and -most, if not all of
these are intended for use by day or off -island visitors. In recent years
significant effort has been made to upgrade these accessways, but until the
Town is willing to take on the responsibility of maintaining and developing
some of the other Semi -Public and Private accessways, the public's access
to the beach will be inadequate.

Inventory of Existing Beach Accessways
In January and May of this year, most, if not all of the access points
at Holden Beach were evaluated. Sixty-eight were judged to have significance
in this study. The adequacy of each access was evaluated not only in terms of
physical -facilities such as trash recepticles, parking areas, and walkovers,
but also for ownership, visibility, and erosion controls.
k cause of time constraints, only accessways located on the southern side
of Ocean Blvd, leading to the beach were evaluated. Access to the Atlantic
Intercoastal Waterway (AIWW) was not evaluated although some access is provided
to the public by way of public street ends. This access should be preserved and
developed to include parking, pedestrian, and trash facilities.when a more sub-
stantial interest is shown in the use of the AI14W as a recreational area.
In terms of access to the beach, most points in use at the time of survey
generally lacked many of the facilities needed by the public. Less than ten
parking areas exist, some of those difficult to locate because of small or
inadequate identification. Many of the pedestrian accessways without parking
provisions were even more difficult to locate because they also lacked proper
signage on either the land or ocean side of the access. In addition, few have
trash receptacles, night lighting, or the convenience of bike racks. No handicap
accommodations exist.
Existing provisions for the protection of frontal sand dunes are inadequate.
Less than one third of all accessways have adequate walkover structures, even
fewer provide and adequate path from the road or parking area to the walkover.
Almost none have properly placed sand fences along the dunes.
Although each access point has been evaluated individually, there are
several areas which include a number of acessways, with more significant access
problems than others.
1) The East end of Holden Beach:
Although the whole area is used as public access, it is privately owned.
Erosion, probably worse here than anywhere else on the island, is only
increased by the large number of people using the area and the lack of
erosion controls.
2) The end of Jordan Blvd. (North Carolin Highway #130):
Because this area, i s the entrance to Holden Beach, it should be. given
special attention, Although visitors may.find.beach_access most conven,
ient in this area, aesthitics and the amount of traffic make it less
desirable,
3) Finger Canal Developmentsi
Because these areas are so densely developed, a large number of people
require access in a very small stretch_ of land; Evidence that needs are
not met are the small' unofficial paths leading through private ocean
front lots directly across the road from the finger canal deve.lopments.,
The Holden Beach Subdivision Ordinance now requires public access be
required every one -quarter mile in areas developed after 1975i but the
problem still remains for the residents of the earlier finger canal
developments.
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Following is a sample Beach Access Evaluation form, and brief individual
summaries of the 58 locations evaluated. Only conditions or problems unique
to a particular site and specific facilities provided at the time of the sur-
vey are -noted in the summaries. For more detailed information on a particular
site, a complete set of evaluation forms is on file at the Holden Beach Town
Hall and'the Brunswick County Planning Department for public inspection.
Also following is a Beach Access Inventory Map to assist in locating
individual access points discussed in this.study. Other access points not
evaluated or numbered should not be disregarded as unimportant. As noted
earlier, the accessways discussed in this study have in the past or are cur-
rently in use by the public, or are intended for public use according to County
tax records. If undeveloped land becomes available for an access point at
a sights other than those designated in the study, the sights should be incorpo-
rated into the plan.
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' MAP NUMBER
SAMPLE BEACH ACCESS FORM
LOCATION
PRIVATE OR PUBLIC
ACCESSWAY •
a Visibility from road?
c Marked with signs?.
' ® Trash cans provided?
0 Is the ;area lighted?
' ® Additional Comments
WALKOVER
' Condition of path leading to walkover
Non-existant Overgrown Grassed Compacted Sand Loose Sand
Other
g Condition of Walkover
Excellent Good Acceptable Poor Dilapidated
t ® Deck included?
Yes No
o Type of Steps
' ® Additional Comments
PARKING
o Parking area provided Yes No
Q Paving Material
o Size or app, number of cars
a Additional Comments
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DUNE
o Extent of erosion
c Dune height
Low Average __ Large
e Is ocean visible from road? 12
Q Dune vegetation
Sparce - Acceptable Good
® Additional Com;�ents
m GENERAL COMMENTS

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Beach Access Evaluation forms Summary
1 Beach Access #1
Located at the extreme eastern end of the beach, this access is
'
privately owned. It is marked by numerous "No Parking" signs and a "Vehicle
acces$ by permit only" sign. Two small bright orange trash cans are provided.
There is no clear path to the ocean. The entire area is visible from the road
'
because the dune height is extremely low. Vegetation is sparce to non-existant.
Beach Access #2
'
Although this acessway is not marked with signs, it is heavily used and
very visible. It sits at the eastern end of the island and is privately owned
by several people. Bright orange trash cans are provided in the center of the
'
packed sand parking area that is bordered with telephone poles laid end to end.
Because the entire area is used for access, no real path exists and erosion is
severe. The ocean is visible because the area is so trampled there is no dune.
'
Vegetation is sparce to non-existant..
Beach Access #3
'
This accessway is the publicly owned street end of Avenue "D". .Small
signs mark it as a public parking area and one big trash can in need of paint
is provided. The walkover with wood slats down a ramp is in acceptable condi-
tion but does not extend to the ground on the ocean side becuase of erosion.
The paving material of the parking area is a combination of stone and sand.
The parking area extends to the crest of the dune and needs borders on both
'
sides. Erosion is severe. The dune height is low and vegetation is sparce.
Additional parking area is available to the left, right, and across Ocean
Boulevard.
'
Beach Access 114
'
This accessway is the publicly owned street end of Avenue "C". A small
parking area is marked but it is overgrown with vegetation. Additional space
for parking is available if the area is expanded on the oceanside of Ocean
Boulevard.
'
Beach Access #5
Although it is publicly ovrned, this accessway has never been cut. Vacant
'
land suitable for parking is available across Ocean Boulevard.
'
Beach Access #6
"A",
This accessway is the publicly owned street end of Avenue A
trash can and sign are located on the crest of the dune. A parking area is
'
provided but it extends too far up the dune causing substantial erosion. The
parking area could be extended to the right or across Ocean Boulevard, There
is a shack at the bottom, ocean side of the dune.
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Beach Access # 7
This accessway is located off of the main road, left of 1st
' Street. It is publicly owned although it is not marked with a
sign. The dirt road that leads over the dune to the ocean has
caused substantial erosion.
' Beach Access # 8
This accessway is located off of the main road, left of
' 2nd Street. Although is is publicly owned, it is not marked
with a sign. A walkover in acceptable conditioned is provided,
but the path leading to is is so close to a neighboring house,
' it is difficult to 'determine whether it is public or private.
Erosion is minimal. The dune heigth is average and vegetation
is good.
' Beach Access ,#9
Located left of the Whistling Swan, this accessway is
' publicly owned although it is not marked with any signs.
Erosion is minimal as a result of the walkover.
' Beach Access # 10
This access point is located beside the Surf Scooter almost
hidden behind a dune. A walkover in acceptable condition is
' provided, but the path leading to it is overgrown. Erosion in
the area is significant as the dune heigth is low enough to make
the ocean visible. Although it looks private, it is 'publicly, owned.
' Beach Access ## 11
' This access point is a publicly owned street end. Its visibility
is poor because it is not marked from the main road. The access is
lighted and a r•ow of grey trash cans are provided. A walkover is
provided but it is in poor condition. A large stone parking area
' is provided but parking is allowed too far up the dune causing
some erosion problems.
' Because a bulkhead has been constructed, erosion of the beach
is significant. Vegetation is sparce and the dunes are so low that
the ocean is visible from the road. Bath rooms are provided by the
adjacent pavillion and putt -putt course.
' Beach Access # 12
' This access point is the publicly owned street end of Ferry
Drive. It is used for parking by the Surfside Pavillion. It is
lighted but not marked with signs. A walkover is provided but
' it begins at the crest of the dune so the landward side is eroding.
A small deck is also included in the structure. The large parking
area is paved with asphalt but ballards of some kind are needed to
limit parking to the paved area. Vegetation is sparce and the dune
' heigth is low enough that the ocean is visible.
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Beach Access # 13
Al thOL!gh this access is publicly owned and marked with sticks,
it is uncut.
Beach Access # 14
• This publicly owned access is sufficently visible and marked
with posts. A grassed path leads to a walkover in good condition.
No parking is provided but a large adjacent area is vacant and
could be used for parking. Erosion in minimial, except at the
base of the walkover. Vegetation and dune heigth are good.
Beach Access # 15
This publicly owned access point is located just right of The
Dull Gulls. It is not marked or cut but a number of paths, indicate
the area is substantially used. Dune heigth is average and vegetation
is good.
Beach Access # 16
This publicly owned accessway is located to the left of 118
Ocean Boulevard. A grass and stone driveway leads to an oceanfront
house but is roped off although steps are provided down to the beach
Beach Access # 17
' Although this access point was once the street end of Quinton
Street, it is now privately owned. The public is obviously using
the area for access although no facilities are provided. Erosion
' is significant along the path, but the dunes still have good veg-
etation and heigth.
' Beach Access # 18
This publicly owned access point is marked at the crest of
the dune with a sign reading "Block, Public Access". Grey trash
cans are provided as well as a walkover in acceptable condition.
The area is bulkheaded, which has caused significant erosion.
The dune heigth is low enough that the ocean is visible.
' Vegetation is acceptable.
Beach Access # 19
This privately owned access is located
just
to the right of Jordon
Blvd. There are several loose sand paths but no
walkover is provided.
Erosion is minimal and both the dune heigth
and
vegetation are good.
'
If the area is not to be used for access, a
more
permanent statement
is needed to relay this to the public since
the
area is located at
the entrance to the beach,
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Beach Access # 20
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This public owned access is located a few lots left of Cole
Street. Although a trash can holder and a walkover are provided
it is not marked with any signs. Where the walkover has been con-
structed, the dune is in good shape, but it is seve rly eroding one
lot over. Vegetation is acceptable.
Beach Access # 21
Located two lots right of Cole Street, this access is publicly owned.
Although the sign is visible from the road, it is placed over the walkover
at the crest of the dune reading "Private Access to Block P". A walkover
in good condition is provided, as well as a grassed path leading to it.
Erosion in the area is severe, although both vegetation and dune heigth
are acceptable.
Beach Access # 22
Located four lots right of Rothschild Street, this access is*
privately owned, although it is marked with posts. A compacted
sand path leads to a walkover in excellan t condition. Erosion is
minimal leaving the dune heigth high and the vegetation good.
Beach Access # 23
Located between 155 and 157 Ocean Blvd., this access point is
publicly owned. It is marked with wood posts. Even tho«gh it is.
only a loose sand path, erosion has been minimal. Dune heigth is
large and vegetation is good.
Beach Access # 24
' This public owned access point is located at Briles Apartments.
It is not marked and is hard to find. Grey metal trash cans and a
walkover in acceptable condition are provided. A large deck is also
' included. A compacted parking area is available for approximately
10-15 cars. Dune heigth is average and vegetation is acceptable.
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Beach Access # 25
Located across from Rest Haven, this access point is publicly
owned. It is marked as a "Private Access" with wood posts.
An overgrown path leads to a walkover in poor condition.
Erosion in the area is substantial resulting from heavy use.
Dune heigth is average, and the vegetation is good on either
side of the path.
Beach Access # 26
Located to the left of 179 Ocean Blvd., this access is owned
by the public. It is marked with posts and a trash can is provided.
A grassed path is included but no walkover. Dune heigth is large
and vegetation is acceptable.
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' Beach Access # 27
This access is located to the left of 185 Ocean Blvd. and is
' publicly owned. One small post marks its location. A walkover
is provided but it is in dilapidated condition, and has only
sand steps on the landward side of the dune. Dune heigth is
average and dune vegetation is good.
Beach Access # 28
' Located to the right of 189 Ocean Blvd, this public access
-point is marked with wood posts. A stone -look trash can holder is
provided. A grassed path leads to a Walkover and deck in excellent
' condition except that is was started at the crest of the dune causing
erosion along the landward side. Dune heigth and vegetation are good.
' Beach Access # 29
Located to the right of 7th street, this access is owned by the pub-
lic, although it is marked with posts as a "Private Walk". A compacted
' sand path leads .to a walkover in acceptable condition althoughit also
begins at the crest of the dune causing erosion. Although there has
been substantial erosion in some places, the dune height is still high
' and vegetation good. The accessway . is lined with yuccas.
Beach Access # 30
' This privately owned access is located to the left of 211 Ocean Blvd.
Although it is marked with wood posts, it is uncut.. Dune height and vege-
tation are both very good.
' Beach Access # 31
' Located just left of 215 Ocean Blvd., this publicly owned access is
marked with wood posts. A grassed path leads to a walkover in good condi-
tion. Very little erosion has occurred and the dune remains large and
' covered with vegetation.
Beach Access # 32
Located to the right of 223 Ocean Blvd., this walkover is marked with
posts as a "private walkover" although it is owned by the public. A grassed
and loose sand path leads not to a walkover over the dune, but wood laid
randomly on the dune in an unsightly manner. The path itself is substantially
' eroding the duen, although dune height and vegetation in the area are rela-
tively good. The accessway is lined with yuccas.
' Beach Access # 33
Although this access point was once the street end of Boyd Street, it
' is presently privately owned. Old pieces of wood are strectched across
the sand to provide an unsightly path to a walkover in acceptable con-
dition. Erosion has been slight and the dune height and vegetation are good.
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Beach Access # 34
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Located to the right of 239 Ocean Blvd., this access is publicly owned
although it is marked private. A loose sand path leads to a walkover in
acceptable condition but because the structure was begun at the crest of the
dune, the landward side is eroding. Erosion along the path is also substan-
tial although dune height and vegetation remain acceptable.
Beach Access # 35
Marked with a single wood post, this public access point is located to
'the left of Shorehaven. An overgrown path leads to a walkover but it is in
a dilapidated condition. Dune height and vegetation are acceptable with only
slight erosion.
Beach Access # 36
Located left of Hickory Nuts, this public access point is marked by
a single wood post. An overgrown, partially blocked path leads to a
walkover in extremely poor shape. Erosion has been minimal with an average
dune height and good vegetation existing.
Beach Access # 37
Marked as a "private walk" with wood posts, this publicly owned access
is located just left of 263 Ocean Blvd. Trash cans are provided. A com-
bination grassed and compacted sand driveway leads to an oceanfront house.
A walkover is provided but it is in poor condition and was begun at the
crest of the dune so the landward side has substantially eroded. Dune
height and vegetation are acceptable.
Beach Access # 38
Located to the right of 267 Ocean Blvd., this public access point is
marked with wood posts although no path has been cut. Where a path once
was, excessive erosion has occurred but otherwise dune height and vegetation
are both good. Plenty of vacant land suitable for a parking area lies adja-
cent to the accessway.
Beach Access # 39
Privately owned, this access point is located to the left of 301 Ocean
Blvd. It is not marked, although a winding loose sand path indicates some
use by the Public. A walkover in acceptable condition is provided. Dune
height is average and vegetation is good. Erosion is minimal.
Beach Access # 40
Although once a public street end, this access located just right of
Wanta Linga is presently privately owned. It is marked with a sign reading
'Private Property, No Tres assino " although loose sand paths in the immed-
iate area indicate use by he public. Erosion has been substantial along
the paths although the dune height and vegetation are still good.
Beach Access # 41
Located four lots past access # 40, this access point is also privately
owned. A sand fence has been constructed, but has an opening to permit access.
Because there is no walkover, some erosion has occurred although the dune
height 2tation are still good.

y
IBeach Access # 42
Located beside Age of the Storm, this access point is privately owned.
' A compacted sand path leads to a walkover and small deck in acceptable con-
dition but because it was begun at the crest of the dune, substantial erosion
has occurred. Dune height and vegetation are acceptable.
Beach Access # 43
• Marked with wood posts, this public access is located left of 391
' Ocean Blvd. A grassed path lined with yuccas leads to the beach.
Because there is no walkover, substantial erosion has occurred from
heavy use. Dune height is average and the vegetation is acceptable.
' Beach Access # 44
Although this access is privately owned, it is used by the public
as evidenced by the loose sand paths that weave around a sand fence con-
structed to prevent access. Erosion is substantial along the paths,
' although dune height and vegetation remain acceptable.
Beach Access # 45
This public access point is located at the Holden Beach Fishing Pier.
Although the pier is marked, the actual access point is not and hidden
behind the building. Trash cans are provided. A well -lit, asphalt parking
area is included capable of accommodating approximately 100 cars.
'
A compacted sand path leads from the parking area to a walkover in accept-
able condition. Substantial erosion has resulted from unrestricted access,
'
but a sand fence has been constructed to direct the public to improved
points. Although vegetation is sparce, dune height is average.
Beach Access # 46
Although this group of access points, located in the campground beside
the Fishing Pier, are used by the public -at -large, they are primarily for
use by the campers. Walkovers and sandfences have been constructed, but
'
some erosion has occurred in the area of the loose sand paths. Dune height
and vegetation are acceptable.
tBeach
Access #47
Privately owned, this access is located_.beside:-Ri.verdale.:._Vacant area
'
suitable for parking is available on either side of the access and across
Ocean Blvd. Some erosion has occurred in the area leaving vegetati=
sparce.
Beach Access #48
Located right of 553 Ocean Blvd., this access is privately owned.
Although a trailer sets on half of the lot, the other half is used for
' access by the public although it is discouraged by signs. Excessive
erosion of the dune indicates heavy use. Dune height is average, although
vegetation is sparce.
I
19

Beach Access #49
Located right of 557 Ocean Blvd., this private access is marked with
signs reading "Private Property, no access to beach". A loose sand path
leads to a walkover and deck in acceptable condition although it starts.
at the crest of the dune causing some erosion problems. Dune height
remains acceptable although vegetation is sparce.
Beach Access #50
Located left of 563 Ocean Blvd., this privately owned point is used
for vehicular access. Only a loose sand path is provided, and it is
severely eroding the dune. Dune height is low and vegetation is sparce.
Beach Access #51
Publicly owned, this access islocated left of Gull Cottage and is
marked with a rusting sign reading "access to Beach, Heritage Harbor."
One grey metal trash can is provided at the entrance to the access. A
compacted sand path leads to a walkvoer in acceptable condition. Although
erosion has been slight, dune height is so low the ocean is visible. Vege-
tation is also sparce.
Beach Access #52 `
No accessway was ever laid out or cut, although publicly owned.
Beach Access #53
This 30 foot public right of way is located just right of 803 Ocean
'
Blvd. A small sign reading "Access for emerging vehicles only" marks the
dirt road leading up over the dune. Because the road itself is roped off,
pedestrian access is inconvenient . Vacant land across Ocean Blvd. is suit-
able for a future parking area, although none is presently provided. Erosion
has been substantial along the road, but only minimal on either side of the
access. Dune height is average and vegetation is good.
'
Beach Access #54
Located five lots past Beach Access #53 is a 10 foot public right of
way. It has never been cut and it is not marked but it exist according to
'
Brunswick County tax records.
' Beach Access #55
Although this access was formerly the public street end of Dophine
Drive, it is currently privately owned. The area is not marked, although
' it is obviously used by the public. Loose boards are spread across the
sand in an unsightly manner. Erosion has not been substantial although vege-
tation is sparce. Dune height is large.
Beach Access #56
Located left of 917 Ocean Blvd, this point is presently being used as
a vehicular access by the public. A sign marks it location reading "Vehic-
' 20

'Y
'
ular Access by permit only. A grassed and compacted Sand driveway is edged
with bright yellow cord and rope. The road has caused significant erosion
and although the ocean is not visible, the dune height is low. Vegetation
is good on either side of the access.
'
Beach Access #57
Although this access point was once the public street end of Sailfish
9 p
Drive, it is currently privately owned. Metal and wood fences have been
'
put up to discourage access but the existing loose sand path indicates sub-
tantial use by the public. The extent of erosion varies in the area although
dune height is generally average and vegetation is good.
Beach Access #58
Publicly owned, this access is located to the left of 1023 Ocean Blvd.
'
A combination gravel and compacted path wide enough for a vehicle leads to
the ocean. A parking area paved with the same material is provided for 6-8 cars.
Additional vacant land suitable for parking is available across Ocean Blvd.
Erosion has been severe along the path but mimimal in all other areas. Dune
height is average and vegetation is good.
'
Beach Access #59
Located at the end of the paved portion of Ocean Blvd., this access is
privately owned as indicated by a sign on the site. A wood deck walk and deck
are provided, both in excellent condition. There is no erosion problem as a
result of the fine facilities constructed on the site. Vegetation is almost
undisturbed and dune height is acceptable.
Beach Access
#60
Privately owned, this access is located across from 1100 Ocean Blvd. A
loose sand path and compacted sand parking area for approximately 6-8 cars are
provided. Additional land is available on all sides of the access point for
future parking needs. Although the path over the dune has caused substantial
erosion, dune height and vegetation in the area remain very good.
Beach Access #61
Located beside the campground, this public access point is not marked
although it is substantially used by the public. Three to four loose sand paths
lead lover the dune, each causing substantial erosion. A patched sand parking
'
area is available for approximately 20 cars but it needs some physical and visual
separation from the main road. Dune height and vegetation are generally accep-
table.
'
Beach Access #62
This access is actually a group of accessways provided for campers in,, the
Sand and Sea Campground. Walkovers are provided but they are in poor condition
although they have helped in preventing unnecessary erosion. Grassed Parking
21

areas are available but they primarily are for the campers use. In
general, campground roads needs to be edged to prevent cars from driving up
on the edges of the dunes. Dune height and vegetation are good.
Beach Access #63
Located just beyond the campground, is this uncut, private access point.
Dune height and vegetation in the area are very good.
Beach Access #64
This public access point, located two lots beyond Beach Access #63 is also
uncut. Dune height and vegetation are very good in the area.
Beach Access #65
Privately owned, this access point is also uncut. Dune height and vege-
tation are good.
Beach Access #66
Although this was once the public street end of Schooner Drive, it is
presently privately owned. A sign marks the access as private at the entrance
to a wooden deck walk which leads to a walkover, both in excellent condition.
Dune height and vegetation are very good.
Beach Access #67
Located to the left of Shell Drive, this publicly owned access is marked
with a sign reading "Private Access." A wood deck walk and walkover both in
excellent condition are provided. Erosion has been minimal as a result of the
excellent facilities constructed on the site. Both dune height and vegetation
are acceptable.
IBeach Access # 68
Located within a foot of the right wall of 899 Ocean Blvd, this publicly
' owned access point appears to be private. An 18 inch high sign reading "Private
..Access" is located at the start of a wood deck walk which leads to a walkover in
good condition. Unfortunately, the deck walk and walkover were constructed after
' substantial erosion to the dune had already occurred. Dune height is so low the
ocean is visible, and vegetation is accordingly sparce.
22

DEVELOPMENT PLAN
' As the population of Holden Beach increases, the demand for beach
access becomes more and more intense. In order to more adequately provide
' for the present demand, and prepare for future access needs, a Develop-
ment Plan should be initiated as soon as possible.
The first steps in a Development Plan are to establish minimum
' standardsfor accessways and then decide where the access points are to be
located. But as noted earlier in this study, different types of users
require access to the beach and each group has its own set of needs.
' Because of this, three classifications of Beach Accessways have been de-
veloped. They are Major, Neighborhood, and Vehicular.
' In the Beach Access Summary a fourth classification of Undesirable
Accessways is added. These are primarily access points that have legal or
physical features that make them undesirable and therefore, are not included
in the Development Plan.
1
1 23

Future Access Needs
The number of beach accessways on Holden Beach is barely adequate
to serve the present population. If the population increases at the projected
rate, the existing number of accessways will be entirely inadequate and
the public will gain access wherever they please, causing irreparable
damage to the dunes.
Much of this damage can be avoided if future need is anticipated and
planned for. The Brunswick County Planning Department developed population
Projections for Holden Beach as well as Brunswick County as a portion of
their respective Land Use Plan Updates. These figures can be used to
help determine future Access Needs for Holden Beach.
Population Projections
Brunswick County Holden Beach Permanent Holden Beach Seasonal
197E
35,621
180
5,000
1980
38,100
250
6,800
1985
51,200
300
8,600
1990 -
64,300
350
10,400
Although the permanent population of Holden Beach is projected to increase
by only 100 persons from 1980 to 1990, the seasonal population is expected
to increase by 3,600 or 53% during the same time period. These figures
indicate that substantially more accessways will be needed to adequately
serve the future population of Holden Beach.
In addition, the figures indicate more access is needed for day visitors.
Since many people from the unincorporated areas of the County visit Holden
Beach on a daily basis, population figures for the entire County should be examined
to determine increased future demand. Because a 69% population increase is
expected in the County within the next ten years, substantially more public
accessways must be provided to avoid unnecessary damage to the dunes.
The Development Plan recommends a large number of accessways be acquired
and maintained by Holden Beach. Based on population projections for the
Town and the surrounding region, the total number should adequately provide
enough access for future demand, yet not be financially unrealistic.
24 . ,

Major Accessways
Major Accessways should primarily provide for the needs of the day or
off -island visitors. Because these accessways will be the most heavily
used by 'the public, more facilities are needed, as well as substantial
erosion controls.
When locating sites for major accessways, it is recommended that the
sites chosen meet the following general criteria prior to development.
1. Whenever possible, Major Accessways should be located near or at
sites presently used by the public.
2. Major Accessways should be located only where the dune height is
high and the dune vegetation is in good conditon. Barrier -free
access for the handicapped should be located at lower points, but
areas where the dune height is so'low that the ocean is visible
from the road should be avoided.
3. Accessways should be discouraged in extremely dynamic or environ-
mentally sensitive areas, such as in inlet hazard areas.
4. Accessways should be connected directly to a public area such as
a public road or park. Whenever possible, they should be located
directly off a major road so as to be highly visible.
5. Major Accessways should be encouraged in areas where enough un-
developed land is available to locate public parking areas.
6. Major accessways should be located only on land that is permanently
owned by the Town of Holden Beach.
Although specific locations suitable for major accessways are spread
out the entire length of the beach, there is a greater concentration of
sites on the eastern end of the island. Of the 68 sites examined, 18
are suitable for this category. The number actually developed would ob-
biously depend on funds available. Those locations with the criteria
recommended for major accessway development are: #2 (less desirable
because of low-to-non-existant dunes but acceptable until more suitable
areas are developed), #3, #4, #5 (presently uncut), #6, #11, #12, #13,
#14, #15, #26, #38, #45, #47, #53,#58, #60, and #61.
Although some facilities are provided at a number of these access-
ways,none have all the recommended facilities. Effort should be made to
be consistant in upgrading major access points so as to make them more
visible to the public. All signs should be consistant as well asthe
type of facilities provided. The navino material'of parking areas should be
s i mi 1 ar so as to make' thei7 easier to locate.
The following facilities should be provided at all Major Accessways.
1. Parking: All Major Accessways should include an area for parking.
Adequate parking areas could be located on either side of Ocean
25

Boulevard. At present, all public parking areas are located on
oceanfront property. If this is to continue, these oceanfront
parking areas sould be redeveloped in such a manner so as not to
continue to damage the sand dunes. currently, parking is allowed
all the way up to the crest of the dune. As illustrated on one
of the following pages, it would be much better toallow parking
only to the base of the dune, and replant vegetation on the dune
itself.
A more feasible location for additional parking would be on
property located north of Ocean Boulevard. A crosswalk could be
provided across the highway to visually and physically join the
parking area and accessway. This would greatly decrease the cost
of acquiring more land for parking and help preserve the dune struc-
ture.
2. Bike racks:Bike racks should be provided at some but not all of
the Major Accessways. They should be located off to one side of
the parking area or protected by ties or balla.rds"
3. Trash receptacles: Trash receptacles should be provided on
both the landward side of the dune at the entrance to the access
and the oceanside of the dune at the bottom of the steps of the
walkover. Pick-up should be a minimum of three times per week
during the Summer season.
4. Signs: Consistant identification signs should be placed at the
entrance of the accessway and the parking area if it is north of
Ocean Boulevard. Small signs should also be placed at the bottom
of the steps of the walkovers on the ocean side. Wooden signs are
recommended for durability as well as aesthetics. They should be
double -sided facing toward the direction of pedeatrian or vehicular
traffic. Information signs (concerning parking regulations safety,
surfing, litter, etc.) should be kept at a minimum and placed
below or along side the main sign.
5. Bathroom facilities: Because the impact of constructing bathroom
facilities is substantial, it is recommended that no additional
facilities be added, but that existing bathrooms be expanded and
better marked with signs.
6. Sand fences: To help direct access and lessen erosion, the construction
of sand fences is recommended wherever a walkover is constructed.
Where possible, 20' of fencing with posts every 10' on either side
of the walkover should be placed on the dune ridge.
7. Walkovers: Many sand dunes within Holden Beach are being destroyed
due to the loss of vegetation caused by unrestricted access to
the beach over the dunes. As the vegetation is lost, the wind
begins to erode the dune and causes a progressive deterioration
of the entire system.
26

BRUN3WICK COUNTY PLANNING DEPARTMENT 19E30
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IJOLDEN
1 � Gc_o
I MA.
�. ACCESS INVENTORY
52,
t ;4 , }. ,,, �� 65 54 b^ +2-��
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Parking should not extend beyond this point
Holden Beach Access Study
Oceanfront Parking Patterns
Typical Sections

In areas of high human traffic, such as a Major Accessway, a beach
walkover structure is needed to protect the dunes from deteriorating.
The following drawing illustrate a general, recommended design for a
public walkover structure. The drawings are basic enough that various
alternatives can be added to the design without altering the structures
extensively. The walkover should be placed along the center line of the
accessway. Ducks are not recommended as part of the Walkover design unless
the access point is unusually wide.
The addition of properly spaced skid resistant materials to the decking
of the ramp section of the walkover would male the'deck accessible to wheel-
chair users.
All wood used in the construction of a walkover should be pressure
treated with a waterborne preservative. Types of wood acceptable varies,
depending on the quality of construction desired. A suitable, inexpensive
wood is Southern Pine. Higher grade and more expensive woods are the Heart-
wood of Bald Cypress, Redwood, or Eastern Red Cedar. Very expensive, but
extremely durable and decay resistant woods such as Greenheart of Basra
Louis are also acceptable. `Rough Cut" lumber can be used in the substruc-
ture while "dressed" lumber should be used on the flooring and handrails.
Further information on wood specifications can be found in the tfood Handbook:
Wood as an Engineering Material, USDA, Forest products Laboratory, 1974,
All bolts, nails, and other hardware should be hot dipped galvanized
to prevent rust. Bolts in the handrails should be countersunk so that
they do not project beyond the posts. After fastening, the excess from
projecting bolts should be trimmed,
Posts should be placed directly into the ground to at least the minimum
depths illustrated on the following drawings. The bottom of the piling should
not be encased in concrete.
8. Handicapped Modifications: There should be at least one access point developed
with iandicapped modifications. Beach Accessway #2 is recommended because of
its available parking area and low-to-non-existant dunes. Two percent of the
parking spaces in the area should be reserved for the handicapped. The parking
spaces should be marked with the international symbol for handicapped and located
immediately adjacent to a hardsurfaced walkway. They should be a minimum of 12'
X G'. Dune walkovers should be ramped with a maximum slope of 1:8. The transi-
tion from the walkway to the walkover should be smooth and continuous. Ballards,
Posts, or other barriers to wheelchairs of persons with walking aids should be
removed. In terms of Beach Accessway #2, one or more walkways are needed to
direct present foot traffic, rather than permit access to occur anywhere and
everywhere in the area. When these individual paths are developed, they should
be constructed ►•:ide and smooth enough to be capable of being used aby wheelchair
users. To further direct people requiring barrier free access, a sign should
be placed at the entrance of Holden Beach and at the entrance to the accessway
indicating its location.
28

r
Typieal Beoch Profile
8 -bdoiv existing profile
�"9e
Och Storm Profile — _ --
EXISTING DUNE Expected during a storm
CREST LINE "
R/W
Varies Varies Varies o
as Required as Required as Require
U
C
t t
eRa 1-A SecD on l-B Sect��n
a o
_ > o
m m
J
Fedestrion o
Bcrrier v�
(Fence)
0
• a
R/W — —
Note: Sections of Dune
' Walkover structure should
be planned to the specific
profile of the area for
which it is desired.
f"ig.I TYPICAL PLAN and ELEVATION VIES'
Scale: I" =2d

Section I -- A - L andside Section l -D - Deck Section l - C - Se aside
This Dimension Vries Depending on This Dimension Varies ' This Dimension Varies
Dropoff Beh�nd Dune Depending on Width Depending on •Dropoff in
of Dune Front of Dune Crest
s
t � O
•-- -,r - „ r/Re o
ZBSteDS
tens
eps Detcl n
No tQ : Place steps on beach side
to level of- mwrirnum beach
recession during a severe
storm or tropical hurricane
C
Fig.2 TYPICAL SECTION No. I
Scale : I" = 5' ftL
Beach Storn Profile
<Maxlmum Expected Recessior�
O'
MSL

O
Q.
th
o-
W
6�-0��
2 x 8
1/2"X 12 Hex.
bolts w1th Nuts
Q Ivashors
5 , - O„ (hood countorsunk)
i2 x 10 x 7� Jost
2 x 6 x 61 Dockin
2 x 10 Spl/co Board
2 Ea. 1/2" x 12"
Connoctlon = Hox B to l
r
'
j
'
c
'
o
. o swth
7` Nuts a Ilashor• MR
1 2 x 10 x 7' Str/noor
2 x 10 Spllco So arch
2 x 10 x 6' Bents
Fig-3 TYPICAL SECTION I-B DECK
I Scale-." I - I 0
1
31

1
'
0 D. Pile
'SO
7= 0"
2X �" Dec
Stringer
Notch Strin
j0��
q ers in
Fieldtoo Rest
on
ts
w ---
//2 x /2
Hex Head Bolts
2"x/0"Bent.
w
Nuts B V✓ushers
'
2 "x l0"Bents
Fig.4 TYPICAL
RAMP DETAIL
1
Scale:
1
.
'
32..

- 0 Varies 7'- 0" Varies 7 f - 0 Varies
I
71 1[
— -- �I ---�
Strip or Dimensions
B �A-Q -
C
_2_x
o
z ' „
2_x 10 3"
F
_x_7-
_2 x I4_x_9'-0" notchod for-9toos_
2 x- 14 .x _8'- 6" no!ch_od for �t©off
2 x 14 x 8'- 9" notched for sPoas
- G
H
l�on�._ Dimension
3pllco Dimenslon
✓
t-�r-
2xtQx�Q_
K
Note: Bill of Materials based on ramp
length of 21; dock len th of 28' and 2
star sections of 6'- 8aeach.
Fig.6 TYPICAL STRINGER LAYOUT DETAIL
Scale: I = 5' 0"
w
Steps
'
Note : All splice blocks to be nailed
to stringers to provide both lateral
support at joints and bearing support
All pile bolted connections to be 112"
x12 "hex. bolt with nut and rashers.
Quan.
Ytom - Doscri
tion
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2 x 6 x 20'
2 x 8 x 20,
dr_ossod
dressed
9
5
2 x 10 x 20'
2 x 10x 20'
dressed
rough
19
3
2 14 x 20'
rough
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V2'Sc 12" hex. bolt cylth nut and crashers

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Neighborhood Accessways
Neighborhood Accessways are similar to Major Accessways in that they
serve a .large number of users. The difference is the majority of these users
own or rent homes in the immediate area rather than come from off the island.
The facilities needed differ slightly from those needed for Major Access -
ways primarily in that parking areas are not required and signage should be
less obtrusive.
Neighborhood Accessways are recommended in areas with a high residential
density, as in the area of the finger canals. Consideration should also
be given to locating accessways in areas likely to be more fully developed
in the near future. Using the earlier criteria as a guide in locating
accessways for development, it would be advisable to seek to obtain rights to
the sites already used by the public for access. As evidenced by the paths
cut through the sand dunes, the best location for Nei.ghborhood accessways
is at street ends. Of the 68 access points evaluated, 33 are designated
Neighborhood Accessways. Because their number is so large, this access
type is divided into two sub -classifications to make it more manageable.
The subclassifications are Neighborhood/Maintained and Neighborhood/Developed.
There are 19 of the total 33 Neighborhood Accessways designated as
Neighborhood/Maintained. A minimum of public expenditure would be necessary
to bring these access points up to an acceptable level bacause most presently
have a good number of facilities. Primarily, they lack proper maintenance
and upkeep because of their group ownership. The Town of Holden Beach
should strive to obtain as many of the titles to these sites as feasible
and make whatever improvements needed. The following accessways are classi-
fied Neighborhood/Maintained: #8, #9, #10, #18, #20, #21, #24, #25,
#28, #29, #31, #34, #35, #42, #46, #,49, #51,#52;' and #68.
Accessways classified Neighborhood/Developed differ from Neighborhood/
Maintained in their lack of facilities. Few have walkovers, although
some are marked with varying types of signs. Although some of the sites are
privately owned, they are classified Neighborhood/Developed because they
are currently in use by the public. To bring these sites up to an accep-
table level would involve significant expenditures for both land acquisi-
tion and construction or purchase of facilities. Those accessways classi-
fied Neighborhood/Developed are: #17,#23, #27, #32, #36, #40, #43, #44,
#48, #55, #57, #64, #65, and #67.
In general, both subclassifications of Neighborhood Accessways should
have the following facilities:
1. Walkovers: In order to protect the frontal sand dunes and deter erosion,
walkovers are recommended at all Neighborhood Access points. Design
specifications should be similar to those described for walkovers at
Major Access points. A walkway should also be provided from Ocean
Boulevard to the walkover itself. Ideally, this could be constructed
out of wood in the manner of a deck walk. That being perhaps cost
prohibitive, a compacted sand or grassed path would suffice.
35

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' 2. Signs: Signs should be placed at the entrance of the access point along
Ocean Boulevard or other appropriate streets and also at the bottom
of the steps of the walkover on the ocean side. Signs should be
' relatively unobtrusive so as not to further attract additional users
not residing in the area but more visible than the posts currently
placed at many of the accessways. Signs should be constructed of
wood for durability and aesthetics, and have a consistant design.
' A one-sided sign would be adequately visible for pedestrains.
3. Trash Receptacles: Recommendation for trash receptacles at Neighbor-
hood Access sites are the same as those for Major Access Sites.
4. Sand Fences: Recommendation for sand fences at Neighborhood Access
points are the same as those for Major Access points.
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Vehicular Accessways
' As long as the Town of Holden Beach permits vehicles along its beaches,
adequate access must be provided. In general, it is best to provide
vehicular access in areas where the dune heigth is relatively low,
' development is not extremely dense, and in areas away from major pedes-
trian -access points. Six sites have been designated as sites for vehi-
cular access: #1, #7, #37, #50, #54, and #56.
' Because the impact of vehicles crossing the dunes is substantial, the
number of Vehicular Accessways should be kept at a minimum. The foremen-
' tioned sites should be an adequate number to provide for the needs of
fishermen, emergency vehicles, and occassional jeep owners.
In terms of facilities, Vehicular Accessways should be marked at the
' entrance from Ocean Boulevard and on the ocean side of the dune. The
paving material of the access should be nothing more substantial than loose
gravel or packed sand.
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Undesirable Accessways
Acc ws points classified as Undesirable Accessways are not necessarily
inappropriate sites for beach access, but rather sites that could not
feasibly be acquired, developed, or maintained by the Town of Holden Beach.
Specific problems anticipated included privately owned and developed
sites not likely to sold, poor location, or extremely sensitive features.
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Beach Access Development Classification Summary
Access Number
Development Classification
1
Vehicular
2
Major/Barrier Free
3
Major
4
Major
5
Major
6
Major
7
Vehicular
8
Neighborhood/Maintained
9
Neighborhood/Maintained
10
Neighborhood/Maintained
11
Major
12
Major
13
Major
14
Major
15
Major
16
Undesirable
17
Neighborhood/Developed
18
Neighborhood/Maintained
19
Undesirable
20
Neighborhood/Maintained
21
Neighborhood/Maintained
22
Undesirable
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Access Number
Development Classification
23
Neighborhood/Developed
24
Neighborhood/Maintained
.25
Neighborhood/Maintained
26
Major
27
Neighborhood/Developed
28
Neighborhood/Maintained
29
Neighborhood/Maintained
30
Undesirable
31
Neighborhood/Maintained
32
Neighborhood/Developed
33
Undesirable
34
Neighborhoodfliaintained
35
Neigborhood/Maintained
36
Neighborhood/Developed
37
Vehicular
38
Major
39
Undesirable
40
Neighborhood/Developed
41
Undesirable
42
Neighborhood/Maintained
43
Neighborhood/Developed
44
Neighborhood/Developed
45
Major
46
Neighborhood/Maintained
47
Major
48
Neighborhood/Developed
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Access Number
Development Classification
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Neighborhood/Maintained
•50
Vehicular
' 51
Neighborhood/Maintained
52
Undesirable
53
Major
54
Vehicular
55
Neighborhood/Developed
56
Vehicular
57
Neighborhood/Developed
58
Major
59
Undesirable
60
Major
61
Major
62
Neighborhood/Maintained
63
Undesirable
64
Neighborhood/Developed
65
Neighborhood/Developed
66
Undesirable
67
Neighborhood/Developed
68
Neighborhood/Maintained
41

IMPLEMENTATION PLAN
The recent efforts of the Holden Beach Access Advisory Committee re-
presents, a promising beginning, but considerable improvements are needed
to assure continued adequate access. Because problems are apparent in
both the quality and quanity of existing access, steps should be taken in
not only acquiring titles to accessways, but also in upgrading facilities
at existing access points.
The Implementation Plan suggests ways of acquiring additional land
for access, as well as financing methods available for the purchase of
land and funding of improvements.
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Beach Access Acquisition and Preservation
There are a number of legal tools available for acquiring or preserving
land for beach accessways. Options range from purchase in fee simple to
condemnation of access easements. The following are just a few more
viable methods that Holden Beach should consider.
'Acquisition of fee simple interest: Purchase of fee simple title is
the most direct means of acquiring access but may also be the most expensive
method depending on the location and amount of land sought. North Carolina
governments are granted the authority to acquire real property in General
Statutes 153-A-158 and 160-11, as well as to purchase property for parks
and recreation purposes in N.C. General Statutes 15A-444 and 160-353.
Purchase of a fee interest would be most appropriate for purchasing narrow
strips for access to the beach or small parking areas preferrably on th^
northern side of Ocean Boulevard.
Questions have been raised as to what affect the purchase of addi-
tional easements would have on the status of those previously given to the
Town of Holden Beach. The legality of some of the financial restrictions
placed on accessways given in the past to Holden Beach is questionable.
Because of this, before any purchase is made for an additional accessway,
any restrictions on the deeds in question should be clarified and their
legality tested. If the population of Holden Beach increases at its present
rate, then more beach access will be necessary in the future. It is only
realistic to assume the Town will have to purchase land at some point to
provide for this additional beach access demand. It is therefore advisable
to determine the repercussions of purchasing accessways now, rather than
to guess at what if any they might be in the future.
Easements: Easements, or the right to use someone's land in some
specifically designated manner, may generally be acquired by either pur-
chase or prescription. Easements are most appropriate in acquiring walk-
ways from a public area, across a landowner's property to the beach. Pur-
chase of easements may be expensive or unavailable but landowners may be
persuaded to sell if they are allowed a reduction in property taxes because
of a decrease in value.
Another type of easement is the prescriptive easement. It is
acquired because of the continued use of the landowner's property
by some other party and the law will recognize that party's right
to continue that use. In the case of beach access the "other party"
is the public. In many beachfront communities and possibly Holden
Beach, the public has continually used certain areas to reach the
J3each. If such public use satisfies the requirements, primarily
as to duration of the use and prescription, then the public has
acquired the right to use that particular accessway irrespective
of the desires of the land titleholder. It should be noted, that
a prescriptive easement can be acquired only when it can be shown
that the use has been made by the public at large and to be legally
recognized must be established by litigation, followed by recordation
of the encumbrance upon the title.
43

Land Use Controls: There are two basic tools that fall under the police
power heading available to local governments to acquire pedestrain access
for the general public. They are Zoning Ordinances and Subdivision Regula-
tions.
T, e Holden Beach Subdivision Regulations currently requires 5 foot wide
public access be provided every 1/4 mile in areas developed after 1975. Unfor-
tunately, so much of Holden Beach was developed before this time that this indi-
vidual regulation has had little affect in improving beach access. Where it
might possibly have a greater affect, is if it is applied to the northern side
'
of the island along AIVA-1 where development is not yet so dense.
An additional subdivision regulation that might be applicable to Holden
Beach would be the required dedication of new roads for the purpose of access.
Public access to beaches is afforded by requiring the extension of rights -of -
way to the fore shore and dedication to the public. In application two require-
ments are necessary. First. all roads and rights of way of streets not parallel
'
to the ocean should be extended down to the fore shore. Secondly, all such
roads should be dedicated to the public. The authority for requiring such a
dedication is contained in N.C. Statutes 153-A-331 which states " a subdivision
control ordinance may provide for.... the dedication or reservation of recrea-
tion areas... and of rights -of -way or easements for streets".
Still another method of acquiring access through the Subdivision Ordinance
could be the requirement of water access lots. Here again, this
regulation
would have little affect on the beachfront, but it could help to insure access
to the waterway. Any subdivisions containing interior lots should provide a
'
water access lot for residents of the entire Subdivision not necessarily the
public. Later the Town of Holden Beach could acquire the lot through eminent
domain and insure its upkeep as suggested earlier in the discussion of semi-
public accessways. Using the "before and after" valuation method required in
condemnation proceedings, the cost of acquisition would probably be relatively
love due to the difficulty of transfer cause by the many owners of the lot.
The Holden Beach Subdivision Ordinance requires a residential minimum lot
width of 50 feet. In order to encourage the development of additional beach
access, the Board of adjustment should grant variances -to beach front property
owners allowing 5 foot access strips as part of the 50 foot requirement. In
addition, more zoning regulations could be implemented. One approach which
has been well utilized in Currituck County since 1971 is the creation of a
Recreational Residential zone with access provisions being one of the require-
ments of the zone.
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Financing Beach Access Acquisition And Development
1
Funds for improvements must come from either local or non -local
'
sources. While the Town of Holden Beach should pursue all sources of
Federal -or State grants to assist in financing, providing beach access
'
should not be delayed if grants are not available. There are three basic
methods that North Carolina county governments may use to generate funds
at the local level for beach improvement projects--advalorem taxes, special
assessments, and county service districts. Advalorem or property taxes
'
may be used under a town's general taxing authority to make improvements
or construct beach erosion control and hurricane protection projects.
Since the provision and maintenance of accessways aids in the protection of
the frontal dunes which are the first line of defense against hurricanes,
'
this type of project would be eligible for advalorem tax expenditures.
Special assessments permit towns to assess property owners for projects on
'
a front foot, valuation, or area basis; however, if valuation is used as
the assessment method only the value of the land, without improvements,
can be assessed. Further, no assessments can be levied until the project
is completed. Service districts permit the establishment of special taxing
'
districts in which a tax in addition to the ordinary property tax is levied
for the purpose of providing services or facilities to a greater extent:
than provided throughout the remainder of the county. Among the types
of services and facilities that may be provided under this legislation are
beach erosion control and hurricane protection projects. drainage projects,
and off-street parking. However, services must be provided within a reason-
able time after definition of the district, not to exceed one year.
The 1980 Holden Beach Land Use Update Survey questioned Town residents
and landowners concerning their feelings on financing beach access.
'
Sixty-four percent favored tax money being spent on improving beach access
for non -beach front property owners and seventy-seven percent of the non -
beach front owners indicated willingness to personally help finance their
own access. While a majority of Holden Beach's residents seem unapposed to
spending tax money to help their fellow citizens, the general feeling at
recent public meetings seems to indicate they feel less generous in providing
access for day or off -island beach goers.
Visitors from off the island do require more facilities than those
staying in Holden Beach. The major expense is primarily in providing
adequate amounts of parking for them. Currently, small, often inadequate
areas are used by these daily visitors. It might be advisable to find some
way in implementing a program that shares the expense of providing facili-
ties with the users themselves. One viable program could be accessing
a small parking fee of perhaps $20.00 for the summer for nearby County
residents and lesser daily amounts for the occassional visitor. The Town
Hall could issue parking permits much the same way they issue permits for
vehicles on the beach. Those visitors not willing to pay a small parking
fee would be ticketed by the Holden Beach Police Department. The money
collected could then be used to finance improvements and acquire addi-
tional land for better beach access.
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In terms of -1 d c non -local funds for beach access improvements, the most
'
viable source presently appears to be the U.S. Department of Interior's
Land and Water Conservation Fund. This fund is administered by the Heritage
Conservation and Recreation Service and the N.C. Department of Natural
Resources and Community Development. Under this program grants are
'
available to local governments to pay for up to 50 percent of the total cost
of recreation related projects. Under current guidelines the provision
and improvement of beach access is an eligible project. Under Section 315(2)
of the Federal Coastal Zone Management Act, 50 percent grants are available
'
to local governments for the purpose of acquiring public access to beaches
and other coastal areas. Although funding was authorized for $25 million
'
dollars per fiscal year through 1980, no funds have ever been appropriated.
Even though no appropriations have been made this program has promise and
should be closely watched for future appropriations.
46

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Education and Information
Fron the standpoint of dune protection and utilization, this is the
most important implementation method. In addition to adequate directional
signs at appropriate points (land and oceanside of walkover, and at the
entrahce to Holden Beach) information can be disseminated through such
media as radio, television, and brochures. If the significance and
features of the Development Plan are explained to the public, than the
Plan has a greater chance of success.
47

BEACH
ACCESS ACQUISITION! AND DEVELOPMENT IMPLEMENTATION POLICIES
1. Beach Access Acquisition: The town of Holden Reach will work to acquire
'
title or permanent use (by easement) of beach accessways for all citizens
to enjoy beach recreation activities.
'
A. The ownership of accessways in the study and any other accessways
deemed of significance to the Town will be determined.
'
B. The legality of any questionable deed restrictions on existing access
ways shall be determined.
C. The Town will seek to obtain titles to semi-public access points (those
'
owned by a large number of non -beach front property owners). In exchange
for regular maintenance and upkeep.
'
D. The Town of Holden Beach will encourage the development of additional
beach access by encouraging the Holden Beach Board of Adjustment to
grant variances to beach front property owners allowing 5 foot access
'
strips as part of the 50 foot minimum residential lot width requirement.
2. Provision of Facilities: The Town of Holden Beach will provide the minimum
'
facilities as outlined in the Development Plan of this study for major
neighborhood, and vehicular accessways at as many access points as funds
allow and the Access Advisory Committee deems necessary.
'
A. No public expenditure shall be made on any access point unless it is
owned or an easement is held for the property by the Town of Holden
Beach.
'
B. Uniform facilities and materials (trash receptacles, signs, Paving
material) shall be developed and used consistantly at each improved
'
access point.
C. At least one access point shall be developed to accommodate the Nandi -
capped.
3. Financing Deach Access: Local, State, and Federal funds shall be agres••
sively sought to finance improving beach access.
A. Money received from the.issue of permits for vehicles on the beach and
public parking shall be used to finance the acquisition and develop-
ment of beach access points.
B. Local tax money may be used to imprvoe beach access if other funds are
not sufficient.
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SUMMARY
1. A growing coastal population has increased demand for public access
to the beach.
2. Problems arise in providing beach access because of ownership patterns
along beach communities. While the public owns the beach from the high
water mark seaward, from the mean high water mark landward is privately
owned.
3. Four types of users demand access to the beach. They are beach front
property a-mers, non -beach front property owners, daily visitors from
off the island, and people requiring vehicular access.
4. There are three types of acessway ownership at Holden Beach. Privately
owned accessways are owned by an individual, included in the study because
they are currently being used by the public with or without the permission
of the owner. Semi-public accessways are owned by a group of non -beach
front property owners rather than an indivudual. Public accessways are
owned by the Town of Holden Beach.
5. Sixty-eight existing beach access points were evaluated in terms of
physical facilities, ownweship, visibility, and erosion controls, Most
lacked some if not all of the facilities needed by the public..
' 6. To provide for the different types of users requiring access to the beach,
three classifications of accessways have.been designated: Major, Niegh-
borhood, and vehicular.
' 7. Major accessways should provide for the needs of the day or off -island visi-
tors. They should be easily identified and included at the minimum, a
parking area, trash receptacles, sandfences, and a wolkover. A fete major
' accessways should also include bike racks and bathroom facilities and at
least one major access point should be modified for the handicapped. .
' 8. Neighborhood accessways should primarily accomodate non -beach front property
owners. They should be unobtrusively identified and include ..at_a_min.inum:._...,
a walkover, trash receptacles and sand fences,
' 9. Vehicular Access! -rays provide access for emergency vehicles, jeeps, and
fioherman at various points along the beach. They should be located in
relatively lot; areas and paved with nothing more substantial than loose
' gravel. v
10. There are several methods available for gcquiring land for beach accessways.
Options include purchase in fee simple interest and acquisition of various
types of easements. The Holden Beach Subdivision and Zoning. Ordinance can
also be amended to encourage the development of additional beach access.
1 49

11. State and Federal funds should be agressively sought to finance beach
access qcquisition and development, although local revenue sources
currently appear more promising. A mojority of Holden Beach residents
favor tax money to be spent to improve neighborhood beach access. Major
access points could be financed by assessing a parking fee in much the
_same manner that permits are issued for vehicles on the beach.
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