Sketch Land Use Plan Update-1994

Craven County, North Carolina
1994 SKETCH LAND USE PLAN UPDATE
Prepared According To The -Standards Of The
North Carolina Coastal Area Management Act
As Amended
Adopted By The Coastal Resources Commissioners
May 27, 1994
Adopted By The Town Council
April 20, 1994
Recommended By The Planning Board
February 3, 1994
The preparation of this document was financed in part through a grant provided by the North Carolina Coastal Management Program, through
funds provided by the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as amended, which is administered by the Office of Ocean and Coastal Resources
Management, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. -
PROPERTY OF
DIVISION OF COASTAL MANAGEMENT
PLEASE DO NOT REMOVE

Participating Local Officials
River Bend Elected Officials
William H. Ritchie, Jr., Mayor Mary H. Baker, Councilwoman
Elizabeth B. Brinson, Councilwoman George M Fetrow, Councilman
Harriet M. Metcalf, Councilwoman Robert E. Ritter, Councilman
River Bend Planning Board
Morton Jacobs, Chairman
Charles M. Harris
Robert C. Riess
Van F. Willis
Alec T. Morris, Vice -Chairman
Joan Raynor
Cassius S. Williams
River Bend Staff Support
John Loomis, Administrative Officer
Frances E. Randall, Planning Board Secretary
Dexter G. Moore, Planning Consultant, Moore & Associates, Grifton, N.C.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
I. INTRODUCTION................................................................................................................................................1
II. PROGRESS IN IMPLEMENTATION OF 1987 PLAN POLICY..........................................................................1
111. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS............................................................................................................ 2
A. Population and Economy................................................................................................................................... 2
B. Housing............................................................................................................................................................. 3
C. Existing Land Use............................................................................................................................................. 3
D. Current Plans, Policies and Regulations............................................................................................................ 3
IV. CONSTRAINTS - LAND SUITABILITY........................................................................................................... 5
A. Physical Limitations........................................................................................................................................... 5
B. Fragile Areas..................................................................................................................................................... 7
C. Areas With Resource Potential.......................................................................................................................... 8
V. CONSTRAINTS - CAPACITY OF COMMUNITY FACILITIES.......................................................................... 8
A. Existing Water Supply And Level of Utilization.................................................................................................. 8
B. Existing Sewage Treatment Capacity And Level of Utilization........................................................................... 9
C. Parks Capacity and Level of Utilization............................................................................................................. 9
D. Primary Road Capacity and Level of Utilization................................................................................................. 9
E. Emergency Service Capacity and Level of Utilization........................................................................................ 9
F. Area Schools Capacity And Level of Utilization................................................................................................. 9
G. Solid Waste......................................................................................................................................................10
VI. ESTIMATED DEMAND....................................................................................................................................10
VII. POLICY STATEMENTS................................................................................................................................10
A. Resource Protection......................................................................................................................................... 11
B. Resource Production and Resource Management............................................................................................ 13
C. Economic and Community Development..........................................................................................................13
D. Local Land Use Issues and Policies..................................................................................................................15
E. Storm Hazard Mitigation...................................................................................................................................15
Vill. LAND CLASSIFICATION..............................................................................................................................16
A. Developed........................................................................................................................................................16
C. Limited Transition.............................................................................................................................................16
D. Community...................................................................................................................................................... 17
E. Rural................................................................................................................................................................17
F. Rural With Services..........................................................................................................................................17
G. Conservation................................................................................................................................................... 17
IX. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION...............................................................................................................................17
1993 Citizens Update Survey Results....................................................................................................................19
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TOWN OF RIVER BEND
1994 SKETCH CAMA LAND USE PLAN UPDATE
I. INTRODUCTION
The coastal areas of North Carolina are a tremendous natural resource.to the citizens of North Carolina. The
area provides both recreational benefits and food production from our coastal waters. In some areas adjacent
to our coastal waters, there is a danger that pollution from over -development may damage the food production
of nearby waters. This potential problem was the major reason that the North Carolina General Assembly
ratified the Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA) in 1974. The purpose of the Coastal Area Management Act
is "to insure the orderly balance of use and preservation of our coastal resources on behalf of the people of
North Carolina and the nation." CAMA created the Coastal Resources Commission to administer this important
environmental law.
Local governments and state agencies contribute to the rational management of our coastal resources through
the development of Land Use Plans and the designation and regulation of critical resource areas. The Land
Use Plan development process encourages local and state governments to exercise their full authority over
coastal resources. It also allows local and state governments to express their management goals in a
comprehensive and uniform manner.
This 1994 Land Use Plan was prepared in accordance with the requirements of the North Carolina Coastal Area
Management Act (CAMA). Specifically, this document complies with 15A NCAC Subchapter 76, "Land Use
Planning Guidelines", December 12, 1991; and Subchapter 7H "Guidelines For Areas of Environmental
Concern", January 11, 1993, of the North Carolina Administrative Code.
II. PROGRESS IN IMPLEMENTATION OF 1987 PLAN POLICY
The River Bend 1987 Land Use Plan Update was reviewed as a part of the data collection process. The plan
was also reviewed to determine what progress has been made in addressing the stated policy and goals
outlined in the 1987 plan. Those policies were:
To maintain the quiet residential character of River Bend
To control the amount and location of future commercial development through the zoning ordinance.
To continue efforts to re-establish the River Bend Extraterritorial Planning Jurisdiction.
To provide for adequate water and sewer to meet growth demands.
To provide for adequate drainage within River Bend.
To support enforcement of existing regulatory controls associated with the CAMA program.
To support the hurricane and flood evacuation needs of the town.
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To support the protection of the town's potable water supply.
To review any request for package sewage treatment plants on a case by case basis.
To support mitigating measures for storm water run-off control.
To discourage floating home development.
To allow additional marinas consistent with local zoning, and state and federal regulations.
To support recreational fishing on Trent River and its tributaries, but not commercial fishing.
To support the opening of new north/south streets to U.S. 17.
To continue to require developers to set -aside land in new developments for recreational purposes, or
make payment to the town according to Article X of the Subdivision Ordinance, Section 1, 1-1 through 4.
To continue to allow planned unit developments consistent with local zoning.
To continue to regulate the parking of boats and trailers on private property.
To continue to use the water and sewer service now available.
To continue to encourage citizens' participation in local government decisions.
Since the development of the 1987 Land Use Plan Update, the Town of River Bend has continued its efforts to
implement the above policies. These policies as well as other policies listed here -in have been adopted as a
part of the 1994 Sketch Land Use Plan Update.
111. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS
A. Population and Economy
The Town of River Bend is located about one mile west of New Bern and Trent Woods. Its existence is the
result of the development of a golf course and a small residential community along Trent River in the early
1970's. Incorporated in 1981, today River Bend is the fourth largest town in Craven County A history of the
population growth in River Bend is provided in the following table.
Pnnulatinn Growth
Year
Pop.
% Inc.
1980
959
1985"
1747
82.2%
1990
1 2408
1 37.80/.
Source: U.S. Census;' Estimate by Moore And
Associates based on building permit records
River Bend is a residential community. Many residents are retired from other areas in the U.S. Those
residents that are employed work at other locations in Craven and surrounding counties. The employment
within the town is centered at a convenience store near the marina, the golf course, the Town Hall, a few shops
and offices, the Howell Center and the Christian Care Center.
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B. Housina
River Bend has approximately 1,330 single family and multifamily housing units within its corporate limits. All
of the homes appear to be in standard condition. Overall, the quality of housing in River Bend is very high, and
' the median housing value for River Bend listed in the 1990 census was $108,100. Eleven homes are listed as
being over $300,000 in value. The average age of homes in River Bend is about 10 years.
C. Existing Land Use
Existing land use within the town is shown in the following table. The town has about 440 acres of undeveloped
' land. The future use of the undeveloped land will be controlled by River Bend zoning. While changes in
zoning do occur from time to time, River Bend has made few changes to its original zoning map. Based upon
' current zoning, the future use of the undeveloped land is also shown in the following table.
River Bend
Land Use
Acres
In Town
Percent
Of Town
Residential
820
49.1%
Recreation ID
1,501
9.0%
Commercial
5
0.3%
Institutional ID
45
2.7%
Utilities
10
0.6%
Wildlife Area
130
7.8%
Water
70J26.3%.
Undeveloped
440Total
1670
Source: Moore & Associates
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Of the 440 acres of undeveloped land, 390 acres are zoned for residential purposes and 50 acres are zoned for
' commercial purposes. Being a new town, developed primarily for residential and recreational living, there are
no land use incompatibility problems.
' D. Current Plans. Policies and Regulations
River Bend does not plan to accommodate major growth In its current corporate limits. Most of the
' undeveloped land is in the northern and western portion of the town. The town expects to provide basic
services to the undeveloped area in order to maintain the high quality of life that currently exists within River
' Bend.

' 1. Transportation Plan
The town does not have a Transportation Plan. However, River Bend is included in the Regional
' Transportation Plan for the New Bern area. All streets in the town are adequate for current development.
Because of possible flooding of about 1/2 of a foot above Shoreline Drive near the Town Hall, there have been
discussions concerning a need for additional north/south streets in the western portion of the town to be
extended to U.S. 17. These discussions are continuing in order to explore the best alternative for addressing
' this issue. This need has also been addressed in the Regional Transportation Plan and awaits the development
of the western portion of the town.
2. Community Facilities Plan
River Bend does not have a Community Facilities Plan. Community facilities within River Bend include the
' Town Hall and town parks. Public water and sewer service is provided to about one-half of the housing units in
the town by Carolina Water Service, Inc. The remaining one-half of the town is served by private wells and
' septic tanks. There is some interest in River Bend's purchasing the water and sewer system from Carolina
Water Service, Inc. In June of 1992, the River Bend Water and Sewer Board was formed to research the legal
' and financial aspects of operating a town -owned water and sewer system. There are no other publicly owned
community facilities in River Bend.
' 3. Recreation and Open Space Plan
The town does not have a Recreation and Open Space Plan. Primary recreational facilities in the town are the
' River Bend Golf and Country Club, town parks, wildlife areas, and the Trent River. The following table lists
recreation and open space in River Bend.
V
Name
Developed
Park
Public Open
S ace
Private
Space
Town Park
3.47 Acres
.—Open
Town Park Across From Town Hall
1.75 Acres
Entrance Park
4.99 Acres
Channel Run
2.28 Acres
Springdale
1.15 Acres
Trent River Island
14.0 Acres
Norbury Wildlife Area
26 Acres +/-
Golf Course
150 Acres +/-
Channel Run Wildlife Area
40 Acres +/-
Other Wildlife Areas
64 Acres +/-
Total Area
13.64 Acres
40 Acres +/_
254 Acres +/-
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It is the town's policy to consider acquisition of additional public recreation lands as they might become
available.
4. Zonina Ordinance
The Town of River Bend adopted its original Zoning Ordinance on May 26, 1981. Since that time, amendments
to the Zoning Ordinances have been made as needed. The Zoning Ordinance divides the town into four
separate residential districts, two business districts, an Institutional district, and a wildlife preserve district. The
average density allowed in the single family residential districts are about 2 to 4 units per acre, and in the
multifamily districts 4 to 6.5 units per acre.
5. Subdivision Regulations
The Subdivision Ordinance was originally adopted on May 7, 1981. It has also been amended as needed. This
ordinance regulates the development of property within the town and appears to be consistent with N.C.
enabling legislation.
6. Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance
The Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance was adopted on August 21, 1985 and has been amended on several
occasions. The purpose of this ordinance is to provide a means to minimize public and private losses due to
flood conditions in the town's flood hazard areas.
7. Other Codes and Regulations Affecting Development
In River Bend other codes regulating development include the N.C. State Building Code, Craven County health
regulations regarding the installation and maintenance of septic tanks, Craven County Hazard Mitigation and
Post -Disaster Reconstruction Plan, Sedimentation Pollution Control, 404 Wetlands Regulations administrated
by the Washington, NC field office of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers; CAMA Regulations with minor permits
issued by Craven County and major and general permits issued by the Morehead City district office of the
Division of Coastal Management; and various other county, state and federal regulations.
Enforcement of the above codes are by means specified in North Carolina enabling legislation for the specific
code.
IV. CONSTRAINTS -LAND SUITABILITY
A. Physical Limitations
1. Hazard Area
River Bend is on the Trent River approximately nine miles upstream from its confluence with the Neuse River.
The town has approximately three miles of frontage along the Trent River. Tide gauge data is available for
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Trent River near New Bern for various times since 1895. The greatest Trent River flood on record occurred on
September 19, 1955 during Hurricane lone when Trent River near New Bern rose to 10.6 feet above mean sea
level. During that hurricane, the area had 80 mile per hour winds and 20.04 inches of rainfall in 24 hours.
' Under normal conditions, stream flow or normal gravitational affects of the moon have little effect on the level
of Trent River at River Bend. The Trent River tidal effects are due to atmospheric pressure and winds. The
' areas of the town subject to flooding are shown on the Flood Hazard Map. River Bend does not have any man-
made flood hazard areas.
' 2. Soil Limitations
Approximately 40% of the town's soils have good or moderate suitability for development. Almost all of the
' town is suitable for development using public water and sewer. It is the town's policy to encourage public water
and sewer extension to those areas of the town not yet served. The following table lists the soils in River Bend
and the development suitability for each soil classification. Soil limitations for development are also shown on
the Soils Map.
Area
Soil Name
Abb.
Soil
Dwellings
Limitation
Septic Tanks
For
Roads
Overall
1
Conctoc
CnB
Slight
Slight
Slight
Good
2
Norfolk
NoA
Slight
Moderate
Slight
Fair
2
Norfolk
NoB
Slight
Moderate
Slight
Fair
2
Tarboro
TaB
Slight
Severe
Slight
Fair
3
Goldsboro
GOA
Moderate
Severe
Moderate
Poor
3
Onslow
On
Moderate
Severe
Moderate
Poor
4
Craven
CrB
Moderate
Severe
Severe
Poor
4
Leon
Lit
Severe
Severe
Severe
Poor
4
Masontown
MM
Severe
Severe
Severe
Poor
L4
Suffolk
SuD 1
Severe
Severe
Severe
Poor
' Source: USDA, Soil Conservation Service
Acreage in each of the four soil Areas is listed below:
Area
Acres
Percent
1
260
15.6%
2
415
24.9%
3
240
14.4%
4
755
45.2%
1670
100.0%
Source: Moore And Associates
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A substantial portion of Area 4 soils, which are the poorest quality soils, are located in the undeveloped areas of
River Bend.
B. Fragile Areas
Fragile Areas are areas which could easily be damaged or destroyed by inappropriate or poorly planned
development. There are fragile areas in River Bend. These areas -include both Areas of Environmental
Concern (AEC), and other natural resource fragile areas.
A key element within the Coastal Area Management Act is the designation of Areas of Environmental Concern
(AEC). Of the AEC areas identified in the Coastal Resources regulations, River Bend has only Coastal
Wetlands and Public Trust Areas. The Public Trust Areas overlay all navigable waters within the town. Ocean
Hazard Categories, Public Water Supply Categories, Estuarine Waters, Fragile Coastal Natural Categories, and
Cultural Resources Categories are not located in River Bend.
1. Coastal Wetlands Area of Environmental Concern
The town has Coastal Wetlands. These high tidal marshlands are at several locations along the shores of the
Trent River and its tributaries. Marsh grasses within these areas include Cat -Tail, Salt Grass, Bullrush, Salt
Meadow Hay, and other water grasses. This marshland type contributes to the detritus supply necessary to the
highly productive estuarine system essential to North Carolina's economically valuable commercial and sport
fishing, and also stabilizes the shoreline against erosion.
The marshes offer quality wildlife and waterfowl habitat depending on the biological and physical conditions of
the marsh. This marshland type also serves as an important deterrent to shoreline erosion, especially in those
marshes containing heavily rooted species. The dense system of rhizomes and roots of Juncus roemerianum
is highly resistant to erosion. In addition, the marshes are effective sediment traps.
Appropriate land uses within the Coastal Wetlands Areas of Environmental Concern include utility easements,
fishing piers, docks and similar uses consist with Coastal Area Management Act standards.
2. Public Trust Area of Environmental Concern
The Public Trust Area of Environmental Concern are 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 lands thereunder to the mean high water mark or ordinary high water mark, except privately owned lakes to
which the public has no right of access; all waters in artificially created bodies of water in which exist 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 artificially created bodies of water in which the public
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has acquired rights by prescription, custom, usage, dedication or any other means. Included in Public Trust
' Areas are areas such as waterways and lands under or flowed by tidal waters or navigable waters, to which the
public may have rights of access or public trust rights and areas which the State of North Carolina is authorized
' to preserve, conserve, or protect under Article XIV, Section 5, of the North Carolina Constitution. Within the
Town of River Bend, these areas are all navigable waters of Trent River and its tributaries. Uses allowed in this
AEC must be consistent with local zoning and the standards of the CAMA regulations.
' There are no other Areas of Environmental Concern within the Town of River Bend.
3. 404 Wetlands
' These areas are areas covered by water or that have water logged soils for long periods of time. Some
wetlands such as swamps are obvious. Others are sometimes difficult to identify because they may be dry
' during part of the year. Wetlands may include bottom lands, forests, swamps, pocosins, pine Savannah, bogs,
marshes, and wet meadows. An on -site inspection is necessary to determine actual boundaries of 404
' Wetlands. Although no 404 Wetlands survey has been conducted in River Bend, the town is believed to have
significant 404 Wetland areas. The determination of the presence of "404 wetlands must be made by the U.S.
' Army Corps of Engineers, Washington, NC field office.
In the remaining areas of the town, soil conditions are good and suitable for development. The town does not
' have any maritime forests, pocosins, Outstanding Resources Waters (ORW) areas, shell fishing waters, water
supply areas or other waters with special values, cultural and historic resources or man-made hazards.
' Restrictions are placed on development up to five feet above high water consistent with the standards of the
flood insurance program administrated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
C. Areas With Resource Potential
' There are no productive and unique agricultural lands, potentially valuable mineral sites, publicly owned forest,
fish and gamelands, or other non -intensive outdoor recreation lands in River Bend. Privately owned wildlife
sanctuaries do exist along the east side Plantation Canal and adjacent to Trent River in eastern River Bend.
V. CONSTRAINTS - CAPACITY OF COMMUNITY FACILITIES
' A. Existing Water Supply And Level of Utilization
' River Bend is served by a centralized water system owned and operated by Carolina Water Service, Inc.
Currently 827 customers are served by the water system. This system consist of three wells with a maximum
daily capacity of about 400,000 gallons, and one elevated storage tank with a storage capacity of 100,000
' gallons. The system services about one-half of the town's citizens. The remaining citizens are served by
private wells on individual lots. Currently the Carolina Water Service water system serves 982 customers with
' a current daily usage of 185,000 to 200,000 gallons per day. Based upon information from Carolina Water

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Service, it can serve the future full development of River Bend.
B. Existing Sewage Treatment Capacity And Level of Utilization
About one-half of the town has centralized sewer service furnished by Carolina Water Service, Inc. The
remaining citizens have septic tanks on individual lots. According to information from Carolina Water Service,
Inc., the wastewater treatment plant has a design capacity of 330,000 gpd, with an average daily use of about
110,000 gallons per day. Its reserve capacity is about 220,000 gallons per day, or 67%. The plant provides
tertiary treatment and has a standby generator. Based on an average per capita use of 70 gpd, the current
system can serve about 5,000 persons. With a current population of over 2,700 persons, the current capacity
of the plant would allow it to be expanded to serve all of River Bend.
C. Parks Capacity and Level of Utilization
' River Bend is developed around the River Bend Golf and Country Club and is adjacent to Trent River. Most
recreational activities in River Bend are associated with the golf course, Trent River, town parks and open
' space. While there is no specific method for determining the capacity of these recreation facilities, they are
utilized by the town citizens on a daily basis.
D. Primary Road Capacity and Level of Utilization
All streets in River Bend are local or collector streets. Traffic count information is available for Shoreline Drive,
Pirates Road and Norbury Lane at U.S. 17 for April -May 1993. At that time, average vehicles per day (VPD)
was 5,935 on Shoreline, 870 on Pirates and 285 on Norbury, a total of 7,090 entering and leaving the town.
This is a 56% increase since the January 1986 traffic count. Based on information from the Town of River
Bend, Shoreline Drive can accommodate about 2, 400 vehicles per hour, has a peak hour flow of 490 vehicles
and thus is operating at about 21% of capacity. The capacity is based on a comfortable capacity of one vehicle
every three seconds per lane. Flow is based on 8.3% of VPD during peak hour.
E. Emergency Service Capacity and Level of Utilization
The Rhems Volunteer Fire Department and the Craven County Regional Rescue Squad provide emergency
service to River Bend.
F. Area Schools Capacity And Level of Utilization
All of Craven County is served by a county -wide consolidated public school system. The Craven County
Schools serving the River Bend Area are shown in the following table.
School Enrollment Capacity
Ben Quinn - K-5
475
550
Grover C. Fields - 6-8
618
1,000
New Bern Senior High - 9-12
1,477
1,900

According to school officials, they prefer not to fill schools to capacity so that special programs such as
exceptional children's programs, music, art, physical education, pre-school, and similar programs will have
' sufficient space. They indicated that school enrollment and capacity will increase as the area continues to
grow.
' G. Solid Waste
' Garbage collection is provided in the town by a private contractor, Hargett Refuse Systems. Refuse collected
is taken to the Tri-County Regional Landfill at Tuscarora. In order to keep the volume of refuse as low as
possible, River Bend participates in the Craven County Recycling Program.
VI. ESTIMATED DEMAND
' Based on the building permit records, River Bend's current annual growth rate is approximately 4%. Based
upon the current growth rate of River Bend, the 1993 town population is approximately 2,700 persons. River
' Bend has about 370 acres of undeveloped residential land. Most of the undeveloped areas are zoned R-20A.
Based upon an R-20A density of 1.8 units per acre and 2.05 persons per household when the undeveloped
' areas are developed, the fully developed population of the town will be approximately 4,100 persons. At its
current rate of growth, River Bend will reach its fully developed population in approximately year 2010, or about
seventeen years.
Pnnulation Growth
u
H
Year
Pop.
% Inc.
1980
959
----
1985
1,747
82.2%
1990
2,408
37.8%
1995
2,934
21.8%
2000
3,3741
15.0%
IL 2005
3,711
10.0%
Source: Moore & Associates based on building
permits Data. 1980 & 1990 U.S. Census Data
VII. POLICY STATEMENTS
The Town of River Bend has two Areas of Environmental Concern. There are (1) Coastal Wetlands, and (2)
Public Trust Areas. There are no other Areas of Environmental Concern areas within the town as currently
defined by the Coastal Resources Commission. Policies concerning resource protection, and resource
production and management are listed below.
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A. Resource Protection
1. Areas of Environmental Concern (AEC)
' The Coastal Wetlands AEC is one of the most restrictive of all AEC's and very few uses are permitted therein.
This AEC's contribution to the natural productivity of the coastal area is well documented. The Coastal
' Wetlands AEC is at several locations along River Bend and its tributaries. While these small areas have little
impact in River Bend, the cumulative effects of many marsh grass areas have significant impact on marine life
' along Trent River. Town officials support the protection of these wetlands. The town believes that limited use
such as piers, docks and other uses as allowed by 15A NCAC 7H would be reasonable in this AEC. Any
request for commercial marinas would be reviewed consistent with local zoning and the Coastal Wetland
' regulatory requirements. The Town of River Bend supports the protection of the Coastal Wetlands Area.
' The only other AEC within the town is the Public Trust Areas. These water areas are all navigable waters
within the town. The Public Trust Areas are discussed in detail within the Fragile Areas section of this plan.
' Reasonable uses such as piers and boat docks are acceptable in this AEC. Any request for a commercial
marina or expansion of an existing marina would be reviewed consistent with local zoning, the Public Trust
' regulatory requirements, and the CAMA permitting process. Town, state, and federal protection are necessary
for the protection of these areas. The Town of River Bend supports the protection of the Public Trust Area.
The town's policy is not to allow development in Areas of Environmental Concern except as allowed by CAMA.
' Implementation is through state regulations and the town's zoning and subdivision ordinances.
' 2. Hazardous and Fragile Land Areas
a. Freshwater Swamps
' River Bend only has Freshwater Swamps. River Bend supports the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers 404
wetlands program. Under this program, the Corps has jurisdiction for regulating development in 404 wetland
areas. Along most of the shores of Trent River and its tributaries, 404 wetland areas may exist. Their actual
' location must be determined by actual field survey by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Washington, NC field
office.
b. Soils Suitable For Septic Tank Use
' Some of the soils in River Bend are not suitable for development utilizing septic tanks. River Bend supports
the Craven County Health Department program which does not allow septic tanks in soils which are not
' suitable.
c. Outstanding Resource Water (ORW)
None of the waters adjacent to River Bend are ORW s. Not applicable in River Bend.
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d. Marshes
Marshes within River Bend are fresh water Coastal Wetlands AEC and are protected by state regulations and
local ordinances.
e. Maritime Forests
' There are no maritime forests in River Bend.
f. Cultural and Historic Resources
There are no cultural and historic resources in River Bend.
' g. Protection of Potable Water Supply
River Bend officials support state regulations controlling land uses near ground water sources as regulated by
' the NC Division of Environment Management through NCAC, Subchapter 21 and Subchapter 2c.
' h. Storm Water Runoff from Agriculture Residential Development Phosphate or Peat Mining
There is no agricultural production, phosphate or peat mining in River Bend. There has been no evidence that
' storm water run-off from residential development degrades water quality within River Bend. Because of the low
density and filtering action of the high sand content of the soils within much of River Bend, storm water run-off
associated with continued growth is not expected to degrade water quality in the future.
I. Marina and Floating Home Development
The Zoning Ordinance does not currently allow additional commercial marinas. Any request received for a
commercial marina or the expansion of the current marina will be reviewed as a part of the standard rezoning,
' building permit, and CAMA permit process. Under the zoning ordinance, dry dock storage is allowed, but a
floating home development is not allowed. As a part of the normal review procedures, upland excavation for
marina construction must be reviewed by the town. All homes within the town must be constructed consistent
' with the North Carolina State Building Code. Floating homes are not allowed under this code and are therefore
deemed to be not allowed in the jurisdiction of the Town of River Bend.
j. Industrial Impacts On Fragile Areas
' River Bend officials support applicable state and federal regulations as they apply to the siting of new industry,
or impact of new industry on environmentally sensitive areas in Craven County. There are no industrial areas
' within the town. River Bend does not desire to have industrial development within River Bend.
k. Package Sewage Treatment Plants
Operation of package sewage treatment plants require long term maintenance and support. The town supports
package sewage treatment plants only if operated and maintained by a public agency.
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' I. Rising Sea Level Due To Global Warming
It is the town's policy to continue to review the issue of a rising sea level due to global warming.
' m. Bulkheading
In some areas in coastal North Carolina, wetlands have been damaged by bulkheading. It is River Bend's
' policy to continue to support the CAMA regulations regarding bulkheading.
B. Resource Production and Resource Management
1. Productive Agricultural Lands
' There are no productive agricultural lands in River Bend.
' 2. Commercial Forest Lands
There are no commercial forest lands in River Bend.
' 3. Existing or Potential Mineral Production Areas
There are no known existing or potential mineral production areas in River Bend.
' 4. Off -Road Vehicles
' River Bend does not have a local ordinance which regulates the use of off -road vehicles. To -date Off -Road
Vehicles have not been a problem in River Bend. It is the town's policy to adopt a local Off -Road Vehicle
ordinance if Off -Road Vehicles become a problem in the town in the future.
5. Residential and Commercial Land Development
' Residential and commercial land development is controlled in River Bend by the River Bend Zoning Ordinance
and Subdivision Ordinance.
' 6. Industrial Impacts of Resources
' River Bend's zoning ordinance controls industrial growth within the town. The town supports state and federal
regulations which are designed to protect the local environment from any harmful development.
' 7. Commercial and Recreational Fisheries
Commercial and recreational fishing is very important to the coastal areas of North Carolina. The Town
' supports the continual use of eastern North Carolina waters for commercial and recreational Fisheries.
' C. Economic and Community Development
1. Types and Location of Industries Desired
' Policy: River Bend is a residential community and has no industrial operation. The Town of River Bend will
continue to support industrial development within designated industrial areas of Craven County outside of River
1
13

Bend. As stated previously, River Bend does not desire to have Industrial facilities within the Town of River
' Bend.
' 2. Local Commitment to Providing Services to Development
Policy: The Town of River Bend is committed to provide to new development within the town the same level of
' services that is provided to all other areas of the town.
' 3. Commitment to State and Federal Programs, Including Erosion Control Public Access Highway
Improvements and Dredging
Policy: River Bend supports state and federal programs including erosion control, public access, highway
' improvements and dredging regulations. Occasionally, military aircraft over -fly the Town of River Bend. These
over -flights only rarely occur and to -date have not been an issue in River Bend. If future military over -flights
' become a problem in River Bend, the town will contact the Commander of Cherry Point and request that the
military over -flights be redirected.
' 4. Anticipated Residential Development Densities and Location
' Policy: The Town of River Bend will continue to encourage low density residential development consistent with
the River Bend Zoning Ordinance.
5. Tvpes of Urban Growth Patterns Redevelopment of Developed Areas
River Bend is a relatively new town. There are no areas within the town which are in deteriorated condition.
' Redevelopment of developed areas is not applicable in River Bend.
' 6. Energy Facility Siting and Development
Policy: The Town of River Bend supports Energy Facility and Siting and Development in areas of Craven
County which would not adversely affect River Bend. River Bend's zoning ordinance does not allow the
development of energy facilities within the Town of River Bend.
7. Tourism
The Town of River Bend supports Tourism for both River Bend and Craven County.
8. Inshore and Outer -Continental Shelf Exploration
From time -to -time Inshore and Outer -Continental Shelf Exploration has occurred in order to determine the
presence of natural resources in these areas. The Town of River Bend supports Inshore and Outer -Continental
Shelf Exploration in order to determine if any resources maybe present which would benefit the Town of River
Bend, Craven County and the State of North Carolina. Such exploration should be carried out in an
environmental safe and sound manner.
14

D. Local Land Use Issues and Policies
' The major land use issue identified by the River Bend Planning Board and Town Council is for the town to
maintain the high quality of residential development. Past growth and economic trends for the town have been
' favorable. All development to -date has been high quality residential. River Bend's Zoning regulations have
been designed to encourage this trend to continue in the foreseeable future. Important natural and
' environmental resources within the town are moderate to good soils, high elevation, and the scenic and
recreational value of Trent River. The overall low density residential development has been a major factor in
' the protection of these important natural resources.
E. Storm Hazard Mitigation
' Based upon information from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the dominant source of flooding in
the Town of River Bend has been from storm surge and riverine flooding during hurricanes. The Federal
Emergency Management Agency has prepared a Flood Insurance Study for River Bend. It established the 100
year flood level for Trent River in River Bend at nine feet above sea level. Based upon the current tax roll, the
' estimated value of improvements in these areas which may be affected by hurricane flooding is $48,000,000,
approximately 38% of its overall tax base.
1. Mitigation
In order to mitigate the effects of high winds, storm surge, flooding, wave action, erosion, etc., River Bend has
' adopted a policy to participate in the Federal Emergency Management Agency insurance program. This
program is implemented through the town's building permit program. It is the town's policy not to acquire low
I
lying property.
2. Evacuation
Both River Bend and Craven County have adopted the Disaster Plan prepared by the Craven County Office of
' Emergency Services. In the event that evacuation is determined to be necessary, it will be implemented by
that agency with the assistance of the River Bend Police Department. The Craven County Evacuation Plan
has been evaluated by the town and found to be appropriate. The time required for evacuation from the areas
' of the town subject to flooding does not exceed the warning time provided by the National Weather Service.
' 3. Post -Disaster Reconstruction Plan
Immediate clean-up is the most pressing need after a hurricane. The town's responsibility deals with health,
' safety and public welfare. As a part of the immediate clean-up activity, any materials causing a hazard to the
citizens will be removed. The town will also check the water system for contamination. If any contamination is
' found, the town will request Carolina Water Service, Inc. to take immediate steps to correct and prevent the
contamination from adversely affecting River Bend citizens.
I
The town also has a responsibility for clean-up of its streets. This activity will be performed by either the hiring
1
15

of temporary employees or contracting with local persons that have the capacity to accomplish this task.
' Restoring electrical service will also be necessary. Carolina Power and Light has responsibility for this service.
' Reconstruction over a longer period will be a major problem for those persons sustaining major property
damage. Because of the small size of the town, the Town Council will serve as the Recovery Task Force. The
' Town Council will oversee the repair of the town's streets and any other public facility sustaining damage. It is
the town's policy to repair these public facilities as quickly as possible.
It is also the town's policy not to implement a temporary moratoria. This policy will allow all private property to
be repaired or rebuilt as quickly as possible. Building permits will be issued as requested by the town's citizens.
' Development standards for repairs and/or reconstruction are the Zoning Ordinance, FEMA requirements,
CAMA requirements for redevelopment, and the North Carolina State Building Code.
' There are no public facilities other than streets and utility lines within t ea
p y he areas subject to flooding. Therefore,
' the town does not plan to relocate any public facilities from flood hazard areas.
VII1. LAND CLASSIFICATION
The Coastal Area Management Act Land Use Plan consists of several important elements: (1) the
' development policy of the Town of River Bend, (2) the planning guidelines of the Coastal Resources
Commission, and (3) spatial distribution of various existing land uses of the town. The state's Land Use
' Planning Guidelines for Coastal North Carolina requires that lands within the jurisdiction of a local government
be classified as Developed, Urban Transition, Limited Transition, Community, Rural, Rural With Services, and
' Conservation. The following is a brief description of each of the land classifications.
A. Developed
' Lands that have densities of three or more dwelling units per acre; or have a majority of lots of 15,000 square
feet or less, which are provided or scheduled to be provided with the traditional urban services; and/or have
' permanent population densities which are high and seasonal populations may swell significantly.
' B. Urban Transition
Lands that are presently being developed for urban purposes or will be developed in the next five to ten years
' to accommodate anticipated population and urban growth.
' C. Limited Transition
Lands that will have some services, but are suitable for lower densities than those associated with the Urban
Transition Class, and/or are geographically remote from existing town and municipalities.
1
16

D. Community
' Lands that are presently developed at low densities which are suitable for private septic tank use, Including
clustered residential and/or commercial land uses which provide both low intensity shopping and housing
opportunities and a local social sense of a community.
' E. Rural
Lands that are presently used for agriculture, forestry, mineral extraction and other uses, that due to their
' hazardous or noxious nature, should be located in a relatively isolated and undeveloped area. Very low density
dispersed single family residential uses are also appropriate where lot sizes are large and where densities do
not require the provision of urban services.
F. Rural With Services
tLands that are appropriate for very low intensity residential use, where lot sizes are large, and where the
provision of services will not disrupt the primary rural character of the landscape. Private wells and septic tank
services may exist, but most development is supported by a central water system.
' G. Conservation
Lands that are classified or meet the standards of AEC's, including but not limited to Public Trust Areas,
Estuarine waters, coastal wetlands etc. as identified in 15A NCAC 7H; and other similar lands, environmentally
' significant because of their natural role in the integrity of the coastal region, including but not limited to bottom
land hardwoods, pocosins, swamp forests areas that are or have a high probability of providing wildlife habitat,
' forest lands that are essentially undeveloped and lands which otherwise contain significant productive, natural,
scenic cultural or recreational resources.
11
Within River Bend, there are approximately 2,700 persons living on about 840 acres of developed residential
land. The average density of the area is about 3.21 persons per acre, or approximately 2,133 persons per
square mile. All of River Bend is of an urban character. To -date, about one-half of the town is served with
public water and sewer. Eventually, public water and sewer service may be provided throughout the town. For
these reasons, the Town of River Bend is classified as Developed and Urban Transition except for Areas of
Environmental Concern. The Areas of Environmental Concern within River Bend are classified as
Conservation. Uses permitted in the Conservation area are those uses allowed by the CAMA standards which
are consistent with local zoning. The 404 Wetlands are also classified as Conservation. The location and
existence of 404 Wetlands must be determined by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. It is the town's policy
that 404 Wetlands be regulated by the 404 Wetland Regulations as well as the appropriate local and state
regulations.
IX. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
The River Bend Planning Board directed the River Bend CAMA public participation program. The purpose of
17

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I
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L
1
the program was two -fold. It served as the key element in goals and objectives and made people aware of the
overall purpose of the Coastal Area Management Act. Efforts were made to solicit participation from as many
people as possible in the town's land use planning process.
The town developed a questionnaire and distributed it to all of the homes in River Bend. Fifty-four percent of
the questionnaires were returned. On the first page of the questionnaire, a brief description was given of the
Coastal Area Management Act. From the results obtained from the .public participation program, the town
Board adopted its current development policies. A tabulation of the questionnaire is included in the Addendum
to this report.
Public education and continual participation in planning matters are encouraged through regular meetings at
the River Bend Town Hall. As a part of this update, the town discussed the plan at several regularly scheduled
public Planning Board and Town Council meetings. The update was adopted at a public hearing held on March
16, 1994.
This River Bend 1994 CAMA Sketch Land Use Plan Update was prepared with the assistance of Dexter G.
Moore, Moore & Associates, Planning Consultants.
MAN Moore & Associates — P.O. Box 1150, Grifton, N.C. 28530 919-524-3424
The preparation of this document was financed in part through a grant provided by the North Carolina Coastal Management Program, through
funds provided by the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as amended, which Is administered by the Office of Ocean and Coastal Resources
Management, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
18

I♦ M
the preparation of this document was financed in part through a grant provided by the North Carolina
Coastal Management Program, through funds provided by the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as ,
amended, which is administered by the Office of Ocean and Coastal Resources Management, National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. r
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ADDENDUM
TOWN OF RIVER BEND
1993 Citizens Update Survey Results
584 Returned Questionnaires (546/6)
January 1993
INFORMATION SOURCE
What are your sources of information about River Bend and the ranking of them from 1-5 , with 1 the most important:
Rank
1
2
3
4
5
River Bender
363
57
13
2
8
Sun Journal
37
227
74
20
18
Town Meetings
26
37
61
53
24
TV
7
11
72
62
36
Other (neighbors)
32
27
11
3
1G
From the responses, The River Bender and The Sun Journal are the most frequent source of information for the residents of River
Bend.
RESIDENCY/CENSUS
1. Resident of River Bend for how many years?
Years
1
1 2
1 3
4
1 6
8
1 9
10
1 11
64
84
15
60
86
48
33
15
2i
13%
17%
3%
12%
18%
10%
7%
3%
6°/
ive Percent
13%
30%
33%
46%
63%
73%
80%
8394.
R81N.
13
15
16
18
1 21
22
Total
17
179
8
4
3
490
3%
3%
2%
2%
1%
1%
100%
92%
95%
97%
99%
99%
100%
100°/
From the responses received, 80% have lived in River Bend for nine years or less. Therefore, the data presented by this
questionnaire is weighted toward the newer residents of the town.
2. Former resident of what State?
I.

1
1
4. If not a full time resident, where do you spend the remainder of your time?
Wisconsin from May - Sept., Canada from July - Aug., Emerald Isle, New York, Florida, Massachusetts from June -
Sept., Pennsylvania from May -Nov., Ohio from June - Sept., New England
5. Age group:
Age
20 - 30
31 - 40
41 - 50
51 - 60
61 - 70
Over 70
Total
Responses
13
30
40
80
286
141
590
Percent
1 2%
5%
7%
14%
48%
1 '24%
100%
Considering that River Bend is primarily a retirement area, it is not surprising that almost 75% of the respondents to this
questionnaire were over 60 years of age.
6. Rent home - 32 (60/6) Own home - 523 ((94%)
Most of the residents of River Bend own their own home.
7. Retired - 440 (78%) 100% Employed - 94 (17%) Part time employed - 27 (50/6)
(Spouse) Retired - 361 (78%) 100% Employed - 62 (13%) Part time employed - 42 (9%)
Almost 80% of the respondents to this questionnaire are retired.
8. Involved in volunteer work? Yes - 210 (391/6) No - 334 (61%)
(spouse) in volunteer work? Yes - 164 (36%) No - 288 (64%)
Where? Meals on wheels - 3, Women's Club - 2, Soup kitchen - 3, Church - 25, Hospital - 22, Schools - 31, Red
Cross - 25
While some of River Bend's residents do volunteer work, most do not. Of those involved in volunteer work, most volunteer
their time to church, hospital, schools and the Red Cross.
9. Number of adults over 18: 1,050 Number of children under 18 60
Ages
1
2
3
4
5
6
1 7
8
1 9
1101111121131141151161171181
Total
Children
6
2
1 2
1 2
5
3
1 1
1 4
1 4_1
5
1 2
1 2
1 5
1 2
1 7
1 3
1 5
1 0
1 60
Consistent with the U.S. Census which shows that only 14% of River Bend's residents are under 18 years of age, the
respondents to this questionnaire listed only 60 children under 18 living at home.
10. Number of dogs: 131 (63%) Cats: 78 (37%) Neutered: 149 (71%)
ACTIVITIES
' 1. Boating: 196 (11%), Golfing: 265 (161/o), Bicycling: 215 (130/o), Tennis: 42 (21/6), Gardening: 275 (16%),
Swimming: 150 (9%), Fishing: 176 (101/6), Walking: 361 (210/6), (other) (2%) Camping: 1, Needlework: 3,
Hunting: 6, Running: 9, Traveling: 5, Reading: 2
River Bend is predominately a retirement area. The above activities having the greatest participation are those activities
which are typically performed by a mature population. The activities which the respondents participate the most are
Walking, Gardening and Golf.
2. Own a boat? Yes - 179 (32%) No - 375 (68%)
' 3. Plan on owning a boat? Yes - 35 (10%) No - 313 (90%)
4. If yes to 2 or 3, should the town provide a launch site on the Trent River? Yes - 107 (401/6) No - 158 (60%)
' 2

' 5. If no to 2 or 3, do you favor the town purchasing land and providing such a site? Yes - 91 (261/0) No - 254 (74%)
' Most of the respondents do not own a boat and do not plan to get involved in boating activities. This response indicates that
there is not a need for a additional boat launch site.
IUTILITIES
1. Do you live in areas without public water? Yes - 160 (29%) No - 393 (71%) public sewer? Yes - 231 (45%o)
' No - 286 ((55%)
(a) If yes, are you experiencing any problems with your well and/or septic.system? Yes - 14 (5%o) No - 241
(95%)
' Problems: Sulfur in water - 1, Bad taste - 3, Prefer to stay on well - 1, No problem - 5
Most of the respondents have not had problems with their private wells. Only about 5% of the respondents have
' experienced problems with their septic tank and/or drain field system.
(b) If no, are you experiencing any problems with the present central water and/or sewer system?
Yes - 196 (51%) No -190 (49%) Problems: Bad taste - 37, High cost - 86, Low pressure - 6, Poor
' quality - 43
About one-half of the respondents have experienced problems with the central water and/or sewer system.
2. Do you favor a central water system to all of River Bend in order to provide better fire protection and potable water for
all?
Yes - 367 (70%) No - 156 (301/6)
There is broad support from the respondents to extend the central water system through -out River Bend.
3. Would you use such a system for potable water rather than using your present well?
Yes - 58 (13%) No - 133 (291/6) Not applicable - 271 (581/6)
' 4. Do you favor extending sanitary sewers to these areas? Yes - 274 (591/o) No - 194 (41%)
There is broad support from the respondents to extend the central sewer system through -out River Bend.
' 5. Do you favor publicly controlled water and sewer systems instead of a private concern? Yes - 344 (76%)
No - 110 (240/6)
' There is broad support from the respondents for a publicly controlled water and sewer system.
' ROADS
1. Should there be another road to and from US 17? Yes - 270 (501/6) No - 271 (50%)
LAND USE POLICIES
1. Most of the land area in River Bend is developed for residential purposes. It is town policy that most of the remaining
undeveloped land in the town and its planning area be developed for residential purposes.
Do you agree? Yes - 478 (901/6) No - 56 (101/o)
If no, how should it be changed? I - Green belt areas, 4 - Need mall and grocery store at entrance, 6 - No
change, 1 - Developers are squeezing in lots where there shouldn't be.
2. Where should future commercial development be located? 54 (91/o)- Adjacent to the existing property near Town
' Hall,
3

' 113 (191/o) - Along US 17 near the River Bend entrance, 406 (69%)- Along US 17 away from the River Bend
1
11
11
entrance,
17 (31/o)- (other) Far away from town
Do you believe that River Bend should:
(a) Develop a program which will encourage the preservation of natural vegetation and wetlands associated with the
Trent River and it's tributaries. Yes - 450 (92%) No - 39 (8%o) Comments: 1 Too much Federal control
and regulations.
(b) Develop a program which will encourage lower density development in areas of less suitable soils.
Yes - 429 (88%) No - 59 (121/6) Comments: 1 Not at this time.
(c) Develop a program which will encourage the improvement of public access to Trent River.
Yes - 212 (43%) No - 281 (57%) Comments: 1 Erosion problem
(d) Continue to participate in the N. C. Coastal Area Management Act Program. Yes - 477 (94%) No - 30 (6%)
Comments: 1 Keep natural resources intact.
PRIORITIES
Score from 1 - 6 with 1 the most important.
Priorities
1
2
3
4
5
6
Another access road to US 17
96
41
50
56
53
74
Boat launch site
10
23
27
50
102
127
Sanitary sewers for all of River Bend
41
64
95
76
30
32
Fire h drants and potable water service for all of River Bend
94
125
65
27
17
14
Control of water and sewer systems
136
61
1
65
48
16
18
Area set aside for "Victory" gardening
13
17
29
60
80
128
From a review of the scores given to these items, general conclusions are listed below.
Respondents
Another access road to US 17
Even Support
Boat launch site
Little Support
Sanitary sewers for all of River Bend
Moderate Support
Fire h drant s and potable water service for all of River Bend
Strong Support
Control of water and sewer systems
Strong Support
Area set aside for "Victory" gardening
Little Supp2rt
CONCERNS
21 There is a problem with stray dogs/barking and relieving themselves in yards
9 Need leaf pick up at curb
7 There is a problem with deteriorating of canals
7 Need to extend bike path to River Bend entrance
6 No change to River Bend
6 Need better trash removal and recycling
6 Need Baseball field and Little League teams (children's activities)
6 Need a local Fire Dept.
5 Stop the parking of boats and cars on lawns
5 Need proper drainage of road side ditches
5 Need more street repairs
5 Need more maintenance to Town park
5 Landscape entrance
5 Don't force water and sewer on those who have wells and septic systems
4 Keep taxes down
3 Stop the speeding through Norbury Rd. to 17
3 Need new Mayor
3 Fire Insurance rates too high
4

1
3 Fire Insurance rates too high
3 Ban burning of leaves
2 Need to control building
2 Need stricter Zoning control
2 Need stricter speed limits
2 Need more street lights
2 Need Extra Territorial Jurisdiction
2 Need a Post Office
2 Eliminate stray cats
1 Stop light should be blinking after busy hours
1 Powell funds - equal distribution
1 Poor Water
1 Need to enforce the noise code
1 Need public transportation
1 Need handicap parking
I Need better cable service
1 Need a hiking trail on shoreline
1 Get rid of CWS
I
The concern listed most often was the issue of stray dogs.
11

Archives and history has designated much of the eastern
side of Richlands, which is undeveloped, as an area with
moderate to high probability for the location of archaeological
sites.
Although Richlands does not have the financial resources
to conduct a comprehensive cultural resources survey, the
Town of Richlands supports Onslow County's efforts to secure
a grant to conduct such a survey, which would include
Richlands.
e. Protection of Potable Water Supply
Richlands officials support State regulations controlling land
uses near groundwater sources as regulated by the North
Carolina Division of Environmental Management through
NCAC, Subchapter 2L and Subchapter 2C.
Richlands recognizes the importance of protecting potable
water supplies and, therefore, supports the enforcement of
these regulations if and when applicable.
f. Storm Water Runoff from Agriculture, Residential
Development, Phosphate or Peat Mining
Through support of the Division of Environmental Management,
Richlands officials support efforts to regulate storm water
runoff through applicable state and federal regulations.
g. Marina and Floating Home Development
Not applicable in Richlands.
h. Industrial Impacts on Fragile Areas
Richlands officials will continue to support applicable state
and federal regulations as they relate to the siting of new
industry, or impact of new industry on environmentally sensitive
areas such as Richlands tributaries.
B. Economic and Community Development
1. Types and Location of Industries Desired
As discussed in the Existing Land Use Section of the Plan,
Richlands presently has one industrial business, which is located
on Franck Street. However, Richlands officials continue to work
with the Onslow County Economic Development Office to secure
new industry. Town officials are interested in securing new
industry that will not adversely affect the environment and would
encourage expansion of the existing local industry and new industry
in the industrial zoned areas. Richlands has excess water and
sewer treatment capacity and sites available for development
by new industry.
Policy: Richlands policy will be to continue to encourage expansion
of the existing industry in Richlands and Town officials will
continue to work to have new industry located in the community.
Local officials will continue to have a policy of working with
the Onslow County Economic Development Office.
Local officials will encourage new industry that will not adversely
impact on the local environment.
2. Local Commitment to Providing Services to Development
Richlands officials are committed to providing necessary services
that will encourage industrial, commercial, or residential growth.
The primary goal of local officials is to assist as feasible in the
economic growth of the community.
Policy: Richlands officials will continue to work toward providing
improved water and sewer facilities to attract new industry,
commercial development and new housing opportunities.
Richlands officials will make every effort to implement the
Capital Improvements Program which includes upgrading of the
existing water and sewer system through local funds or any
available state and federal grants that can be used for such
purposes.
3. Commitment to State and Federal Programs, Including Erosion
Control, Public Access, Highway Improvements and Dredging
As a small community, Richlands officials understand the
importance and need for both state and federal programs that
can assist the community in providing more and better community
facilities. For that reason, local officials are committed to
,and support state and federal programs that can be used to make
Richlands a better place in which to live for current and future
generations.
Currently, public waterfront access is not applicable for the
Town of Richlands. However, local officials would like to establish
greenway access along tributaries surrounding the Richlands
area.
Highway improvements are considered a major.factor in ensuring
economic growth for the area. Local officials will begin the
process of planning future roads with assistance from the DOT
and provide support to any local efforts to expand roads leading
to Richlands including Gum Branch Road extension from
Jacksonville and a possible by-pass between U.S. 258 and S.R.
1308 near the high school site.
Policy: Richlands officials will continue to support all federal
and state programs and work to secure any grant funds available
to help improve the quality of life for Richlands citizens.
Richlands officials will work to secure grant funds to plan and
implement a waterfront access and park area along the Mill
Swamp for use by Richlands citizens.
Richlands officials will continue to work to improve local and
primary roads with assistance from the Department of
Transportation.
a. Richlands officials will contact DOT officials and request
assistance in establishing an Official Thoroughfare Plan for
Richlands.
b. Richlands officials will adopt a Local Thoroughfare Plan,
and once prepared and adopted, use it for subdivision review
and community planning.
4. Anticipated Residential Development, Densities and Locations
As discussed in the Existing Land Use Section, Richlands has
two recent residential developments. One is located on the west
side of Wilmington Street with several new houses and several
parcels remaining for development. In addition, several duplexes
have been constructed on South Wilmington Street near Cooper
Street with a subdivision called Fairview Estates to the east
of this site. An existing development at Fay Avenue and Henrian
Street will also continue to be developed and possibly expanded
during the planning period. Density and location of future
development will be based on land availability, desire and market
to justify development and existing zoning requirements.
Policy: Location and density of future development will be guided
and controlled by zoning, flood area policy and subdivision
regulations. Local officials will also use the 1987 Land
Classification Map in review of future residential, commercial
or industrial use.
5. Types of Urban Growth Patterns — Redevelopment of Developed
areas
Richlands continues to experience some growth in commercial
development along both sides of U.S. 258. With highway business
zoning on both sides of this highway and inside the Town Limits,
this area will most likely continue to have a commercial growth
pattern. Residential growth will most likely take place in new
subdivisons now being developed and in older residential portions
of the town. The downtown area will most likely continue to
be more service business and professional service oriented, and
the center for government services such as the Post Office and
the Town Hall. All of these growth patterns are well established
and will most likely continue during the planning period.
The dirt road and substandard residential area between Onslow
Street and Woodson Street continues to need redevelopment
assistance. Town officials will continue to make every effort
to secure federal or state funds to redevelop this area.
Policy: Richlands will adopt a Thoroughfare Plan and work toward
implementation to establish a standard urban growth pattern.
Richlands policy will be to work toward the elimination of
substandard dirt streets and houses through the use of Community
Development Block Grant Program funds or implementation
of the Capital Improvements Program for needed street and
sewer improvements.
Richlands will continue to redevelop existing developed areas
as financially feasible.
6. Energy Facility Siting and Development
At present, Richlands officials are not aware of any plans to
construct an energy facility in Richlands. However, the Richlands
Zoning Ordinance does permit energy facilities in the industrial
zone.
C. Resource Production
1. Productive Agricultural Lands
Most of the agricultural land inside the Town Limits of Richlands
is located east and west of U.S. 258. This is considered a growth
area; and, therefore, Town officials would like to see a transition
from agricultural use to a higher density use such as commercial
or residential development to increase the local tax base.
2. Commercial Forest Lands
There are no known commercial forest lands inside the Town
Limits of Richlands.
3. Existing or Potential Mineral Production Areas
There are no known mineral production areas inside the planning
jurisdiction of Richlands.
4. Off -Road Vehicles
The use of off -road vehicles is controlled by existing Town
ordinances. Since Richlands is not a beach or tourist oriented
community, off -road vehicles are not a problem.
5. Residential and Commercial Land Development
Residential and commercial land development is controlled by
existing Zoning and Subdivision Regulations. Richlands' current
policy is to encourage both residential and commercial
development that will have a positive impact on Richlands'
economy and tax base.
6. Industrial Impacts on Resources
Richlands' Zoning Ordinance has established appropriate areas
for industrial development. The Town supports other state and
federal regulations intended to protect the local environment
from any harmful development.
Town of Richlands
1987 Land Classification Map
D. Local Land Use Issues and Policies
Planning issues of local concern were identified by the Planning Board
during the three work sessions conducted during the early planning
process. Information on local planning issues was also obtained from
the Chamber of Commerce. The following issues are of particular
concern to citizens in Richlands:
1. Utilization of Vacant Buildings in Downtown Area for Commercial
or Professional Service Businesses with Adequate Parking
As discussed in the 1981 Land Use Plan, Richlands continues
to have buildings in the downtown area that remain vacant. Since
this is private property, local officials are limited in what they
can do to directly affect this situation. However, the Chamber
of Commerce and Town officials could work together in an effort
to have these buildings utilized. To accomplish this, Town officials
Town of Richlands establish the following policy:
Policy: Town officials will work closely with the Chamber of
Commerce and downtown merchants and property owners to
encourage new businesses to locate in the downtown area. Town
officials will also work to improve the availability of parking
in the downtown area.
a. Town officials will request that the Chamber of Commerce
determine which vacant downtown buildings are available
1987 Existing Land Use Map for rent or sale.
b. Town officials will pursue with the State's Archives and
History Section establishing Downtown Richlands as a
designated National Register historic district. Such
designation would provide additional tax incentives (20 %
tax credit) for rehabilitation of commercial buildings in
such a district.
C. Richlands will conduct a study of existing available parking
in the downtown area to determine if additional parking
is needed. This information will be made available to the
Chamber of Commerce and interested property owners.
2. Possible Onslow County Museum Relocation and Impact on
Downtown
The 1981 Land Use Plan discussed the fact that many buildings
in the downtown area were vacant and there existed a need to
address this problem. In 1987, the same problem exists in
downtown Richlands, while the U.S. 258 highway corridor continues
to expand in commercial facilities.
The Museum's concern for relocation is due in part to lack of
space for the display of artifacts of local history. In addition,
like businesses that are proving to the U.S. 258 corridor, the
Museum has a need to be in a high traffic area to capture more
visitors passing through the area. Both of these needs are
understandable, and Richlands officials need to work with the
Museum to provide additional display space and increase visitation
to prevent this community asset from moving away from downtown
and creating another vacant building.
Policy: Town policy will be to work with the Museum in locating
additional display space in downtown Richlands in an effort to
keep this community asset in Richlands.
Town officials will work with the Department of Transportation
in having highway signs made and installed at both entrances
to Richlands on U.S. 258 directing motorists to the Museum.
Town officials will work with the Chamber of Commerce and
Museum in finding addtional display space for the Museum in
downtown Richlands.
3. Billboard Controls Along U.S. 258
The Richlands Zoning Ordinance permits identification signs
in the HB Highway Business district with no requirements for
spacing between signs. The current zoning map shows both sides
of U.S. 258 as highway Business, which would permit on premise
identification signs on both sides of this major thoroughfare
with no spacing requirements. Onslow County currently has
a moratorium in place for billboards and may pass an ordinance
to restrict the location of billboards in the county. This could
very rapidly create a demand for billboards in Richlands where
they are presently permitted. If billboards were erected in
Richlands, they would most likely be advertising products or
locations outside Richlands and of no direct benefit to Richlands.
Policy: Town policy on billboards will be to revise the current
Zoning Ordinance and not permit billboards in Richlands.
4. Additional Recreational Opportunities
The 1981 Plan established a goal to provide more recreational
opportunities for Richlands citizens. Since that time, a park
has been developed adjacent to the fire station on Wilmington
Street. Although this park provides both active and passive
recreational facilities, there continues to be a need for additional
facilities.
Policy: Richlands officials will continue to work to provide more
and better recreational opportunities and facilities for Richlands
citizens.
The Town will use a recently funded CAMA planning grant to
prepare a recreation study for the Town.
The Town will continue to work to secure any federal or state
funds available for implementation of the recreation plan.
5. Need for Landscape Ordinance
As the U.S. 258 corridor continues to develop, it becomes more
apparent that there is a need for better control and guidance
on landscaping of commercial, office and other high density
uses. In an effort to provide landscaping for visual buffering
and enhance the Town's appearance, Town officials feel that
a landscape ordinance would be beneficial.
Policy: The Town of Richlands will review landscape ordinances
from other communities and work toward the adoption of a
landscape ordinance during the five-year planning period.
6. Potential Strip Commercial Development Along U.S. 258
As the U.S. 258 highway corridor continues to develop, there
is a very strong possibility that this area will become a strip
commercial development. This is of particular concern for
residents living along Fay Avenue, Hardy Avenue and (lenrian
Street who all have access to their neighborhood from U.S. 258.
At present both sides of Fay Avenue at the intersection of U.S.
258 are heavily wooded parcels. In an effort to preserve this
wooded area and retain a residential character, the Planning
Board would like to encourage the property owner to revise the
zoning in this area to a zone other than highway Business.
Policy: Richlands officials will encourage the rezoning of both
sides of Fay Avenue at U.S. 258 to a low density use.
7. Preserving Trees and Placing Utilities Underground
The public participation process revealed that the Chamber of
Commerce would like to see efforts made to preserve existing
large trees in the community and place electric utilities
underground beginning in the downtown area in an effort to
improve the visual quality of the community. Richlands officials
support these two goals and also hclieve it would improve the
aesthetic quality of Richlands.
Policy: Richlands' town officials will instruct the Town Planning
Board to prepare a tree ordinance for consideration. Town oft ials
will also investigate the financial feasibility of locating utilities
underground and methods to pay for such activity.
Vill. LAND CLASSIFICATION
The state guidelines for Local Planning in the Coastal Area under the Coastal
Area Management Act of 1974 require that a land classification map be
prepared for all planning jurisdictions in the coastal area. There are five
classes of land prescribed in the North Carolina Land Classification System
as follows:
A. Developed - Land with a minimum density of 2,000 people per square
mile (3.125/acre) and containing public services able to support the
present population. This land must be serviced by water and sewer
systems and adequate road and educational systems.
B. Transition - Land where a minimum density of 2,000 people per square
mile is expected in the future and where minimum services will be
required. Areas with severe development limitations or ones of
significant special value would not be included in this category.
C. Community - Existing low density land that doesn't require major
public services. This class includes all new rural growth of lot sizes
of 10 acres or less. Approximately one person per acre should be
used as a guide in identifying this land. This classification has not
been used in Richlands.
D. Rural - Land used for management and utilization of productive
resources and where limited public services will be provided. Generally,
large tracts of land not expected to develop more intensely than
agriculturally would be considered in this category.
E. Conservation - This last class identifies land to be maintained for
its natural qualities and least desirable for development. These areas
wouldn't be able to withstand development without loss of natural
value, have severe limitations for development, or are too valuable
to be endangered by it.
All of the above -listed classifications are present in Richlands with the
exception of the Community classification.
The Land Classification Map of Richlands shows Developed for land areas
adjacent to most of the existing roads where water and sewer service is
provided.
Transition areas include both sides of S.R. 1308 in the southeastern corner
of Richlands and the west side of U.S. 258 in areas where development has
not yet taken place A portion of Henrian Street is also shown as Transition,
and a portion of the block between U.S. 258 and Wilmington Street is
undeveloped. Both sides of Foy Street near the intersection of S.R. 1301
and the extension of Railroad Street is shown as Transition. The eastern
side of Wilmington Street north of Fay Street is also included as Transition.
The Rural classification includes all agricultural land and wooded areas
found primarily along the eastern, northern and southwestern Town Limit
lines. The Conservation area includes the area adjacent to the Mill Swamp
in the northeastern corner of Richlands as shown on the Land Classification
Map.
Town policy is to encourage economic development that is sensitive to the
environment, and the land classification plan reflects this policy by
encouraging in -filling development adjacent to existing developed areas
and retention of agricultural areas until property owners desire to place
this land area into another use.

I. INTRODUCTION
11'he Department of Natural Resources and Community Development, Divison
of Coastal °tanager:rent, has provided small coastal communities such as
Richlands grant funds to prepare a Sketch bevel Land Use Plan. The Sketch
Level Plan is an update of the June 1981 Plan and is intended to give Richlands
the opportunity to plan for the future as part of the Coastal r.lanagement
Program.
One of the basic: purposes of North Carolina's Coastal Area Management
Act (hereinafter referred to as "CAMA" or "the Act") is to establish a state
management plan in cooperation with local governments to coordinate the
management of coastal resources. The Act recognizes that the kev to more
effective protection and use of the land and water resources of the coast
is the development of a coordinated approach to resource managment. The
Coastal Area Management Act provides two principal mechanisms to
accomplish this purpose: first, the formulation of local land use plans such
as Richlands' Sketch Land Use Plan which express the objectives of local
citizens and translate these objectives into future desired land use patterns;
and second, the designation of areas of environmental concern for the
protection of areas of statewide concern within the coastal area.
Both the development of local land use plans and the designation and
regulation of critical resource areas contribute to rational management
by encouraging local and state governments to excercise their full authorities
over coastal resources and to express their management goals in a
comprehensible and uniform manner. Local objectives benefit through their
incorporation into a state management scheme, and the statewide objectives
of resource protection and development benefit through an integrated and
comprehensive management approach.
II. PROGRESS IN IMPLEMENTATION OF 1981 PLAN POLICY
As part of the data collection process, the 1981 Land Use Plan policy section
was reviewed to determine what progress has been made in addressing stated
policy and goals outlined in the plan. Among 14 stated goals, all have either
been done or are in the process of being done with two exceptions. They
are (1) to achieve physical improvements to buildings, streets and public
utilities in the Central Business District, and (2) to reverse the existing
economic decline in the District.
III. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS
A. Population and Economy
The 1970 and 1980 census of population for Richlands shows a decrease
in population during this ten-year period. However, based on the
Office of Budget and Management projections, this trend has reversed
and Richlands has increased in population between 1980 and 1985.
The State shows a population in 1985 of 908 people in Richlands which
is 83 more than the 825 people in 1980.
Richlands serves as an employment center and center for retail trade
and other services for the western portion of Onslow County. As
discussed in the 1981 Land Use Plan, tradionally retail businesses
and services were concentrated downtown, but the trend to locate
along the 258 bypass rather than downtown continues. Although local
officials are pleased with new enterprises that chose to locate along
the 258 highway corridor, there is a continuing concern about and
need to revitalize the downtown area.
The major manufacturing employer in Richlands is Pellamy
Manufacturing Company which manufactures clothing and employs
approximately 300 people. Pellamy purchased Richlands Textiles,
Inc., in late 1986 to become the Town's largest manufacturing employer.
As discussed in the 1981 Land Us.e Plan, many of Richlands' citizens
continue to commute to Jacksonville and Camp Lejeune for
employment. Because of the improvements presently being made
to Highway 258, Richlands might become even more of a bedroom
community for Jacksonville, which will increase population and thereby
the future viability of current and future business enterprises.
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B. Existing Land Use
Existing land use for Richlands has not changed very significantly
since the 1981 Land Use Plan was prepared. As discussed in the 1981
Plan, there has been and continues to be a significant shift of retail
businesses to locate along U.S. 258 rather than in dowtown Richlands.
This shift is not surprising since most retail operations are very
sensitive to traffic counts when considering the location of new retail
facilities. Obviously, there is presently and most likely- will continue
to be more vehicular traffic along 258 than along Hargett or Wilmington
Streets in the downtown area. Although major retail facilities may
continue to locate along 258, the downtown area provides an excellent
location and environment for professional or service oriented
businesses.
As one enters Richlands from the south along U.S. 258, most of the
land west of 258 is undeveloped or agricultural land, with residential
and the high school site being the dominant uses on the east side.
Continuing on 258 and past the Wilmington Street intersection, the
land use is a mix of commercial, vacant land and residential, with
commercial becoming the dominant land use on the east side.
East of Wilmington Street and south of Franck Street is predominantly
residential, with some scattered commercial and a large school site
fronting on Foy Street.
Franck Street east of Woodson Street is currently wooded areas or
agricultural land. North of Foy Street and east of Wilmington Street
is undeveloped with the exception of the school site, and a few houses
fronting on Foy Street.
West of Wilmington Street and north of Franck Street is predominantly
residential, with numerous commercial uses along Hargett Street
and the CBD area. North of Foy and west of Wilmington Street is
undeveloped other than the swimming pool site and residential uses
along Foy, Elizabeth and Wilmington Streets.
Most of the land use changes that have taken place in Richlands in
the past seven years have taken place along U.S. 258. As this
commercial corridor grows, the potential for strip development exists
and should be guarded against. A small condominium project and
subdivision is presently being built on the east side of Wilmington
Street. A residential subdivision has been developed northwest of
Wilmington Street near Elizabeth Street.
Based on a windshield survey of existing land use conducted in April,
1987, and using 1984 aerial photography as a base, the land use map
has been prepared. This survey revealed the following land uses:
Acres % of Total
Residential
116.0
17.4%
Commercial
36.0
5.396
Industrial
3.6
.5%
Transportation
64.6
9.6%
Public and Semi -Public
46.6
7.0%
Agricullure/Undeveloped
404.6
60.2%
Total
672.0 Acres
100.0%
As reflected above, over 60.2% of Richlands' land area is currently
in agricultural uses or undeveloped property. As shown on the Existing
Land Use Map, nearly all of this land area is located near the Town
Limits on the western, eastern and northern edge of Richlands. r.luch
of the commercial land use is located along both sides of U.S. 258
and along Hargett and Wilmington Streets. The only industrial site
is located on Franck Street, with most of the public land use being
represented by the two school sites.
The Land Use Map also shows both residential and commercial
development is taking place outside the Town Limits and along U.S.
258 northwest of Richlands. This area has the potential for annexation
to provide a larger tax base and to give Richlands more control in
directing future development in this area, which is a primary entrance
into Richlands.
C. Current Plans, Policies and Regulations
The following represents a list and brief description of current plans,
policies and regulations for the Town of Richlands.
1. 1986 Capital Improvements Program
The Capital Improvements Program is a comprehensive listing
of municipal improvements needed by priority with estimated
cost and duration of time to complete. Includes water, sewer,
drainage, sidewalks, recreation, street paving and vehicle
replacement. A very comprehensive planning document.
2. 1981 CAMA Land Use Plan
Planning document with background information on Richlands
land use, population and economy and local issues of concern
at the time. Policy statements on issues with implementation
strategy.
3. Richlands 201 Facilities Plan
Plan begun by James Stewart and Associates, Inc., of Jacksonville
is in the process of being completed by Rose & Associates, New
Bern, N.C.
4. Draft Historic Property Inventory
Inventory of historic buildings in Richlands.
5. Project Proud - Downtown Redevelopment
Drawings and models of downtown Richlands prepared by the
North Carolina State University School of Design.
6. Water and Sewer Extension Polic
Procedures and policy regarding extension of water distribution
and sewer collection lines into previously unserved areas of
Richlands. Town policy is to encourage prospective public water
users to connect to municipal system. Town Administrator can
approve 2" taps, with Board of Aldermen approving all taps over
2" or main connections. If land is close to Town Limits, property
owner must petition for annexation to be served. All extensions
for development must be constructed and paid for by person
desiring such service.
7. housing Code for the Town of Richlands
Ordinance that establishes minimum housing standards using
model North Carolina Housing Code.
8. Subdivison Regulations for the Town of Richlands
Intent of the ordinance is to encourage well -planned growth
for the Town of Richlands and its environs.
9. f.1av 1986 Zonine Ordinance
Very comprehensive ordinance that covers typical land use such
as residential, commercial, industrial and billboards, dish antenna
inside the Town Limits of Richlands. The ordinance also addresses
mobile home districts and PUD's. Richlands is presently working
to establish an extraterritorial planning jurisdiction.
10. Flood Plain Regulations
Richlands is covered by the Federal Flood Insurance Program
and is subject to flooding in the northeastern corner of the Town
Limits.
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IV. CONSTRAINTS- LAND SUITABILITY
A. Physical Limitations
1• hazard Area
Richlands has no known man-made hazards present. A potential
natural hazard is the flood zone or A Zone which is located in
the northeastern quadrant of Richlands,
2. Soil Limitations
As discussed in the 1981 Land Use Plan, Richlands is situated
entirely in the Rains -Lynchburg -Goldsboro soil association. This
Association occurs in the broad inter,treum uplands of the Coastal
Plains and the soil series are somewhat poorly drained with
moderate permeability. The Goldsboro series has slight limitations
for most non -industrial development. However, this could indicate
the necessity of spot site tests of all sites expected to be developed
to determine the exact restrictions present. Site specific soil
analysis should be conducted prior to street, utility or industrial
development. Where questions of this type occur, the U.S. Soil
Conservation Service can provide technical assistance from their
Jacksonville Office.
3. Cuter Supply
As discussed in the 1981 Land Use Plan, Richlands' source for
potable water supply continues to be groundwater. Richlands
presently has three wells with only two in operation at the present
time. Well Number 1 has a 75 gpm pump, but it is not in use
due to pollution of groundwater. tyell Number 2 is a screened
well at a 353' depth with a capacity of 300 gpm. It is located
at tank Number 1. Well Number 3 is located at tank Number
2 on Cox Street Extended. The well was built in 1973 at a depth
of 535' with a 30-horsepower rated pump and pumping at 350
gpm.
Two storage tanks are part of the water system, with tank Number
1 having a storage capacity of 100,000 gallons and tank Number
2 having a storage capacity of 300,000 gallons. Tank Number
1 was constructed in 1935, with tank Number 2 being constructed
in 1973.
B. Areas of Environmental Concern
These are areas which could easily be damaged or destroyed by
inappropriate or poorly planned development. As discussed in the
1981 Land Use Plan, Richlands does not contain any AEC's as defined
in Section (15NCAC 710 and there are no known fragile areas.
V. CONSTRAINTS - CAPACITY OF COMMUNITY FACILITIES
A. Existing Water and Sewer
Richlands' residents are presently using approximately 120,000 gallons
per day of water, which is well below the Town's present 928,000
gallons per day capacity. However, the 'town', drawdown capacity
may be lower than 928,000 gpd.
The sanitary sewer collection and treatment system has a design
flow of 216,000 gpd. The system was constructed in 1964 and the
plant, which is a secondary sewerage collection and treatment system,
releases treated wastewater into Mill Swamp. The average daily
flow is 80,000 gallons per day, which is well below the 210,000 gpd.
capacity.
B. Schools, Parks, Primary Roads, Emergency Services
Richlands students are served by three schools in the area. Richland,
Elementary, which includes R-5, has a design capacity of 95(' students.
In 1980 the school contained 977 student,, with a 1986-87 enrollment
of 997 students. Trexler Junior High, which includes 6-8, has it design
capacity of 40; students, with a 1980 student enrollment of 507 and
1986-87 enrollment of 487. Richlands Senior high, which includes
grades 9-12. has a design capacity of 625 student,. In 1980 the school
had an enrcllment of 588, with 620 attending in 1986-87. It appears
that both Richlands High School and Trexler Junior high co,ild expand
their facilities if necessary in the future on their existing ite. Roth
Trexler and Richlands Elementary are over design capacity. but any
decision to expand must be made by the Onsioc✓ County School Board.
Richlands' citizens and local officials, however, could have input
into those decisions.
An attractive park has been completed on Wilmington Street adjacent
to the Richlands Fire Station. Although this facility provides an
opportunity for both passive and active recreation, additional
recreational facilities are needed. Richlands has provided two tennis
courts and to basketball courts since the 1981 Plan was prepared.
Richlands has applied and received approval for CA,.IA planning funds
to design a greenway park that would provide access to local streams
and tributaries.
Primary roads for Richlands would include the N.C. 24/U.S. 258
By -Pass. This is the major thoroughfare between Jacksonville and
points west of Richlands. The Department of Transportation will
be completing the widening cf this road to five lanes between Richlands
and Jacksonville which makes it adequate far beyond the planning
period.
Emergency services for Richlands include the Volunteer Fire
Department and Rescue Squad. The Fire Department located in Town
leases six fire engine pumpers. The Rescue Squad has three
ambulances, including two 1975 Dodge ambulances and one 1979
Chevrolet ambulance. Both the Fire Department and Rescue Squad
provide good service to the community.
C. Level of Utilization for Water System, Sewer System and Schools
As discussed earlier, the Richlands water system has the capacity
to pump 928,000 gallons of water per day, with a current use of 120,000
gallons per day. This system is currently being utilitzed well below
design capacity. The sewage Treatment Plant can handle a flow
of 210,000 gpd, with a current average daily flow of 80,000 gallons,
which is well below capacity. At current growth rates this system
should be adequate to serve Richlands' needs during the planning
period. Richlands wishes to encourage industrial growth and more
residential and commercial growth, making implementation of the
recently completed Capital Improvements Plan important in serving
areas not presently served.
As discussed earlier, two of the three schools serving Richlands are
presently being utilized beyond design capacity. Richlands Elementary
has a design capacity of 950 students, with 997 enrolled in 1986-87.
Trexler Junior High has a design capacity of 400 students, with 487
students enrolled in 1986-87. Decisions on the expansion of these
facilities must be made by the County School Board.
VI. ESTIMATED DEMAND
Both the 1976 and 1981 Land Use Plans discussed at some length the difficulty
in projecting population for small communities like Richlands due to lack
of population projections by the state for small communities. Both plans
discussed the fact that communities of less than 2,500 do not receive
population projections from the North Carolina Department of Administration
and any such projections must be generated by the local government.
The 1981 Land Use Plan used an economic base theory to project population
for 1985 and 1990. Based on those projections, the Plan called for a projected
1985 population of 1,252 people and a 1990 population of 1,440 people. These
projections were based on current geographic boundaries for Richlands and
the assumption that a labor-intensive industry would be attracted to Richlands.
Current population information for Richlands reveals that both the 1985
and 1990 projections called for in the 1980 Plan are overstated.
Using the September, 1986, issue of North Carolina Municipal Population,
the Office of State Budget and Management shows a 19811 population of
825 people with an estimated 908 people in July. 1985, which represents
a 10.1"., increase during this five-year period.
Because the 1981 Plan's population projections were so overstated, we have
elected to use the 1980 to 1985 10.1% increase it, a high estimate and a
51,., growth rate per five years as a loc: growth rate for planning purposes.
These estimates are eho,ln below.
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,I I Isn.JnV uo uawaapiV umoy aql 6q
malAaJ JoJ papuawwoaaJ pue panoadde Sam ueld aqL •uald 041 u! passaJppe
sa!a!lod pue sans! pue data uoilRa!j!ssala puel pasodoad 'asn puel Juilsixa
'ueld aql ssnos!p of Juµaaw uado ue play e pao8 Ju uluefd aql `LZ AInP uO
•alepd❑ ueld
alp olu! paleaodaoaui aq of sanss! Juwueld uo Indu! aA!aaaJ u!eJe aauo 01
pup uo!laalloa elap u! ssaJ.JoJd mo!AaJ of 61 �eiV uo play uagl sem lJu!laaw
uo!lewaoju! a!lgnd V •sansa Juiuueld luaJJna uo Indu! aAlaaaJ 01 pue ssaaoad
pue asodand alepdq ueld all Jo ma!AJano ua suaz!I!a pue saagwaw paeo8
Juiuueld aA!.J of sem Juilaaw sill jo asodand ag,L •Juilaaw 8Z I!JdV J!agl
le pae08 Juiuueld all ql!m pama!AaJ pue palaalloa Ju!aq sem uo!lewJoJu!
punoJJ�iaeq su l!JdV jo lluow all Juianp uw.Jaq uo!Iedial1Jed ailgnd
NOI,LVdIDL,HVd DI'18fld
Richlands Estimated Population Growth
ar
1,179
I,lSU
i.roo
r.
asa
1,043
10 y5]
vW
nso
"oo
111
700
1,rs
1,011
I VII :9H0 14N5 1990 :- 21 1
Source: 1980 Office of Budget and Management Estimate
1985 Office of Budget and Management Estimate
1990-1995-2000 Howard T. Capps and Associates Estimate
'X1
Using the population estimate of 908 people in 1985 as a base, with a 10%
growth rate for each five-year period as a high and 5% for each five-year
period as a low, Richlands would grow between 1985 and the year 2000 by
135 to 271 people.
As shown in the Existing Land Use Section of the Plan, over 60.2% of
Richlands is presently undeveloped. Therefore, accommodating an estimated
135 to 271 more people during the next 13 years will not be difficult or have
an adverse impact on the land or environment.
This modest anticipated increase in population can easily be accommodated
by such facilities as roads, water and sewer system.
VB. POLICY STATEMENTS
A. Resource Protection
1. Areas of Environmental Concern
As stated in the 1981 Land Use Plan, Richlands does not contain
any Areas of Environmental Concern. However, CAMA guidelines
do provide local governments the opportunity to designate local
AEC's if they desire. At this time Richlands has no AEC's.
2. Hazardous and Fragile Land Areas
a. Freshwater Swamps
Richlands officials support the CA61A program and the U.S.
Corps of Engineers 404 program, which has jurisdiction of
regulating development in designated freshwater swamp areas.
b. Marshes
Not applicable in Richlands.
c. Maritime Forests
Not applicable in Richlands.
d. Cultural and historic Resources
Richlands currently has no regulations to protect historic
or archaeologically significant sites. Based on a letter from
Mr. David Brook of the Division of Archives and History,
Richlands has approximately eight properties of historical
or architectural interest located in or near the Town, with
the Ventors Farm Historic District, located in the Richlands
vicinity, having been nominated to the National Register
of Historic Places but is not inside Richlands' planning
jurisdiction.