Comprehensive Plan: A 20 Year Planning Guide-2000

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Division of Coastal Management
Town of Swansboro
North Carolina
Holland Consulting. Planners, Inc.
Wilmington, North Carolina
The preparation of this ,_document was financed in part througlia grant provided by
the North Carolina Coastal Management Program, through funds provided by the
Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as amended, which is administered by the
Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management, National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration.

Town o
North
wansboro
.rolina
►rehensive Plan
de
Holland Consulting Planners, Inc.
Wilmington, North Carolina
The preparation of this document was financed in part through a grant provided by
the North Carolina Coastal Management Program, through funds provided by the
Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as amended, which is administered by the
Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management, National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration.

1
TOWN OF SWANSBORO
NORTH CAROLINA
COMPREHENSIVE PLANNING GUIDE
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE
INTRODUCTION......................................................1
II. LOCATIONAL ASPECTS OF LAND USE ........... 2
A. Commercial..........................................................3
B. Areas of Environmental Concern (AEC) and Fragile Areas ....................... 3
C. Residential...........................................................3
D. Industrial............................................................4
E. Office/Institutional.................................................... 4
F. Mixed Use Downtown .................................................. 4
G. Summary of General Principles Used to Develop the Land Use Plan ............... 4
III. URBAN FORM........................................................5
A. Components of Urban Form.............................................5
1. Districts.......................................................5
2. Paths.........................................................5
a. Transportation Paths ....................................... 6
b. Natural Paths.............................................6
C. Swansboro Transportation and Natural Paths .................... 7
3. Nodes.........................................................7
4. Landmarks..................................................7
5. Edges.........................................................8
IV. URBAN FORM POLICIES ................................................ 10
A. Introduction........................................................10
B. Urban Form Growth and Development Policies .............................. 10
1. Districts......................................................10
2. Paths (Natural and Transportation) ................................. 11
3. Nodes........................................................11
4. Landmarks....................................................11
5. Edges........................................................12
V. FUTURE LAND USE PLAN...............................................12
A. Introduction........................................................12
B. Land Use Categories..................................................13
VI. IMPLEMENTATION ELEMENTS ........................................... 20
A. Plan Development....................................................20
1. Housing/Parks and Recreation Committee ............................ 23
1

PAGE
a. Housing................................................23
b. Recreation..............................................25
1. Town Facilities and Programs .......................... 25
2. Public -Private or Joint Government Undertakings ........... 25
C. Conclusion..............................................27
2. Major Streets/Public Services Committee ............................ 29
3. Central Business District/Historic District ............................ 32
B. Recommended Actions ................................................ 37
1. Housing/Parks and Recreation Committee ............................ 40
2. Major Streets/Public Services ...................................... 51
3. Central Business District/Historic District ............................ 55
VII. CONCLUSION........................................................73
TABLES
Table 1 Town of Swansboro Demand for Additional Parks Acreage and Facilities .. 18
Table 2 Population Estimates for Swansboro and ETJ ........................ 20
Table 3 Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Committees ................. 20
Iff. .�
Map Swansboro Urban Form Map ..................................... 9
Map 2 Swansboro Future Land Use Map ................................. 14
Map 3 Swansboro Housing, Parks, and Recreation Map ..................... 28
Map 4 Swansboro Transportation Improvements Priority Map ................ 31
Map 5 Swansboro Historic and Central Business District .................... 36
Map 6 Swansboro Waterfront Conservation and Development Plan ............ 63

TOWN OF SWANSBORO
NORTH CAROLINA
COMPREHENSIVE PLANNING GUIDE
INTRODUCTION
The Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan has been prepared in two phases. Phase
I included the preparation of the town's fiscal year 1998-1999 Coastal Area Management Act
(CAMA) Land Use Plan Update. Each of the twenty counties that are located within the
jurisdiction of the CAMA are required to adopt CAMA Land Use Plans and update them every
five years. If individual counties do not take it upon themselves to prepare a plan, then the
State of North Carolina will prepare one for them. Likewise, if an individual municipality
declines to prepare a CAMA Land Use Plan, then that municipality will fall under the auspices
of its county's land use plan. The Town of Swansboro adopted its 1999 CAMA Land Use Plan
Update on January 19, 1999. That Land Use Plan included some of the elements normally
included in a traditional comprehensive plan and in a level of detail consistent with a
traditional comprehensive plan. These elements include the following:
► Existing Population, Employment, and Economic Data - including but not limited to
discussions of local, county, and regional population growth; age and race
compositions; income characteristics; tourism statistics; employment statistics; and
a discussion of trades and services.
► ExistingLand Use - including but not limited to discussions of residential, commercial
g ,
' and industrial development trends; public and institutional land use; and
undeveloped/agricultural land.
► Policy Statements - Policies addressing each one of the following broad topics:
Resource Protection; Resource Production and Management; Economic and
Community Development; Continuing Public Participation; and Storm Hazard
' Mitigation, Post -Disaster Recovery, and Evacuation Plans.
► Development Constraints: Land Suitability - including but not limited to discussions
' of Swansboro's climate, flood hazard areas, history of flood events, fragile areas, soils,
and areas of resource potential.
' ► Development Constraints: Public Facilities - including but not limited to discussions
of the town's water supply; sewer and electric system; county schools; police, fire, and
emergency services; recreational facilities; and transportation services.
r Comprehensive Plan Town of Swansbo D Page 1

Projected Demand for Development - including but not limited to discussions of
demographic trends, future public facilities and services needs, future land needs, and
economic outlook.
However, the 1999 CAMA Land Use Plan Update did not include all of the elements of
a traditional comprehensive plan. As a result, the Town of Swansboro elected to prepare a
separate document that would, in conjunction with the CAMA Land Use Plan, serve as a
Comprehensive Plan.
This document includes the following items:
► Thoroughfare Planning Recommendations
► Definition and Discussion of Urban Form
► Housing/Recreation
► Central Business District/Historic District
► Major Streets/Public Services
► Commercial Corridor Analysis
► Growth/Development Policies
► Comprehensive Plan Map and Discussion
► Zoning Issues and Recommended Actions
II. LOCATIONAL ASPECTS OF LAND USE
The purpose of this section of the addendum is to describe the reasoning behind the
location of land uses as shown on the land use map. It should be noted that the land use plan
depicts a desired or optimum pattern of land uses for vacant land as well as for developed
land. For land areas that are already developed, the desired land use may not be consistent
with the existing land use. In cases where the planning process resulted in a desired land use
that deviated from the existing land use, preferred land use is indicated. The following
provides an example of a case in which an existing land use would not be indicated on the
map: An industry might locate in an area that was considered "rural" ten years ago. As the
years go by, development occurs, the town expands, and eventually the industry finds itself
in an urbanized setting surrounded by residential development. This situation has resulted
in a conflicting land use. In this case, the existing land use of the industrial property is
industrial but might be shown on the land use map as Office/Institutional/Multi-Family, a more
suitable and compatible use for a residential area.
Generally, the land use map was drafted with consideration given to key land use
issues, preservation of the town's existing urban form, existing plans for the development of
public facilities, development constraints, and existing zoning patterns. The following
provides a general description of land use by type:
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 2

A. Commercial
Commercial land uses in Swansboro are concentrated mainly along NC Highway 24,
and within the Central Business District located along South Front Street and South Water
Street downtown. The commercial land uses along Highway 24 are arranged in strip
development fashion. There are two nodes at the intersection of Webb Street and Highway
24, and on the East Corbett Avenue Bridge coming into Swansboro over the White Oak River.
Nodes are typically placed at the intersections of major thoroughfares. These nodes
serve as community focus areas. Focus areas are concentrations of high intensity land use.
In the case of Swansboro, there really are no true nodes within the town. What does exist
are the two gateways into the Central Business District which serve as concentrated access
areas, and the commercial development corridor along Highway 24. It should be noted that
the location and size of these commercial areas are not intended to be static. As the land
around these commercial areas develops, larger node definitions, and possibly even shifts in
location from one area to another, may be warranted. As commercial development takes
place in the outlying areas of the town's planning jurisdiction, it shall be buffered from
surrounding areas by office/institutional/multi-family and high density residential land uses.
B. Areas of Environmental Concern (AEC) and Fragile Areas
The Town of Swansboro does not have any land in its current land use plan designated
as Areas of Environmental Concern and Fragile Areas. However, the town does contain a
significant amount of open space. A majority of this open space is occupied by agriculture
and forestland. The town shall include Areas of Environmental Concern and Fragile Areas in
its future land use map. Desirable sites for conservation land uses are areas with a potential
for flooding, environmentally sensitive areas, greenways, CAMA designated AFC's, and areas
dedicated to the buffering of conflicting land uses.
The land use plan does not attempt to delineate future park sites for the following
reason: If the town were to express interest in acquiring specific sites for public use too far
in advance, it could drive the cost of real estate up unnecessarily.
C. Residential
Residential land uses have been divided into three separate land use categories based
on associated variable residential densities. These categories include: Low, Medium, and High
Density Residential. The location of residential land uses by density was based on existing
residential development patterns, constraints to development (i.e., floodplains, wetlands,
etc.), and the location of infrastructure such as water, sewer, and the transportation network.
Generally, the areas that contained few obstacles for development were classified at higher
densities than areas that possessed multiple obstacles for development.
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 3

D. Industrial
Industrial land use within the Town of Swansboro has been limited to a classification
of light industrial. There is only one industrial operation currently within the town's planning
jurisdiction. It is located near the intersection of NC 24 and Old Hammocks Road. In the
Swansboro 1999 CAMA Land Use Plan, Swansboro encourages industrial development.
However, the plan does recognize Swansboro's close relationship with the fragile environment
surrounding the area. Due to this relationship, the town aims to be extremely careful in
deciding what types of industry it will allow.
E. Office/Institutional
Institutional land uses have been located primarily in areas that have already been
developed. These uses generally consist of schools and government operations. Institutional
uses have been located in relationship to the land uses which they serve/support. For
example, a park may be located in a residential area to serve the adjacent population. Office
and some institutional land uses have been located between commercial/industrial and low,
medium, and high density residential land uses throughout the town's planning area. In
addition, office land uses have been utilized along transportation corridors to help preserve
carrying capacity and to serve as a buffer from the roadway.
F. Mixed Use Downtown
The Mixed Use Downtown land use category corresponds with the B-2 Historic District
Overlay. This district is designed to provide convenient shopping and service facilities by
promoting compact development of commercial, office, and service uses while preserving the
historic character of the district. Due to the variety of allowed uses within the Mixed Use
Downtown land use category, any new development or redevelopment shall done with careful
consideration given to surrounding land uses. This will help keep potential land use conflicts
to a minimum.
G. Summary of General Principles Used to Develop the Land Use Plan
The Town of Swansboro Land Use Plan was drafted with consideration given to the
following:
► Key land use issues
► Preservation of existing urban form
► Existing plans for the development of public facilities
► Development constraints
► Existing zoning patterns
► Desire to concentrate commercial development in concentrated areas
► Limiting potential land use conflicts
► Preservation of existing residential neighborhoods
► Prohibition of heavy industry within the town's planning jurisdiction
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 4

URBAN FORM
A. Components of Urban Form
Generally, there are five design components which all interrelate to give a town its
urban form. These five components include: districts, paths, nodes, landmarks, and edges.
These five design elements, together with the variety of land uses and economic influences,
give a town its structure, character, appearance, and uniqueness. It is important that a
municipality understand the elements that comprise its urban form so that its development
policies can be drafted to preserve, nurture, and capitalize upon the municipality's strengths.
Following are discussions of each component.
■ 1. Districts
' Districts have distinct identities that are created by their location, type of buildings,
and purpose. A person with familiarity of a given community is aware of the varying
areas which possess distinct characteristics and refers to those districts with specific
' areas in mind. Examples of common districts which can be found in almost every town
include industrial districts, residential neighborhoods, commercial strips, a central
business district (CBD), and commons/open spaces.
Within the Town of Swansboro there are several distinct districts. These districts
include, but may not necessarily be limited to, the following:
' ► NC 24 Commercial Development Corridor
' ► Central Business District
► Historic District*
► Numerous Residential Districts
*A portion of the town's historic district may also be considered a residential district.
2. Paths
A path provides movement between districts or within a district and may also serve
as an entrance to or exit from the community. Paths form the framework of the town;
they give it organization and shape. People observe the landscape while passing
through it on paths, and paths determine the flow of activity within the town and
between the town and neighboring areas.
Paths may be grouped into two broad categories: transportation paths and natural
' paths.
I
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 5

a. Transportation Paths
Transportation paths or corridors contain the railway or in most cases
roadways, street trees, utility lines, sidewalks, street lights, etc. Roadway
transportation paths may be further classified into the following three types:
"Local Access Streets" provide access to abutting property.
They are not intended to carry heavy volumes of traffic and shall
be located such that only traffic with origins or destinations on
the streets would be served. THEIR FUNCTION IS TO PROVIDE
ACCESS. Depending upon the type of land use which they serve,
local access streets may further be classified as residential,
commercial, and/or industrial.
2. "Minor Thoroughfares" are more important streets in the town
system. They collect traffic from local access streets and carry
it to the major thoroughfare system. They may, in some
instances, supplement the major thoroughfare system by aiding
minor through movements. A third function which may be
performed is that of providing access to abutting property.
They shall be designed to serve limited areas so that their
development as major thoroughfares will be prevented.
3. "Major Thoroughfares" are the primary traffic arteries of the
town. Their function is to move intra-town and inter -town
traffic. Although undesirable, the streets which comprise the
major thoroughfare system may also serve abutting property;
however, THEIR MAJOR FUNCTION IS TO CARRY TRAFFIC. They
shall not be bordered by strip development because such
development significantly lowers the capacity of the
thoroughfare, and each driveway is a danger to traffic flow.
Major thoroughfares may range from two lane streets to
expressways with six or more traffic lanes. As a general rule,
parking should not be permitted on major thoroughfares.
b. Natural Paths
In coastal plain areas, the primary natural corridors are formed by majorwater
courses and associated tributaries. These types of natural corridors serve as
drainage ways, transportation routes, wildlife habitat areas, and provide open
space and opportunities for greenway development.
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 6

C. Swansboro Transportation and Natural Paths
Transportation Paths
Major Thoroughfares: Hammocks Beach Road, Old Hammock Road, and
Corbett Avenue (NC 24).
Minor Thoroughfares: Deer Island Road, Spring Drive, Walnut Street,
Mount Pleasant Road, Howell Road, Norris Road, Queens Creek Road,
Main Street Extension, Swansboro Loop Road.
Local Access Streets: All remaining streets within Swansboro's planning
jurisdiction are considered local access.
' 2. Natural Paths
White Oak River
' Tributaries of the White Oak River include, but are not limited to:
Montford Creek, Corbetts Creels, Hawkins Creek, Deer Island Creek,
Dennis Creek, Foster's Creek, and Queen's Creek.
' 3. Nodes
A node is a gathering place and in most cases an area of concentrated high intensity
land uses. Although nodes are usually located where two or more paths intersect, a
node may also be located at the core of a district. A town square as the center of the
CBD is an example. A public park or village green could also be considered a node.
A node often serves as a symbol of a district. In the case of Swansboro, two nodes
have also been located to designate the main gateways heading into the Central
Business District.
Within Swansboro's planning jurisdiction, existing nodes are located in the following
areas:
► Intersection of Webb Street and NC Highway 24
► At the beginning of the E. Corbett Avenue Bridge coming into Swansboro
► Bicentennial Park
Within Swansboro, Bicentennial Park is an example of an existing node which is not
located at a roadway intersection.
4. Landmarks
A landmark is a prominent building or public site that is easy to find and provides a
reference point. It is common to find landmarks located within a node, such as a
courthouse in the middle of the town square. Other landmarks may be outside the
town but are within view, such as a hill, island, or a fire or water tower.
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan
Page 7

There are numerous landmarks within Swansboro's planning jurisdiction. Some of the
most significant landmarks include the following:
► Swansboro High & Queens Creek Elementary
► Swansboro Middle School
► Swansboro Elementary School
► Swansboro Municipal Park
► Sanders Park (owned by the Baseball Association)
► Edgewater Heights Park
► CAMA Access Site
I. Town Hall and Police Station
► Wards Shore Park
5. Edges
Edges help divide a town into distinct areas. Some districts have well defined edges
which separate them from other areas of the town. Rivers and creeks provide clearly
recognizable edges. Arguably, the most significant edge in a small town is the
transition between the urbanized core of the town and the surrounding countryside.
However, the sprawl of new development often disseminates the edge between
urbanized and rural areas.
Within Swansboro's planning jurisdiction, the most distinct edge is formed by the
White Oak River which serves as a boundary to the eastward growth of the town.
Although the edge between built-up and rural areas in Swansboro has been clouded
by random development, a generalized edge may be defined as follows:
The edge generally forms a circle beginning at Bicentennial Park
heading east along the White Oak River to Hawkins Creek. The edge
follows Hawkins Creek up to Highway 24 and follows the highway back
down to Bicentennial Park. An edge shall also be extended to surround
the commercial development corridor.
The Town of Swansboro's districts, paths, nodes, landmarks, and edges together give
the town its unique urban form. These five design elements create districts which are
organized by nodes, intersected with paths, set apart by edges, and dotted with
landmarks. Map 1 provides an illustration of the elements which comprise the Town
of Swansboro's urban form.
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 8

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MAP 1
Town of Swansboro
Urban Form
V Corporate Limits
A/ Extraterritorial jurisdiction
Commercial Development Corridor
®
Historic District
Central Business District
Major & Minor Thoroughfares*
Edges"
*
Residential Districts
40
Landmarks
®
Bicentennial Park
■
Gateways to CBD
Local access streets have not
been highlighted on this map
`White Oak River & generalized edge
between urban & rural areas
N
W E
S
2000 0 2000 Feet
The preparation of this map was financed in part
through a grant provided by the North Carolina
Coastal Zone Management Program, through funds provided
by the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as
amended, which is administered by the Office of
Ocean and Coastal Resource Management, National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
Page 9

IV. URBAN FORM POLICIES
A. Introduction
The Coastal Resources Commission requires all governments to specify stated
development policies under each one of five broad topics in their Coastal Area Management
Act (CAMA) Land Use Plans. These topics include:
' Resource Protection
► Resource Production and Management
► Economic and Community Development
' ► Continuing Public Participation
► Storm Hazard Mitigation, Post -Disaster Recovery, and Evacuation Plans
The 1999 Town of Swansboro CAMA Land Use Plan includes policy statements which
address these five policy areas. The policies included in the 1999 CAMA Land Use Plan will
continue to serve as the primary guide for regulating development within the Town of
Swansboro's planning jurisdiction. However, the policies included in the 1999 CAMA Land
Use Plan do not address urban form. Following are additional growth and development
policies which relate to urban form. Through the implementation of these policies, the town
may preserve the assets which make Swansboro a special place to live, while at the same time
developing into the town it wishes to become.
IB. Urban Form Growth and Development Policies
' 1. Districts
► Development within each of the town's districts that is consistent with
' surrounding land uses shall be allowed.
► Future development ofthe town's Central Business and Historic District
will be regulated through the Town of Swansboro Zoning Ordinance.
' The town's existing residential districts shall be preserved and
protected from encroaching development.
► In -fill development shall be encouraged within each of the town's
districts to promote the efficient use of land and cost effectiveness.
► Special attention shall be given to development along the edges of
districts to prevent potential land use conflicts with adjacent districts
' and land uses.
► Uses generating significant employment shall be concentrated for the
cost effective provision of services and to provide opportunities for
ride sharing.
► The Town of Swansboro supports the interconnectivity of subdivisions
through the enforcement of street design standards contained in the
town's subdivision ordinance.
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 10

2. Paths (Natural and Transportation)
Natural:
► Watercourses, floodways, and undisturbed floodplains shall be
preserved as conservation areas.
► The town shall encourage developers to participate in the
reservation/dedication of land for development of a greenway system
for the town, which would provide a continuous system of open spaces
which provide pedestrian links between districts and nodes.
Transportation:
► Strip commercial development with continuous traffic ingress and
egress along transportation paths shall be discouraged.
► Major thoroughfares shall have an attractive appearance and reflect an
overall character or design. The town may pursue the planting of
street trees along its gateway transportation paths (NC 24).
► Where feasible, major thoroughfares shall have wider outside lanes for
safe travel of bicycles.
► Curb -cuts (points of ingress and egress) shall be limited along major
traffic arteries to preserve their carrying capacity.
► Transportation paths which radiate from the center of the town shall
be the most intensely developed. New cross-town connecting
transportation paths shall link these radial roads to resemble a gridiron
street pattern.
► The Town of Swansboro encourages neighborhood interconnectivityto
promote the optimal use of its transportation network.
3. Nodes
► Commercial development shall be located in nodes usually where two
or more paths intersect.
► Commercial nodes shall be buffered from surrounding development
with Office/Institutional/Multi-family land uses.
► Pedestrian connections shall be developed between sites within all
nodes.
► Commercial nodes shall be compatible in size and scale with
surrounding development.
► Shared vehicular access between adjacent commercial business shall be
encouraged.
► Nodes shall be located no closer than one mile from surrounding
commercial nodes.
4. Landmarks
► The Town of Swansboro supports the preservation and enhancement
of its historically significant landmarks.
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page l l

► The town will discourage projects and activities that detract from the
character of historic resources.
► Historic landmarks will be protected through enforcement of the
' town's Historic District Design Guidelines/Regulations.
5. Edges
► Edges shall serve as transition areas between varying districts.
' Edges of commercial and industrial districts shall be buffered by
Office/Institutional/Multi-family or conservation land uses.
► Edges located along transportation paths shall be developed with
' Office/Institutional/Multi-family land uses.
► Public access shall be preserved along the town's most defined edge
formed by the White Oak River.
' "Leap -frog" development shall be discouraged and in -fill development
encouraged. This will create a more clearly defined edge between
urban and rural areas, provide for efficient use of real estate, and be
less costly to serve with municipal services.
As previously discussed, the town's primary growth and development policies are
' included in the 1999 Town of Swansboro CAMA Land Use Plan, pages 3.000-3.800.
' V. FUTURE LAND USE PLAN
A. Introduction
' The land use plan is an essential element of the Comprehensive Plan. The plan is
intended to serve as a guide for the Planning Board and Board of Commissioners when they
' review private development proposals and make decisions on the location of public facilities.
The land use plan also provides the framework upon which zoning and subdivision
' regulations and the capital improvements program shall be based. In fact, the preparation
of a comprehensive plan and map is mandated by legislation as a prerequisite for zoning.
North Carolina General Statute 160A-383 states that:
Zoning regulations shall be made in accordance with a comprehensive plan and
designed to lessen congestion in the streets; to secure safety from fire, panic
and other dangers; to promote health and the general welfare; to provide
adequate light and air; to prevent the overcrowding of land; to avoid undue
concentration of population; and to facilitate the adequate provision of
transportation, water, sewerage, schools, parks, and other public
requirements. The regulations shall be made with reasonable consideration,
among other things, as to the character of the district and its peculiar
suitability for particular uses, and with a view to conserving the value of
buildings and encouraging the most appropriate use of land throughout such
town.
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 12

A land use plan is intended to accomplish three primary objectives. These objectives
are as follows:
To promote economic efficiency by coordinating the size and location of
publicly provided future community facilities with the location and intensity
of future private residential, commercial, and industrial activity.
To optimize resources by allocating land for its most suitable use. For
example, a town may want to encourage industrial development on sites
accessible to existing water and sewer lines and in areas with suitable soil
conditions. Or, a town may choose to arrange land uses in such a way as to
protect environmentally sensitive areas.
To provide a large-scale urban design which reflects the vision of the town's
residents, is unified, avoids conflicting land uses, optimizes resources,
preserves the town's character, and is pleasing: providing open space, vistas,
and distinguishable districts.
It is important that the Town of Swansboro understands that merely completing the
land use plan, illustrating the town's vision for the future, does not ensure that the preceding
objectives will be met. The Town of Swansboro must continuously work at accomplishing
plan implementation and maintaining an effective planning program.
B. Land Use Categories
The Town of Swansboro's Future Land Use Plan Update includes eight different land
use categories: Commercial, Light Industrial, Areas of Environmental Concern (AEC's) and
Fragile Areas, Office and Institutional, Low Density Residential, Medium Density Residential,
High Density Residential, Historic District, and one overlay Infill Development category is
indicated. Each of these land use categories are approximately associated with the Zoning
Districts listed on page 15. As discussed in the actions section of this plan, beginning on page
41, there is a need for a new regulatory approach which should be undertaken as part of the
implementation of the elements in this plan. Known as a Unified Development Ordinance
(UDO), there may be modifications, additions, or deletions of existing Zoning Districts to
address the elements of this Comprehensive Plan.
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 13

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White Oak River
14
42
MAP 2
Town of Swansboro
Future Land Use Map
A/
Corporate Limits
Extraterritorial Jurisdiction
Corporate Limits - 20 Year Projection
ETJ - 20 Year Projection
Low Density Residential
Medium Density Residential
High Density Residential
Areas of Environmental Concern
& Fragile Areas
®
Historic District
Commercial
®
Office & Institutional
Light Industrial
Infill Development
•
Commercial Nodes
A
Future Parks
N
s
2000 0 2000 4000 Feet
The preparation of this map was financed in part
through a grant provided by the North Carolina
Coastal Zone Management Program, through funds provided Page 14
by the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as
amended, which is administered by the Office of
Ocean and Coastal Resource Management, National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

1 LAND USE CATEGORIES AND CORRESPONDING ZONING DISTRICTS
► AEC's and Fragile Areas - Various districts*
► Historic District - B2HDO and applicable residential zoning
► Commercial - B-1, B-2, and B2HDO
' Office and Institutional (including Government/Educational) -Various districts"
► Low Density Residential - R-A and R-40
► Medium Density Residential - R-8, R-8(SF), R-10, R-20, and R-20(SF)
' ► High Density Residential - R-6, R-6(SF), MHS, and MHP
► Light Industrial - M-1
' Note: Infill Development is an overlay to include those areas within the corporate
limits and areas which have or are within the town's current plan to have both
municipal water and sewer.
*Classification as "AEC's and Fragile Areas" is to be implemented through a variety of
Local, State, and Federal Policies and Laws - Zoning is only one implementation tool.
'Included in several zoning districts.
1
Key to Zoning Districts:
Con
Conservation
R-A
Residential -Agriculture
'
R-6
Residential
R-6(SF)
Single -Family Residential
'
R-8
R-8(SF)
Residential
Single -Family Residential
R-10
Residential
'
R-20
R-20(SF)
Residential
Single -Family Residential
R-40
Residential
B-1
Highway Business
'
B-2
General Business
B2HDO
Historic Business District Overlay
MHS
Mobile Home Subdivision
MHP
Mobile Home Park
M-1
Light Industrial
u
Note: A description of the allowable uses for each zoning district can be found in the
Town of Swansboro Zoning Ordinance.
The Town of Swansboro Planning Board and Board of Commissioners will consult the
Comprehensive Plan during the deliberation of all re -zoning requests.
The Town of Swansboro Planning Board and Board of Commissioners will consider the
following in deliberation of all zoning petitions:
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan
Page IS

All uses which are allowed in a zoning district must be considered. A decision to
re -zone or not to re -zone a parcel or parcels of property cannot be based on
consideration of only one use or a partial list of the uses allowed within a zoning
district.
Zoning decisions will not be based on aesthetic considerations
Requests for zoning changes will not be approved if the requested change will result
in spot zoning. Spot zoning is a form of discriminatory zoning whose sole purpose
is to serve the private interests of one or more landowners instead of furthering the
welfare of the entire community as part of an overall zoning plan. Although changing
the zoning classification of any parcel of land to permit a more intensive use could
possibly constitute spot zoning, the test lies in its relationship to the existing zoning
pattern and guidelines of the local comprehensive plan. Spot zoning is based on the
arbitrary and inappropriate nature of a re -zoning change rather than, as is commonly
believed, in the size of the area being re -zoned.
► Zoning which will result in strip development will be discouraged. Strip development
is a melange of development, usually commercial, extending along both sides of a
major street. Strip development is often a mixture of auto -oriented enterprises (e.g.,
gas stations, motels, and food stands), truck -dependent wholesale, and light industrial
enterprises along with the once -rural homes and farms that await conversion to
commercial use. Strip development may severely reduce the traffic -carrying capacity
of abutting streets.
The concept of uniformity will be supported in all zoning deliberations. Uniformity
is a basic premise of zoning which holds that all land in similar circumstances shall be
zoned alike; any different treatment must be justified by showing different
circumstances.
► Zoning regulations will be made in accordance with the Town of Swansboro
Comprehensive Plan and designed to lessen congestion in the streets; to secure safety
from fire, panic, and other dangers; to promote health and the general welfare; to
provide adequate light and air; to prevent the overcrowding of land; to avoid undue
concentration of population; and to facilitate the adequate provision of
transportation, water, sewerage, schools, parks, and other public requirements. The
regulations shall be made with reasonable consideration, among other things, as to
the character of the district and its peculiar suitability for particular uses, and with a
view to conserving the value of buildings and encouraging the most appropriate use
of land throughout the Town of Swansboro planning jurisdiction.
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 16

► Specifically, the Planning Board and Board of Commissioners shall ask the following
questions:
1. Does the Town of Swansboro need more land in the zone class requested?
2. Is there other property in the community that might be more appropriate for
this use?
3. Is the request in accordance with the Town of Swansboro comprehensive plan?
4. Will the request have a serious impact on traffic circulation, parking space,
sewer and water services, and other utilities?
5. Is there a good possibility that the request, as proposed, will result in
lessening the enjoyment or use of adjacent properties?
6. Will the request, as proposed, cause serious noise, odors, light, activity, or
unusual disturbances?
7. Does the request raise serious legal questions such as spot zoning, hardship,
violation of precedents, or need for this type of use?
The future land use map identifies general locations for future park facilities. In
developing recommendations for recreational facilities, the town's planning committees
utilized national parks and recreation facilities standards. These standards and Swansboro's
needs are summarized in Table 1.
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 17

Table 1
Town of Swansboro
Demand for Additional Parks Acreage and Facilities
STANDARDS FOR PARKS
Additional
Cumulative
Standard
Existing
Year 2010
Additional Year
Cumulative
Average Demand
Acres Per
Acreage
Existing Acreage
Acreage
2010 Acreage
Acreage Demand
Through the Year
Park Classification
Existing
1,000
Demand
Demand
Demand
Demand
Through the Year
2020 Swansboro
Facilities
People
Swansboro
Swansboro & ETI
Swansboro
Swansboro & ETI
2020 Swansboro
& ETI
Neighborhood
< 2 ac
3 ac
4.65 ac
7.8 ac
0.9 ac
1.6 ac
6.4 ac
10.7 ac
Parks
Community Parks
17.5 ac
5 ac
7.75 ac
13.0 ac
1.6 ac
2.6 ac
10.9 ac
17.9 ac
Total Recreation &
<19.5 ac
10 ac
12.4 ac
20.8 ac
2.5 ac
4.2 ac
17.3 ac
28.6 ac
Parks
STANDARDS FOR SELECTED FACILITIES
Additional
Cumulative
Facility
Additional
Facility
Cumulative
Existing
Demand
Facility Demand
Demand
Facility Demand
Facility
Existing Facility
Through the
Through the
Through the
Through the Year
Existing
Demand
Demand
Year 2010
Year 2010
Year 2020
2020 Swansboro
Facilities
Standard'
Swansboro
Swansboro & ETI
Swansboro
Swansboro & ETI
Swansboro
& ETI
Baseball
0
1 per 10,000
0
0
0
0
0
0
persons
League Softball
0
1 per 4,000
0
1
0
0
1
1
persons
Practice Fields
0
1 per 3,000
1
1
0
0
1
1
persons
Youth Baseball
0
1 per 3,000
1
1
0
0
1
1
Fields
persons
Tennis Courts
2
1 per 1,000
2
3
0
0
2
3
persons
Basketball
1
1 per 500 persons
3
5
1
1
4
7
Goals
Football/Soccer
3
1 per 6,000
0
0
0
1
0
1
persons
"Facility added when
population is 50% or greater of the standard.
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 18
r M M r M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M

Table 1 (Continued)
Additional
Cumulative
Facility
Additional
Facility
Cumulative
Existing
Demand
Facility Demand
Demand
Facility Demand
Facility
Existing Facility
Through the
Through the
Through the
Through the Year
Existing
Demand
Demand
Year 2010
Year 2010
Year 2020
2020 Swainsboro
Facilities
Standard'
Swansboro
Swansboro & ETI
Swansboro
Swansboro & ETI
Swansboro
& ETI
Amphitheaters 0
1 per 20,000
0
0
0
0
0
0
persons
Swimming 0
900 square feet
1,350 sq. ft.
2,350 sq. ft.
279 sq. ft.
467 sq. ft.
1,922 sq. ft.
3,225 sq. ft.
per 1,000 persons
STANDARDS FOR SELECTED FACILITIES
Existing
Cumulative
Cumulative
Personnel/
Growth Standard
Additional Year
Additional Year
Demand Through
Demand Through
Facilities
per 1,000
2010 Demand
2010 Demand
the Year 2020
the Year 2020
Classification
Swansboro
population
Swansboro
Swansboro & Efl
Swansboro
Swansboro & ETI
Wastewater Disposal Needs
179,800 g/d**'
116 g/d/p-
35,960 g/d
60,204 g/d
247,776 g/d
415,628 g/d
Drinking Water Needs
131,750 g/d
85 g/d/p
26,350 g/d
44,115 g/d
181,560 g/d
304,555 g/d
Police Protection
Personnel
7
2
1
1
8
8
Vehicles
5
0.6
0
0
6
6
Facility Space
±2,000 sq. ft.
200 sq. ft.
628 sq. ft.
1,035 sq. ft.
±2,117 sq. ft.
±2,196 sq. ft.
Fire Protection
Personnel
28
1.65
1
1
29
29
Vehicles
7
0.6
0
0
7
7
Facility Space
8,000 sq. ft.**'"
250 sq. ft.
785 sq. ft.
130 sq. ft.
146 sq. ft.
245 sq. ft.
Per 30,000 Persons
Emergency Medical Services
Personnel 4.1 0 0 0 0
Vehicles 1 0 0 0 0
*Facility added when population is 50% or greater than the standard.
"g/d/p - gallons per day per person.
'g/d - gallons per day.
***'An additional 3,200 sq. ft. in second floor of the building.
Source: Holland Consulting Planners, Inc.
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 19

The future land use map includes the existing extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ)
boundary and a suggested expanded future 20-year planning area. The expanded area is
based on anticipated area growth. In addition, a suggested 2020 corporate limit line has
been delineated. The following table provides population projections for the town and ETJ
through 2020.
Table 2
Population Estimates for Swansboro and ETJ
Town
ETJ
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
1,750
2,000
2,750
3,200
3,500
1,158
1,500
1,815
2,112
2,310
Town and ETJ 2,908 3,500 4,565 5,312 5,810
Source: Town of Swansboro. The projections were prepared by the town as part of capital budgeting
process. The projections may vary ± 250 and any major development may have drastic impact on the
projections.
Good sound development of Swansboro will depend upon wise utilization of
Swansboro's infrastructure and land resources. "In -fill development" must be encouraged.
The future land use map delineates an in -fill development area. This area shall have the
higher residential development. During the planning period, it shall be the area where
development is most vigorously supported and encouraged.
VI. IMPLEMENTATION ELEMENTS
A. Plan Development
Development of this Comprehensive Plan has been viewed by the town's officials and
many residents as a very important and serious undertaking. At the outset, three separate
ad hoc committees were appointed to address: Housing/Parks and Recreation, Major
Streets/Public Services, and Central Business District/Historic District. The following table
identifies the committee members.
Table 3
Town of Swansboro
Comprehensive Plan Committees
Housing/Parks & Recreation Address* Phone Number
Harry Mills (Chairman) Post Office Box 1334 326-2600
Francis Corbett - PB Post Office Box 8 326-5842
Pat Larkin - PB 1208 Mt. Pleasant Road 326-1227
Lois Edmunds - PB Post Office Box 813 326-4504
1
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 20 1

ITable 3 (Continued)
' Housing/Parks & Recreation
Address*
Phone Number
Joan Shaugness
216 River Reach Drive
326-7708
Joe Rotchford
824 S. Dogwood Lane
326-2524
Robert "Bob" D. Fox
231 Seashore Drive
326-5518
Norm Thierault
253 River Reach Drive
326-3945
Tommy Mull
154 Corbett Road
326-5842
_ Gary Cassevah
117 Stewart Point Road
326-5770
Hubert, NC 28539
Major Streets/Public Services
Address
Phone Number
Beth Farrington (Chairperson)
207 Aberlady Bay (E.I.)
354-9248
' Burwell Jackson - PB
240 Deer Island Road
3264090
John Cammett - PB
252 River Reach Drive
326-5029
Louise Ringo - PB
503 Sabiston Drive
326-5941
'
Herbert "Herb" Uhlig
249 River Reach Drive
326-7718
Lisa Stewart
1468-1 Corbett Avenue
326-3908
Dale Sautter
407 Holly Lane
326-3212
Steve Nolan
205 River Reach Drive
326-5154
CBDIHistoric District
Address
Phone Number
' Joe Wansong - PB (Chairman)
1254 Mt. Pleasant Road
326-1772
Louis Darmo
215 Water Street
326-3340
Philip Keagy
105 Water Street, P.O. Box 186
326-5217
Hal Silver
Irene Bailey Wells
(Chamber of Commerce)
Chuck Gore
David Russell - PB & HDC
Phil Whithead - PB
Heidi Lanier
Answering Machine
326-4750
(Through the Looking Glass)
326-3128
Post Office Box 120
148 Ivybridge Drive
326-2352
Hubert, NC 28539
The Brass Binnacle, P.O. Box 1649
326-2448
Post Office Box 652
326-2636
610 Main Street
326-3547
Post Office Box 1357
326-8224
*All addresses are Swansboro, NC 28584 unless otherwise noted.
Source: Town of Swansboro.
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 21

Because of the active involvement of these committees, the value of this plan to
Swansboro's future has been greatly enhanced.
The individual committees identified existing and long-range (twenty 1201 years) issues
and needs in each of the subject areas. In addition, the committees developed specific lists
of goals and implementing actions addressing each area of concern. The committees worked
independently on each subject area. At the conclusion of each committee's analysis, all
committees met jointly to report their findings to each other. The consultant relied heavily
on these reports to prepare the detailed land use map and this comprehensive plan report.
Each committee met between five to ten times to develop recommendations. Specifically,
each committee addressed the following issues:
HousinWParks and Recreation
► Where should additional housing be located?
► What types of housing (i.e., single-family, multi -family, patio homes,
condominiums, etc.) should be located in Swansboro?
► What housing needs are not being met?
► What housing problems/deficiencies exist?
► Is Swansboro's housing affordable?
► Is housing available for retirees and senior citizens?
► Is substandard housing a problem?
► What recreational needs are not being met?
► What are Swansboro's future recreational needs?
► What, if any, recreational facilities/services should be provided in residential
areas?
► Specifically, where (location) and what recreational facilities should be located
in Swansboro?
Major Street/Public Services
► What are the existing street deficiencies in Swansboro?
► Where should street improvements occur?
► Where should major and minor thoroughfare construction occur?
► Are there off-street parking needs in Swansboro?
► Are there any areas of Swansboro which should not be disrupted by the
construction of new streets?
► What areas of Swansboro suffer from poor access?
► What are the existing infrastructure deficiencies/problems/needs?
► What are the anticipated future infrastructure deficiencies?
► What areas (geographic) are deficient in infrastructure services?
Central Business District/Historic District
► What development(s) or actions are threatening the Central Business District
and/or Historic District?
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 22

' What are the Central Business District strengths?
► What are the Historic District strengths?
► Specifically, what, if any, improvements are needed in the Central Business
' District?
► Specifically, what, if any, improvements are needed in the Historic District?
' What, if any, actions (public and/or private sector) are needed to protect the
Historic District?
' While the style and format of each committee's final report vary, it is necessary to
include the reports in their entirety to understand the objectives/needs for Swansboro's
future. The recommendations of the Housing/Parks and Recreation, Major Streets/Public
Services, and Central Business District/Historic District committees are depicted on Maps 3,
4, and 5, respectively.
1. Housing/Parks and Recreation Committee
a. Housing
We were a Village before creating_a village environment became popular. We
want to keep and enhance what we already have.
Swansboro is fortunate to have a variety of opportunities available in the area
for many choices in housing and recreation. Located on the White Oak River
with a well known downtown shopping district, adjacent to Bogue Inlet and
Hammocks Beach State Park, the town is increasingly becoming one of the
major tourist destinations and preferred retirement sites in the area. Along
with these opportunities comes the challenges to grow in a manner which
allows the market forces to operate efficiently while being effective in
protecting and enhancing the character of the community by providing
adequate space for working and residing. Finding a balanced approach in
planning for growth is recognized as one of the principal goals of this
comprehensive planning process. We recognize this is one in a series of
important ongoing steps by the community in the process of planning for
continuous improvement in this place called SWANSBORO.
Swansboro developed as a small commercial village and the village character
is an atmosphere which the committee believes must be maintained. The
preferred character of residential development is to permit future uses which
are similar in scale and of a design compatible with existing residential uses.
There is also a recognition of the need to provide adequate space for the
development of different housing types to meet the ever changing needs of
people moving within the community, moving here to retire, moving for a
primary residence, or for a seasonal second home. Escalating land costs, the
costs of infrastructure, and providing services all contribute to the changing
landscape of the community. We still desire to maintain or enhance the
character of the community as much as possible.
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 23

In order to continue guiding our own future, residential development shall: I
► Be compatible with existing residential development in scale and I
design;
► Be located first in existing subdivisions - in -fill development; ,
► Not be located within the Highway 24 Corridor, with the exception of
motels and inns; '
► Have the highest densities closer to the Highway 24 Corridor and
graduate out to low density (higher densities close to the major
thoroughfares and existing/planned infrastructure); and
► Have densities of two to four units per acre. '
The residential housing types in order of preference are: single-family,
duplexes, patio homes, multi -family (apartments), and townhouses and '
condominiums.
There is a need for additional information on how transitional housing types
could be accommodated in a manner which would be compatible with the
village character of the town. This recognizes the changing role of retirement
and the different life cycle housing options needed.
There was a general consensus on limiting manufactured homes, manufactured
home parks, and RV parks/campgrounds.
There was a general consensus that mid -rise and high-rise (more than three
stories and up) buildings shall not be a part of Swansboro's 20-year future.
Retirement housing is seen as an area which needs to be developed to offer
more targeted housing options in the area of senior care (transitional, life care,
and "elder care") and to include low maintenance housing (patio homes,
townhouses, and condominiums).
In general, the committee viewed the current housing to be affordable and to
have very little substandard housing in the jurisdiction. As the town annexes
more area and the planning and zoning jurisdiction is expanded, substandard
housing will become a more important issue.
NOTE: In some reviews of national trends, housing has recently shown signs
of becoming less affordable, especially for moderate to low income groups.
We do believe that maintaining the village character will not be sacrificed in
the name of affordability because a wide variety of housing needs are met in
surrounding areas.
town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 24

1
b. Recreation
Recreation needs for the future focus on several major areas.
Town Facilities and Programs
The town facilities/needs of highest priority for the committee were
developing a Recreation Center adjacent to the current municipal park,
hiring a Recreation Director with staff, and implementing the adopted
Municipal Park Plan.
' Continuing the expansion of youth competition sports, and
coordinated adult and senior programs are and will be an increasingly
significant priority. A senior center shall be developed as a part of the
' recreation center and an increased emphasis placed on providing
organized senior activities.
' Based on preliminary estimates of future growth, which the committee
agrees will result in the population doubling over the next twenty
years, the town will need one more community park of 10-15 acres and
' shall have two smaller area parks of approximately 5 acres each.
New subdivisions will be required to provide pocket parks for the
residents or contribute to a general recreation facility fund for area
parks, as currently required by the subdivision regulations.
' Connecting all areas of the town, present and future, with sidewalks,
walking paths, and other off -road pedestrian ways shall be a priority to
' provide safe areas for walking, jogging, and biking. Where possible,
bikeways and bike paths shall be encouraged, but not at the expense
of the pedestrian facilities.
The proximity to the water presents many challenges and
opportunities. We see water access as being a current and future need.
' Water access and boating facilities need to be developed.
The town will continue to improve the boating access to the Downtown
' Waterfront and encourage water -based recreation and tourism. This
includes developing the dockwalk in a final form being designed under
the Historic Waterfront Grant.
' 2. Public -Private or Joint Government Undertakings
' As any community grows, there are services and facilities which are
needed but which cannot be developed with local public resources
alone.
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 25

One which is currently being studied in which the town expects to be
a partner by providing land and support infrastructure is the proposal
currently being studied to turn a portion of the new land application
site into a public golf course. Conceptually, the golf course would
utilize the land and treated effluent of the town's Wastewater
Treatment Plant for a privately -managed location for golfing. This is a
new concept for this area and is seen as an opportunity for town
residents and "guests" to play golf at a reasonable rate, certainly with
lower greens fees than private courses in the area. The intent is not to
compete with other private courses for the traditional market but to
provide opportunities for those with lower expendable incomes to
participate in the sport as a result of a utilizing public -private resources
in a partnership.
A second public -private partnership which the committee felt needed
to be addressed was a YWCA/YMCA with a swimming pool. The
preferred location was in the area of the Rotary Civic Center where the
services could be provided to a growing town and county population.
A third area of joint undertaking was to make better use of existing
public facilities, parks, and public lands in the area. Many people take
advantage of these resources, and there was general agreement that a
coordinated local program could make these more accessible for
organized group activities with primary focus on youth and senior
citizen programs. Specifically, the identified resources are Hammocks
Beach State Park, Croatan National Forest, Hoffman State Forest,
Coastal Federation Sites and Outings, Cedar Point Tideland Trail, Cedar
Point Recreation Area, the White Oak River, Camp Mitchell 4H Camp,
and community organized trips to outside recreation opportunities
(skiing, beach trips, museum trips, aquarium trips, etc.).
One significant need which may not be within the financial means of
the town in the scope of this plan is a public boating access near the
community. A current public access ramp is located in Cedar Point and
is used beyond its capacity on a regular basis. There are commercial
accesses in the area and some subdivision access facilities. The town
will actively encourage the development of a boat ramp and parking
facilities in the area. We encourage the town to take an active role in
encouraging the State of North Carolina to develop a boating facility
north of the current Hammocks Beach Ferry Site along with a regional
mainland park and nature center.
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 26

C. Conclusion
The previous findings presented in this summary only represent a snapshot of
' the discussions and deliberations of this committee. We found looking into
the future to be a difficult process especially in keeping boundaries on our
discussions. We did discuss improving the appearance of the entrances or
gateways to the community, developing a visitor's center, improving the
aesthetics of the Highway 24 commercial strip, and protecting the natural
' environment. While these items went beyond the scope of our immediate
task, we would be remiss by not mentioning them in the conclusion of this
report.
Adequate parking shall be provided with all new development or
redevelopment. The development of the waterfront dockwalk with boat
' docking and related mooring areas will help alleviate some of the pressure for
new parking downtown and reduce the potential for taking down Historic
residences to provide space for business parking in the surrounding residential
' areas. A community access plan (sidewalks, trails, paths, bikeways, and
greenways) needs to be done as part of the comprehensive plan or as a
detailed plan to assist in the implementation of the comprehensive plan.
' The Town of Swansboro will certainly grow through annexation and extension
of the Extraterritorial Jurisdiction Boundary (ETJ). The scope of the final draft
of the Comprehensive Plan needs to incorporate boundaries beyond those
used for the 1999 Land Use Plan and shall be consistent with the areas now
being discussed by the Town Board of Commissioners and Planning Board for
' future service areas and ETJ extensions.
' The transportation system of roads and streets is more than just areas for
vehicles to move from one area to another. All major and minor thoroughfares
shall include as part of their design sidewalks, walking paths, and some system
' of bikeways to assure the community is connected at a human scale and to
offer the added benefit of safe areas for exercise, whether walking, jogging, or
biking. Enhancements for Highway 24 shall include safe crossings at strategic
points with our preferred recommendation of pedestrian tunnels under the
roadway.
' Maintaining a human scale village will be very dependent on removing barriers
and increasing options for physical access to all parts of the town. Each of
these plays an important part in setting the framework of keeping Swansboro
' a very liveable place, a Friendly Village by the Sea.
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 27

MAP 3
N
A
Q
White Oak River
Town of Swansboro
Housing, Parks,
& Recreation Map
Corporate Limits
Extraterritorial jurisdiction
41V
Major Entry Gateway
Sidewalks, Paths, & Bikeways
Pedestrian Crossing
YMCA, YWCA
Regional Recreation & Boating Access
■
Recreation & Senior Center
Q
Recreation Areas
Motels & Inns
2000 0 2000 4000 Feet
The preparation of this map was financed in part
through a grant provided by the North Carolina
Coastal Zone Management Program, through funds provided
by the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as
amended, which is administered by the Office of
Ocean and Coastal Resource Management, National Page 28
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

2. Major Streets/Public Services Committee
' The Committee met a total of nine times during this process. This summary is broken
down by "Priority Questions" with the specific responses prioritized as well.
Incorporated are the road improvements which were listed in the Thoroughfare Plan
' improvements section. The Thoroughfare Plan document was not adopted but the
Thoroughfare Plan Map was approved in 1997. Additionally, the services provided by
the town, and presented to the Committee by the Town Department Heads regarding
' future personnel, space, and equipment needs were forwarded to the Consultant for
proper collaboration and as a result, are not included per se herein.
' Priority #1: What are the existing street deficiencies and where should Major and
Minor thoroughfare improvements occur?
' l . Bypass north of Swansboro (no alignment specified).
2. Traffic signal at Highway 24 and SR 1514 (Elementary School) including
' coordination of traffic signals on Highway 24 to allow traffic on side streets
proper access and flow.
' 3. Paving Main Street Extension - unpaved area between the Civic Center and
Hammock Road (SR 1512-in process).
' 4. Lack of access connecting subdivisions, business apartments, etc., without
having to go back on Highway 24 through areas southeast of Highway 24; i.e.,
connector road from Old Hammock (SR 1512) to Shore Drive area; from
Queens Creek Road (SR 1509) to Hammocks Beach Road (SR 1511).
5. Limited pedestrian access to different areas of the community across Highway
24.
' 6. Road width of Mount Pleasant Road; Swansboro Loop Road, Old Hammock
Road (SR 1512); Hammocks Beach Road (SR 1511); Norris Road (SR 1445); Leslie
Lane (SR 1737).
' 7. Align the intersections of Hammock Road (SR 1512) and Swansboro Loop Road
(SR 1444) at Main Street Extension.
8. Comprehensive Sidewalk Plan for all areas throughout Swansboro.
9. Comprehensive Bikeway Plan throughout Swansboro (including existing State
path).
' 10. Highway 24 widening from Church Street to Onslow County/Carteret County
line at the White Oak River (in process).
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 29

Ji
Priority #2: What are the existing infrastructure deficiencies/problems/needs? I
1. Expanded sewage treatment capacity.
2. Existing water distribution and sewer collection line replacement including
improved fire pressure in deficient lines.
3. Stormwater system needs additional upgrades to minimize runoff pollutants.
4. Pedestrian and bike access under the White Oak River Bridge connecting the
north and south sides of Highway 24 and improved pedestrian access along
entire waterfront via a dock, etc.
5. Boat access to waterfront area via dockage, mooring facilities, etc.
6. Natural gas.
Priority #3: What are the anticipated future needs?
1. Land application for treated wastewater includingthe feasibility of a publicgolf
course (in process).
2. Stormwater Management System components including wetlands protection
and use of Best Management Practices.
3. Improved and additional parks.
4. Community Recreation Center.
5. Centralized Public Safety Building including the Police Department, Fire
Department, and Rescue Squad for more efficient capabilities; i.e., financial,
communication, etc.
6. Relocation of Onslow County Public Library to a more accessible location.
7. Relocation of the Swansboro Area Chamber of Commerce to a more accessible
location in the Central Business District/Waterfront Area.
Priority #4: Where should off-street parking improvements occur?
l . Add more parking across Highway 24 from the Historic District with adequate
and safe pedestrian access across Highway 24.
2. All new commercial development or redevelopment.
3. Add small parking lots where appropriate in the Central Business District and
limited parking development in the residential portions ofthe Historic District.
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 30
1

W;s_
Sw 1Q��,'
l
>A
Q
White Oak River
MAP 4
Town of Swansboro
Transportation
Improvements
Priority Map
Priority 1: 1-5; 1-8; 1-9
®
Priority 2: 2-2; 2-3; 2-6
Priority 3: 3-2; 3-3; 3-4; 3-5; 3-6; 3-7
®
Priority 4: 4-2; 4-3
A/
Corporate Limits
Extraterritorial jurisdiction
♦♦ J�
Corporate Limits - 20 Year Projection
♦�
ETJ - 20 Year Projection
4000 0 4000 Feet
The preparation of this map was financed in part
through a grant provided by the North Carolina
Coastal Zone Management Program, through funds provided
by the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as
amended, which is administered by the Office of Page 31
Ocean and Coastal Resource Management, National g
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

3. Central Business District/Historic District
Swansboro continues to be a significant place to visit for its "fishing village"
' quaintness, historic sites, unique shops, and good restaurants. For the most part,
those who visit Swansboro know of its values from word of mouth rather than through
advertisements. The fact that the town sells itself is very much to the credit of the
' entrepreneurship and vision of the shop proprietors of Swansboro. However, each
proprietor does what he or she thinks is good for future business but a plan to achieve
the future vision for the Central Business District is needed. Also, some people feel
that "quaintness," a key characteristic of Swansboro, is being lost for want of a future
vision to guide town officials in their decisions affecting the Central Business District
and the Historic District.
This committee has looked into the future to determine how best to continue the
vitality and broaden the outlook of Swansboro's Central Business District (CBD) and
Historic District (HD). The members of this committee are unanimous in their belief
that the futures of the CBD and HD are bright. However, there are certain significant
factors that must be addressed to enhance current conditions and ensure that future
growth utilizes available resources and incorporates needed improvements. For
example, there is no plan to market the HD. There is a strong need to provide better
history awareness for the citizens of Swansboro and for visitors to this town. The HD
consists of a hodgepodge of historic structures but what's in between does not
represent the history of Swansboro. These and many other factors unfolded as the
committee considered and debated six general questions regarding the future of the
CBD and HD. The questions are provided in this report along with factors and actions
for each (shown in their order of priority) that must be addressed by the Town of
Swansboro to achieve a desirable future vision.
Most significantly, this committee considers a Visitor's Center to be of paramount
importance now and in the future for Swansboro in general and particularly for the
CBD and HD. The Visitor's Center is needed to provide literature regarding the history
of the town and assist people in identifying historic buildings and other historic sites
in and around Swansboro. A Visitor's Center will also provide information about
shops, restaurants, other businesses, festivals, plus items of interest in which visitors
can partake while in town and for planning future visits. The Swansboro Chamber of
Commerce and the Onslow County Visitor's Center are to be located in the same
building as the Swansboro Visitor's Center. A grant for tourism development shall be
applied for by the Swansboro Chamber of Commerce to acquire or lease a building in
the CBD/HD area of Swansboro. Parenthetically, the Visitor's Center does not appear
as the number one priority action under some of the questions considered by the
committee. However, other actions listed as having higher priorities are shown that
way only because they are more easily and/or more quickly achievable or they have
already been pointed out as necessary actions by other committees —such as waterfront
improvements to attract Intracoastal Waterway boaters to Swansboro.
The six questions regarding the CBD and the HD are provided below. The factors or
actions in their order of priority for each of the questions are also provided. A map
of the CBD and the HD is included in this report (Map 5). Items listed below which are
marked with an asterisk are annotated on the map.
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 32

Question #1: What developments or actions are threatening the Central Business
District and/or Historic District?
1. Lack of a plan or standard to maintain the quaintness and flavor of the
CBD/HD.
2. Lack of parking.
3. Lack of boating facilities (docks, moorings, pumpout stations, access to CBD).
4. Widening of Highway 24 as planned.
5. Inadequate pedestrian amenities (sidewalks, benches, restrooms, etc.).
6. Cluttered appearance of CBD. Quaintness is there but overhead power lines
and lack of visual enhancements detract.
7. Vulnerability to hurricanes. Protective measures needed to preserve
waterfront assets.
Question #2: What are the Central Business District's strengths?
1. Variety of attractive shops and restaurants.
2. Proximity to the Intracoastal Waterway, ocean, and White Oak River.
3. Character of the area, including historic structures, a waterfront district, and
compact scale compatible with pedestrians.
4. Location near major tourist destinations and proximity to Jacksonville (market
potential).
5. Festival committee and festival events in place.
6. Rich and diverse town history. .
7. Positive image as "Friendly City by the Sea."
Question #3: What are the Historic District's strengths?
1. Unique image in this region as old fishing village/waterfront mill town.
2. Established Historic District Commission (which needs continuing support).
3. Rich historical past.
4. Presence of significant number of period historic structures.
5. Compact, human scale.
Questions #4: Specifically, what improvements are needed in the Central Business
District?
1. New or refurbished structures and grounds should maintain the historic
ambiance of the CBD.
2. Unsafe and inadequate infrastructure in the CBD require immediate upgrade.
existing sidewalks are broken and uneven in many areas and need
repair. New sidewalks are required where lacking. The committee
recommends that brick sidewalks be installed throughout the CBD/HD,
where appropriate. They exist now in some areas (Bicentennial Park,
Lighthouse Antiques). Property/business owners could be asked to
assist financially.
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 33

— erection of a sign on Highway 24 directing visitors to the CBD/HD.
— overhead wiring is unsightly and unsafe during storms and should be
moved underground.
'
— beautification ofthe district with planters, benches, street lighting, etc.
— public restrooms in the CBD/HD.
3.
Public parking in the CBD/HD where possible and across Highway 24.
'
4.
Construction of public walkway over the water with slips for visitors by boat.
5.
Establishment of a visitor's center.
— possibly incorporating the Chamber of Commerce, a museum/historic
'
displays, and restrooms.
— small information center downtown (corner of Main and Front?).
6.
Facilities to attract boaters from the ICW.
'
7.
Establishment of inn(s) in the CBD/HD.
8.
Zoning regulation:
'
— Legitimate businesses which benefit the district and Swansboro (such
as those conforming to existing height restrictions which affect fire
rating).
'
= Prevent objectionable buildings.
Restrict new larger scale development to Highway 24 corridor (e.g.,
large retail).
' 9.
Establish protective measures from hurricane flooding/surge (jetty, etc.).
Question #5: Specifically, what improvements are needed in the Historic District?
1. Historic District Commission continue to fully protect the historic properties
in the HD by maintaining strict standards of compliance.
*2.
Add parking (visitor's center, across Highway 24, within HD small pockets that
blend).
*3.
Adequate and attractive sidewalks and other pedestrian amenities for walking
'
tours.
4.
Include historic display at Visitor's Center (pictures of old Swansboro,
literature, walking tour maps, etc.).
'
5.
Create a marked path of homes and landmarks in the HD, including a large
map display of the path.
6.
Conduct boat tours of the waterfront.
Question
#6: What actions (public and/or private sector) are needed to protect the
Historic District?
1.
Better recognition through education of the significance of the area's history.
' 2.
Homes and sites of historic landmarks protected in the future.
3.
Consultants hired by town should research money available to implement
needed improvements and enhancements to the HD.
' 4.
1900-1935 homes need to be considered for protection by the Historic District
Commission as they will soon fall into the historic category.
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 34

Conclusion
Swansboro has unique quaintness plus on -going high quality visitor attractions that
are good for the town, its citizens, business owners, and employees. This committee
peeked into the future to determine what actions need to be taken to specifically
protect and enhance the prosperity of the CBD and to make the history of Swansboro
better known and appreciated by the people who live here as well as those who visit
our town.
Taking appropriate measures to address the actions recommended in this report will
influence the future of the CBD and the HD in very positive ways. As stated in the
beginning of this report, the committee urges in the strongest way that establishment
of a Visitor's Center be considered as a top priority in parallel with addressing other
priority factors in this report. This committee views the Visitor's Center as a
significant aid now and in the future in making visitors to our town feel more welcome
and leaving them with a better awareness of our town's history and a strong desire to
return as well as recommending Swansboro to others. The Visitor's Center would
activate citizen awareness of the town's history and it would energize and help guide
efforts and decisions by the Planning Board and the Board of Commissioners.
This committee assumes that Swansboro officials will utilize resources available to get
financing needed to address the actions recommended in this report. It would seem
that employing a consultant to determine where the town could get funds to finance
actions would be highly advisable. It is not the intent of this committee to create
additional tax burdens for the citizens of Swansboro. We believe that money sources
at County, State, and Federal levels are available without resorting to additional local
taxes.
It is recognized that the actions recommended by this committee to appropriately
deal with the future of the CBD and HD coupled with recommendations from other
committees puts a significant onus on the leaders of this town. This committee
strongly recommends that a citizens group be established by the Mayor to periodically
review recommended actions by all the committees to achieve the Comprehensive
Plan, the status of actions taken or in process, and plans to initiate actions not yet in
place. The purpose of this group would be to assist town Boards in maintaining focus
on the vision of the future and the road to achieving that vision for the Town of
Swansboro.
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 35 1

Sri
White Oa
MAPS
Town of Swansboro
Historic &
Central Business District
Historic District
Town of Swansboro
Parking Areas
Central Business District
Sidewalks
J'+%%J# Riverfront Pedestrian Walkway
/ V Surge Protection
Corporate Limits
Visitor's Center
® Restrooms
• Street Lights
■ Signs Indicating the CBD
& Historic District
N
W
S
200 0 200 400 Feet
The preparation of this map was financed in part
through a grant provided by the North Carolina
Coastal Zone Management Program, through funds provided
by the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as page 36
amended, which is administered by the Office of
Ocean and Coastal Resource Management, National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

B. Recommended Actions
It is clear that all three committees desire to preserve Swansboro's "village"
atmosphere. This objective was also embodied in a "planning vision" document
prepared by the Swansboro Board of Commissioners at a retreat convened in
' February, 1996. This objective is not an anti -growth position. However, it is a clear
expression of the desire to carefully guide and regulate development. This position
is defined by the following goals:
' To maintain Swansboro's uniqueness while accommodating controlled orderly
growth.
► To attain a broad, stable tax base to support Swansboro's future.
' To serve all areas within the town limits, where physically possible, with
water/sewer while maintaining sufficient capacity for future growth and
development.
' ► To extend town boundaries to contiguous areas in an orderly pattern as
development occurs and along town served sewer corridors.
► To maintain the ability to plan and coordinate for compatible development of
surrounding areas.
► To maintain adequate buffers for the protection of properties.
Significant changes to Swansboro's management of growth shall occur. In
contemporary planning, the most discussed concept is "smart development." In
reality, this concept is not a new idea. It is simply the blending of many existing ideas.
Smart development adheres to six basic principles which are described as follows:
Principle 1: Efficient Use of Land Resources
Smart development supports the preservation of land and natural resources. These
benefits result from compact building forms, in -fill development, and moderation in
street and parking standards. Compact building patterns preserve land for town and
neighborhood parks as well as local woods and wetlands. Furthermore, compact
development shortens trips, lessening dependence on the automobile, and therefore
reducing levels of energy consumption and air pollution. Finally, a compact
development pattern supports more cost-effective infrastructure than does low -
density fringe development.
Principle 2: Full Use of Urban Services
The same frugality of land development supports efficient use of public and private
infrastructure. Smart development means creating neighborhoods where more people
will use existing services like water lines and sewers, roads, emergency services, and
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 37

schools. Inefficient land use, whether within or outside urban areas, places a financial
strain on communities trying to provide for the construction and maintenance of
infrastructure needs.
Building compactly does not mean that all areas must be densely developed. Rather,
the goal is an average density for the area, at a level that makes full use of urban
services. Averaging allows for areas to have a mix of low-, medium-, and high -density
development. Mixing densities to encourage efficient use of services also means
requiring a high level of building and siting compatibility, encouraging neighborhoods
to have both character and privacy.
Careful street sizing, and the accommodation of some parking on streets, reduces
impervious surfaces and efficiently uses urban services by saving on land acquisition,
construction, and maintenance costs. In short, streets shall be sized for their use:
lower density areas that have little through traffic are best served by slower, narrower
streets, while transportation corridors that move district -wide traffic need wider
travelways.
Principle 3: Mix of Uses
Locating stores, offices, residences, schools, and recreation spaces within walking
distance of each other in compact neighborhoods with pedestrian -oriented streets
promotes:
► independence of movement, especially for the young and the elderly who can
conveniently walk, cycle, or ride transit;
► safety in commercial areas, through around -the -clock presence of people;
► reduction in auto use, especially for shorter trips;
► support for those who work at home, through nearby services and parks; and
► a variety of housing choices, so that the young and old, singles and families,
and those of varying economic ability may find places to live.
Mixed -use examples include a corner store in a residential area, an apartment near or
over a shop, and a lunch counter in an industrial zone. Most codes prohibit the co -
location of any residential and commercial buildings. This prohibition is based on the
functional and architectural incompatibility of the buildings. Using design standards,
in tandem with mixed -use zoning, overcomes incompatibility. Additionally, limitations
on commercial functions, such as hours of operation and delivery truck access, may
be necessary. More fundamentally, to gain the full benefits of a mix of uses, buildings
must be conveniently connected by streets and paths. Otherwise, people will still be
inclined or required to use cars, even for the shortest trips.
Principle 4: Transportation Options
Transportation must be safe, convenient, and interesting. These performance factors
affect sidewalk and street design, placement of parking, and location of building
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 38

fronts, doors, and windows. Well -designed bike lanes and sidewalks protect people
from vehicle accidents. Orienting windows and doorways to the sidewalk increases
awareness of street activity and the safety of the streetscape.
Convenience begins with a connected network of streets that provide alternative
routes with reasonable walking distances between destinations. A properly designed
network also promotes neighborhood safety by routing the heaviest traffic around
neighborhoods, without sacrificing street connectivity.
Providing compact, mixed -use development connected by safe, convenient, and
interesting networks of streets and paths promotes:
► walking, cycling, and transit as viable, attractive alternatives to driving;
► less traffic congestion and air pollution;
► the convenience, density, and variety of uses necessary to support transit;
► a variety of alternative routes, thereby dispersing traffic congestion; and
► lower traffic speeds, making neighborhoods safer.
M Principle 5: Detailed, Human -Scale Design
' Community acceptance of compact, mixed -use development requires compatibility
between buildings to ensure privacy, safety, and visual coherency. Similar massing of
buildings; orientation of buildings to the street; the presence of windows, doors,
' porches, and other architectural elements; and effective use of landscaping all
contribute to successful compatibility between diverse building types.
Human -scale design is also critical to the success of streets and paths as preferred
routes for pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists alike. In general, smart street design
considers the role of pedestrians along with that of vehicular traffic, emphasizing the
quality of the walking environment. For instance, parallel parking may be considered
a hindrance to vehicle flow, but for pedestrians and shop owners, on -street parking
is a benefit because it reduces speeding traffic and protects the sidewalks.
Designing streets that are balanced for pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists promotes
the development of community through the informal meeting of neighbors.
Neighborhood safety is improved, since neighbors can more easily come to know one
another and watch over each other's homes.
■ Principle 6: Development Review
' Swansboro's ability to adopt smart development principles will, of necessity, require
an examination of its development review process. Primarily, the review shall focus
on ways that the review process can be streamlined so that developers are encouraged
to apply the principles. Frustrating, costly, and time-consuming delays due, in part,
to inflexible standards, regulations, and processes will discourage innovative
approaches to development and design. Providing for flexibility and certainty in the
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 39

application of standards, including provision for performance standards and
administrative approval of"minor" variances, can help promote creative development
that complies with the principles. Adoption of Planned Unit Development (PUD)
provisions can also relieve some of the regulatory barriers for developers and lighten
the administrative load for planners, as can adopting a flexible process for applying
design review standards.
While the smart growth concept may not be suited to every community, itwill support
Swansboro's objective of preserving its village atmosphere and aid in preserving its
fragile resources.
In order to achieve the committees' recommendations and effectively support this
Comprehensive Plan, numerous specific implementing actions must occur. These are
specified separately by the categories of Housing/Parks and Recreation, Major
Streets/Public Services, and Central Business District/Historic District.
1. Housing/Parks and Recreation Committee
Objectives:
► To encourage avarietyof housing choices through preservation, rehabilitation,
and new development.
► To encourage residential development which is compatible with existing
development in scale and design.
► To encourage in -fill development.
► To discourage land uses which conflict with adjacent residential areas.
I. To discourage residential development in the NC 24 Corridor.
► To decrease residential density as development moves away from the NC 24
Corridor.
► To maintain average residential density at two to four units per acre.
► To support housing types based on the following priorities: (1) single-family,
(2) duplexes, (3) patio homes, (4) multi -family (apartments), (5) townhouses and
condominiums.
► To limit manufactured homes, manufactured home parks, and recreational
vehicle parks.
► To limit residential construction to three floors or less.
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 40 1

'
► To encourage the provision of senior citizen permanent and transitional
housing.
'
To encourage the provision of recreational facilities in the town and the ETJ.
► To improve existing neighborhoods.
► To encourage the restoration and preservation of historic residential
'
properties.
► To develop a golf course on the proposed spray irrigation site.
'
To provide a diversity of recreational experiences to all residents.
Action #1: Adopt new zoning and subdivision regulations.
While this action impacts all three categories, it has been included under housing
' because housing may have the greatest impact on in -fill development. The re -write
of these two ordinances shall be coordinated and they shall be combined into a
Unified Development Ordinance (UDO).
' The preparation of the LIDO shall support the following strategies, reduce obstacles
to sound development, and provide attainable solutions as follows:
Strategy Obstacle Solution
'
Efficient Use of Land Resources
Small -lot in -fill development
Excessive lot area dimensions
Revise setback requirements;
minimum lot sizes
'
In -fill development on large
Inflexible subdivision and lot
Average lot size for whole
lots
area requirements
development, allow flexibility
to preserve naturalfeatures
Coordinated development
Coordinated development not
Specific development plans;
addressed
master plans
Better use of deep lots
Excessive frontage and
Midblock lanes; interior block
multiple access requirements
cluster development, flag lots
Less land for streets
Excessive street design
Adopt "skinny" street
standards
standards
More efficient use of parking
Excessive parking
Reduce minimum parking
areas
requirements
ratios; set parking ratio
maximums; acknowledge on -
street parking; encourage
shared parking
Full Use of Urban Services
'
Achieving planned densities
Underbuilding; no support for
Minimum density standards
density goals
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan
Page 41

f1
L
'
Straegv
Obstacle
Solution
Attached units
Lot sizes not in proportion to
Reduce lot -size requirements;
unit sizes
allow single-family attached in
'
all residential zones
Attached units
Lot -area dimension
Revise setback requirements
requirements (excessive side
'
setbacks)
Accessory units
Excessive minimum unit size;
Allow accessory units
density maximums too low
'
Mixed Use
Mixed -use buildings
Single -use zoning; separation
Allow home occupations and
of uses
live/work units; density bonus
'
for mixed -use commercial/
residential buildings
Mixed -use neighborhoods
Single -use zoning; separation
Limited commercial in
of uses
residential zones; allow multi-
family residential in
commercial zones; limited
,
retail in industrial zones
Healthy commercial districts
Separation of uses; proximity
Community shopping centers
with street connectivity; main
,
street districts
Transportation Options
Multi -modal streets
Street design standards over-
Revise street standards;
,
emphasize autos
promote "skinny" streets
Transit, bikes, and pedestrian
Physical barriers or out -of-
Cul-de-sac and block -length
connectivity
direction travel
maximums; internal
'
connectivity standards;
Transit -supportive
Transit -supportive
sidewalk requirements
Mandate
,
transit -oriented
development
development not addressed
development along transit
Detailed, Human -Scale Design
corridor
Compatibly designed
Too abrupt transitions
Density transitioning;
buildings
between zones
midblock zoning district lines;
building height limits
'
Compatibly designed
No design guidelines for new
Incorporate compatibility
buildings
buildings
guidelines for new in -fill
construction
'
Pedestrian -friendly
Street standards emphasize
Building orientation; parking
streetscapes (commercial)
cars; design discourages
lot placement; allow shared
walking
access; 509b/80% frontage rule,
,
etc.
Pedestrian -friendly
Street standards emphasize
Require sidewalks; limit
streetscapes (residential)
cars; design discourages
setbacks; garage placement;
,
walking
lighting; utility placement;
etc.
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 42 1

1
Strategy Obstacle Solution'
Quality architectural design No incentive to provide Density bonuses for amenities
amenities
Implementation
Examining the development
review process
Examining the Planned Unit
Development (PUD) process
Flexibility in the design
review process
Onerous procedures for
variances, conditional uses
No PUD requirements
Discretionary design review
process; vague standards
Allow administrative approval
for minor adjustments
Establish PUD regulations
Dual -track design review
process"
"A dual -track process allows the developer to choose from two options: (1) adherence to prescribed
and detailed specific design standards, and (2) a more flexible design review process based on
performance guidelines. This approach requires the community to create two sets of development
standards. One set of prescriptive standards is defined in terms of distances, heights, density, and
other precise and quantifiable standards that can be applied through an administrative process without
public notice or hearings. The other set of performance guidelines outlines community objectives and
is more flexible and likely to result in exciting and innovative design, but does require public notice
and hearings.
The key is providing certainty and flexibility. The developer of a smaller, straightforward project can
' proceed with administrative review, provided the project meets specific standards. A more elaborate
or complex project can go before a design review board to provide the design flexibility that some
developers or architects prefer.
' The
UDO should
ould include the establishment of Planned Unit Development (PUD) zoning
' and accompanying subdivision regulations. The following provides an example of PUD
provisions which could be incorporated into the UDO.
'
Minimum Size
Twenty-five (25) acres.
'
Maximum Overall Density
Six (6) dwelling units per acre.
Open Space Requirement
'
Fifteen (15) percent of the total PUD area shall be maintained as open space. Street rights -of -
way, parking lots, building areas (as defined), and yards held in individual ownership shall not
constitute any part of the required open space; however, building areas for recreational
'
facilities may be computed as open space. At least 92% of all approved open space shall be
commonly owned by a homeowners' or property owners' association. Eight percent (S%) of
the open space area may be privately -owned. Any open space land use not included under
approval of the PUD Land Use Plan must be reviewed by the Planning Board and approved by
the Town of Swansboro Board of Commissioners prior to its development.
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 43

Residential Development
The applicable area, yard, and height requirements as contained in Section To Be Completed
(TBC) of this Ordinance shall be adhered to. The applicable yard setback requirements for
single-family structures shall be based upon the square footage of the lot. All multi -family
developments shall adhere to the applicable development regulations contained herein.
Commercial Development
Commercial land use will be developed as a planned building group under the regulations of
the (business zone to be identified) zone. No commercial construction may be commenced
until at least fifty (50) percent of the proposed dwelling units within the PUD or one hundred
(100) dwelling units, whichever is smaller, are completed and ready for occupancy.
Industrial Development
Industrial development shall not be allowed within the PUD zone (Optional).
Procedure
Application for Zoning Map Amendment
A petition for a zoning map amendment to establish a planned unit development district
(PUD) shall be submitted to the Planning Board and Board of Commissioners and administered
in accordance with the provisions of the Zoning Ordinance for amendments as defined by
Section TBC of this Ordinance.
(1) Criteria. In addition to other considerations, the following may be utilized by the
Planning Board and Board of Commissioners in evaluation of a re -zoning petition to
establish a planned unit development zoning district:
(a) That the total development can create a needed residential environment,
(b) That existing or proposed utility and other public services are adequate for
the anticipated population densities; and
(c) That the planned unit development is in general conformity with the town's
comprehensive Land Use Plan.
(2) Zoning Map Designation. Following Board of Commissioners approval of re -zoning
petition to establish a planned unit development district (PUD), the property for
which approval was granted by the Ordinance shall be labeled "PUD" on the official
zoning map of the Town of Swansboro. No permits for development shall be issued
within any area designated as "PUD" unless the provisions as set forth herein are
complied with. If a conditional use permit application is not filed with the Planning
Board within twelve (12) months of such amendment, the Board of Commissioners
shall reserve the right to re -zone the property to the original zoning classification.
Application for Conditional Use Permit
An application for a conditional use permit to develop a specific planned unit development
shall only be considered when the property is zoned planned unit development district (PUD).
Application shall be submitted in accordance with Section TBC of this Ordinance.
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 44

'
(1)
Criteria. In addition to other considerations, the following may be utilized by the
Planning Board in evaluation of conditional use permit pursuant to G.S.160A-338(a):
'
(a) That the proposed population densities, land uses, and other special
characteristics of development can exist in harmony with adjacent areas;
(b) That the adjacent areas can be developed in compatibility with the proposed
planned unit development; and
(c) That the proposed planned unit development will not adversely affect traffic
patterns and flow in adjacent areas.
'
Site Plan
All applications for approval of a planned unit development conditional use permit shall be
'
accompanied by a Land Use Plan prepared by a registered engineer or surveyor, submitted in
accordance with the Town of Swansboro Subdivision Regulations for preliminary plats and
which shall include but not be limited to the following:
'
(1)
The numbers and types of residential dwelling units including density and the
delineation of nonresidential areas;
'
(2)
Planned primary and secondary traffic circulation patterns showing proposed and
existing rights -of -ways and easements;
'
(3)
Common open space and recreation areas to be developed or preserved in accordance
with this section. Peripheral boundary setback shall be indicated;
'
(4)
Plans for water, sanitary sewer, storm sewer, natural gas, and electric utilities;
(5)
The delineation of areas to be constructed in sections, showing acreage;
'
(6)
Soil maps prepared according to the United States cooperative soil survey standards
as published in the Onslow County Soil Survey;
'
(7)
Boundary survey of the tract showing courses and distances and total acreage,
including zoning, land use, and lot lines of all contiguous property;
'
(8)
Existing vegetation;
'
(9)
Flood hazard areas including base flood elevation;
(10)
Topographic contours at a maximum of two -foot intervals showing existing grades;
'
(11)
Site data including vicinity sketch, north arrow, engineering scale ratio, title of
development, date of plan, name and address of owner/developer, and person or firm
preparing the plan;
(12)
Any other information as may be required by the Planning Board.
(13) Copies of or statements addressing the following:
(a) Drafts of or statements addressing any declarations of covenants, conditions,
' or restrictions which create a homeowners' association for the perpetual
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 45

ownership and maintenance of all common open space and other areas
including, but not limited to, recreation areas, private streets, parking areas,
landscaping, and the like. A private facilities maintenance analysis to
determine actual costs of maintenance of such common facilities may be
required by the Planning Board in order to assess the feasibility of such
private maintenance;
(b) Drafts of or statements addressing any proposed declarations to be recorded
pursuant to the North Carolina Condominium Act (G.S. Chapter 47C);
(c) The names and current mailing addresses of all property owners who own
property within one hundred (100) feet of the proposed development
including tax map designation and parcel numbers as listed upon the tax
records of Onslow County at the time of submission of the conditional use
permit application; and
(d) The deed book and page number(s) showing fee simple title of all property
within the planned unit development as listed in the Onslow County Register
of Deeds.
Preliminary Plat - Site Plan Requirements
Afterapproval ofthe conditional use permitas setforth herein, the developershall submitthe
,
following according to the approved schedule of development:
(1) All information required by and in accordance with the Town of Swansboro
,
Subdivision Ordinance for preliminary plats;
Final Plat Requirements
'
After approval of the preliminary plat as set forth herein, the developer shall submit the
following according to the approved schedule of development:
(1) All information required and in accordance with the Town of Swansboro Subdivision
Ordinance for submission of the final plats;
'
(2) The following additional information shall be required:
(a) Maintenance agreements concerning all common areas, private streets, and
'
utilities; and
(b) All information as required and in accordance with G.S. Chapter 47C, North
Carolina Condominium Act.
'
Homeowners' Association
(1) No final plat shall be approved until all required legal instruments have been reviewed
r
and approved by the town attorney as to legal form and effect.
(2) If common open space is deeded to a homeowners' association, the owner or
developer shall file a declaration of covenants, conditions, and restrictions that will
govern such association. The provisions of such declaration of covenants, conditions,
and restrictions shall include, but not be limited to, the following:
,
(a) The homeowners' association must be set up before any property is sold in
the development;
'
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 46 1

(b) Membership must be mandatory and automatic when property is purchased
in the development;
(c) The open space requirement must be permanent, not just for a period of
years;
(d) The association must be responsible for liability insurance, local taxes, and
maintenance of recreational and other common facilities including private
streets;
(e) Homeowners must pay their pro rata share of the cost; the assessment levied
by the association can become a lien on the property;
(I) The association must be able to adjust the assessment to meet changed
needs;
(g) Covenants for maintenance assessments shall run with the land;
(h) Provision insuring that control of such association will gradually be vested in
the homeowner's association; and
(i) All lands so conveyed shall be subject to the right of the grantee or grantees
to enforce maintenance and improvement of the common facilities.
Amendment to Site Plan Conditional Use Permit
Minor Changes
Amendment to the approved Land Use Plan that in the opinion of the Zoning Administrator
does not substantially change the concept of the planned unit development as approved may
be allowed. Such minor changes may include, but not be limited to, small site alterations
such as realignment of streets and relocation of utility lines due to engineering necessity. The
developer shall request such amendment in writing, clearly setting forth the reasons for such
changes. If approved, the Land Use Plan shall be so amended prior to submission of any
preliminary plat -site plan application involving or affecting such amendment. Appeal from the
decision of the Zoning Administrator may be taken to the Subdivision Review Board.
Major Changes
Amendments to the approved Land Use Plan that in the opinion of the Zoning Administrator
do in fact involve substantial changes and deviations from the concept of the planned unit
development as approved shall require review pursuant to Section TBC. Such major changes
shall include, but not be limited to, increased density, land use, location of use, open space,
recreation space, condition(s) of planning and zoning commission approval, and street
pattern. Appeal from the decision of the Zoning Administrator may be taken to the
Subdivision Review Board.
Authority
Minor changes maybe approved administratively by the Zoning Administrator. Majorchanges
shall require planning and zoning commission approval.
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 47

Variances
The Town of Swansboro Board of Adjustment shall not be authorized to grant or approve any
variance from the minimum requirements as set forth in this section or condition as approved
by the Planning Board.
The preparation of the UDO may also address the following:
► Establishment of landscaping requirements.
► Establishment of telecommunication tower provisions.
► Sign requirements review.
► Establishment of subdivision shoreline access and recreational (park) site
requirements.
► Establishment of cluster housing provisions.
► Establishment of zero lot line provisions.
► Establishment of sidewalk and bikeway requirements.
► Establishment of requirements to ensure internal connectivity of subdivisions
and neighborhoods. The following provides a graphic representation of
isolated developments versus good internal connectivity.
► Revisions to the conservation zoning district (name to be changed to
preservation zoning district) to broaden the scope of the district to address
the protection of sensitive areas in addition to the town's floodplains or
estuarine areas. Such additional areas may include the historic district or
parks and public open space. This district will not be designed to eliminate
development.
Isolated
Mail Aperlmsntr Development Houses
�7
Good Intemal
Connectivity
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 48

Funding: The Town of Swansboro will apply to the Division of Coastal Management
for a technical assistance grant to assist in the cost of preparing the UDO.
Action #2: Prepare Recreation and Shoreline Access Plan
The Town of Swansboro will prepare and adopt a long-range comprehensive
recreation and shoreline access plan. Specifically, the plan shall address:
' ► Development of a recreation center.
► Employment of a recreation director and staff.
► Recommendations for additional park facilities.
► Delineation of potential shoreline access sites.
► Development of a greenway/open space system.
► Establishment of jogging/walking trails and sidewalk system.
► Boating access to the CBD.
► Establishment of a YWCA/YMCA with a swimming pool.
► Establishment of a golf course (land application site).
► Improved utilization of existing area recreational facilities such as Hammock's
Beach State Park and Cedar Point Recreation Area.
► Establishment of a state recognized canoe trail.
Funding: The Town of Swansboro will apply to the North Carolina Division of Coastal
Management for a technical assistance grant to assist with the preparation of the
comprehensive recreation and shoreline access plan.
Action #3: Housing for Senior Citizens
The Town of Swansboro will apply to the North Carolina Housing Finance Agency for
funds to assist with the construction of housing for senior citizens. The following
provides a brief summary of potential funding programs.
The Housing LINC Loan Fund, operated under agreement with the NC Division of
Aging and funded by the Kate B. Reynolds Foundation, is a revolving loan fund to pay
predevelopment costs for assisted -living projects for the elderly. Funding is limited
by availability.
The Assisted Independent Living Program uses funds from a Robert Wood Johnson
Foundation grant to pay the staff cost of coordinating the availability of community -
based services for the elderly living in subsidized rental housing projects. Funding is
limited by availability.
The Special Needs Housing Program provides amortizing loans of up to $250,000 per
project for the production of transitional and permanent housing, and loans of up to
$100,000 for the rehabilitation of emergency housing for households below 50% of
median income with special needs.
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 49

The Housing Trust Fund was created by the General Assembly to increase the supply
of affordable housing for very low- and moderate -income households. It is used for
both rental housing and home ownership programs adopted by the 13-member NC
Housing Partnership.
Some applications for funding may have to be developed jointly with a private
developer.
Funding: Local and private funds in concert with North Carolina Housing Finance
Agency funds.
Action #4: Re -zoning
What is recommended is that prior to any zoning departures from the current plan,
the Comprehensive Plan should be reviewed to determine if a change in the
Comprehensive Plan Map should be made. Through this procedure, the impact of a
change on the entire map and plan should be considered. This process will reduce
land use and zoning decisions which are made in a vacuum and consistency of the plan
and zoning ordinance (UDO) will improve.
Funding Source: Local revenues.
Action #5: In -fill Development
Swansboro shall develop an "incentives" plan of action to encourage in -fill
development. It is a more frugal use of resources to have developers locate adjacent
to existing infrastructure as opposed to extending utilities and other infrastructure.
Incentives and the incentives plan shall be constructed by a committee composed of
town staff, planning board members, and representatives of the development
community. Possible incentives may include but not be limited to the following:
► Reductions in water and sewer tap fees.
► Local government participation in infrastructure cost.
► Increased density allowances.
► Deferred annexation action plans.
Funding Source: Local revenues.
Action #6: Recreational Brochure
Develop a brochure which will publicize/emphasis the recreational opportunities which
exist in the Swansboro area. The brochure shall highlight the following facilities:
► Hammocks Beach State Park
► Croatan National Forest
► Hoffman State Forest
► Coastal Federation Sites and Outings
► Cedar Point Tideland Trail
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 50 1

tCedar Point Recreation Area
► White Oak River
► Camp Mitchell 4-H Camp
► Swansboro Waterfront Shoreline
► CBD/Historic District
' Funding Source: Local funds, Chamber of Commerce, North Carolina Department of
Tourism.
2. Major Streets/Public Services
' Objectives:
► To ensure safe, livable neighborhoods.
' ► To plan, provide, and maintain facilities adequate for continuing growth.
' ► To extend gas service throughout Swansboro's planning jurisdiction.
► To reduce existing traffic congestion and safety problems.
' ► To ensure that new development improves, not worsens, traffic and safety
conditions.
► To provide adequate roads to service future development.
► To provide safe, convenient, and efficient opportunities for pedestrian and
bicycle movement.
► To provide infrastructure which will support economic growth and
development.
Action #1: Capital Improvements Plan
The Town of Swansboro will secure funding for development of a detailed capital
' improvements plan. Capital improvements planning or programming is the multi -year
scheduling of public physical improvements. The scheduling is based on studies of
fiscal resources available and the choice of specific improvements to be constructed
' for a period of five years into the future. The capital improvements budget refers to
those facilities that are programmed for the next fiscal year. A capital improvements
plan/program refers to the improvements that are scheduled in the succeeding four -
or five-year period. An important distinction between the capital budget and the
capital improvements plan/program is that the one-year budget may become a part of
the legally adopted annual operating budget, whereas the longer -term program does
' not necessarily have legal significance, nor does it necessarily commit a government
to a particular expenditure in a particular year.
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 51

Thus, the plan shall, at a minimum, address the following Major Streets/Public Services '
Committee recommendations for priorities two, three, and four.
Priority #2: What are the existing infrastructure deficiencies/problems/needs? '
1. Expanded Sewage Treatment capacity with new collection lines to alleviate I
pump station capacity limitations.
2. Existing water distribution and sewer collection line replacement including I
improved fire pressure in deficient lines.
3. Stormwater system needs additional upgrades to minimize runoff pollutants. '
4. Pedestrian and bike access under the White Oak River Bridge connecting the
north and south sides of Highway 24, and improved pedestrian access along
entire waterfront via a dock, etc.
5. Boat access to waterfront area via dockage, mooring facilities, etc. '
6. Natural Gas.
Priority #3: What are the anticipated future needs? '
1. Land application for treated wastewater includingthe feasibility of public golf I
course (in process).
2. Stormwater Management System components including wetlands protection I
and use of Best Management Practices.
3. Centralized Public Safety Building including the Police Department, Fire '
Department, and Rescue Squad for more efficient capabilities; i.e., financial,
communication, etc.
4. Expand Onslow County Public Library building, make more accessible, and '
improve traffic flow.
5. Relocation of the Swansboro Area Chamber of Commerce to a more accessible '
location in the Central Business District/Waterfront area.
Priority #4: Where should off-street parking improvements occur? '
1. Add more parking across Highway 24 from the Historic District with adequate '
and safe pedestrian access across Highway 24.
2. All new commercial development or redevelopment. '
3. Add small parking lots where appropriate in the Central Business District and
limited parking development in the residential portions ofthe Historic District. '
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 52
1

In addition to the preparation of the plan, the Town of Swansboro Board of
Commissioners will annually budget funds to be committed to a capital reserve fund
which will begin to build a funding source for needed capital facilities.
Funding Source: Local revenues
Action #2: Thoroughfare Plan
In concert with the North Carolina Department of Transportation, the town shall
prepare an updated thoroughfare plan.
Typically, a municipal street system occupies 25 to 30 percent of the total developed
land in an urban area. Since the system is permanent and expensive to build and
maintain, much care and foresight are needed in its development. Thoroughfare
' planning is the process public officials use to assure the development of the most
appropriate street system that will meet existing and future travel desires within the
urban area.
The primary aim of a thoroughfare plan is to guide the development of the urban
street system in a manner consistent with the changing traffic patterns. A
thoroughfare plan will enable street improvements to be made as traffic demands
increase, and it helps eliminate unnecessary improvements, so needless expense can
be averted. By developing the urban street system to keep pace with increasing traffic
demands, a maximum utilization of the system can be attained, requiring a minimum
amount of land for street purposes. In addition to providing for traffic needs, the
thoroughfare plan shall embody those details of good urban planning necessary to
present a pleasing and efficient urban community. The location of present and future
population, commercial, and industrial development affects major street and highway
locations. Conversely, the location of major streets and highways within the
Swansboro area will influence Swansboro's development pattern.
Other objectives of a thoroughfare plan include:
► Providing for the orderly development of an adequate major street system as
land development occurs;
► Reducing travel and transportation costs;
► Reducing the cost of major street improvements to the public through the
coordination of the street system with private action;
► Enabling private interests to plan their actions, improvements, and
development with full knowledge of public intent;
► Minimizing disruption and displacement of people and businesses through
long-range advance planning for major street improvements;
► Reducing environmental impacts, such as air pollution, resulting from
transportation; and
► Increasing travel safety.
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 53

At a minimum, the plan shall address the following improvements which are the '
number one priority of the Major Streets/Public Services Committee:
Priority #1: What are the existing street deficiencies and where should Major and
Minor thoroughfare improvements occur?
1. Bypass north of Swansboro (no specific location/no alignment specified). '
2. Traffic signal at Highway 24 and SR 1514 (Elementary School) including '
coordination of traffic signals on Highway 24 to allow traffic on side streets
proper access and flow.
3. Paving Main Street Extension - unpaved area between Rotary Club and
Hammock Road (SR 1512-in process).
4. Lack of access connecting subdivisions, business apartments, etc., without
having to go back on Highway 24 through areas southeast of Highway 24; i.e.,
connector road from Old Hammock (SR 1512) to Shore Drive area; from '
Queens Creek Road (SR 1509) to Hammocks Beach Road (SR 1511).
5. Limited pedestrian access to different areas of the community across Highway '
24.
6. Road width of Mount Pleasant Road; Swansboro Loop Road; Old Hammock ,
Road (SR 1512); Hammocks Beach Road (SR 1511); Norris Road (SR 1445); Leslie
Lane (SR 1737).
7. Align the intersections of Hammock Road (SR 1512) and Swansboro Loop Road
(SR 1444) at Main Street Extension.
8. Comprehensive sidewalk plan for all areas throughout Swansboro.
9. Comprehensive bikeway plan throughout Swansboro (including existing state
path).
10. Highway 24 widening from Church Street to Onslow County/Carteret County
line at the White Oak River (in process) with coordinated efforts to minimize
problems created by widening process.
11. Improve planning review to limit traffic access from properties onto Highway
24 along with improved planning and coordination of internal street
connections between adjoining developments during the planning review
process.
Preparation of a Swansboro thoroughfare plan shall be closely coordinated with
Onslow County, other regional units of government, this comprehensive plan, and the
Swansboro 1999 CAMA Land Use Plan.
Funding Source: Local revenues and the North Carolina Department ofTransportation.
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 54 1

Action #3: Public Transit
Obviously, full- or part-time public transit is not an option within Swansboro. The
demand would not be great enough and the distances would be to small to justify such
an undertaking. However, during the peals summer season there may be a need for
' public transit to jointly serve the communities of Swansboro and Emerald Isle. Such
an arrangement will be pursued on a temporary experimental basis. Visitors from two
distinctly different towns could circulate between the two communities for dining,
' shopping, and entertainment. This may aid in alleviating some of Swansboro's
summertime parking problems. What is envisioned is perhaps one small shuttle bus
circulating between the two towns. It is recommended that Swansboro initiate
discussions with Emerald Isle to form a joint study committee to explore/assess the
idea. It may be that a public sector/private sector joint venture could be established
to support the transit system.
Funding Source: Local funds and NC Department of Transportation.
Action #4: Need for Sidewalks and Bicycle Paths
Prior to any consideration for funding of sidewalks and bicycle paths by the North
' Carolina Department of Transportation, it is required that a municipality has a
comprehensive plan which addresses the desirability of and need for sidewalks and
bicycle paths. This comprehensive plan does address both location and need. The
' sidewalk/bicycle sections of this plan shall be submitted to the North Carolina
Department of Transportation with any appropriate amendment made.
' Funding Source: An application for sidewalk and bicycle path funding shall be
prepared and submitted to the North Carolina Department of Transportation.
' However, the reader is cautioned that state funds vary from fiscal year and are limited.
Heavy local funding for bicycle paths and joint public/private funding for sidewalks
may be required.
3. Central Business District/Historic District
' Objectives:
In 1993, the Town of Swansboro Board of Commissioners adopted the Waterfront
Conservation and Development Plan Phase II. The objectives included in that plan
continue to be pertinent and are, therefore, incorporated into this plan as follows:
' ► Encourage increased vitality along the waterfront.
1. Increase waterfront activities such as boating and fishing.
2. Protect the integrity of existing neighborhoods.
3. Attract Intracoastal Waterway users.
4. Enhance employment opportunities by expanding commercial activity.
5. Capitalize on existing historic resources.
1
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 55

► Establish waterfront uses which are linked to, and supportive of, existing uses
within Swansboro.
1. Pursue mixed -use development patterns which may include residential,
service, office, retail, and recreation.
► Provide for ordered growth in areas along and adjacent to the waterfront.
1. Ensure that the implementation of development is sensitive to
established community patterns.
2. Phase development in an effort to synchronize with planned growth
strategies.
► Establish a design theme and strategy unique to Swansboro.
1. Complement existing patterns of historic and cultural resources.
2. Avoid a false historic impression when designing and developing public
spaces, streetscapes, and buildings.
► Create and enhance public spaces which strengthen the identity of the town.
1. Assure that the streetscape remains compatible with the image of the
existing historic town center which includes a strong sense of human
scale and history.
► Encourage the preservation, restoration, and adaptive use of existing historic
structures.
► Ensure that new construction is compatible with existing buildings and
streetscape details.
1. Ensure that the new construction takes into account character, scale,
materials, and details contained within older structures.
► Provide efficient vehicular access and adequate parking for citizens and
visitors.
1. Place a priority on clear and safe pedestrian accessibility to waterfront
amenities.
► Devise a clearly defined orientation system to be used throughout the Town
of Swansboro.
1. Develop designs which are clear to both pedestrians and vehicles while
concurrently being sensitive to established streetscape and structural
detailing.
► Initiate efforts to strengthen east -west linkages across Route 24.
1. Establish substantial entrance gateways to the Town. Assure that
traffic signals and pedestrian crossing points are synchronized with
these gateways.
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 56

► Establish and maintain pedestrian focal points such as the Town Square and
Bicentennial Park.
t2.
1. Pursue the acquisition of land as needed to develop the Town Square.
identify sites for renovation along the waterfront and adjoining
residential and commercial blocks.
'
3. Identify possible methods of land acquisition acceptable to the public
to be dedicated as a pedestrian promenade along the waterfront.
4. Ensure that phasing and construction timing are in sequence with the
overall plan for the Town.
'
5. Continue to pursue funding for waterfront improvements via the grant
sources as outlined and explained in this document.
'
► Establish a public participation plan which will ensure comprehensive citizen
involvement in the planning and design process.
1. Accommodate public contributions, and engender support for
neighborhood participation
' Action #1: Central Business District (CBD) Preservation
Organization is the initial and essential first step to success in any undertaking.
' Currently, there is no non-profit CBD corporation. A non-profit downtown
commission shall be established to lead the CBD preservation, improvement, and
marketing efforts. Such organizations exist in Greenville, Wilmington, Salisbury,
Winston-Salem, and other North Carolina towns and cities. A non-profit group may
' best serve the Swansboro CBD private marketing and development needs. Funding
support for the organization would be through membership fee subscribed by
members, and from possible Town of Swansboro contributions.
Once an organization is in place, the town and CBD Preservation Corporation may
' consider long-range participation in the North Carolina Main Street Program which is
operated by the North Carolina Main Street Center. The Main Street Program is
explained by the following information provided by the North Carolina Main Street
Center.
' "WHAT IS THE MAIN STREET APPROACH?
"It is a comprehensive revitalization process designed to improve all aspects of the downtown,
producing both intangible and tangible benefits. Improving economic management,
strengthening public participation and making downtown a fun place to visit are as critical to
' Main Street's future as recruiting new businesses, rehabilitating buildings, and expanding
parking.
' "Building on downtown's inherent assets -- rich architecture, personal service and traditional
values -- the Main Street approach has rekindled entrepreneurship, downtown cooperation
and civic concern. It has earned national recognition as a practical strategy appropriately
scaled to a community's local resources and conditions. Four elements are combined to create
a well-balanced program.
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 57

Organization Building partnerships to create a consistent revitalization program
and develop effective management and leadership downtown.
Diverse groups -- merchants, bankers, public officials, the chamber of
commerce and civic groups -- must work together to improve
downtown.
Promotion Reestablishing downtown as a compelling place for shoppers,
investors and visitors. This means not only improving sales but also
rekindling community excitement and involvement. Promotion
ranges from street festivals to retail merchandising, from community
education to aggressive public relations.
Design Enhancing the visual quality of the downtown. Attention must be
given to all elements of the downtown environment -- not just
buildings and storefronts but also public improvements, rear entries,
signs, landscaping, window displays and graphic materials.
Economic
Restructuring Strengthening the existing economic assets of the business district
while diversifying its economic base. Activities include market
analysis to understand the changing market place; converting unused
space into housing, entertainment or cultural facilities; and
sharpening the competitiveness of Main Street's traditional
merchants.
"The Main Street approach is incremental. It produces highly visible, short-term results, while
creating fundamental changes in downtown's leadership and economy -- changes that are
critical to long-term revitalization success.
"WHAT DOES THE NORTH CAROLINA MAIN STREET CENTER DO?
"The North Carolina Main Street Center provides the following services:
Program Guidance The NCMSC assists communities in developing a local program to
manage the process of revitalization, and helps them to develop a
vision for action. This includes organizational development and
board training as well as assistance in the development of goals,
objectives and work plans.
Technical Assistance The NCMSC provides technical assistance in the areas of
organizational development, real estate development, marketing,
business recruitment, promotions, and design, among others. The
Main Street designer provides consultation and renderings to
property owners to encourage facade renovation.
Training The NCMSC offers training workshops in the following areas: the
Main Street approach, real estate and business development, design,
and organizational development. Courses are held around the state
and are offered to Main Street and non -Main Street communities
alike.
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 58 ,

' Network Through participation in the North Carolina Main Street program,
communities have access not only to other in -state programs, but
also to over 800 communities across the country that are
' participating in Main Street. By sharing the lessons learned,
communities can avoid many of the pitfalls and invest their resources
more wisely. The NCMSC functions as a clearinghouse for ideas and
' success stories from which all can benefit."
Participation in the Main Street Program requires a full-time program manager for at
' least three years. However, in the spring of 1991, the North Carolina Main Street
Center initiated a pilot program for communities under 5,000 population to assist
them with downtown revitalization. This effort, underwritten in part by a grant from
' the Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation, involved the selection of three communities forthe
demonstration program. The pilot communities for Main Street Small Towns were
Mocksville, Southport, and Spruce Pine. Swansboro may consider participation in the
' pilot program. The following summarizes the program eligibility requirements for the
Main Street Small Town program:
' Eligibility Requirements
The community must have:
' 1. A certified population of less than 5,000 (1990 figures reported by the N.C.
Department of Administration).
' 2. A core group of individuals (taskforce, committee, etc.) or an established organization
that is committed to coordinating the downtown program.
I
3. The ability to fund a local part-time program manager for at least three years
(including salary, training, travel, etc.)
I
4. The ability to fund a resource team community evaluation. The community shall
budget $3,000 for this one-time expense.
' Selection Criteria
Selection to the North Carolina Main Street program is predicated upon an understanding and
a basic acceptance of the Main Street four -point approach, and a commitment to long-term,
' incremental revitalization. Additional criteria include:
1. Interest and commitment of private and governmental sources, both organizationally
' and financially.
2. Evidence of interest --past and present --in economic development efforts, specifically
downtown.
3. Indications of private or public reinvestment in downtown within the last five years
or intent to do so in the near future.
4. Interest and commitment of city/county officials and professional staff.
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 59

5. Recognition of historic preservation as an economic development tool.
Presence of intact historical and architectural resources.
7. Presence of cultural resource features or special qualities.
8. The need for and value of this program to your community.
Funding Source: Participation in the program will require the commitment of both
public and private funds.
Action #2: Update Historic District Ordinance
The Town of Swansboro Historic District Ordinance (adopted May, 1993) shall be
updated and improved. The review/update will specifically include actions to address
the following:
► Maintaining the quaintness and flavor of the CBD/HD.
► Cluttered appearance of the CBD (i.e., overhead powerlines).
► Maintaining the area's character including historic structures, the waterfront
district, and compact scale compatible with pedestrians.
► Preservation of the town's rich and diverse history.
► Preservation of the significant number of period historic structures.
► Preservation ofthe town's image as an old fishing village/waterfront mill town.
► New or refurbished structures and ground shall be required to maintain the
historic ambiance of the CBD.
► Expansion of the Historic District.
In addition to the update of the Historic District Ordinance, the Historic District
Commission shall have members added who have building design/construction
experience such as architects, contractors, planners, and landscape architects. The
Historic District Commission must fully protect the historic properties in the HD by
maintaining strict standards of compliance. These actions will be supplemented by an
educational program designed to make the public aware of the significance of the
town's history. The educational effort shall include, but not be limited to, the
preparation of brochures describing the town's history.
Funding Source: Funding of this activity will be requested from the North Carolina
Division of Archives and History and supported with local town funds. As detailed
later in this plan, grants are available on a 50/50 matching basis to assist in the
delineation of additional historic district areas.
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 60

Action #3: Capital Improvements Projects in CBD/HD
The following provides a list of capital improvement projects which are needed in the
Central Business District/Historic District (refer to Map 5 on page 36):
► Establishment of a Visitor's Center.
► Public off-street parking.
► Boating facilities accessible to the CBD including docks, moorings, and pump -
out facilities.
► Pedestrian amenities including sidewalks, benches, restrooms, drinking
fountains, gazebos, trash cans, etc. This shall include the replacement of
broken sidewalks and the installation of brick sidewalks throughout the
CBD/HD where appropriate.
► Signage to direct traffic to the CBD/HD.
► Installation of underground wiring.
Some of these capital improvements are addressed in other sections of this plan. For
example, the recreation/shoreline access plan will also address boating facilities. In
addition, these improvements shall be included in a capital improvements plan when
one is prepared by the Town of Swansboro.
Funding Source: Multiple sources of local, state, federal, and private funds will have
to be pursued. At the end of the central business district/historic district section is a
detailed action statement on potential funding sources.
Action #4: Waterfront Conservation and Development Plan Phase II
In 1993, the Town of Swansboro adopted a Waterfront Conservation and
Development Plan Phase II. Many of the recommendations contained in that plan are
supportive of the concepts set forth by the Central Business District/Historic District
committee. It is recommended that the Waterfront Conservation and Development
Plan Phase lI be incorporated into this comprehensive plan by reference. The plan
includes the following map.
The town shall develop a gathering point or focal point along the waterfront in the
Central Business District.
Funding Source: Potential funding is discussed under the action statement discussion
of funding for the CBD/HD.
Action #5: Walking Trail for CBD/HD
The Town of Swansboro shall establish a signed/marked walking trail for the CBD/HD.
The signage will identify significant historic structures and landmarks. A small
brochure/pamphlet will be prepared to accompany the tour.
Funding Source: Local public and private funds will have to be utilized to fund this
effort.
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 61
1

Action #6: Hazard Mitigation
The Town of Swansboro will prepare a detailed hazard mitigation plan. That plan shall
focus on actions which may be taken to mitigate (reduce risk) the damage which may
occur as the result of a natural disaster. In addition to reducing risk, a plan which is
prepared in response to the guidelines provided in Subpart M of the Federal Stafford
Act results in credit received in the Insurance Community Rating System (CRS). If a
plan is prepared and credit received, property owners in flood hazard areas will
receive reduced flood insurance premiums.
The plan will serve to guide Swansboro through its hazard problem(s) by disclosing
options for solving hazard -related problems and identifying the most appropriate
solutions. The basic planning steps shall include the following:
► Complete background studies: identify and analyze those hazards which affect
the planning area, complete an analysis of the probability of those hazards
occurring in the area, estimate the vulnerability of the area to those hazards,
and evaluate the capabilities of the area to effectively mitigate their impacts.
► Draw conclusions about the acceptability of the area's vulnerability to natural
hazards and actions that are currently being taken to mitigate the effects of
natural hazards which affect the area.
P. Develop goals and objectives for the hazard mitigation plan.
► Brainstorm alternative means to accomplish goals and objectives.
► Develop policies, programs, actions, and strategies to achieve those goals and
objectives.
► Adopt and implement the plan.
► Monitor the plan and continually evaluate its effectiveness and efficiency using
a series of indicators and benchmarks to gauge success.
► Revise and update the hazard mitigation plan at regular intervals.
Funding Source: The Town of Swansboro will prepare and submit an application for
funding to the North Carolina Division of Emergency Management.
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 62

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Town of Swansboro North Ca rolina
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part through a grant provided by the North
Carolina Coastal Management Program,
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is administered by the Office of Ocean and
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Page 63

1
11
11
Action #7: Funding Options
Securing funding is one of the most important steps to be taken to ensure
implementation of this comprehensive plan. Federal funding of extensive, multi-
faceted, complex CBD projects no longer exists. CBD efforts are forced to increasingly
look at local government and private resources as the primary sources of funding.
This section will discuss the funding resources available to Swansboro and its CBD
businesses and residences. Some of the sources may not be realistic options, but are
an effort to define the full range of options that may be available.
MUNICIPAL SERVICE DISTRICT
The Town of Swansboro shall investigate establishing a municipal service district
within the Central Business District (the historic district could be included). Such a
district may provide a vehicle for financing downtown revitalization projects. This is
allowed under N.C.G.S. Article 23, 160A-534, as amended. Within the municipal
service district, the town may levy additional taxes to finance specified improvements.
Within the Historic District/Downtown Business District, the approximate total 1999
tax value is $23,654,908. All funds generated must be spent within the district.
The following provides representative tax levies and the resultant income which would
be generated within the CBD. In addition, representative tax impacts on individual
properties are provided.
Potential
Tax District Revenues
Base
Rate Per
$100 Valuation
Income
.30
X
$236,549- _
$ 70,965
.40
X
$236,549 =
$ 94,620
.50
X
$236,549 =
$118,275
.60
X
$236,549 =
$141,929
.70
X
$236,549 =
$165,584
Example
Valuations
$100,000
$ 50,000
$ 35,000
Representative Tax Levy
1,000 X .70 =
X .50 =
X .30 =
500 X
.70
X
.50
X
.30
350 X
.70
X
.50
X
.30
Annual
Tax Income
$700
$500
$300
$350
$250
_ $150
$245
$175
_ $105
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 64

Example
Annual
Valuations
Tax Income
$ 25,000
250 X
.70
= $175
X
.50
= $125
X
.30
= $ 75
$ 15,000
150 X
.70
= $105
X
.50
= $ 75
X
.30
= $ 45
$ 10,000
100 X
.70
= $ 70
X
.50
= $ 50
X
.30
= $ 30
Revenues generated from a municipal tax district could be utilized to pay all or part
of the debt service on a bond issue to secure block funding for CBD and/or HD
improvements.
The following provides an example of possible loan amounts with the required annual
payments for debt service.
Bond Issue
Annual
Loan Rate Term Payment
$500,000 @ 8.5% 20 Years = $52,069
$400,000 @ 8.5% 20 Years = $41,655
$300,000 @ 8.5% 20 Years = $31,241
$200,000 @ 8.5% 20 Years = $20,827
Because of the expense associated with bond issuance, bonds are normally not
pursued for less than $400,000 to $500,000. A tax of $.30 would yield more than
sufficient annual revenues to retire a $500,000 bond. Any funds which might be
generated through a municipal service district would be utilized annually to make
minor improvements such as landscaping and street lighting. The town shall not
proceed with establishment of municipal service district withoutwidespread support
of the CBD and Historic District property owners.
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 65

NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) is responsible for
maintaining some roads within the town's planning jurisdiction. In addition, NCDOT
maintains a five-year Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) which prioritizes
needed highway improvements. Construction of a bypass to remove transient traffic,
in particular truck traffic, from the Swansboro CBD/HD is very much needed to lessen
congestion and improve safety in the CBD/HD. Long-term CBD revitalization will be
supported by improvement of the CBD's pedestrian environment.
Beautification projects are also funded by the DOT. The Intermodal Surface
Transportation EfficiencyAct of 1991, which reauthorized federal aid for highways and
public transit for fiscal years 1992 through 1997, provided funding for "transportation
enhancements." Enhancements include the following activities:
• Scenic easements, scenic sites, scenic highway programs, landscaping and
other scenic beautification.
• Preservation of abandoned railway corridors (including conversion and use for
pedestrian or bicycle trails).
' • Historic preservation; historic sites; historic highways program; rehabilitation
and operation of historic transportation buildings, structures or facilities
(including historic railroad facilities and canals).
' • Pedestrian and bicycle facilities.
• Control and removal of outdoor advertising.
• Archaeological planning and research.
• Mitigation of water pollution due to highway runoff.
' Enhancements in North Carolina are handled through the state's TIP process. The
town will contact the DOT and/or its DOT board member to discuss specific projects.
NORTH CAROLINA RURAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CENTER
The North Carolina Rural Economic Development Center has funds available for
supplemental grants and capacity grants. The available grant funds fluctuate annually.
The maximum per grant amounts are $100,000 for the supplemental program and
$40,000 for the capacity grant.
' The Rural Economic Development Center, as directed by the North Carolina General
Assembly, will provide supplemental grants to local governments and nonprofit
corporations in economically depressed areas of North Carolina. The center will make
funds available to match federal and other grants that support necessary economic
development projects and activities in these areas. All projects will be evaluated
relative to these guidelines, and selections will be based on need.
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 66

Applicants that address local economic development concerns will be considered for
funding by the Rural Center. Projects should have identified their primary funding
sources, and address one of the following program areas:
Community Development - which includes infrastructure facilities, industrial site
development, commercial revitalization, and housing;
Human Resources Development - which includes workforce training and education; or
Business Development - which includes research, technical assistance, and enterprise
sites.
Projects that improve water and sewer systems, upgrade training of the workforce, or
aid in job creation efforts will be given priority.
The purpose of the capacity grants is to enable local governments to acquire short-
term capacity for the planning and writing of federal grants that address immediate
economic development needs. Applicants will be evaluated relative to the established
guidelines, and selections will be based on need.
Applicants that have identified immediate economic development needs and can
establish a need for financial assistance will be considered for funding. In general,
established economic development needs will relate to one of the following program
areas:
Community Development - which includes infrastructure facilities, industrial site
development, commercial revitalization, and housing;
Human Resources Development -which includes workforce training and education; or
Business Development - which includes research, technical assistance, and enterprise
sites.
Applicants that target an immediate need to improve water or sewer systems, upgrade
the training of the workforce, or aid in job creation efforts will be given priority.
PRIVATE FUNDS
The Town of Swansboro needs to stimulate the investment of private funds in the
CBD/HD. A low interest loan pool shall be established by the local banks to provide
a source of loan funds available at the prime interest rate. The following provides a
general description of a possible low interest loan program. The specific details would
have to be resolved with the participating banks.
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 67 1

H
fl
Available Funds
The banks, if participating, will have to
define the amount of available funds.
Loan Amounts
It is recommended that the maximum loan
amount for any one loan be the amount of
money in the pool. In addition, it is
recommended that the minimum loan
amount be set at $15,000.
Interest Rate
The interest rate on each loan shall be the
prime rate as reported in the Wall Street
journal, as that rate may change from time
to time, adjusted on the date of each such
change, and calculated on the outstanding
principal balance on the basis of the actual
number of days elapsed over a 360-day year.
Applications must include:
• complete description of work to be paid
for with loan proceeds • cost estimates
• plans and specifications in form and detail
sufficient for building permit review,
prepared by a qualified builder or design
professional • an appraisal estimating
value of property when improved according
to project description, plans and
specifications • financial statements and
credit information normally required to
obtain a commercial real estate mortgage
loan • copies of any existing mortgages,
deeds of trust or other documents
evidencing a financial lien or encumbrance
on the property, together with a statement
of outstanding balances of such
encumbrances.
Initial review of all applications will be
made by the Town of Swansboro to assure
that the project is in the Swansboro
CBD/HD, and that it complies with the Town
of Swansboro zoning ordinance and all
other local, state and federal statutes. After
these determinations have been made, the
Town of Swansboro shall certify to the lead
bank that the applicant is eligible to apply
for a loan from the pool.
Origination Fee
The borrower will pay an origination fee of
% (to be set by the banks) and other
customary and normal charges of securing a
commercial loan. The fee will be paid to
, which has
agreed to be the lead bank and servicing
agent for the loan pool.
Loan Term
The principal amount of each loan shall be
payable to the servicing agent in equal
monthly installments calculated pursuant to
an amortization schedule of 15 years or less,
as deemed appropriate by the loan
committee.
Applying for a Loan
Any of the participating banks will accept
applications. All applications will be
processed by the servicing agent.
Loan Committee
All decisions with respect to loans shall be
made by the loan committee composed of
one representative from each participating
lender. All actions of the loan committee
require a unanimous vote of all loan
committee members. If the loan committee
approves a loan, the servicing agency shall
issue a commitment to the borrower stating
the terms and conditions of the loan. The
commitment will be open for 30 days.
Use of Loan Proceeds
Permitted expenditures are costs properly
incurred by the borrower after the issuance
of a formal commitment for a loan for the
acquisition, construction, repair,
enlargement, reconstruction, reconditioning
or rehabilitation of a "qualifying property"
meeting loan commitment criteria and
located in the Swansboro CBD/HD. Specific
permitted expenditures will include land,
existing buildings, labor and materials;
architectural, engineering and legal services,
including surveys, estimates, plans and
specifications, and supervision; bonds,
permits and closing costs; interest incurred
and paid during the period of construction
or rehabilitation; landscaping.
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 68

TOWN OF SWANSBORO LOCAL TAX REVENUES
The Town of Swansboro may utilize local tax revenues for a wide range of CBD/HD
improvements, including grants to individuals for the improvement of private
properties. Some communities have established facade incentive grant programs
which provide local tax revenues as an incentive to encourage property owners to
undertake building improvements. The following provides the details of an example
facade improvement program.
Purpose: Provide an economic incentive to:
Renovate store facades in Swansboro's CBD.
2. Encourage appropriate design projects which capitalize on the rehabilitation of
existing properties paired with the introduction of compatible new design.
3. Preserve unique historic character.
Eli ibility:
Any owner or tenant of a building, excluding those occupying tax exempt properties,
located within the Town of Swansboro CBD/HD.
Owners and tenants may request incentive grants separately; however, any tenant
must have the owner's written permission attached to the application.
3. The Town of Swansboro may award a second facade incentive grant if:
(a) at least five years have elapsed since the first grant was awarded and the
facade is in need of further improvement (i.e., repaint, new awning);
(b) the existing business undergoes significant expansion which requires
improvement to the facade (i.e., window replacement on upper stories); or
(c) a new business moves in and requires changes in the building's facade (i.e.,
new sign, new awning).
Guidelines:
1. The Secretary of the Interior's standards for rehabilitation will be used as guidelines
in making improvements to the facade of the structure. Swansboro will furnish these
guidelines to all qualified recipients.
2. Rehabilitation of qualified structures will be considered a contemporary solution
which respects the architectural integrity of the entire building front, retaining those
elements that enhance the aesthetic quality of the building.
3. All rehabilitation design proposals will meet all applicable building codes.
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 69 1

4. Any exterior renovation proposal, from an entire facade rehabilitation to replacement
of an inappropriate sign, is eligible for funding, but top priority will be given to
projects which will make a highly visible contribution to the commercial district.
Criteria: Grants are given on a matching basis with a maximum participation of to be
determined) per facade project as determined by the town.
Source of Funds: The Swansboro CBD/HD matching incentive grants are made possible
through an appropriation by the Swansboro Board of Commissioners.
Process for Receiving Grant:
1. A conference between the recipient and the Town of Swansboro is required during
which the recipient shall present a project proposal to the town. The town will
distribute grant application forms at the conclusion of this initial conference if the
recipient's proposal is within program guidelines.
The owner/tenant must complete application, including design plans or sketches and
owner's permission if necessary, and return to the Town of Swansboro.
3. Design plans and sketches must be approved by the Town of Swansboro.
4. Within thirty (30) days after submission of an application, a notification letter will be
sent to each applicant indicating whether the project has been accepted as described
in the application, accepted with conditions, or rejected.
5. A facade agreement must be signed by the recipient prior to commencement of work
on the project. Parties to the agreement will be the applicant and the town.
6. Upon project cancellation, copies of paid invoices and/or canceled checks must be
sent to the Town of Swansboro.
7. The Town of Swansboro shall inspect completed work and issue a grant check upon
completion of all work.
S. The project must be completed within six months after applicant has been notified
of the grant approval.
Because of limited fiscal resources, the Town of Swansboro will have to prioritize its
commitment of local tax dollars to CBD improvements. This prioritization shall be
accomplished in close coordination with both CBD/HD businesses and property
owners. A five-year program of CBD/HD improvement will be adopted. This funding
schedule will be updated each year with a new fifth year added. Even if funding is
limited, some improvements will be made each year. Progress, albeit slow, will be
accomplished each year.
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 70

RURAL TOURISM DEVELOPMENT GRANTS
Rural Tourism Development grants are available through the North Carolina
Department of Commerce. Funding varies from year to year depending upon the state
budget allocation. In addition, specific program guidelines are subject to change
annually. The following provides a summary of the fiscal year 1994-95 program:
1) Description of the Program - The Rural Tourism Development Grant Program was created
by the North Carolina General Assembly to enhance economic growth through tourism
development in the rural areas of the state. The program for fiscal year 1994-95 consisted of
a $400,000 fund intended "... to encourage the development of new tourism projects and
activities in rural areas of the state." For the purpose of this program, the Travel and Tourism
Division has adopted the definition of"Rural" established by North Carolina's Rural Economic
Development Center, specifically those counties having population densities of less than 200
persons per square mile. This includes 85 North Carolina counties, but specifically does not
include Cumberland, Gaston, Davidson, New Hanover, Guilford, Buncombe, Alamance, Rowan,
Cabarrus, Catawba, Forsyth, Mecklenburg, Durham, Orange, and Wake. Additional
consideration is given to more economically distressed rural counties. Proposed projects shall
be of a durable and lasting nature, visible in the community to inspire others to succeed, and
capable of generating measurable, verifiable, long-term economic growth through increased
tourism.
2) Purpose - The Rural Tourism Development Grant Program is designed to:
► Encourage the initiation and implementation of creative new tourism -related projects
and activities having the capacity to enhance long-term economic growth in North
Carolina's rural areas through increased travel activity;
► Encourage the implementation of cooperative regional tourism development projects
and activities, not exclusive of efforts within individual communities or among
communities within a given rural county;
► Provide funds through grants to destination marketing and non-profit organizations
for the development and recruitment of tourism businesses and attractions;
► Foster the development and growth of regional tourism marketing and development
organizations in rural areas of the state;
► Leverage funds from non -state sources for tourism development projects and
activities.
3) Eligibility - Any statutorily empowered tourism marketing/development agency, or legally
chartered non-profit North Carolina organization in a designated rural county that includes
tourism marketing and/or development among its major activities, may apply for funds under
this program. Documentation of legal status, tax exemption, and a federal identification
number is required with the application.
4) Maximum Grant Amount - No recipient or new tourism project received a total of more
than $25,000 of these grant funds for the 1994-95 fiscal year.
5) Matching Formulae - The matching formulae favors economic growth in the less affluent
areas of our state. Ranked on the basis of lowest per capita income, slowest population
growth, and highest unemployment, organizations in counties 1 through 20 will be required
to provide one non -state dollar for every four state dollars awarded. Those in counties 21-50
must provide one non -state dollar for every three state dollars, and in counties 51-85, one
non -state dollar will be required for each dollar received from the state.
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 71

6) Appropriate Uses of Grant Funds - Appropriate projects for which grant funds might be
used include:
► Research - marketing and other types of necessary research or studies upon which to
base a long-range, tourism -based economic development plan;
► Planning - needs assessment and implementation of a long-range, tourism -based
economic development plan;
► Capital Projects - equipment purchase, renovation or construction of facilities. Capital
uses are only permitted in support of program development, and expenditures for
office equipment may not exceed 25% of the total grant awarded;
► Training - development and presentation of hospitality, management, marketing,
and/or other types of tourism training programs to enhance long-term economic
growth by improving a community's competitive position;
► Technical Ass istance/Contractual Services - services provided by outside vendors under
contract that will result in enhanced long-term economic growth and the creation of
new jobs.
LAND AND WATER CONSERVATION FUND
The Land and Water Conservation Fund is administered for the U.S. Department of
Interior through the N.C. Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Division
of Parks and Recreation. This program makes funds available to local governments on
a matching basis for land acquisition and recreation facility improvements. This
program has provided numerous grants over the past years, but the amount of funds
available is limited and thus grant applications are very competitive. Grants have
normally ranged from $35,000 to $75,000.
CLEAN WATER MANAGEMENT TRUST FUND (CWMTF)
' Any of the following are eligible to receive a grant from CWMTF for the purpose of
protecting or enhancing water quality:
1
D
1. A State agency.
2. A local government or other political subdivision of the state or a combination
of such entities.
3. A non-profit corporation whose primary purpose is the conservation,
preservation, and restoration of our State's environmental and natural
resources.
No match is required; however, Trustees may choose to fund projects at less than
100% of the application request.
Grant monies from CWMTF may be used for any of the following purposes:
1. Acquire land for riparian buffers for environmental protection ofsurface waters
or urban drinking water supplies, or for establishing a network of greenways
for environmental, education, or recreational uses.
2. Acquire easements in order to protect surface waters or urban drinking water
supplies.
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 72

3. Coordinate with other public programs involved with lands adjoining water
bodies to gain the most public benefit while protecting and improving water
quality.
4. Restore degraded lands for their ability to protect water quality.
5. Repair failing waste treatment systems: if (a) an application to the Clean Water
Revolving Loan and Grant Fund has been submitted and denied in the latest
review cycle; (b) repair is for a reasonable remedy to an existing waste
treatment problem; and (c) the repair is not for the purpose of expanding the
system to accommodate future anticipated growth of a community. Priority
shall be given to economically distressed units of local government.
6. Repair/eliminate failing septic tank systems, to eliminate illegal drainage
connections, and to expand waste treatment systems if the system is being
expanded as a remedy to eliminate failing septic tank systems or illegal
drainage connections. Priority shall be given to economically distressed units
of local government.
7. Improve stormwater controls and management.
8. Facilitate planning that targets reductions in surface water pollution.
PARKS AND RECREATION TRUST FUND (PARTF)
In 1993, the General Assembly established PARTF to provide funding for the state
parks system, local park and recreation projects, and coastal beach/estuarine access
projects. The Parks and Recreation Authority directs expenditure of the funds.
Thirty percent of the trust fund is used for matching grants to local governments for
public park and recreation development, renovation, and/or land acquisition.
Counties and incorporated municipalities are the only eligible applicants and must
possess long-term control of the subject property. School administrative units may
jointly apply with either an incorporated city or county.
Approximately $6 million will be available for local projects during fiscal year 1998-
1999, with $250,000 maximum on individual grants. Applicants must make a dollar -
for -dollar commitment of local revenue to match state funds received under the
program.
VII. CONCLUSION
For a town the size of Swansboro, this is a complex and complicated plan. However, the town
has expressed a determination to confront a number of issues head-on. Implementation will
require the continued support of the Planning Board, Board of Commissioners, and interested
citizens. The Comprehensive Plan will be reviewed at least once every five years and amended
as necessary. Specific costs have not been included for capital improvements because the
details of final design and location have not been determined.
Town of Swansboro Comprehensive Plan Page 73