Land Use Plan-1980

lease do not remove!!!!!
Division of Coastal Management
IN0fxLEHU AB CITY
LAND USE PLAN
NOVENBER, 1330

MOREHEAD CITY LAND USE PLAN
NOVEMBER,.1980
The preparation of this report was financially aided through a federal grant
from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The grant was made
through the North Carolina Department of Natural Resources and Community Develop-
ment.

R
r
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
I.
DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . 3
Population . . . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . .
. . . . 3
Economy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . 5
Labor Force. . . . . . . . . . . . ... . . .
. . . . . 7
Existing Land Use. . . . . . . . .
. . . . 8
Current Plans Policies and Regulations . . . . . . . .
. . 15
Constraints: Land.Suitability . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . 20
Hazard Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . 20
Soils.
. 21
Fragile Areas. . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . 28
Constraints - Capacity -of Community Facilities . .
28
'
Estimated Demand . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . .
. . . . . 31
II.
POLICY STATEMENTS. . . . . . . . . I. . . . . . .
. . . . . 37
Resource Protection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . 37
Resource Production and Management . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . 47
Economic and Community Development . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . 48
Continuing Public Participation. .. . . . . . .
. . . . . 51
Attachment B Issues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . 53
r III.
LAND CLASSIFICATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . 56
Morehead City's Land Classification. . . . . . . . . .
. . . 58
IV.
APPENDIX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . 62
Soil Interpretations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . 62

f
LIST OF MAPS
Title
Page
Existing Land Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
R Soils . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Wastewater Collection System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Land Classification . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
14

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LIST OF TABLES'
Title Page #
Population. Estimates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Selected.Age Group Percentages . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Retail Sales . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Travel Expenditures. . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . 6
Labor Force Summary 1974, 1975; 1976, 1977, 1978 . . . . . 7
N. C. State Ports Terminal . . . . . . . . . . 7
Soil Interpretations Records . . . . . . . . 62
h

The Town of'Morehead City has prepared this, update of the original
Land Development Plan through direction and assistanceof the Town Planning
Board. The plan was prepared in compliance with land use planning guidelines
set forth under the Coastal Area Management Act of 1974. The Act established
a cooperative program of coastal area management between local and state
governments.
The purpose of a land use plan for Morehead City is to achieve the goals
of acceptable Coastal Area Management. These goals are:
1) To provide a management system capable of preserving and managing
the natural ecological conditions of the estuarine system, the
barrier dune system, and the beaches, so as to safe guard and
perpetuate their natural productivity and their biological, economic
and aesthetic values.
2) To insure that the development or preservation of the land and
water resources of the coastal area proceeds in a manner consis-
tent with the capability of the land and water for development,
use, or preservation based on ecological considerations.
3) To insure the orderly and balanced use and preservation of our
coastal resources on behalf of the people of North Carolina
and the nation.
4) To establish policies, guidelines and standards for the conser-
vation of resources; the economic development of the coastal area;
the use of recreational lands and tourist facilities; the wise de-
velopment of transportation and circulation patterns; the preser
vation and enhancement of historical, cultural and scientific
aspects of the region, and the protection of common law and public
rights in the land and waters of the coastal area.

This land use plan as stated earlier is an update of the plan completed
in May of 1976. The plan contains four basic sections,. (1) Data collection
and analysis, (2) existing land use, (3) policy discussion and (4) a land
classification map. Basic was updated where relevant and possible. Primary
emphasis in the update was placed on definning the land use policy.objectives
of the town.
2

0202 Data Collection and Analys.i.a
(a) Establishment of Information Base
Since 1980 census figures were not available as of this writing,
population estimates and projections were taken from the N.C. Department
of Administration and the revised edition of the Carteret County Complex
201 Facilities Plan (December 1979) which were compiled from N.C. DEM-
DNRCD figures completed in 1978.
Growth and demand estimates were based on a number of factors such
as population estimates, 201 planning projections, building permits issued,
annexation patterns/policy and economic conditions.
Existing plans were examined and utilized and refined upon where
possible.
(b) Present Conditions.
(1) Population
An examination of the Coastal Area Management.Plan completed in
1976 summarizes population trends and conditions up to that time
primarily utilizing 1970 Census information. (pages 7-11 of initial
plan)
As stated earlier 1980 census fugures are not available. As
a result present estimates have produced the following trends.
1975 1978 1980
5,516 5,780 5,800
From 1975 to 1978 the population of Morehead City increased by 4.8% or 264
according to estimates provided by the State Budget Department of Administration.
From 1978 to 1980 the increase was only .35% or 20 people according to projections
provided by the Carteret County Complex 201 Facility Plan. However the 1980
projection is a 10.8% increase over the 1970 census figure of 5,233. This is a
reversal from the previous decade (1960-1970) in which there was a decrease of
3
6.3%.

Population in the Morehead City planning area has continued to increase more
rapidly in the one -mile extraterritorial area than in the town limits. A review
of building permits from 1976 through 1979 indicates there were 33 new homes
built in the town limits. While 189 residences plus 48 mobile homes were
.constructed in the one -mile planning area. Counting the mobile homes and housing
together there were 204 more homes constructed in the one -mile planning area
than in the town limits.
For an analysis of the distribution of Morehead City's population by age
and sex, refer.to pages 8 thru 11 of the initial CAMA plan. No attempt has
been made to update this information since any new data will be included in the
1980 census.
However the 1970 census identified the following age group percentages and
comparisons were applicable.
Selected Age Group Percentages
Below 18 18-64 64 and over
Morehead City 32.5% 56.1% 11.4%
Carteret County , 33.8% 57% 9.2%
State 34.6% 57.2% 8%
Seasonal Population
Over the years Morehead City has been subjected to an influx of tourists
during approximately six months of the year. Spring and Fall fishing may
extend the season by two or three months. This trend has been due to the
recreation facilities in the area and the access to ocean activities on East
Bogue Banks.
4

It was previously estimated that Morehead City's seasonal population
increased by approximately 200 during the summer months, and this figure
has probably increased by another hundred or so due to increased population
and construction.
(2) Economy
Morehead City is still the largest.town in Carteret County and
is the retail trade center for the county. A majority of retail and
sales establishments in the county are located within Morehead City!
It contains over 50 percent of the apparel and accessory stores;,
furniture; home furnishings and equipment stores; eating places; and
drug stores and proprietary stores. The following chart, Gross
Retail Sales for Carteret County in 1979 gives an indication of the
retail sales throughout the county.
Retail Sales
1974-75
1% Retail Sales $ 1,105,433
2% Auto, Planes, Boats 7,153,424
Apparel 1,551,785
Automobile .16,533,694
Food' 35,762,775
Furniture 4,777,904
General Merchandise 16,572,181
Building -Materials 8,889,842
Unclassified Group 16,661,934
TOTALS
$109,008,972
1978-79
$ 1,028,562
11,740,201
3,065,955
58,193,859
8,117,888
26,483,868
11,512,447
31,39.8,236
$174,191,722
W

During 1974-75, retail sales in Carteret County had already in-
creased by $6,319,190 over 1973-74 which was the latest total listed
in ipitial CAMA Land Use Plan. In the next four years (1978-79)
retail sales for the county had increased by an additional $65,182,750
which is a significant increase. As was the situation in 1973-74 it
is felt that a considerable amount of these expenditures take place
in Morehead City due to the many tourist related businesses and
restaurants.
The town serves not only as a trading center for the county
residents, but also as a tourist center for the many visitors that
travel to the coast each year. The following chart indicates the
growing number of travel expenditures in Carteret County.
Travel Expenditures
1973 $ 8,607,000
1974 $ 9,117,000
1975 $ 9,714,000
1976 $11,007,000
1977 $15,200,000
1978 $16,937,000
An examination of the types of employment in Carteret County
reveals that the number of people who work in agriculture has con-
tinued to decline in the last three years. Manufacturing totals
have increased since 1975 and Government Employment has continued
to increase from 1974 on thru 1978.
1.1

Employment
- Labor Force
Total
Non-
Rate of
Employ-
Manufac-
Manufac-
Govern-
Agricul,
Unemploy-
Weekly
ment
turing
turing
went
tural
Other
ment
Wage
1974
13,170
1,790
6,520
1,610
390
2,860
5.5
$105.95
1975
13,680
1,740
6,700
1,780
410
3,050
7.3
119.63
1976
14,700
2,010
7,230
1,800
430
3,230
6.7
127.55
1977
151190
2,080
7,540
1,860
360
3,350
7.0
138.65
1978
16,620
2,210
8,320
2,160
330
3,600
5.6
155.72
A high percentage of Morehead City's.labor force works in civil service, which
.illustrates the importance of governmental activities on the economy. The state
has many agencies with offices in Morehead City, but the primary source of civil
service employment is Cherry Point Marine Base.
The Morehead State Port facilities also have a profound impact on the economy
The volume of business handled by the port gives some•,indication of the potential
value to the economy of the county. Refer -to the below Chart for specific infor-
mation. Recent trends have indicated that -the value of imports has fluctuated
considerably while the value of exports has steadily increased. The total amount
of business has remained relatively
high.
North Carolina State Ports Terminal
Morehead City,
North Carolina
General
Cargo
Asphalt and
Grand'
Import
Export
Petroleum
Military
Total
1974 539,683.74
559,680.80
252,537.75
5,623.28
1,103,987.82
1975 395,133.36
610,823.58
156,375.39
3,192.84
1,009,149.78
1976 718,409.66
764,535.07
141,388.36
11,594.03
1,494,538.76
1977 160,087.54
871,251.36
708,604.22
4,962.70
1,744,905.82
19.78 275,308.36
947,665.29
77i,218.42
23,380.97
2,017,573.04
.This section concerning the economy
of Morehead
City is intended
to indicate
the relationship of
Morehead City's
economy to that
of the county's,
and the im-
portance of the tourist industry in
Morehead City.
Morehead City's
economy is
directly proportioned to the county's
economy. When
tourists visit
Carteret
7

County, sales and services for Morehead City rise; more jobs are created; and
the standard of living increases. The tourist industry provides for greater
stability of toe economic situation for Morehead City as well as other areas
of the county.
(2) Existing Land Use
The existing land uses identified and classified by the CAMA land use plan
in 1976 are still largely applicable today. Many of the compatibility problems
still exist but are not continuing due to development activities adhering to
zoning, subdivision, building codes, and other regulations, etc.
The existing land uses in Morehead City are still organized into five use
categories. A listing is given below of the typical uses in each of the general
categories.
1. Residential - This category includes single family homes, apartments,
duplexes, mobile homes, cottages and cabins.
2.. Commercial - This category includes retail and service trade. A retail
store is one that sells physical goods as opposed to intangible services.
Such stores include clothing stores, drug stores, service stations and
grocery stores. Service stores trade in intangible goods. This sub-
category includes motels, banks and professional offices.
3. Industrial - This category includes all industrial uses. Unoffensive
industrial uses include such operations as wholesale storage, and
the production of textiles and apparels. Other industrial.uses
include boat manufacture, metal work and metal shops.
4. Public and Semi -Public - This category includes schools, churches,
governmental facilities, recreational facilities, cemetaries, and
various types of rights -of. -way.
go

5. Undeveloped Land - This category includes land that is vacant. In
the extraterritorial area, undeveloped land is often used for agri-
culture, woodland, and in the case of shallow estuarine areas,.for
replenishing the valuable fish supply.
Upon an extensive analysis of existing land use activities since
1975-76 when the initial CAMA plan was completed, the following de-
velopment trends and patterns have emerged.
1. Residential - Residential development has continued to occupy the largest
percentage of the developed land within the city. Single family dwellings
increased by 33 during the period 1976 thru 1979. As in 1976 higher den-
sity development has occured in town and many of the same patterns evidenced
in the area north of Arendell Street and east of 16th Street such as con-
verting older single family homes into multifamily units has occurred
there.
• The largest increase in residential development by far has occurred in
the one -mile planning area, primarily in the vicinity of Country Club Road.
From 1976 to 1978 there were 189 building permits issued for construction of
residences in the one mile planning area....Addit_ionally 48 mobile homes were
located in this area for a total of 237 new _residences in the one mile
area and 270 new residences including the town limits..
2., Commercial
According to data from the N.C. Department of Revenue on retail sales,
Morehead City had $74,953,300 out of Carteret County's total of $154,063,000
for the 1977-78 year, which is almost half of the county total. This figure
provides a measurement as.to the scope and importance of commercial activity
in Morehead City.
9

The pattern of commercial land use in Morehead City is still lineal.
The pattern follows a line that extends along Arendell Street for four
blocks from Seventh Street to Eleventh Street.. Also in the downtown area
is a large amount of waterfront or marine commercial along Shepard and Evans
between Nipth Street and Fourth Street. These provide moorings for many
of the charter boats and locations for fish houses and waterfront restau-
rants.
Arendell Street is becoming a commercial highway strip development
which is most pronounced in two areas: (1) Between Eleventh Street and
Fourteenth Street (2) The north side of Arendell Street west of 24th
Street. At Bridges Street, the commercial development, which is highway
oriented, developed on both sides of Arendell Street past the extra-
territorial jurisdiction boundary.
Commercial development has been particularly heavy along Highway 70
West outside of the one -mile planning area and indications are this pattern
will continue. Building permits are numerous in this area.
0
Scattered shopping places are still found throughout Morehead City
largely existing as non -conforming uses. The town is however making a
conscientious effort through its zoning ordinance to avoid past problems
such as mixed uses.
3. Industrial
Morehead City's current industrial uses are virtually the same as
identified in the initial plan. The principal industrial uses in the
area are boat and metal works, a garment factory, a roofing plant and the
port activity which includes storage and bulk goods shipping. The port
activity consists of nearly 150 acres on the extreme eastern tip of the
•
peninsula on which Morehead City is located.
10

4. Public and Semi -Public - This category includes schools, churches,
governmental facilities,, recreational facilities, cemetaries, and
various types of.rights-of-way.
a. Schools within the Morehead City Planning area are one mid-
dle school, two Public Elementary and one Private Elementary
School. The present sites of these schools are inadequate when
compared with North Carolina Division of School Plant Planning
school site standards. According to these standards,. an
elementary school site should contain 10 acres plus one additional
acre for each 100 pupils. A junior high school site should be
20 acres plus one additional acre for each 100 pupils.
The newly completed Morehead City Middle School has recently
opened.with a capacity of 600 students and is located on a 30
acre site. According to Carteret County education officials this
school should be able to accomodate projected.enrollment for
the next several years.
The Morehead City Elementary School site is five acres and
according to state standards should be 18 acres. This site is
surrounded by residential development and will be difficult to
expand.
Camp Glenn School is located on a ten acre site and needs six
additional acres to meet state standards of site adequacy. Addi-
tional space is needed for parking and play areas.
b.. Government Facilities - The major development or change since
the original plan is the construction of.a new post office located
off Bridges Street behind Carteret General Hospital. Additionally,
newly modernized office facilities for the Town of Morehead City
are now located in the former downtown post office building.
11

C X1'.�r'TIM4 LAND

c. Churches
There have been a total of 7 building permits issued for the
construction of churches from 1976 thru 1979.
d. Transportation, Communication, and Power - Transportation facilities
include roads, alleys, highways, and railroad rights -of -way.
These land uses continue to,occupy significant amounts of land
in the planning area.
The recommendations of the Morehead City thoroughfare plan are
utilized and followed as closely as possible.
5. Undeveloped Land - Undeveloped land is placed into three categories:
Farmland, vacant in town, and wooded and estuarine.
Land used for farmland in the planning area has been decreasing as
residential development continues to expand.
Usable vacant land in Morehead City is -still generally scattered through-
out the town in small lots. The vacant land in the downtown area is primarily
used for parking.
In the one -mile planning area, wooded land, swamp and spoils still
occupy a large percentage of land in the total planning area. This amount
is still estimated at over 50% of the total planning area.
This includes a large number of tidal marsh land in the northeast
section of the planning area. This land will most likely not be developed
in residential use before the year 2000. The future potential of this land
for estuarine purposes is still to be determined.
(A) Land Use Compatibility Problems
Most land use compatibility problems in Morehead City have in-
volved problems of mixed land uses and strip developments.
13

Although many such situations remain, primarily because they were
constructed before land use controls were enforced, recent developments
have followed land use and zoning recommendations.
Strip development along parts of Arendall still create access and
turning problems for shoppers and traffic in general.
Heavy commercial development is currently being experienced along
Highway 70 West on the western edge of this one -mile planning area. This
is causing many additional vehicles to enter and exit along Highway 70
which will create some traffic problems during the tourist season.
The Calico Creek area was previously identified as a land development
problem due to lack of development because the creek had not been dredged.
This creek has still not been dredged and this will be discussed in the
policy section.
(B) Problems from Unplanned Developments
No major problems have occurred from unplanned developments in the `
Morehead City Planning area since the previous land use plan was completed.
There have been potential transportation and thoroughfare problems that
were avoided because the recommendations of the Morehead City Thorough-
fare Plan were followed.
(C) Changes In Predominant Land Uses
There are two main areas experiencing changes in their land uses
and both are located in the one -mile planning area. Heavy residential
development off Country Club Road is changing vacant land to residential.
The Highway 70 West area on the western end of the one -mile planning area
is rapidly developing vacant land to commercial buildings.
(D) Areas of Environmental Concern
. See description under Policy Statements and locations in the land
classification map.
14

w
.3. Current Plans, Policies and Regulations
1. Plans and Policies —
The
The following is a listing of major actions, plans and policies
which have currently been attempted or accepted or adopted by Morehead
City
Each document represents another step in the comprehensive
planning program initiated in 1968 with the.formation of the Morehead
City Planning Board.
The Planning Board with technical assistance from the Department
of Community Services has completed the following studies and plans:
a. Transportation Plan
The Morehead City Thoroughfare Plan was completed by North
Carolina Department of Transportation officials to provide for
Morehead City's.transportation needs of the future. The plan
provides methods for updating and prioritizing needs.
N.C. DOT
The proposed third bridge was examined. Recommendations were
made to coordinate planning efforts with DOT on third bridge
and thoroughfare plan.
Beaufort -Morehead City Airport
Proper coordination will be made with Carteret County, Beaufort,
DOT and airport officials concerning land uses and height
restrictions.
Carteret County TDP
Consultants recommended that Carteret Community Action Agency
be recognized as the lead agency for Human Services Transportation.
The Agency is naming a committee from five voting districts
(covering all parts of the county) to determine what to do or
15

adopt an approved TDP for Carteret County. Additionally,
Seashore transportation operates -a public.bus transportation
system through Beaufort and Morehead City.
b. Community Facilities Plan - In May, 1973, an analysis was made
of the facilities and services in the Community Facilities Plan
and Capital Improvements Budget. Some information in this plan
is outdated. Part of this outdated information was updated in
the 1976 CAMA plan, but Morehead City should update the complete
Community Facilities Plan in the near future.
c, Utilities Extension Policies - Morehead City's policy is to
extend and provide services wherever new development dictates it.
d. Open Space and Recreation Policy - Morehead City has no formal
open space and recreation policy, but this matter was addressed
in the Land Development Plan of April 1970. Morehead City is
currently updating the recommendations made in that plan.
e. Prior Land Use Plans and Policies
(1) Coastal Area Management Act Land Use Plan 1976. Its purpose
was to plan and achieve land use goals set forth under plan-
ning guidelines of the Coastal Area Management Act of 1974.
(2) Land Use Survey and Analysis and Land Development Plan 1970
Its purpose was to propose solutions that will give the
citizens of Morehead City a better living environment in the
future. -These solutions are presented to aid the Town
Board of Morehead City in making land development decisions
which include commercial and neighborhood renewal, public
housing construction, zoning, street paving and aesthetic
improvement.
16
0
w
.

f. Other Plans and Policies
(1) Community Apprearance Program
This program is intended to promote a better community
appearance through use of an appearance committee.' The duties
of such a committee should include:
a. To initiate, promote, and assist in the development and
implementation of a community appearance program for
Morehead City.
b. help formulate appearance standards; and
c. promote community interest in appearance and understanding
of an overall town appearance policy.
(2). Community Development Application Program
The purpose of this application was to gain federal
assistance in Morehead City's endeavor to upgrade the Town's
transportation system (in neighborhood sections), drainage'
problems and deteriorating housing, city wide. The applica-
tion was approved.
(3) 201 Facility Plan for Carteret County
Morehead City is one of several communities involved
in the county comprehensive regional sewer plan. The plan's
aim is to provide public sewer services to the general public
that is cost-effective.
2. Local Regulations
a. Zoning Ordinance - 1973
Zoning is simply a device in which land is classified and
designated for certain broad purposes. Land uses are divided
and placed in general categories such as residential, commercial,
industrial, etc. The printed zoning ordinance is combined with
17

an official map that shows the location of each zone within the
city.
The zoning ordinance protects against haphazard development
patterns and conserves property values. Through the use of such
things as population density controls, lot coverage limitations,
and bulk and height regulations, the public welfare and private
investments are safeguarded. The Planning Board and Town Board
wrote and adopted the zoning ordinance, and the building inspector
is the individual who administers the ordinance.
A zoning ordinance revision was completed in 1977 but has
never fully been adopted.
b. Subdivision Regulations - 1972
Subdivision regulations provide a means of guiding new
residential development. They require developers to comply
with minimum design standards. The purpose of applying sub-
division regulations is to establish maximum neighborhood density
standards, to provide for the efficient flow of traffic, to
require adequate drainage of developing areas and to construct
sufficient water and sewer facilities. Additional regulations
may include provisions for parks and open space.
Enforcement of the subdivision regulations is performed by
the Planning Board and the Town Board.
Morehead City Subdivision Regulations 1978 were completed in
draft form but have not yet been adopted.
c. Flood Plain Ordinance - Morehead City began participation in the
flood insurance program in 1977.
d. Building Code - Morehead City has adopted the Southern Standard
Building Code and the North Carolina Building Code. The Building
18

Code is designed to protect the safety and welfare of the
public. The building inspector enforces the building code.
.e. Septic Tank Regulations - The Carteret County Health Department
enforces regulations concerning septic tanks and individual
wells in the areas that are not served by water and sewer. In
Morehead City, municipal water and sewer serves the municipal
area itself.
f. Mobile Home Park Regulations - These regulations require de-
velopers to comply with minimum design standards. They are en-
forced by the Planning Board and Town Board.
g. The guidelines for local planning require that the following
be listed. However, these do not pertain to Morehead City at
this time.
(1) Historic District Regulations
(2) Nuisance Regulations
(3) Dune Protection Ordinance
(4) Sedimentation Codes
(5) Environmental Impact Statement Ordinances.
3. There are many federal and state regulations that affect land
development. All property owners should check these regulations
before attempting to develop their land. A list of these regula-
tions will be provided by the.Department of Natural Resources and
Community Development.
19

C. Constraints: Land Suitability
Physical limitations for development for the land in
Morehead City have largely been identified in the initial "
CAMA Land Use Plan pages 43 - 48 and will not be entirely
repeated. However a completely updated soils section which
is extremely detailed and important to any decisions on land
suitability is included.
a. Hazard Areas
Man-made hazards still consist of the State port, bulk
oil storage tanks and the railroad. Additional bulk oil
tanks constituting a man-made hazard are: Colonial Oil
Industries, Texas Gulf, Davis Industries, Geer Oil Company,
Carolina Oil and Distributing Company, David Wheatley Oil
Company, Potter's Bulk Storage, Coastal Oil Company and
Exxon Heating Oil.
Flood hazard areas have been defined and mapped for
Morehead City and copies are on file at the Town Hall.
The latest maps compiled by HUD are dated February 16,
1977.
Estuarine erodible areas are an area above ordinary
high water where excessive erosion has a high probability
of occurring. Sound erosion is found in and around the
shoreline that fronts on the.intra-coastal waterway. The
area from loth Street to 35th Street is listed as an
estuarine erodible area.
20

SOILS
b. Morehead City is on a peninsula that ranges from sea level to about 25 feet,
in elevation. The soils have formed in sandy and loamy coastal plain sediment.
Soils at the lowest elevation are in brackish marshland that is a critidal com-
ponent of the coastal eco-system. In upland areas the main limitation to urban use
is wetness. The soils that are in depressions or at low elevations have a sea-
sonal high water table and are subject to flooding during severe storms. Response
to artificial drainage is usually good if suitable outlets are available. Other
soil properties are generally favorable for urban use. The well drained soils in
the higher, more convex areas are well suited for urban use.
The six soil association areas are shown on the general soil map. Each of
these soil associations has one to three major.soils which occur together in a
characteristic and repeating pattern. Other soils also occur but are of minor
extent. This general map is suitable only for general information. Detailed soil
maps and interpretations are available at the Carteret Soil and Water Conservation
District Office in Beaufort. Detailed soil.information is necessary for the plan-
ning of specific sites. Descriptions of the major soils. in the area follow:
1. CARTERET
This mapping.unit consists of nearly level, poorly drained sandy soils in
coastal marshes. The water table is at or near the surface continuously and they
are subject to tidal flooding.
These soils are a critical component of the coastal eco-system and are unsuited
for urban use.
2. NEWHAN-CARTERET
These are nearly level to sloping areas where sandy dredge spoil has been
placed on Marshland. About 90 percent of the area has been filled with about 1 to
20 feet of sand. The filled areas consist of the excessively drained Newhan soils.
Depth to the water table depends on the depth of fill. About 10 percent of the
area is poorly drained Carteret soils'in small areas of marsh.
21

This unit reflects urban development and channel maintenance at the expense
of coastal marshland. The suitability for further urban development of this
mapping unit should be determined at specific sites.
3. MANDARIN-WANDO-LEON
This unit consists of nearly level to gently sloping, somewhat excessively
drained to poorly drained sandy soils. Low areas also flood occasionally. It
is about 35 per cent Mandarin soils, 30 percent Wando soils and 25 percent Leon
soils.
The moderately well drained Mandarin soils are on low ridges. These soils
have a percked water table at depth of 2 to 3.5 feet during rainy periods. This
is caused by an organic stained, weakly cemented hardpan. Drainage for some urban
uses such as septic tank absorption fields is often necessary. Response to arti-
ficial drainage is very good, although ditchbanks cave easily in the sandy soil.
Also, these soils are extremely droughty and lawns and shrubs are often difficult
to establish.. Otherwise, Mandarin soils are suited for most urban uses.
The somewhat excessively drained Wando soils are on the higher ridges. The
seasonal high water table is below 6 feet in these deep sandy soils. They are well
suited for most urban uses.
The poorly drained leon soils are in depressions. The seasonal high water
table is within 1.0 foot of the surface during winter and spring and during rainy
periods. There is a weakly cemented, organic stained.hardpan within 2.5 feet of
the surface. This layer interferes with drainage and temporarily perches the
water table during rainy periods. These wet, sandy soils are poorly suited for most
urban uses unless adequate artificial drainage is installed. Response to drainage
is fair to good if an adequate outletis available. Caving ditchbanks is also a
problem because of the sandy texture. '
22

4. ALTAVISTA AUGUSTA - TOMOTLEY
These are nearly level, moderately well drained to poorly drained loamy soils
They are on broad, smooth to slightly convex areas near drainageways. Low areas
may flood occasionally. This unit is about 45 percent Altavista soils, 30 percent
Augusta soils and 15 percent tomotley soils.
The moderately well drained Altavista soils are on the higher, slightly
convex areas nearest to the drainage ways. They have a seasonal high water table
at depths of 2.0 to 2.5 feet. Wetness is the main limitation for urban use. Res-
ponse to artificial drainage is good. Undrained areas have severe limitations for
septic tank absorption fields and moderate limitations for most other urban uses.
Drained areas are well suited for most urban uses.
The somewhat poorly drained Augusta soils are on smooth areas, slightly lower
than Altavista soils. The seasonal high water table is 1.0 to 2.0 feet below the
surface. Wetness is the main limitation for urban use. Response to artificial
drainage is good. Undrained areas have sever limitations for most urban uses.
Drained areas are suited for urban use.
The. poorly drained romotley soils are in dopressions. The seasonal high water
table is within 1.0 foot of the surface in the winter and spring and during rainy
periods. Wetness is the main limitation for urban use. Response to drainage
is good if adequate outlets are available. Undrained areas have severe limitations
for urban use. Drained areas have fair suitability for some urban uses - failure
of septic systems and flooding is more likely for Tomotley soils than for the
other soils in this unit.
5. ARAPAHOE - TOMOTLEY
This unit consists of poorly and very poorly drained loamy soils on flat
inter stream areas. This unit is about 60 percent Arapahoe soils and aobut 30
percent Tomotley soils. These soils are subject to flooding during severe storms.
23

The very poorly drained Arapahoe soils are in the lowest places. The seasonal
high water table is at or near the surface in winter and spring and during rainy
periods. Flooding is frequent, especially in depressions. Wetness is the
main limitation for urban use. Response to artificial drainage is good if adequate
outlets are available. Undrained areas are poorly suited for urban use.
The.poorly drained tomotley soils are in slightly -higher, nearly level areas.
The seasonal high water table is within 1.0 foot of the surface in the winter
and spring and during rainy periods. Wetness is the main limitation for urban
use. Response to drainage is good if adequate outlets are available. Undrained,
areas have severe limitations for urban use. Drained areas have fair suitability
for some urban uses.-
6. AUTRYVILLE-ARAPAHOE
This unit consists of gently undulating ridges and depressions. It contains
the highest elevations in the area and is about 65 percent Autryville and similar
soils and 20 percent Arapahoe soils. About 10 percent of the unit is Leon soils.
The well drained Autryville soils are on gently sloping ridges. The seasonal
highwater table is below 6.0 feet. This soil is well suited for urban use.
The very poorly drained Arapahoe soils are in low depressions. The seasonal
high water table is at or near the surface in winter and spring and during rainy
periods. Flooding is frequent Adequate outlets for drainage are difficult to
develop because of the low elevation. Undrained areas are poorly suited for
urban use because of wetness.
24

GENERAL SOIL AREAS
MOREHEAD.CITY, N.C.
1. CARTERET: Nearly level, poorly drained sandy soils in coastal marches.
2. NEWHAN-CARTERET: Nearly level to sloping, excessively drained areas where
sandy dredge spoil has been placed on coastal marshes.
3. MANDARIN-WANDO-LEON: Nearly level to gently sloping, somewhat excessively
drained to poorly drained sandy soils on uplands.
4. ALTAVISTA-AUGUSTA-TOMOTLEY: Nearly level, moderately well drained to poorly
drained loamy soils'on uplands.
5. ARAPAHOE-TOMOTLEY: Nearly Level; poorly and very poorly drained loamy
soils on uplands.
6. AUTRYVILLE-ARAPAHOE: Gently sloping, well drained loamy soils on ridges and
nearly level, very poorly drained soils in depressions; on uplands.
25

;.
r
,'` �", .�
.:. -

c. Water Supply
Water for the area is acquired from deep wells into the Castle
Hayne aquifer and Morehead City has just completed expansions of
its municipal water system. Elevated storage 1,000,000 gallons,
maximum daily capacity 2.8 million gallons, and peak loan 1,100,000
gallons. Current useage of water is from 800,000 to 900,000 gallons
per day. Permits are required for additional wells, but the
quantities calculated in the Castle Hayne aquifer are adequate for
projected growth in the area.
Groundwater
Two main water bearing units occur in Morehead City. These
are the surficial sand and the underlying limestone. Both
sources are available in Morehead City.
The surface sands that cover Carteret County yield freely to
well points, supplying water for most domestic users. The water
table is generally within 10 feet of the ground surface.
The Yorktown and underlying Castle Hayne formations are
considered together as the tertiary limestone or "rock aquifer".
Almost all wells entering these formations draw water from the
rock.
Fresh water exists to depths of about 650 feet (just west
of Morehead City),and the water is noticeably brackish below
700 feet. Because of the abundance of fresh water in the upper
stratas, there appears to be little likelihood of saline
intrusion into the overlying fresh water aquifer unless ex-
cessively large local withdrawals of ground water is practiced.
27

d. Steep Slopes
The guidelines indicate that areas with slopes over 12%
shall be identified. Morehead City has no areas with slopes greater
than 12
(2) Fragile Areas
Fragile areas have largely been identified in the initial
CAMA land use plan pages 46-48 and will be included in the dis-
cussion of AEC's in the policy statements.
(d) Constraints - Capacity of Community Facilities.
(1) Sewer System.
The Morehead City sewer system is served by a
trickling Filter Wastewater Treatment Plant which has
a capacity of 1.7 million gallons per day.
MOREHEAD CITY — INFILTRATION/INFLOW ANALYSIS
8. C.1. Morehead City - General
Unitl 1965, the Town of Morehead City did not treat wastewater generated by
its residents. The untreated wastewater was collected and discharged directly
" into Calico Creek on the north, or into Bogue Sound on the south. The storm
water collection system also discharged directly into Calico Creek or into
Bogue Sound, but in many instances, the storm water was diverted into the
sanitary sewer system to eliminate the need for parallel sanitary and storm
sewer lines. In 1964, the town awarded contracts for the construction of a
sewage treatment plant, located on the north side of Calico Creek;.for
installation of interceptor lines along.the sound and along the creek; and for
construction of lift stations to pump all the town's wastewater to the
treatment plant. During construction, all sanitary sewer lines that were
discharging directly into the sound or into the creek were intercepted and
28

B 0 G u E
MAP &C.1:1
T"0WN OF
MOREHEAD: CITY
NORTH CARO.L.lNA
fill?. a$
sc," N FEET !
WASTEWATER COLLECTION SYSTEM
arin `�
IS 0 U N D
___ KI. AttRACKilFlt MfMw►.. _
-•-- -- iML�Y1Lilt�----------O�F[4'i'4h�lllll---- -----
29
? RfM1�YfOLNXi-Cat111RtN{041Iq�4A�R�OMtA��
ItLIY tlf00fRiflo.+fi.f Mff®A FtAYN�F.WM not tlff111amm
LEGEND
i'., EXATING MAN-OLE AND
IDENT.FING NUMBER
EXISTING GRAv�Tr SEWER(ALI SEMERSK
URLESS NOTED GTNEP.SE)
EXISTING LIFT STATI•«
—=•-- FXIS'ING FC-CE MAIN
AND LINE SIZE
-' - INFCTNATION. INFLOW
STUDY APEA

their flow diverted to one of the new sewage lift stations.
Storm drains that were discharging into the sanitary collec-
tion system were disconnected or diverted to discharge either
into Calico Creek or into Bogue Sound.
The Morehead City sewage collection system consists of approxi-
mately 26 miles of 6', 8', 10', 12' and 24' lines. For the
most part, the gravity collection system consists of vitrified
clay pipe. The older lines have oakum and mortar joints; the
newer lines, slip-on rubber gasket joints. Manholes are con-
structed of brick or of concrete block with mortar joints.
Interior walls of the manholes are plastered with mortar
approximately 1/2 inch thick.
At the beginning of the infiltration/inflow study, it was found
that very little was known about the Morehead City sewage collec-
tion system. No maps were available for the old system; and
the extent of the service areas for each of the sewage lift
stations were only approximate. Field work was therefore initiated
to determine the location of manholes, sizes of lines, direction
of flow, and general conditions of the collection system. The
collection systemwas subsequently mapped and divided into nine
different areas so that detailed descriptions and accurate
assessments could be made. Detailed descriptions of each of
the areas can be found in The Carteret Councy Complex 201
Facility Plan.
"I

Water System
Water for the area is acquired from deep wells into the Castle
Hayne aquifer and Morehead City has just completed expansions of
its municipal water system. Elevated storage 1,000,000 gallons,
maximum daily capacity 2.8 million gallons, and peak loan
1,100,000 gallons. Permits are required for additional wells, but
the quantities calculated in the Castle Hayne aquifer are adequate
for projected growth in the area.
Schools, Primary Roads
Information on schools and primary roads can be found in the initial
land use plan on pages 50-52,
(e) Estimated Demand
Population
The population projection for 1990 is taken from the most
current revision of the Carteret County Complex 201 Facility
Plan. (Revisions as of December, 1979).
It is important to note that the projections are for permanent
population only and seasonal variations are not included.
1977 1980 1990
Morehead City 5,650 5,800 6,250
A comparison of the above population figures with projections
in the initial CAMA Plan indicate that the 1980 figures (5,800)
are exactly the same.
In the initial CAMA Plan.there was.no projection provided for Y
1990, but the 1985 projection was 6,100 and the 201.projection
for 1990 is 6250.
The overall comparisons of.projections are quite similar.
Most of the growth of Morehead City is still expected to occur
31

in the one -mile planning area as was earlier projected.
Residential building permits in the one -mile area totaled
237 including mobile homes for the 4 year period 1976-1979.
Planned water and sewer expansions should be capable of
handling the projected growth in population.
Morehead City should be able to handle current and future
seasonal populations of the next several years.
Economy
An examiniation of Carteret County's economic trends provide
a good indication of Morehead City's economy since it is the
retail center for the county.
Retail sales in the county increased by $65,182,750 from
1974 - 75 to 1978 - 79 which is a significant increase. It is
felt that a considerable amount of the expenditures take place
in Morehead City.
Retail sales continue to grow as past trends indicate the
economy of Morehead City should also benefit considerably.
Other factors that have a significant impact on Morehead
City's economy are civil service employment at Cherry Point
Marine Base and the State Port Facilities. Both facilities
appear to be sound employment wise and the State port has
been increasing its business.
It is still not certain.what impact any proposed energy
facility will have on Morehead City. This will have to be
determined by the scope and size of the facility if it is built.
A large facility would have significant impact on Morehead
City.
32

(2) Future Land Need
In the next 10 year period current projections indicate
there will be an increase of 450 people above the 1980 estimate
of 5,800 in the town limits. Using a factor of 2.9 persons
per dewlling unit, there would be a need for approximately
155 additional living units.
From 1976 thru 1979 there were 33 building permits issued
for housing units and there were approximately 180 vacant
. residential lots available in 1976. If 33 units were subtracted
from the 180 previously vacant lots that would indicate an
additional need of 8 lots. However, all increases in population
will not live in single family units. Multifamily units would
undoubtedly accomodate some of the increase in population.
The one -mile planning area is expected to increase at a
greater rate than the town limits. From 1976 to 1979 there were
237 building permits issued for this area including mobile homes.
This compares with the 33 housing permits issued in the town
limits.
Even with projected increases of over 2000 additional people,
there is a considerable number of vacant residential acres in the
one -mile area according to existing land use estimates.
Commercial activity is expanding mainly on the western edge
of the one -mile planning area. As less acreage becomes available
in this area other sites will be needed.
33

Industrial activity is largely confined to the port and any
significant expansion would either have to take place within the
port area or outside Morehead City's planning area along Highway
70 West.'.:...
Future11land needs to accomodate Morehead City's projected
ten year population increase of approximately 450 will contine to
follow growth patterns established by past development. Vacant
residential lots within the city limits will basically develop
as high density and the vacant land in the one -mile extra-
territorial area.should develop as low to medium density.
Commercial development is rapidly expanding westward along
highway 70 in the extraterritorial area and should continue in
this direction. The downtown is beginning to receive attention
in regard to future redevelopment. The attitude is ripe for
increased promotion of this area for redevelopment and revitali-
sation efforts could very well begin in the next few years
depending upon funding sources, economy and etc.
The Carteret County Economic Development Council has several
sites listed for future industrial development and is coordinating
all efforts of this type.'
As of this writing it appears very likely that Morehead City
will become involved with some type of energy facility, possibly
a support facility for off -shore drilling. In any event future
land demands are being examined by the planning board and
options are being carefully studied at this time.
34

(3) Community Facilities Demand
Morehead City has just completed expansions of its municipal
water system. Elevated storage is 1,000,000 gallons, the maximum
daily capacity is 3,000,000 gallons and the peak load is 1,100,000
gallons. Permits are required for additional wells, but the
quantities calculated in the Castle Hayne aquifer are adequate
for projected growth in the area.
The waste treatment facility serving Morehead City at present
will.not be able to handle the projected 1990 population. The
existing facilities treating flows will not consistently discharge
wastewater that will be within current or proposed effluent
limitation parameters. Renovation of existing facilities con-
struction of additional treatment processes, and reduction of
infiltration/inflow will be required to adequately treat waste-
water flows projected for the Morehead City service area.
The present treatment plant,is however, scheduled to be up-
graded within the next three years to accomodate projected
1990 population according to the engineers for the town's 201
Plan.
The Morehead City thoroughfare plan is addressing present
and future transportation problems.
The new Morehead City middle school which recently opened will
enable the school system in the planning area meet the needs of
the expected youth population.
Additional recreational facilities and programs will be
needed to accomodate the expected growth of the Morehead City
Planning area.
35

The town ideally should try to provide recreation facilities
that are recommended according to its population as suggested
in Minimum Local Standards for Acquiring and Developing Park
and Recreation Areas in North Carolina. According to the
town recreation director, four additional tennis court's are
being developed and the town has purchased the old Morehead
City Central School for development as a recreational complex.
Ideally the recreation director would like to see additional
water access from this property. In conclusion the town should
strive to meet the facilities suggested in the minimum standards
guidelines.
Additional recreational facilities and programs will be
needed -to accomodate the expected growth of the Morehead City
Planning area.
36

.0203 POLICY STATEMENTS
(1) Resource Protection
(A) Areas of Environmental Concern
All areas of AEC's within the confines of the Morehead
City Planning area come under the broad class of the Estuarine
System. '
Basically everything allowed in the Morehead City
Zoning Ordinance is okay in the AEC's provided that the
uses are not detrimental or inconsistent with the corres-
ponding policy objectives and specific guidelines found
in 15 NCAC 7H.
Coastal Wetlands - General
Coastal wetlands are defined as any salt marsh or other
marsh subject to regular or occasional flooding by tides, includ-
ing -wind tides (whether or not the tide waters reach the marshland
areas through natural or artificial watercourses), provided this
shall not include hurricane or tropical storm tides.
Coastal Wetlands - Low Tidal Marshland
a. Description - Defined as marshland usually subject to
innundation by the normal rise and fall of lunar tides.
b. Significance - Low tidal marshland serves as a critical
component in the coastal ecosystem. The marsh is the
basis for the high net yield system of the estuary
through the production of partially decomposed plant,
material which is the primary input source for the.food
chain for the entire estuarine system.
c. Policy Objectives - To essentially preserve'as much
marsh as possible. The marsh should not be filled
:i 7

unless the project is directly related to erosion
control or water dependent activities.
d., Appropriate Land Uses - Appropriate uses are allowed
that are defined in the Morehead City Zoning Ordinance, +
provided -that the marsh should not be filled unless the
project is directly related to erosion control or water
dependent activities. Some examples allowed are docks,
fishing piers, and utility easements.
Coastal Wetlands - Other Coastal Marshland
a. Description - All other marshland which is not low tidal
marshland
b. Significance - This marshland type contrihutes to the
production of partially decomposed plant material. The
higher marsh types offer quality wildlife.and waterfowl
habitat depending on the biological and physical condi-
tions of the marsh.
c. Policy objectives - The.policies are the same as above
under Low Tidal Marshland, to.preserve as much marsh as
possible and restrict any fill to erosion control or
water dependent activities.
Public access to Sugarloaf Island should not be
allowed and encouraged except by personal boat.
d. Appropriate Land Uses - Appropriate land uses shall be,
to give a high priority to the preservation and management
of the marsh so as to safeguard and perpetuate their
biological, economic and aesthetic values.
Examples of appropriate uses would be fishing piers,
docks, utility easements and agriculture uses except
38

those involving filling or�excavation'which affects
estuarine or other navigable uses.
Estuarine Waters
a. Description - Estuarine waters are defined as all the
waters of the Atlantic Ocean within the boundary of North
Carolina and all the waters of the bays, sounds, rivers,
and tributaries thereto seaward of the dividing line
between coastal fishing waters, as set forth in an
agreement adopted by the Wildlife Commission and the
Department of Conservation and Development.
b. Significance - Estuaries are among the most productive
natural environments in North Carolina. They.not only
support valuable commercial and sports fisheries, but
are also utilized for commercial navigation, recreation,
and aesthetic purposes.,
c. Policy Objectives - To preserve and manage the estuarine
waters so as to safe guard and perpetuate their biological,
social, economic and aesthetic values.
To encourage and support replanting of the oysters and
clams located in Calico Creek that are currently polluted..
They could be replanted in the Newport River, Core Sound or
Bogue Sound.
To consider and encourage dredging of Calico Creek in
order to clean it up and make it more accessible.
39

d. 'Appropriate Land Uses - Appropriate uses shall be to preserve
and manage estuarine waters as to safeguard and perpetuate
their biological, economic, and aesthetic values.
Appropriate uses shall include the development of
Navigational channels, marinas, piers or wharfs, structures
to prevent erosion and mooring pilings provided that such
uses will not be detrimental to the biological and physical
estuarine functions and public trust rights.
40

Areas Subject to Public Rights - Certain Public Trust Areas
a. Description - All waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the
lands thereunder from the mean high water mark to the
seaward limit of State jurisdiction; all natural bodies
of water subject to measurable lunar tides and lands
thereunder to the mean high water mark; all navigable
natural bodies of water and land thereunder to the mean
high water mark or ordinary high water mark as the case
may be, except privately owned lakes to which the public
has not right of access; all waters in artificially
created bodies of water in which exists significant
public fishing resources or other public resources,
which are accessible to the public by navigation from
bodies of water in which the public has rights of
navigation; all waters in artificially created bodies
of water in which the public has acquired rights by
prescription, custom, usage, dedication or any other
means.
.b.. Significance - The public has rights in these waters in-
cluding navigation and recreation. In addition, these
waters support valuable commercial and sports fisheries,
have aesthetic value, and are important potential resources
.for economic development.
41

c.. Policy Objectives - To preserve and manage the public
trust areas so as to safeguard and perpetuate their
biological, economic and aesthetic value.
To encourage dredging of Calico Creek and to
relocate all oysters to.other areas.for replanting such
as stated under the estuarine waters policy.
d. 'Appropriate Land Uses - Appropriate land uses shall be
to protect public rights for navigation and recreation
and to preserve and manage the public trust waters so
as to -safeguard and perpetuate their biological, economic
and aesthetic value.
Appropriate uses include navagational channels and/or
aids, drainage ditches, wharfs, piers, docks, boat ramps,
bridges, utility easements, culverts, groins, and bulk-
heads. Additionally, other uses that are consistent with
the Morehead City Zoning Ordinance that sue water related
and not detrimental functions and public trust rights.
Estuarine Shorelines
a. Description - Estuarine shorelines are those non -ocean
shorelines which are especially vulnerable to erosion,
flooding, or other adverse. effects of wind and water and
are intimately connected to the estuary. This area ex-
tends from the mean high water level or normal water level
along the estuaries, sounds, bays, and brickish waters as
set forth in an agreement adopted by the_Wildlife Resources
Commission and the Department of Natural Resources and
Community Development (described in Regulation .0206(a)
for a distance of 75 feet landward.
42

b. Significance - Development within estuarine shorelines
influences the quality of estuarine life and is subject
to the damaging processes of shore front erosion and
flooding.
c. Policy Objectives - To ensure shoreline development is
compatible with both the dynamic nature of estuarine
• shorelines and the values of the estuarine system.
To ensure that all development adheres to the
towns zoning ordinances, subdivision regulations, aid
land use plan which are consistent with regulations of
the Coastal Management Act.
d. Appropriate Land Uses - Appropriate uses shall be consis-
tent with the above policy objective.
All uses are allowed in the estuarine shorelines in
accordance with the Zoning Ordinance of the Town of
Morehead City and the use standards as set forth in
15 NCAC 7H. 0209 (e).
Specifically all development located in Zone A on.the
Flood hazzard zone should be elevated and conform to the
Morehead City -Flood Ordinance.
All development should be compatible with existing
land uses.
All areas should be able to handle surface run off
and connected to town storm drainage when possible.
All development projects should limit the construc-
tion of impervious surfaces to as little as possible.
43

(1) Constraints to Development
Soils Policy
An assessment of soil types should be done in conjunction
with any development activity in the Morehead City area, especially
in the one -mile -extra -territorial area where town water and sewer
are not available. This is most important because generally all
of the soil types in the Morehead City area have severe limit
tations due to the shallow depth of'the ground water table
and/or potential flooding.
Individual lots will probably need to be sampled and/or
analyzed by the Soil Conservation Service.
Flood Prone Areas - Policy
All development shall be in compliance with the Morehead
City Flood Plain Ordinance. This includes elevating all structures
that are located in the A & V. zones according to the flood
insurance rate map.
(ii) Local Resource Development Issues - Policy
The primary resources.are.found in the area of non -intensive
outdoor recreation land.
Sugarloaf Island,.located across from the Morehead City
waterfront, should be left in its' natural state and access
should only be allowed by boat.
Phillips Island has been identified as a crane hatchery
area and as such should not be disturbed. Two other areas
located adjacent to Phillips Island and in the Newport Marshes
are also potential crane hatchery areas and should be.left in
their natural state.
Dredge spoil is to be located northeast of the highrise
bridge in N.C..State Ports Authority property and on the island
44

at the mouth of Calico Creek as described by the U.S. Army
corps of Engineers labeled Disposal Area.
(iii) Hazardous or Fragile Land Areas - Policy
The identification of hazard areas was compiled under
physical constraints to development. There are concerns about
the numbers of fuel tanks and the railroad carrying fuel through,:
the center of town. No specific policy was provided on this
issue other than adequate precautions should be utilized
whenever possible. The fragile lands have been identified
and some of the policy statements made in the areas of En-
vironmental Concern Section
The town of Morehead City is aware of the significance and
importance regarding the protection of cultural and historic
resources and will make every effort to insure that all pro-.
tective measures and safeguards are taken regarding any pro-
posed action involving them.
Current applicable ordinances and protective mechanisms
include the Zoning Ordinance, Subdivision Regulations, The Land
Use Plan, and the Morehead City Town Board.
Additionally, Morehead City will contact the Division of
Archives and History regarding any proposal which may poten-
tially disturb any archaeological sites in town.
45

Federal and State Regulations
The following State and Federal Regulations affecting
coastal land and water will be complied with'and it is recom-
mended that before development takes place, and investigation
of these regulations should be made to avoid any conflict or
violation..
FEDERAL
National Historic Preservation Act of 1966
The Archeological and Historic Preservation Act of 1974,
Public Law 93-291
Executive Order 11593, Protection and Enhancement of the Cultural
Environment, 16 U.S.C. 470 (Supp. 1, 1971)
National Environmental Policy Act, -Public Law 91-190, 42 U.S.C.
4321 Et. Seq. (1970)
Community Development Act of 1974, Public Law 93-383: Environ-
mental Review Procedures for the Community Development Block
Grant Program (40 CFR Part 58)
Procedures for the Protection of Historic and .,Cultural Proper-
ties (36 CFR Part 800)
Comprehensive Planning Assistance Program (801) as Amended by
Public Law 93-393.
The Department of Transportation. Act of 1955, Public Law 89-670
Identification and Administration of Cultural Resources: Pro-
cedures of Individual Federal Agencies.
STATE
G.S.121-12(a) Protection of Preperties in the National Register
State Environmental Policy Act, Article 1 or Chapter 113A of
the General Statutes
Executive.Order XVI
Indian Antiquities, G.S. 70.1-4
Salvage of Abandoned Shipwrecks and Other Underwater•Archeological
Sites: G.S. 121-22, 23; 143B-52(1) g, (3)
Archeological Salvage in Highway Construction, G.S. 136-42.1
Provisions for Cultural Resources in Dredging and Filling
Operations, G.S. 113-229. 46

(iv) Hurricane and Flood Evacuation Plans - Policy
Under North Carolina General Statutes, Chapter 166, the
Carteret County Civil Preparedness Agency was organized and coor-
dinates all hurricane and flood evacuation and emergency plans.
Morehead City is located in Area III of Carteret County
with the primary shelter being the National Guard Armory in
Morehead City.
All hurricane and flood evacuation plans should be coor-
dinated through the Carteret County Civil Preparedness Office.
.(2) Resource Production and.Management
The majority of the resource and production issues under this
section do not apply to Morehead City.
(i) Productive Agricultural Land — Policy
They are very few in the Morehead City. Planning Area
and there is no specific policy regarding them.
(ii) Commercial Forest -Lands - Policy
Not applicable
(iii) Mineral Production Areas - Policy
Not applicable

(iv) Commercial and Recreational Fisheries - Policy
Commercial and Recreational fisheries are both very important to
the economy and well-being of Morehead City. The town feels that
commercial and recreational fisheries should be promoted and
encouraged in any way possible.
It is important that the proper depth be maintained for
utilization by boating interests. Proper dredging is a must to
maintain safe depths for the commercial and recreational vessels.
(v). Off -Road Vehicles - Policy
There was no policy given on off road vehicles for Morehead
City.
(3) Economic and Community Development
Morehead City puts prime importance on revitalizing its downtown
waterfront as evidenced by its participation of a planning study underway to
suggest ways of upgrading its waterfront. Additionally citizen surveys
identified this issue as being most important to the successful development
of downtown Morehead City.
It is specifically recommended that ther redevelopment of the downtown
area be developed commercially into small speciality shops that are co -related
with waterfront development.
Most residential growth is projected for the one -mile planning area
although there has been some interest shown in multifamily housing within
walking distance of the downtown area.
Morehead City is interested in growth and sound development as evidenced
in their making application for an "Area Center" growth classification under
the North Carolina Balanced Growth Program. This designation should assist
in obtaining grants necessary to fund public facilities and help promote
economic and community employment.
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Additionally the town has just completed expansions of its municipal
water system. Also a.201 Facilities Plan is underway which will permit
further expansion of waste treatment facilities.
(i) Industries - Policy -
Light industry that is non-polluting is preferred. Locations
are limited in the present town limits and one -mile planning
area.
There is a proposed industrial park located along or near
highways 70 and 24 just west of the Town planning area which may
be the most suitable area for any new large industry.
(ii) Local commitment to Providing Services to Development - Policy
The town is committed to providing services for development
as is feasible and dependent upon obtaining necessary funding and
designations, etc.
(iii) Urban Growth Patterns - Policy
The town discourages strip development along highway.70
• West. The Town also desires to have development located or set
back some distance from the highway 70 west area, to help avoid
congestion.
(iv) Redevelopment of Developed Areas - Policy
There is strong emphasis placed on downtown revitalization.
Additional parking lots in the downtown area are needed and
encouraged.
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(v) Commitment to State and Federal Programs - Policy
Morehead City is committed to supporting State and Federal
Programs such as the Federal F1ood.Insurance Program, -the r
Thoroughfare Plan, Community Development, Coastal Management
and a host of others.
Morehead City also supports continued development of the
State Port. However the town recommends that the State Port
..stay within its present boundarys and specifically limit any
westward expansion towards the downtown.
(vi) Assistance to Channel Maintenance and Beach Nourishment Projects -
Policy
Morehead City vitally supports and cooperates with any
effort that is necessary for channel maintenance and beach
nourishment projects.. ,
Specifically, Morehead City supports maintenance and
dredging of Calico Creek for a harbor refuge area.
(vii) Energy Facility - Policy
Energy Facility - Morehead City is vitally concerned that proper
safeguards are taken to protect the citizens and interests of
the town itself.
Specifically:.
a. The State Port Authority should not be expanded westward
into Morehead City for any OCS support base.
b. The town is opposed to increased traffic by long and slow
moving trains. All train lengths should be limited to
a reasonable length so as to not interfere with any street
and highway traffic.
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c. Any and all potential energy facility impacts on
Morehead City should be coordinated with all appropriate
local, state and federal agencies.
Additionally extreme concern was expressed by town
officials regarding any pipeline that may be constructed
under the Newport River.
(viii) Tourism Beach/Waterfront Access - Policy
Morehead City realizes the importance of tourism and water-
front access and supports and encourages each of the two.
Specifically, bulkheads should be allowed at the end of
streets and alleys by providing adequate public access such
as steps, launching ramps and/or walkways.
(4) Continuing Public Participation - Policy
(i) Public participation in the CAMA update was accomplished by
several methods. Initially articles were written in the Carteret
County News -Times explaining to the public that a land use update
was to be completed and the public was requested to provide input
in the plan.
A citizen questionnaire (survey) was also published in the
newspaper to be answered and mailed in. The questionnaires were
also distributed at the Town Hall.
The number of questionnaires returned was only 31 after
being published in the local newspaper and being made available
at the town hall for several weeks. The majority of the res-
pondents were residents within the town limits and were over
forty-six year of age. Most respondents supported waterfront
development and downtown revitalization. Additional commercial
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development was generally supported along with increased resi-
dential growth. Most people supported extension of city services
in the questionnaire. The respondents also felt all of the
attachment B issues were moderate to very important. .
A public meeting was advertised and held at the Town Hall
with the Morehead City Planning Board. Two or three other
sessions were held with the planning board in which input was
gained.
Public meetings, in general, expressed concern that the N.C.
State Port stay within its boundarys and expansion be limited
from proceeding westward towards the downtown.
Interest was expressed in redevelopment of the downtown and
waterfront areas. Light industries were preferred with locations
beyond the one -mile limit.
Channel maintenance was desired for Calico Creek with
emphasis upon dredging for a harbor refuge.
There was much concern expressed over proper safeguards
being implemented due to any energy facility development and
concern over trains passing through the center of town carrying
aviation fuel and other hazardous products..
(ii) Continuing public participation will be accomplished primarily
through meetings with the planning board. Both the Town Board
and Planning Board meet on a regular basis.. Citizens can request
in advance to be on. the agendas, to speak or inquire on any
issue concerning the town's land use plan or CAMA in general.
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(5)
(b) Attachment B Issues
1. Impacts of port facilities
2. Water access/private and public marina development
3. Bridge improvements to Atlantic Beach
4. Decline of downtown
5. Development of extraterritorial area
1. Impacts of Port Facilities
As stated earlier the town supports the continued
development of the State Port. However, the town feels
that any westward expansion towards the downtown area
should be limited.
The town also feels that the State Port should stay
within its present boundarys.'
There is a need for container -repair storage areas
associated with the port. Suitable areas should be located
in the Industrial Port of Commercial Highway Zones
identified in the Morehead City Zoning Ordinance.
2. Water Access/private and public marina development
Morehead City supports an open access policy to allow
citizens the rights to reach the water. Bulkheads should
be allowed at the end of streets and alleys by providing
adequate public access such as steps, launching ramps and/or
walkways. More dock space is encouraged and the munici-
pality has additional land to correct this deficit. The
following locations are currently owned by the town; (1)
City Park at 3400 of. Evans Street; (2) between 8th and 9th
streets and (3) at the end of all public waterfront streets.
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Public and private marinas are encouraged as long as they
are consistent with guidelines of CAMA regulations.
3. Bridge Improvements to Atlantic Beach
Morehead City desperately supports the immediate
construction of a third bridge to Atlantic Beach to help
alleviate the congested traffic problems that exist during the.
tourist season.
Morehead City feels that the construction of a third
bridge will be about the only solution to help in bridge
improvement to Atlantic Beach.
4. Decline of Downtown
As previously stated under Economic and Community
Development section, Morehead City assigns a highest
priority to revitalizing the downtown area and specifically
the waterfront area. A planning study is underway to
assist in this effort and methods for accomplishing this
task should be coordinated with recommendation of the
planning study.
Small commercial speciality shops that are co -related
with the waterfront development area are recommended.
Alternatives for fundings of improvements to the down-
town area should brighten considerably if the town receives
the "area center" growth classification under the North
Carolina Balanced Growth Policy. "
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5. Development of Extraterritorial area
Most respondents of the citizen survey felt that
development of the extraterritorial area was very important.
• There was support shown for single-family, multi -family and
commercial development of this area.
Support was shown in.a public meeting for the develop-
ment of row housing or fee simple housing (where there is
public water & sewer) to provide a higher density housing
such as would be found in an R-5 zone.
Existing and future land use data indicates that
commercial will continue to locate along Highway 70 West
and residential (mainly single family) will continue to
locate in the northwestern area of the one -mile planning
area.
General Policy Note
Alternatives and Implementation Strategies
Alternatives were discussed by the town planning board.for the land
use plan update as a whole, but the general concensus was for the board'
to take an active role in the planning process and support the goals and
objectives of the ten year update thru the town's own implementation
mechanisms.
The Morehead City Planning Board is an active board that meets at
least monthly and supports the implementation of its zoning ordinance,
subdivision regulations and land use plan. Additionally, the Town
administrator and Building Inspector and Town Commissioners support and
carry out the above implementation mechanisms.
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