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Home My WebLink About1996 CAMA Land Use Plan-19971996 CAMA Land Use Plan Town of Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina Adopted May 8, 1997 7 ® Certified by the Coastal Resources commissio May 30, 1997 7 Town of Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina 1996 CAMA LAND USE PLAN BOARD OF ALDERMEN Herbert P. McKim, Mayor Roy A. Sandlin, Mayor Pro Tern Edward J. Miastkowski Robert A. O'Quinn Avery Roberts, Jr. PLANNING BOARD Barry Mowbray, Chairman Peggy Gentry, Vice -Chairman David Cignotti Leon Stein Susan Watson Pat Woodard Gene Wyke TOWN STAFF Tony Caudle, Town Manager Ed Taylor, Assistant to the Town Manager Sylvia Holleman, Secretary CONSULTANT Glenn Harbeck Associates Community Planning and Public Involvement 5607 Keswick Court Wilmington, North Carolina 28409 STATE REPRESENTATIVES Zoe Bruner, District Planner Courtney Hackney, Ph. D., CRC Representative 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. I Contents 1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY........................................................................1.1 1.1 Summary of Local Land Use Issues...............................................1-1 1.2 Policv Statements.....................................................................1-2 1.3 The Land Classification System at Wrightsville Beach ..................... 1-11 2. INTRODUCTION.................................................................................2-1 2.1 Why prepare a CAMA Land Use Plan?...........................................2-1 2.2 Functions of the Land Use Plan...................................................2-1 3. GOALS AND OBJECTIVES...................................................................3-1 3.1 Community Vision......................................................................3-1 3.2 Objectives. ..3-1 4. SUMMARY OF DATA COLLECTION and ANALYSIS...................................4-1 4.1 Establishment of Information Base................................................4-1 4.2 Some Findings from the Technical Studies.....................................4-2 4.3 For Further Information ...................... 4-3 5. PRESENT CONDITIONS.......................................................................5.1 5.1 Present Population and Economy.................................................5-1 5.1.1 Population and Housing.........................................................................................5-1 6.1.2 Local Economy......................................................................................................5-5 5.1.3 Impact of Seasonal Population................................................................................5-6 5.2 Existing Land and Water Uses......................................................5-7 5.2.1 Existing Land Uses Mapped...................................................................................5-7 5.2.2 Existing Building Heights Mapped...........................................................................5-8 5.2.3 Existing Water Conditions Mapped..........................................................................5-8 5.3 Current Plans, Policies and Regulations........................................5-9 5.3.1 Plans and Policies..................................................................................................5-9 5.3.2 Current Land Use Regulations..............................................................................5-11 5.3.3 Relationship to Land Use Plan..............................................................................5-12 6. CONSTRAINTS..................................................................................6-1 6.1 Land Suitability.........................................................................6-1 6.1.1 Physical Limitations for Development .. 6-1 (a) Hazard Areas ............... ..................................................................... (b) Areas with Soil Limitations.................................................................................6-1 (c) Water Supply Areas.........................................................................................6-2 (d) Areas with Slopes Exceeding 12%....................................................................6-2 (a) Shoreline Areas with High Erosion Potential......................................................6-2 (f) Small Watersheds Draining Into Special Waters..................................................6-2 6.1.2 Fragile Areas.........................................................................................................6-3 6.1.3 Areas with Resource Potential................................................................................6-3 1 6.2 Community Facilities and Services Capacity....................................6-3 6.2.1 Wastewater Management.......................................................................................6-3 6.2.2 Drinking Water Supply............................................................................................6-4 6.2.3 Transportation.......................................................................................................6-7 6.2.4 Schools.................................................................................................................6-9 6.2.5 Solid Waste Disposal............................................................................................6-10 6.2.6 Police Protection.................................................................................................6-10 6.2.7 Fire Protection and Emergency Medical Services...................................................6-11 6.2.8 Parks and Recreational Facilities ....................... 6-12 6.2.9 Public Administrative Capability.............................................................................6-12 L Contents Continued 8 ESTIMATEDDEMAND.........................................................................7-1 7.1 Population and Economic Projections...........................................7-1 7.2 Future Land Use Needs..........................................:...................7-2 7.3 Demand for Community Facilities and Services................................7-2 POLICYSTATEMENTS........................................................................8-1 Introduction to the Policies..................................................................8-1 Policy Format.....................................................................................8-1 8.0 General Vision Policy for Next Ten Years.......................................8-2 8.1 Resource Protection Policies......................................................8-2 8.1.0 Basic Policy Statement Regarding Resource Protection...........................................8-2 8.1.1 Constraints to Development...................................................................................8-2 A. Appropriate, Corrective Drainage Improvements................................................8-3 B. Application of Federal, State and Local Controls.................................................8-3 C. Development in 100 Year Floodplain.................................................................8-3 8.1.2 Areas of Environmental Concern .............................................................................8-3 A. Coastal Wetlands.............................................................................................8-3 B. Estuarine Waters..............................................................................................8-4 C. Public Trust Waters..........................................................................................8-5 D. Estuarine Shorelines........................................................................................8-5 E. Ocean Hazard Areas......................................................................................... 8-6 8.1.3 Turtle Nesting Areas...............................................................................................8-7 8.1.4 Other Hazardous or Fragile Areas............................................................................8-8 A. Other Wetlands................................................................................................8-8 B. Maritime Forest and Tree Cover......................................................................... 8-8 C. Outstanding Resource Waters..........................................................................8-8 D. Shellfishing Waters..........................................................................................8-8 E. Water Supply Areas and Other Waters with Special Values..................................8-9 F. Cultural and Historic Resources......................................................................... 8-9 G. Man -Made Hazards...........................................................................................8.9 8.1.5 Protection of Potable Water Supply.........................................................................8-9 8.1.6 Package Sewage Treatment Plants.......................................................................8-10 8.1.7 Storm Water Runoff..............................................................................................B-10 8.1.8 Marinas, Floating Home Development, Moorings and Mooring Fields, Dry Stack ......8-10 A. Marinas, Wetslips...........................................................................................8-11 B. Floating Home Development..........................................................................8-1 1 C. Moorings and Mooring Fields..........................................................................8-11 D. Dry Stack Storage..........................................................................................8-11 E. Commercial Fishing Dockage..........................................................................8-12 F. Vessels for Hire, Charier Boats, and Cruise Ships.............................................8-12 8.1.9 Industrial Impacts On Fragile Areas........................................................................8-12 8.1.10 Development of Sound and Estuarine System Islands............................................8-12 8.1.11 Development Within Areas That Might be Susceptible to Sea Level Rise.................8-12 8.1.12 Upland Excavation for Marina Basins......................................................................8-13 8.1.13 Marsh Damage From Bulkhead Installation.............................................................B-13 8.1.14 Water Quality Problems and Management Measures Designed to Address Them ....8-13 8.2 Resource Production and Management Policies............................8-13 8.2.0 Basic Policy Statement Regarding Resource Production and Management.............8-14 8.2.1 Productive Agricultural Lands...............................................................................8-14 8.2.2 Commercial Forest Lands.....................................................................................B-14 8.2.3 Mineral Production Areas —Existing and Potential..................................................B-14 8.2.4 Fisheries Resources............................................................................................B-14 8.2.5 Off Road Vehicles................................................................................................B-14 8.2.6 Development Impacts...........................................................................................8-15 Contents Page 2 I Contents Continued I I I I I I I J I i I D I LI 8.3 Economic and Community Development Policies ...........................8-15 8.3.0 Basic Policy Statement Regarding Economic & Community Development ...............8-15 A. Growth of Town's Jurisdiction..........................................................................8-16 B. Population Increases......................................................................................8-16 C. Types of Development to be Encouraged.......................................................B-16 D. Density of Development.................................................................................B-16 E. Building Standards, Generally.........................................................................B-16 F. Building Height..............................................................................................8-16 8.3.1 Industries Desired and Local Assets Desirable to Such Industries ............................ 8-16 . 8.3.2 Provision of Services to Development, Generally ................................................... 8-1 6 A. Potable Water Supply.....................................................................................8-17 B. Wastewater Treatment and Disposal................................................................8-17 C. Solid Waste Disposal......................................................................................8-17 8.3.3 Urban Growth Pattern Desired...............................................................................8-17 8.3.4 Types of Residential Development Desired...........................................................8-17 8.3.5 Types of Commercial Development Desired...........................................................8-18 8.3.6 Redevelopment, Including Relocation of Threatened Structures............................8-19 8.3.7 Commitment to State and Federal Programs..........................................................8-19 8.3.8 Channel Maintenance, Including Interstate Waterways, and Beach Nourishment ...... B-19 A. Assistance to Channel Maintenance, Including Interstate Waterways ................. 8-2 0 B. Assistance to Beach Renourishment...............................................................B-20 C. Beach Hardening...........................................................................................B-20 D. Soundside Bulkheads....................................................................................8-20 8.3.9 Energy Facility Siting and Development.................................................................8-20 8.3.10 Tourism..............................................................................................................8-21 8.3.11 Public Beach and Waterfront Access.....................................................................8-21 A. Beach and Waterfront Access.........................................................................8-22 B. Soundside Waterfront Access........................................................................8-22 8.3.12 Parks and Recreation...........................................................................................8-22 8.3.13 Downtown Area...................................................................................................B-23 8.3.14 Community Appearance ............................ ...........................................................8-23 A. Neighborhood Character and Preservation......................................................8-23 B. Scenic Views and Vistas.................................................................................8-23 C. Historic Preservation......................................................................................B-24 D. Undergrounding of Utilities.............................................................................8-24 8.3.15 Transportation, Traffic and Parking........................................................................8-24 A. Transportation Planning Generally...................................................................8-24 B. Public Transportation.....................................................................................8-24 C. High Rise Bridge............................................................................................8-25 D. Pedestrian and Bicycle Traffic.........................................................................8-25 E. Keel Street Intersection..................................................................................8-25 F. Parking .................................... 8-26 8.3.16 The Wrightsville Sound Area.................................................................................8-26 8.4. Continuing Public Participation Policies ...................................... B-27 8.4.0 Basic Policy Statement Regarding Continuing Public Participation ..........................8-27 8.4.1 Land Use Plan Update Process.............................................................................8-27 8.4.2 Ongoing Public Participation.................................................................................B-27 8.4.3 Neighborhood Planning.......................................................................................B-27 8.5 Storm Hazard Mitigation, Post -Disaster Recovery & Evacuation Plans8-28 8.5.0 Description of Storm Hazard Risk and Basic Policy Statement..................................8-28 A. Storm Effects.................................................................................................B-28 B. Hazard Areas Mapped....................................................................................B-28 C. Existing Development At Risk.........................................................................B-28 I Contents Page 3 Contents Continued 8.5.1 Storm Hazard Mitigation Policies............................................................................8.29 A. Storm Effect Mitigation...................................................................................8-29 B. Discouragement of Hazardous Development...................................................8.29 C. Public Land Acquisition..................................................................................B-29 D. Evacuation....................................................................................................8-30 8.5.2 Post Disaster Reconstruction Policies...................................................................8-30 A. Emergency Management Plan........................................................................8-30 B. Local Reconstruction Policies.........................................................................B-30 C. Recovery Task Force......................................................................................8-30 D. Staging Schedule for Reconstruction and Repair.............................................8-31 E. Public Infrastructure Repairs and Replacement................................................B-31 D. LAND CLASSIFICATION.......................................................................9-1 9.1 Purpose of Land Classification and Relationship to Policies..............9-1 9.2 The Land Classification System at Wrightsville Beach..............................9-1 9.3 The Land Classification Map........................................................9-1 9.4 Developed Areas (Neighborhood Planning Areas)...........................9-2 9.4.1 Central Beach Area................................................................................................9-2 9.4.2 The North End.......................................................................................................9-2 9.4.3 The PanneleArea ..................................................................................................9-3 9.4.4 The Waynick Boulevard -South Lumina Area............................................................9-3 9.4.5 The South End......................................................................................................9-4 9.4.6 Old Harbor Island....................................................................................................9-5 9.4.7 Pelican Drive, Lees Cut, Channel Walk & Lookout Harbor.........................................9-5 9.4.8 Causeway Drive/Marinas Area.................................................................................9-6 9.4.9 Town Government and Parks Area..........................................................................9-7 9.4.10 The Mainland/Wrightsville Sound Area....................................................................9-7 9.5 Conservation Areas.......................................................................9-8 10. INTERGOVERNMENTAL COORDINATION and IMPLEMENTATION ..............10-1 10.1 Uses of the Land Use Plan........................................................10.1 10.2 Coordination with Other Governmental Jurisdictions ......................10-1 11. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PLAN AND PROCESS......................................11-1 11.1 Public Participation Plan..............................................................................11-1 11.2 Public Involvement Process......................................................11-1 11.3 Summary of Meetings Held During Planning Process ......................11-4 12. APPENDICES ..............................................................................................................12-1 12.1 Evaluation of Effectiveness of Previous Land Use Plan..................12-1 12.2 Sources and Locations of More Detailed Information ......................12-2 12.3 Action Agenda For the Wrightsville Beach Land use Plan.....................12-2 Contents Page 4 I Executive Summary l_ I I I IJ I I LJ 1 I i Ll 1. Executive Summary This executive summary consists of three parts: 1.1 Summary of Local Land Use Issues A summary of some of the salient issues being faced by the Town at the present time and anticipated to be an on -going concern over the coming months or years. 1.2 Policy Statements The Town's officially adopted positions and statements of principle concerning growth and development issues at Wrightsville Beach. 1.3 The Land Classification System A method for translating the Town's growth and development policies to specific parts of the community, recognizing that not all parts of the Town are alike. Each element of the Executive Summary will now be presented in turn. 1.1 Summary of Local Land Use Issues Unlike many other communities, which can grow and expand their borders, the Town of Wrightsville Beach has a finite land base within which to operate. For all intents and purposes, the Town is essentially developed. As Wrightsville Beach approaches the year 2000, however, the Town is entering a significant new redevelopment phase which promises to be no less significant, in terms of its potential impact, than the initial development of the community. This land use plan addresses several emerging development trends at Wrightsville Beach, which the reader will observe, are interrelated. Among the most critical issues facing the community today are: • The Advent of the Massive Single Family Residence. Some owners of older beach cottages are seeking to "max out" the development potential allowed on their lot under the Town's zoning ordinance. As the value of land at Wrightsville Beach has continued to escalate during the 1970's, 80's and 90's, these older era beach cottages are being replaced with larger and more massive residential structures. These new structures are being built out to the maximum building set backs and building heights allowed under the ordinance. They are oftentimes not compatible in terms of building scale and height with nearby structures. They also place demands on municipal services far greater than the much smaller "beach cottages' they replace. Traffic generated, parking demand created, fire protection needed, solid waste produced, water consumed, and sewage volumes generated may all be dramatically Increased by these very large structures. Stormwater runoff into the sound is also increased by the larger building footprints and areas of Impervious surface. This plan recommends that all structures, regardless of their single family or multi -family label, be treated by Town ordinances according to their anticipated impacts on the neighborhood in which they locate and on the service demands they create. • Continued Pressure for Multi -Family Residential Even with the advent of massive single family structures, demand for higher density development on ever more expensive real estate is pushing continued pressure for more multi -family development. For many of the same reasons outlined above (traffic, parking, water consumption, solid waste disposal, and storm water runoff, etc.) the Town wishes to discourage additional multi- family development at Wrightsville Beach. • The Wailing Off of the Waterfront As structures grow ever larger to consume the permissible building envelope, views to the water, which were once available at regular intervals throughout the island community, are gradually disappearing. A casual walk or bike ride down many streets at Wrightsville Beach no longer yield Ithe frequent glimpses of the sound or waterway. Instead, the walker is more apt to see the flat Page 1-1 Executive Summary door of an enclosed garage or a privacy fence walling off the side yard between two structures. This plan seeks to preserve views and vistas to the water whenever possible and discourages the construction of structures (wall to wall on a lot) which would contribute to the further visual walling off of the water's edge. • Potential loss of the community's commercial services base, including the downtown area. Current development pressures are working toward the displacement of the Town's existing commercial services base by residential development. There are two primary factors working together to create this displacement pressure. First, as the Wilmington -New Hanover urban area has expanded rapidly eastward during the 1980' and 90's, many of the Town's citizens have elected to reside at Wrightsville Beach but work and shop elsewhere in the County. As a result, demand for residential units at Wrightsville Beach is outstripping demand for virtually every other form of development, including commercial. Second, the emergence of the Wrightsville Sound area as a commercial service center for the eastern side of the County has provided a new, relatively convenient service base for Wrightsville Beach residents and visitors. Stores and services on the mainland are typically larger and have larger inventories. They may also have lower ground rents, on average, than businesses at the beach. These emerging trends are not intended, by any means, to represent the full range of issues confronting the Town of Wrightsville Beach. They are indicative, however, of a community caught in a wave of rapid change, brought about by tremendous regional growth, and heightened by enormous demand for resort living in the midst of an otherwise mainstream urban area. The growth management decisions necessary to positively direct this change are not monumental, but they will require deliberate, focused attention and many hard decisions. The policies which follow are intended to help guide those decisions. 1.2 Policy Statements OVERALL COMMUNITY VISION Policy 8.0 General Vision Policy for Next Ten Years We, the residents, business, 8 property owners of the Town of Wrightsville Beach, shall seek to maintain and enhance our community as one of the finest family oriented beach towns on the east coast of the United States. To do so will require diligence in working to retain the small town character and quality of the natural and man-made environment that has become the basis for our quality of life at Wrightsville Beach, and which makes our community such a desirable place for both visitors and residents alike. RESOURCE PROTECTION POLICIES Policy 8.1.0 Basic Policy Statement Regarding Resource Protection The natural and scenic resources of Wrightsville Beach are the reason for our existence and attractiveness as a community, for the value of our properties, and for the quality of our lives. It shall be the policy of Town to take no action nor approve any action, in singular or cumulative effect, which would jeopardize the long term viability of our natural and scenic resources. Furthermore, actions should have the effect of protecting and enhancing the quality of such resources whenever possible. Policy 8.1.1 A Appropriate, Corrective Drainage Improvements Development will not be allowed where poor drainage or seasonal flooding exists unless appropriate corrective improvements are to be completed as part of the project. Appropriate corrective improvements shall be defined as those which solve the drainage problem without increasing stormwater runoff on adjacent properties or in area waters, whether directly or indirectly. Policy 8.1.1 B Application of Federal, State, and Local Controls Allowable land uses in areas posing physical constraints should be only those approved through, where applicable, the Division of Coastal Management (CAMA), the Army Corps of Engineers '404' permitting processes, the Town's Zoning and Pierhead Line Ordinances, and the Town Dune Maintenance and Protection Plan. Page 1-2 IExecutive Summary Policy 8.1.1 C Development in the 100 Year Fioodplain Development shall be permissible in the 100-year flood zone, provided that all new construction and I substantial improvements comply strictly with CAMA regulations and the Town's Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance. Policy 8.1.2 Areas Of Environmental Concern The Town will support and enforce, through its CAMA Minor Permitting capacity, the State policies and permitted uses in the Areas of Environmental Concern (AEC's). Such uses shall be in accord with the general use standards for coastal wetlands, estuarine waters, estuarine shorelines, and public trust areas as stated in 15A NCAC Subchapter 7H. ' Policy 8.1.2 A Coastal Wetlands Due to the critical role that wetlands play in protecting the quality of estuarine waters and in providing habitat for fish and wildlife, the Town strongly supports the designation and preservation of all remaining coastal wetlands. Acceptable land uses may include utility easements, fishing piers, and docks. Examples of uses UQZ permitted include restaurants, businesses, residences, apartments, motels, hotels, parking lots, private roads, and highways. Policy 8.1.2 B Estuarine Waters (1) Appropriate uses within estuarine waters may Include simple access channels, structures which prevent erosion, navigational channels, private boat docks, marinas, piers, and mooring pilings. ' Expansion or construction of new marinas Is discouraged. Piers and docks for non -water dependent commercial uses are also discouraged. (2) Any development or activity which will profoundly and adversely affect coastal and estuarine waters will not be allowed. In the design, construction and operation of water dependent structures, efforts must be made to mitigate negative effects on water quality and fish habitat, as determined by NCAC 15A Subchapter 7H and the Coastal Resources Commission. The developer and/or owner will bear the cost of any required mitigation. Policy 8.1.2 C Public Trust Areas (1) Any use which significantly interferes with the public right of navigation or other public trust rights shall be strongly discouraged. Projects which would directly or indirectly block or impair existing navigational ' channels, increase shoreline erosion, deposit spoils below mean high water, cause adverse water circulation patterns, violate water quality standards, or cause degradation of shellfish waters shall be prohibited. (2) The Town shall seek to ensure the responsible use of jet skis and other similar "personal" watercraft within the public trust waters of Wrightsville Beach. Responsible use shall mean controlled, predictable movements similar to other powered watercraft while in navigation channels, marinas, and other regularly trafficked areas, and their prohibition in marshes and other shallow water estuaries, where damage to the ' resource is likely. (3) CAMA standards designed to limit the length of docks and piers as they project into public trust waters shall be considered the minimum standards, with the Town reserving the right to be more restrictive where public trust waters use and environmental protection issues warrant. Policy 8.1.2 D Estuarine Shorelines Marina development or expansion is discouraged along estuarine shorelines. However, residential, recreational, research and educational, and commercial land uses are all appropriate types of use along the estuarine shoreline, provided that all standards of NCAC 15 Subchapter 7H relevant to estuarine shoreline AEC's are met, and that the proposed use is consistent with policies set forth in this Plan. Policy 8.1.2 E Ocean Hazard Areas (1) The Town supports state policies for ocean hazard areas as set forth in Chapter 15A, Subchapter 7H of the state CAMA regulations. Suitable land uses In ocean hazard areas Include ocean shoreline erosion control activities and dune establishment and stabilization. Residential, commercial, and recreational land uses and parking lots for beach access are also acceptable types of use in ocean hazard areas, provided that they meet all general and specific use standards of 15A: 7H. (2) The Town supports the policies and regulations of State and Federal permitting agencies concerning the development of ocean piers, and shall encourage the proper maintenance and safety of such piers. Page 1-3 Executive Summary Policy 8.1.3 Turtle Nesting Areas The Town shall avoid undertaking any activity or approving of any activity which would destroy remaining habitat for loggerhead turtle nesting. Policy 8.1.4 A Other Wetlands The Town supports the designation and preservation of all wetlands. POLICY 8.1.4 B Maritime Forests and Tree Cover Tree cover at Wrightsville Beach, whether maritime or otherwise, is a highly valued asset. The Town encourages efforts to preserve existing tree cover in new development and redevelopment. Policy 8.1.4 C Outstanding Resource Water Areas The Town supports and encourages the designation and preservation of Outstanding Resource Waters. The Town promotes surface water quality through its storm drainage and stormwater runoff policies. Policy 8.1.4 D Shellfishing Waters The Town supports and encourages the activities of the State's Shellfish Management Program. The Town promotes estuarine water quality through its storm drainage planning and stormwater runoff policies. Policy 8.1.4 E Water Supply Areas and Other Waters with Special Values The Town encourages regional efforts to protect the water quality of the Castle Hayne aquifer and the Cape Fear River as sources of potable water. Policy 8.1.4 F Cultural and Historic Resources The Town encourages the preservation of its older, potentially historic structures, both commercial and residential Policy 8.1.5 Protection Of Potable Water Supply The Town's groundwater resources shall be conserved for longevity through proper management of its system of wells, and by the encouragement of water conservation practices, Including measures which can be taken in construction of all new structures. Policy 8.1.6 Package Sewage Treatment Plants All new developments are required to connect to the Town's central sewer system. Package sewage treatment plants and septic systems are not allowed. Policy 8.1.7 Storm Water Runoff The Town encourages the use of "best management practices' to minimize the release of pollutants to coastal waters through stormwater runoff. Examples include using pervious or semi -pervious materials, such as turfstone or gravel for driveways and walks, retaining natural vegetation along marsh and waterfront areas to retain its natural filtering properties, and allowing stormwater to percolate into the ground rather than discharging it directly to coastal waters. (Note: As policy, the Town will continue to require that the first 4" of rainwater in a 24 hour period be retained on site for all new developments.) Policy 8.1.8 A Marinas, Wetsiips The Town will discourage the expansion and/or intensification of existing marinas and the development of additional marinas, including upland marinas in excavated basins. Policy 8.1.6 B Floating Home Development Due to the limited amount of public trust waters surrounding Wrightsville Beach and the heavy use of those waters by the public, the Town shall not allow the effective "permanent consumption' of public trust waters by floating homes. Policy 8.1.8 C Moorings and Mooring Fields Additional freestanding moorings of any kind shall not be allowed within the public trust waters of Wrightsville Beach. Page 1-4 Executive Summary rPolicy 8.1.8 D Dry Stack Storage While dry storage of boats by individual owners is preferred over wet slip storage, the Town shall discourage the expansion and development of additional dry stack storage facilities. Policy 8.1.8 E Commercial Fishing Dockage Commercial fisheries vessel dockage at currently used commercial facilities along the soundside waterfront is acceptable. Policy 8.1.8 F Vessels for Hire, Charter Boats and Cruise Ship Dockage Vessels for hire and charter boats/cruise ships shall only be allowed In conjunction with existing marinas ' and shall not cause an expansion in the amount of surface water consumed or parking demand generated. Smaller charter and cruise ships shall be preferred over larger. Policy 8.1.9 Industrial Impacts On Fragile Areas ' Industrial development of any kind is incompatible with the overall land use pattern, economy, and quality of life at Wrightsville Beach. Therefore, no impact on fragile areas is expected nor will it be allowed. ' Policy 8.1.10 Development Of Sound And Estuarine System Islands All estuarine sound islands and spoil islands are subject to conservation (P-1) provisions. The Town also supports all county and state efforts to preserve Masonboro Island. ' Policy 8.1.11 Development Within Areas That Might Be Susceptible To Sea Level Rise The Town will encourage appropriate agencies of the State and Federal government to monitor research on sea level rise and its theoretical effect on coastal areas. The Town will consider any state and federal policies formulated prior to formulating specific policies regarding sea level rise; specifically, development' ' within areas up to 5 feet above sea level which may be susceptible to sea level rise and wetland loss. Policy 8.1.12 Upland Excavation For Marina Basins The Town will discourage the expansion of existing marinas and the development of additional marinas, including upland marinas in excavated basins. Policy 8.1.13 Marsh Damage From Bulkhead Installation ' The Town urges proper maintenance of existing bulkheads and seawalls for health, safety and aesthetic reasons. The Town shall not allow marshes or beach areas to be damaged by the installation of new bulkheads, groins or seawalls. Policy 8.1.14 Water Quality Problems and Management Measures The Town shall continue to seek improved marina management and stormwater runoff standards which will protect and enhance the water quality of the estuarine system. RESOURCE PRODUCTION AND MANAGEMENT POLICIES Policy 8.2.0 Basic Policy Statement Regarding Resource Production and Management Wrightsville Beach is located in the midst of one of the most biologically productive ecosystems on earth — estuarine waters and marshes. The Town shall take no action nor approve of any action which would seriously harm the long term viability and productivity of this ecosystem. Policy 8.2.1 Productive Agricultural Lands (Not applicable) Policy 8.2.2 Commercial Forest Lands (Not applicable) Policy 8.2.3 Mineral Production Areas —Existing and Potential Mineral production and extraction activities of any kind shall not be permitted within the planning jurisdiction of Wrightsville Beach. This shall not preclude removal of sand deposits for beach nourishment. I IPage 1-5 Executive Summary Policy 8.2.4, Fisheries Resources (Commercial and Recreational) (1) The Town supports projects which increase productivity of coastal and estuarine waters. Projects such as oyster reseeding programs and properly constructed artificial reef construction will be supported in the future. (2) The Town supports the "Big Sweep" beach cleanup program and all other similar efforts to enhance the cleanliness of the natural environment. (3) The Town supports the NC Division of Marine Fisheries and the Division of Coastal Management in their development of regulations and policies, including those on trawling and gill netting in ocean and estuarine waters, activities in primary nursery areas (PNA's), and activities in outstanding resource waters (ORW's). Policy 8.2.5 Off Road Vehicles Off -road vehicles (with the exception of emergency vehicles) are not allowed outside public right of ways at Wrightsville Beach. Policy 8.2.6 Development Impacts New development and redevelopment activities shall not be permitted which would act to degrade the quality of natural and scenic resources at Wrightsville Beach. ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT POLICIES Policy 8.3.0 Basic Policy Statement Regarding Economic & Community Growth & Development Wrightsville Beach shall measure "progress" in terms of a continual refinement and enhancement of existing development forms and services. This shall be viewed in contrast with the undesirable wholesale displacement of existing development by larger, more intensive developments. Policy 8.3.0 A Growth of Town's Jurisdiction Expansion of the Town's ETJ and/or corporate limits on the mainland/Wrightsville Sound area shall not be supported. Policy 8.3.0 B Population Increases The Town shall discourage large incremental amounts of growth and development and large increases in population. Policy 8.3.0 C Types of Development to be Encouraged The Town will encourage single family and duplex residences, appropriate neighborhood -oriented and local businesses, and parks and natural areas. Policy 8.3.0 D Density of Development The Town will consider reducing the maximum density limits of its zoning ordinance for future development and redevelopment. The Town will also consider maximum size limitations for multifamily and commercial structures. Policy 8.3.0 E Building Standards, Generally The Town shall support refinements in building standards throughout the community to reflect the unique characteristics of different areas of Wrightsville Beach, including but not limited to: height, setbacks, lot coverage, and floor area ratios. Policy 8.3.0 F Building Height The Town will not increase the Town's present building height limitation of, "not to exceed 40 feet" in all residential (and all but one commercial) district(s). This maximum height may be reduced in neighborhoods where the prevailing building height of existing structures Is less than 40 feet. Maximum building height shall be measured from the average ground plane of the lot, rather than from the nearest fire hydrant. Policy 8.3.1 Industries Desired and Local Assets Desirable to Such Industries "Industry" in the traditional manufacturing/ processing/ production sense will not be allowed at Wrightsville Beach. Page 1-6 Executive Summary Policy 8.3.2 Provision of Services to Development, Generally The Town will make all municipal facilities available to existing and future development/redevelopment, provided that such development is compatible with the growth and development objectives embodied in this land use plan. Connection to water and sewer lines will be at the expense of the developer. If water or sewer facility upgrades or expansions would be required for new development, the needed improvements would be at the expense of the developer. Policy 8.3.2 A Potable Water Supply The Town requires all new development to tie into its system for potable water supply and prohibits ' individual wells for potable use. The Town shall continue to take measures to ensure that the water supply system is adequate to meet the needs of Town residents and businesses. Policy 8.3.2 B Wastewater Treatment and Disposal All new developments are required to connect to the Town's central sewer system, which is connected, in turn, to the New Hanover County centralized sewer system. Package sewage treatment plants and septic systems are not allowed. ' Policy 8.3.2 C Solid Waste Disposal The Town supports measures to recycle and reduce the amount of solid waste generated by all permanent residents and businesses, as well as visitors to the Beach. ' Policy 8.3.3 Urban Growth Pattern Desired The Town shall support a small town growth pattern which reinforces the community s existing residential and commercial areas and protects the existing residential -commercial balance of the community. Policy 8.3.4 Types of Residential Development Desired The Town will not allow additional multi -family complexes and high-rise structures. Multi -unit complexes shall be limited to sites where they are presently located. New or expanded single family and duplex homes that are out of scale with other structures in their vicinity shall be discouraged. Policy 8.3.5 Types of Commercial Development Desired ' (1) The Town will encourage commercial establishments providing basic goods and services to year round residents and visitors. Examples include appropriately scaled and designed grocery stores, drug stores, sit down restaurants, etc. (2) Architectural character and signage which is not in keeping with a small town atmosphere shall be strongly discouraged. (3) To preserve the economic viability of the community's commercial/retail/service base, the Town shall consider mixed use ground floor commercial with upper floor residential on commercially zoned properties. (4) It Is the Town's policy to help preserve the basic service function provided by community businesses at Wrightsville Beach. The Town will carefully review proposals for the conversion of such existing commercial sites to any residential uses, including additional multi -family complexes, motels or high rise structures. Location of such multi -family complexes, motels, and high rise structures shall be encouraged on sites where they are presently located. Policy 8.3.6 Redevelopment, Including Relocation of Threatened Structures ' Relocation of structures endangered or damaged by wave action and/or shoreline erosion is encouraged. Redevelopment of damaged or destroyed structures will be permitted by the Town according to Town ordinances, provided all current building standards and CAMA requirements are met. Policy, 8.3.7 Commitment to State and Federal Programs The Town supports the State Coastal Area Management Act, the State's beach access program, State and Federal channel maintenance and inlet projects, beach renourishment, and bridge and road improvement programs. Page 1-7 Executive Summary Policy 8.3.8 A Assistance to Channel Maintenance, Including Interstate Waterways The Town supports State and Federal channel and inlet maintenance projects. All dredging and stabilization operations must be performed so as to minimize any damage to fish and wildlife habitat. When dredge material is suitable, the Town encourages such material to be used to nourish area beaches. Policy 8.3.8 B Assistance to Beach Nourishment The Town supports the application and designation of the local room tax in accordance with its original Intent— a minimum of 80% to provide a trust fund for beach renourishment projects, and a maximum of 20% to support tourism promotion and marketing efforts. Policy 8.3.8 C Beach Hardening The Town adheres to current CAMA policies and regulations concerning beach erosion control. Structures, including but not limited to bulkheads, rip rap, groins, or other similar features which act to harden the shoreline along the beach, shall not be permitted. Beach renourishment, retreat, or other 'non -hardening' measures shall be encouraged. Policy 8.3.8.1) Soundside Bulkheads The Town will encourage the appropriate construction and maintenance of estuarine bulkheads as necessary within the context of the CAMA regulations. Policy 8.3.9 Energy Facility Siting and Development The Town is opposed to offshore continental shelf drilling for oil and gas. The location of shoreside OCS facilities at or adjacent to Wrightsville Beach would be Inappropriate, is inconsistent with current zoning regulations, and would not be allowed within the Town's corporate limits. Policy 8.3.10 Tourism The Town of Wrightsville Beach shall welcome visitors to the area with a quality tourist experience within a year round beach community. Factors related to this policy include public safety, an atmosphere conducive to families, convenient services, a quality beach strand, and fishable, swimmable waters. Policy 8.3.11 A Beach and Waterfront Access (1) Public pedestrian access is limited to designated dune crossover access areas. The Town, through its CAMA minor permit program, may also allow the construction of individual over -the -dune structures for access to the beach at private access points. The intent of this policy is to encourage the construction and use of appropriately designed and located overdune structures to prevent destruction of the berm. (2) The Town shall continue to maintain and improve its existing public beach access facilities. (3) The Town will seek County and State funding assistance for waterfront and beach access projects and facilities. (4) To relieve congestion at the Wrightsville Beach boat ramp, the Town shall encourage City and County efforts to provide for boat ramp facilities on the mainland side of the Intracoastal waterway. (5) The Town shall encourage the conversion of public street ends into pedestrian friendly access points. Policy 8.3.11 B Soundside Waterfront Access The Town shall seek to protect the remaining lineal shoreline of public and commercial properties providing for direct and indirect public access to the soundside and Intracoastal waters of Wrightsville Beach. Further exclusive residential development, which would further wall off the balance of the Town's residents and visitors from the water, shall be discouraged. Policy 8.3.12 Parks and Recreation The Town supports the development, maintenance and enhancement of its parks and recreational facilities for the benefit of Town residents. Policy 8.3.13 Downtown Area The Town supports the continuation of a commercial downtown area, to encourage a 'village type' atmosphere with appropriate local community businesses. Page 1-8 n IL Executive Summary I I I 5 I t� I L Policy 8.3.14 A Neighborhood Character and Preservation The Town encourages the Improvement, preservation and enhancement of the Town' s areas of unique character and neighborhoods. Policy 8.3.14 B Scenic Vistas and Views In recognition and appreciation of the scenic vistas and views of coastal waters, the Town shall discourage development forms (i.e. 'wall to wall" or lengthy, continuous buildings and privacy walls) along estuarine and ocean shorelines which would block views to the water. The west side of Waynick Boulevard shall receive particular protection; I.e. the Town shall not permit structures in this area, other than customary docks, piers, and associated small, see through, "gazebos". Policy 8.3.14 C Historic Preservation The Town shall encourage the regular maintenance and preservation of older historic structures where desired. Policy 8.3.14 D Undergrounding of Utilities As opportunities and budgeting constraints allow, the Town will work with neighborhoods to put utilities underground. Policy 8.3.15 A Transportation Planning, Generally The Town shall undertake a traffic management program which seeks to achieve a balance between pedestrian, bicycle and vehicular movement and safety. Policy 8.3.15 B Public Transportation The Town will consider proposals from private entities for establishing public transportation from Wrightsville Beach to the adjacent mainland areas. Policy 8.3.15 C High Rise Bridge The Town does not support the construction of a high rise and/or second bridge to the island. Policy 8.3.15 D Pedestrian and Bicycle Traffic The Town supports the use of bicycles as a functional means of reducing automobile traffic and parking demand at the beach. Policy 8.3.15 E Keel Street Intersection Ongoing efforts to correct operational deficiencies at the Keel Street intersection shall be supported. Policy 8.3.15 F Parking (1) The Town recognizes that on street parking is one of the most efficient forms of parking available at Wrightsville Beach. The Town shall avoid actions which would further eliminate on -street parking, unless necessary for public safety purposes. (2) large off street parking areas or structures are viewed as an exceptionally inefficient use of limited land resources. Where such uses are created, however, they shall be in keeping with the small town character, scale and design of Wrightsville Beach. Policy 8.3.16 The Wrightsville Sound Area The Town shall seek to establish and maintain an on -going joint planning effort with New Hanover County (or the City of Wilmington, upon annexation) for the Wrightsville Sound Area emphasizing input from the Town on issues of land use, community appearance, open space and traffic management for areas outside the Town's corporate limits. CONTINUING PUBLIC PARTICIPATION POLICIES Policy 8.4.0 Basic Policy Statement Regarding Continuing Public Participation Wrightsville Beach believes that on -going, effective public involvement, combined with factual analysis of any public issue, is the key to creating and maintaining a direction for the community upon which all may agree. r Page 1-9 Executive Summary Policy 8.4.1 Land Use Plan Update Process Public involvement will be encouraged among all permanent residents, business owners, and property owners during each Land Use Plan Update. Policy 8.4.2 On -going Public Participation Public involvement in planning matters will continue beyond the plan update process through providing public education and information, utilization of the news media and mailers, and public opportunities for discussion and comment on land use issues. The Planning Board will advertise the public meetings held to discuss land use and associated matters. Policy 8.4.3 Neighborhood Planning The Town shall encourage a high level of involvement by citizens and property owners in planning decisions through neighborhood planning. With neighborhood support, the Town shall institute an on- going neighborhood planning program, within which different parts of the Town will be addressed on a rotating basis. STORM HAZARD MITIGATION/POST-DISASTER RECOVERY, AND EVACUATION POLICIES AND PLANS Policy 8.5.0 Basic Policy Statement Regarding Storm Hazard Mitigation/Post-Disaster Recovery, and Evacuation Policies and Plans The Town of Wrightsville Beach supports the establishment and implementation of policies, procedures, and actions which can reduce the potential for loss of life, minimize damage to property, and provide a framework for orderly reconstruction in the event of a damaging hurricane or other natural disaster. Storm Hazard Mitigation Policies Policy 8.5.1 A Storm Effect Mitigation (1) The Town shall require all new and substantially improved structures to meet federal, state and local standards for construction in flood prone areas. (2) The Town will only grant variances to the Flood Plain ordinance on a rare occasions to individual properties that meet the findings set forth under FEMA Guidelines. (3) To help mitigate the effect of storm related hazards, the Town shall continue to work with the Federal, State and County governments on regular beach renourishment through a Shore and Hurricane Wave Protection Project. Policy 8.5.1 B. Discouragement of Hazardous Development The Town shall use a variety of methods, including particularly, CAMA setback requirements and zoning, to discourage the development of property that can reasonably be foreseen as potentially hazardous. Policy 8.5.1 C. Public Land Acquisition (1) The Town supports advanced planning for acquisition of properties that are not suitable for development, where such acquisition serves a useful public purpose. Such public purpose may include, for example, public access to the beach or sound, where such access is needed. The Town shall not make poor investments, however, in properties which are in danger of completely eroding, or where other liabilities could render them useless. (2) The Town shall investigate outside funding sources for land acquisition and shall encourage gifts and donations for tax credits, as a mitigative measure for future storm events. To provide a proactive approach, priority areas for acquisition shall be identified in advance of storm events. (3) Public acquisition of appropriate properties is also encouraged at the State and Federal level. Policy 8.5.1 D. Evacuation The Town's evacuation policies under a number of emergency situations shall be specified in the emergency operations plan of the Town. The plan shall be examined for possible revision or improvements on at least an annual basis. Page 1-10 Executive Summary r 1 I I I I LJ r r I I �I Post Disaster Reconstruction Policies Policy 8.5.2 A. Emergency Management Plan The Town shall annually update its Emergency Management and Operations Plan, in concert with County and State emergency management officials, and with input from Town residents. The plan shall encompass pre -stone and immediate post stone activities and policies of the Town, including policies on evacuation and reentry, debris pick up, and public health and safety issues. Policy 8.5.2 B. Local Reconstruction Policies The Town shall issue building permits as expeditiously as possible to property owners whose structures have received minor damage by the event. If a structure has been damaged by more than 50%, the property owner will have to rebuild or modify the structure to meet current development ordinances. Policy 8.5.2 C. Recovery Task Force Depending upon the degree of damage following a major storm event, the Town shall have on call a variety of public officials to serve as a Recovery Task Force to orchestrate the Town's recovery activities The potential membership and duties of the Task Force shall be specified in the Town's Emergency Management and Operations Plan. Policy 8.5.2 D. Staging Schedule for Reconstruction and Repair (1) To deal with the large number of requests for permits after a major stone, the Town shall employ a 'building permit triage` for orderly issuance of building permits. Criteria for the order of issuance shall be developed in advance, with the need for modification acknowledged based upon the specific circumstances being faced. (2) The Town shall also develop a planned sequence for the restoration of public utilities and services, with allowance for adjustment to deal with circumstances at hand. Policy 8.5.2 E. Public Infrastructure Repairs and Replacement The Town of Wrightsville Beach will assess any damage to public infrastructure at the earliest time after the event. Damage which may affect life and safety Issues will be corrected to the extent that hazards have been minimized. Long term repair or replacement will be prioritized based on resources available, impact on the integrity of the infrastructure, mitigation of future hazardous situations, and on -going capital improvement needs. 1.3 The Land Classification System at Wrightsville Beach 1.3.1 Purpose of Land Classification and the Land Classification Map (a) Purpose The CAMA Land Use Planning Guidelines suggest that local governments classify various parts of their planning jurisdictions in accordance with the desired density and character of development for each area of their community. For example, the Developed class is Intended for areas that are already urban In nature. The Transition class is Intended for areas that are expected to become urban within the next decade. The Rural class is intended for areas that are not expected to become urban within the next decade —and so forth. In the case of Wrightsville Beach, however, the entire incorporated area, (excluding marshes, the beach strand, and public trust waters) is essentially already urban in nature. In other words, the area Is already fully developed and is currently receiving the full range of urban services, including particularly, centralized water and sewer. According to CAMA Guidelines, all of the developable area of Wrightsville Beach qualifies for inclusion in the Developed class, with the balance of the area—i.e. marshes, the beach strand and public trust waters—qualitying for the Conservation class. Designating the entire land area of the Town into a single land class, however, defeats the purpose of providing policy guidance to the Town for different parts of the community. For this reason, the Town has elected to subdivide the Developed class into several sub -categories. These sub -categories Page 1-11 Executive Summary correspond to neighborhood planning areas within the Town with distinct development characteristics or common attributes. Policy positions are then provided for each of these neighborhood sub -classifications to help the Town maintain the distinguishable neighborhood qualities unique to each area. (b) The Land Classification Map Each of the neighborhood planning areas described below have been identified on a map of Wrightsville Beach. (Accompanying) Factors employed in determining the extent of each area varied from area to area, but generally related to one or more of the following: (1) The era or period in which the neighborhood was first developed. (2) The size of platted lots. (3) The height and character of buildings. (4) The nature of streets and parking. (5) The type(s) of land uses prevalent in the area. (6) The pedestrian or automobile oriented nature of the area. 1.3.2 Developed Areas (Neighborhood Planning Areas) (a) Central Beach Area The policy emphasis of this plan is on retaining the modest scale of most of the structures in the Central Beach Area, as well as its pedestrian -oriented nature. Additional large scale and/or intensive single family (mini -castles) shall be discouraged. Building heights of three stories or less (total, from ground level) shall be considered appropriate. Architectural designs shall be encouraged which continue to employ (1) functional porches facing at least the street and (2) wooden exterior siding. Additional multi -family residential or intensification of existing mufti -family developments shall not be allowed. While new large scale or intensified commercial development shall not be permitted, existing commercial areas shall be protected for the useful services these businesses provide to the area. (b) The North End The policy emphasis of this plan is to allow for the continued use of each land parcel as currently built upon, with no further mufti -family development, whether by new development or by increases in development intensity or scale. With the recent Introduction of several four story single family residences into the area, public sentiment about additional four story structures has been negative. For this reason, this plan recommends that the Town seek to discourage or curtail the construction of single family residences of greater than two to three stories (total from ground level) in the North end area. This is consistent with building height policies for single family houses in all other areas of the community. The Town will also apply pier length controls to the North End by extending the Town's pier head line to this area. (c) The Parmele Area The policy emphasis of this plan is on maintaining the Parmele area for exclusive single family and duplex residential uses. (Town public works facility not affected) A maximum building height of three stories (total, from ground level) shall be considered appropriate for this area. (d) The Waynick Boulevard -South Lumina Area The policy emphasis of this plan for the Waynick Boulevard -South Lumina Area is to encourage a continuation of the predominant single family and duplex residential development. Consistent with the modest size of most lots in this area, and with the objective of preserving views to both the ocean and sound, building heights of two to no more than three stories (total, from ground level) shall be considered appropriate. Existing commercial, multi -family and yacht club uses should continue to be allowed in their present form, but with no greater intensification of building mass or height. The Banks Channel side of Waynick Boulevard should continue to be used for docks and piers related to recreational boating in the soundside area. The Town shall not permit improvements along the sound side of the road which would block the open vista from Waynick Boulevard to Banks Channel. Page 1-12 Executive Summary (e) The South End The policy emphasis of this plan is to allow the South End area to be used exclusively for the retention and development of traditional single family beach cottages (Coast Guard Station not affected), at a scale compatible with the original homes, modest lot sizes and street rights of way in the area. The avoidance of single family "mini -castles" packed on to small lots will also help avoid fire safety problems related to fire spreading quickly from one large structure to the next. Building heights of two to no more than three stories (total, from ground level) shall be considered appropriate in this area. Mufti -family development shall not be permitted in this area. (f) Old Harbor Island The policy emphasis of this plan is to allow for the continued enhancement and "healthy" redevelopment of the area, while seeking to define reasonable limits for the height, size, mass and bulk of new replacement homes. Building heights of two to no more than three stories (total, from ground level) shall be considered appropriate for this area. If such height limits and other standards are not implemented in the near future, and current trends continue, redevelopment will eventually destroy the current attractive ' relationship of the scale the structures to the neighborhood's tree canopy and to other structures in the area. (g) Pelican Drive, Lees Cut, Channel Walk & Lookout Harbor The policy emphasis of this plan for this portion of Harbor Island is to allow for the continued use of each land parcel as currently built upon, with no increases in development intensity or scale. In keeping with the prevailing height and character of existing single family and duplex homes along Pelican Drive, building heights of two to no more than three stories (total, from ground level) shall be considered appropriate along this street. No further multi -family development, whether by new development or by increases in development Intensity or scale at existing locations, shall be allowed. Any redevelopment of the existing ' commercial areas should be oriented toward community and neighborhood services. (h) Causeway Drive/Marinas Area ' The policy emphasis of this plan is to retain the existing land use mix for this part of Wrightsville Beach. Existing single family, duplex, and mufti -family development should be allowed to continue as presently configured, with no significant intensification of development. Existing commercial land areas should be retained for the services they provide to area residents as well as for the provision of indirect access to Mott Channel and the Intracoastal waterway. Future redevelopment proposals for the marina area, in particular, should include the following objectives: (1) retention of boating access to the public, whether by private or public means, (2) preservation of visual and physical access to the water's edge by the general public, and (3) preservation of community -serving commercial services. Residential uses in this area are not out of the question, provided that such uses shall not act to "wall off the water" in an exclusionary way. Given the size and configuration of the properties in this area, an overall plan for the future use of the entire commercial area south of the drawbridge would be in order. Such a plan could include, for example, ground floor retail, with a continuous public boardwalk along the water's edge, and, perhaps, residential units above. (This mixed use format with public access has worked successfully in other waterfront communities, and would be one way to satisfy the objectives outlined above.) (1) Town Government and Parks Area Policy emphasis for this portion of Wrightsville Beach should be on the retention of this area for the ongoing provision of local government services and parks and recreation. Recent initiatives to prepare a long-range master plan for the use of this important resource should continue to be supported. ()) The Mai nland/Wrightsviile Sound Area The policy emphasis of this plan will be on working proactively with the City of Wilmington (and/or New Hanover County) to address land development, traffic management and gateway appearance issues. The iPage 1-13 Executive Summary Town will also maintain an ongoing interest in maintaining and protecting its groundwater supply facilities in the area. 1.3.3 Conservation Areas (a) Purpose The purpose of the Conservation class is to provide for the effective long-term management and protection of significant limited or irreplaceable areas. Management of these areas is needed due to the natural, cultural, recreational, scenic or natural productive values of both local and more than local concern. (b) Location at Wrightsville Beach Within the planning jurisdiction of the Town of Wrightsville Beach, the Conservation class includes all wetland, beach and sound areas associated with the Atlantic Ocean, the Intracoastal waterway and the various channels and marshes surrounding Wrightsville Beach. Also included in this classification are Interior marshlands adjacent to the government complex on Harbor Island. (c) Policy Emphasis The policy emphasis of this plan for Conservation areas shall be to protect the natural integrity and functioning of these areas, as well as in providing open space and visual relief. Approved uses shall be in accordance with CAMA General Use Standards, with priority given to direct and indirect public access having a minimal impact on the natural functioning of these systems. The Town shall also maintain an on- going concern for the preservation of views and vistas to these areas, by carefully controlling development along the waters edge which would serve to block or wall off the public from these valuable scenic and recreational resources. Page 1.14 Introduction 2.Introduction ' 2.1 Why Prepare a CAMA Land Use Plan? 'In many, many respects, the Town of Wrightsville Beach has done a commendable job over the years of managing it's growth and development. Despite significant growth pressures, the Town has generally responded well to maintain a community and quality of development which is the envy of many other coastal localities. The kind of community that has emerged at Wrightsville Beach does not happen by accident, but only through the deliberate, caring efforts of many individual citizens, Town officials and community leaders over a period of many decades. Clearly, the Town has a legacy of high standards and expectations to carry forward... 11 1 I I I I ...In the decade of the '90s, however, Wrightsville Beach is entering a significant new redevelopment phase which promises to be no less significant, in terms of its potential impact, than the initial development of the community... (These) emerging development trends at Wrightsville Beach are best dealt with now, rather than waiting until they take on a potentially irreversible momentum of their own! (Study Model for Determining Consistency of Local Land Use Ordinances with CAMA Land Use Plans, Demonstration Project, Town of Wrightsville Beach, NC April, 1994) The above statement, taken from a special report to the Wrightsville Beach Board of Aldermen in 1994, provides a suitable introduction to this 1995 Update to the Wrightsville Beach Land Use Plan. While the Town Is indeed fully developed, it is not finished developing as a community. With the coming of Interstate 40 from the piedmont of North Carolina several years ago, the attractiveness of Wrightsville Beach as a weekend retreat and second home vacation resort has increased markedly. At the same time, the Town's convenient proximity to the Wilmington -New Hanover urban area has heightened interest in the community as a year round residential locale. As pressures for redevelopment have heightened, new problems must be faced, including: an intensification of development on ever more expensive real estate, increased traffic congestion, increased parking demand for day visitors and residents alike, a need for much greater fire fighting capabilities, growing public expenditures for necessary services and facilities, and potential for degradation of the natural environment and quality of life that have been the trademarks of Wrightsville Beach for so long. The intent of the Land Use Plan is to anticipate and deal with these development pressures in an organized fashion. Such planning should work to protect and enhance the quality of life of area residents and should also conserve and manage the natural resources with which the Town has been blessed. At the same time, advanced planning and foresight can help minimize increases in the local tax burden, through sound public and private investment decisions. The North Carolina General Assembly recognized these issues when it passed the Coastal Area Management Act of 1974, which requires local governments in the coastal area to develop land use plans and update them regularly in accordance with the State Guidelines. The first Land Use Plan for Wrightsville Beach was adopted in 1976, with updates following in approximate five year increments through 1990. This plan updates the previous plan to address ever changing issues and development trends affecting the Town. 2.2 Functions of the Land Use Plan The Land Use Plan performs several Important functions for local governing bodies and the general public; these functions are briefly described below: Page 2-1 Introduction • Source of Information - The plan's technical studies provide information on a number of topics, including the local economy, population, environmental features, land use trends and community facility needs. • Guidance for Government Decisions - Once the governing body adopts the plan, it then has a foundation for guiding future decisions on budgets and ordinances, including zoning and other development regulations. • Preview of Government Action - Decisions of the public in general, and developers in particular, are easier to make when the probable outcome of governmental decisions is understood; the adoption of a land use plan increases the predictability of government actions. • Public Participation In Managing Development - Public meetings and hearings held during the plan's preparation help to insure that the plan reflects, to the extent possible, the specific nature of the current development issues facing the town. The next section of the plan seeks to address several of the above functions by stating an overall community vision for Wrightsville Beach, and a series of objectives to be implemented through the land use plan. Page 2-2 r L' Community Vision And Objectives 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 L 1 1 1 1 1 1 3. Community Vision And Objectives 3.1 Community Vision The CAMA Land Use Planning Guidelines state that "land use planning offers the best chance for developing a common vision and goals for the future that balance economic development and resource protection necessary for a healthy coast " (NCAC 15A Subchapter 713 Land Use Planning Guidelines, Section .0100 - Introduction to Land Use Planning, .0101 Purpose). For the Wrightsville Beach Land Use Plan, the following overall vision for the community has been established: General Vision Statement for Next Ten Years We, the residents, business, and property owners of the Town of Wrightsville Beach, shall seek to maintain and enhance our community as one of the finest family oriented beach towns on the east coast of the United States. To do so will require diligence in working to retain the small town character and quality of the natural and man-made environment that has become the basis for our quality of life at Wrightsville Beach, and which makes our community such a desirable place for both visitors and residents alike. 3.2 Objectives In addition, for the land use plan to be effective, it must be driven by a clear set of overall objectives. These objectives help bring form to a distinct growth strategy that is consistent with the desires of the community. Land Use Planning Objectives The Town's Land Use Plan and development regulations should: • Allow for new development and redevelopment consistent with the Town's long range infrastructure and service capabilities --particularly traffic and parking,, and required fire flows' ('sufficient water volumes and pressures to effectively fight fires). • Allow for new development and redevelopment which recognizes legitimate development Interests while conserving the long range environmental quality of surrounding waters and marshes. • Allow for development types, uses, and services which conserve and foster a family beach atmosphere. • Discourage development and redevelopment that would result in additional high density and "intense" development. Acknowledge that massive residential structures, whether owned by a single owner or partitioned into several owner units, can be equally "intense", in terms of the number of occupants, number of cars, water consumed, etc. (continued) Page 3-1 1 Community Vision And Objectives • Pursue the most effective, financially feasible, equitable, and environmentally acceptable methods of beach and shoreline preservation. • Establish a plan and system of ordinances that, following a natural disaster, provides the community with a rational method for reconstruction consistent with each of the above community growth objectives. • Continue to accommodate day visitors and other visitors In a manner that is most compatible with the long range function and appearance of the Town. • Encourage development types which pay for themselves over both the short and long term. • Preserve the scale and ambiance of the Town's existing "downtown" business district, but do so in moderation*. • Preserve the historic and architectural character of many of the remaining older residential structures on the beach, but do so in moderation'. Note., The above objectives were first developed during the preparation of the 1994 "Study Model For Determining Consistency of Local Land Use Ordinances with CAMA land Use Plans, Demonstration Project, Town of Wrightsville Beach, NC. Based upon the input received from Town residents during the land use planning process, it is apparent that they are no less applicable in 1996 than they were in 1994. 'When used in this context, the term moderation is intended to convey the idea of encouragement and volunteer efforts in cooperation with business and property owners, as opposed to mandatory standards or legalistic requirements. The above objectives are intended to provide the foundation for the specific policies of the Town's Land Use Plan and ultimately, for changes in the Town's development regulations. Page 3-2 Summary of Data Collection and Analysis I 1 C h 1 [1 P 1 1 1 i LJ 1 F 1 4. Summary of Data Collection and Analysis 4.1 Establishment of Information Base 4.1.1 Components of the Analysis Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA) guidelines for preparing land use plans in the coastal area of North Carolina require that an analysis of existing conditions and future trends be performed prior to policy development. The Intent of this requirement is to ensure that the policies as developed respond as closely as possible to current problems and issues facing the community. Key components of the analysis may be described in four categories: • present conditions —including population, economy, existing land use, and current plans and regulations; • land suitability constraints —including physical limitations for development, fragile areas, and areas with resource potential; • community facility and service constraints —Including water, sewer, transportation, police, fire, schools, parks and recreation, and solid waste; and • estimated demand —including population and economic projections, future land use needs, and community facility demands. 4.1.2 Subject Areas Examined A number of basic studies are required so that a solid information base can be established for sound policy decisions. These basic studies include the following subjects: • Population and Economy • Impact of Seasonal Population • Existing Land Use Analysis • Current Plans, Policies and Regulations • Evaluation of Previous Land Use Plan Effectiveness • Physical Limitations for Development • Fragile Areas • Areas with Resource Potential • Water Supply • Sewage Treatment and Storm Water Runoff • Transportation Facilities • Police • Fire and Rescue • Schools • Parks and Recreation • Solid Waste • Population and Economic Projections • Future Land Use Needs • Community Facility Demands The technical reports listed above were geared to gathering and summarizing information related to the development of the Town. Collectively, these studies summarize past and present conditions, while providing the basis for estimating future conditions. Building upon this information, a number of policies were prepared by the Town Planning Board for consideration by the Board of Aldermen. 1 Page 4.1 Summary of Data Collection and Analysis 4.2 Some Findings from the Technical Studies Population Growth Trends After several decades of rapid population increases, population growth at Wrightsville Beach has slowed relative to the County. Two factors have come into play. First, New Hanover County in recent years has been witnessing a building and development boom of unprecedented proportions. Second, the Town has essentially reached a near built -out stage' in terms of substantial land area available for new development. (Shell Island was the last remaining development parcel of any size.) Future population Increases will be determined by (1) the few remaining buildable lots left in Town and (2) the nature of the redevelopment that is allowed. Housing Types About two thirds of all housing units at Wrightsville Beach are either a single family residence or a duplex. About 15% of all housing units are multi -family units in relatively small structures, while the remaining 15% are in structures with 10 or more units per building. Economic Profile of Residents An examination of employment patterns and occupations of residents at Wrightsville Beach reveals that there are no remarkable differences between Town residents and County residents. This lends support to the notion that Wrightsville Beach is, in some respects, a bedroom community for employers in New Hanover County and the City of Wilmington. At the same time, household incomes of Town residents are substantially higher than residents of the County as a whole. Estimate of Peak Day Population In recent years, estimates of Peak Day Population have ranged from 35,000 to over 40,000 people. While there is no precise way to determine the actual number, methods employed have included aerial reconnaissance counts of persons on the beach, and extrapolations of population levels derived from drawbridge traffic counts and automobile parking levels throughout the Town on peak summer days. With the advent of Interstate-40 and the tremendous growth of the permanent population of New Hanover County since 1990, estimates of peak day population range as high as 50,000 by the year 2000. Because available parking space typically reaches the saturation level by mid-moming on a peak summer day, continued increases in peak day population will be dependent in the future upon higher vehicle occupancy levels, shuttle services, public transportation, and other methods. Water Supply From the flow data records for the past 10 years, water consumption has been increasing at an average rate of 3 percent per year. However, in the two most recent years for which average flows are available (1994 and 1995), the rate of increase has shown signs of slowing to about 1 % per year. Based on all available trends and statistics, the average flow demands of the Town should be within the maximum capacity of the system through at least the year 2005. Waste Water Disposal The highest peak pump day in 1995 was 1,328,570 gallons. Public Works Department records for the past ten years indicate that the main pumping station pumped the highest peak flow of 1,987,000 gallons in September, 1988. This peak flow is above the average capacity of the station but well within its current peak pumping capability of 2.88 MGD. Thus, provided that New Hanover County continues to upgrade the capacity of its central sewage treatment plants, the sewer system capacity should handle the sewer service needs of the Town through at least the year 2006. Transportation Facilities The road system in Wrightsville Beach can easily handle the traffic on an average daily basis. However, during peak days, such as the Fourth of July, the existing facilities are strained. It is estimated, for example, that the peak traffic day in 1996 generated 52,000 vehicles at the drawbridge. The designed carrying capacity of the drawbridge is 50,000 vehicles per day. Page 4-2 II Summary of Data Collection and Analysis ' 4.3 For Further Information ' The full studies from which the above findings were drawn are contained in Section 5, Present Conditions and Section 6, Constraints. To find out more about various aspects of land use and development trends at Wrightsville Beach, the interested citizen is also Invited to visit the Town offices where a variety of studies, plans, maps, aerial photographs and booklets are maintained on file. II II II II II II II II I Page 4-3 I Present Conditions 1 1 i 1 rl I' u r� II 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 r L 5. Present Conditions This section presents a variety of information about current human, economic and physical conditions at Wrightsville Beach. Also included Is a summary of local plans, policies, and regulations pertinent to the formulation of the land use plan. 5.1 Present Population and Economy 5.1.1 Population and Housing (a) Population Growth, 1960 to 1994 Year Wrightsville Beach % of County Population New Hanover Count 1960 723 1.0 71742 1970 1,701 2.1 82,996 1980 2,786 2.7 102,779 1990 2,937 2.4 120,284 1995 Estimate 3,114 2.2 139,577 Absolute Increase Decade Wrightsville Beach %of County Growth New Hanover Count 1960-70 978 8.7 11254 1970-80 1085 5.5 19 783 1980-90 151 .9 17,505 1990-95 177 .9 19,293 Source: Census of Population and Housing, 1960 through 1990 and North Carolina Office of Budget and Management The Population Growth table above shows that from 1960 to 1980, the Town grew faster than New Hanover County as a whole. Since 1980, however, two factors have come into play which have caused the community's rate of growth to slow relative to the County. First, New Hanover County in recent years has been witnessing a building and development boom of unprecedented proportions. Second, Wrightsville Beach has essentially reached a near'built out stage" in terms of substantial land area available for new development. (Shell Island was the last remaining development parcel of any size.) Future population increases will be determined by (1) the few remaining buildable lots left in Town and (2) the nature of redevelopment which Is allowed. Certain forms of development, for example, such as multi- family development or single family replacement homes of greater size and scale, will act to intensify land use and population levels. (b) Racial Composition, 1990 Race Wrightsville Beach % of Total New Hanover Count % of Total Total 2,937 100% 120,284 100% White 2,921 99% 94,895 79% Black 5 <1% 24,097 20% Other 11 <1 % 1 323 1 % Source: 1990 Census of Population and Housing, STF 1 Profile 1—Characteristics of the Population, P7. Race, for Wrightsville Beach and New Hanover County 1 Page 5-1 Present Conditions The Racial Composition, 1990 table shows that the Town is less than 1% Non -White compared to 21% for the County. (c) Persons by Age, 1990 Age Group Wrightsville Beach % of Total New Hanover Count % of Total 0-4 59 2% 7,434 6% 5-17 257 9% 19 880 17% 18-24 551 19% 15,000 12% 25-44 1107 38% 39155 33% 45-64 621 21% 23749 20% 65+ 342 12% 15,066 13% Total 2 937 100% 120,284, 100% Source: 1990 Census of Population and Housing, STF 3 Page 2 of 29 Population., Age, Race and Sex (Part 1), P13114115. Race by Sex by Age, for Wrightsville Beach and New Hanover County The Persons By Age, 1990 table shows the relative distribution of age groups in the Town. In 1990, on a percentage basis, the Town had fewer pre-school and school age children compared to New Hanover County. This could be due, in part, to the high cost of housing at Wrightsville Beach and the economics of young families. At the same time, there were higher numbers of young adults aged 18 to 24. This may be due to the attractiveness of Wrightsville Beach to this age group, including particularly college students. (d) Educational Attainment, Persons 25 and Over In 1990 Education Completed Wrightsville Beach % of Total New Hanover Count % of Total <9th grade 23 1 % 5,279 7% 9-12 No Diploma 68 3% 11,767 15% H.S. Graduate 327 16% 22 578 29% College, no degree 462 22% 15,760 20% Associates Degree 174 8% 6,045 8% Bachelors De ree 728 35% 11,935 15% Graduate or Professional Degree 273 13% 4606 6% Total 2055 100% 77,970 100% Source: 1990 Census of Population and Housing, STF 3 Page 10 of 29 Population: School Enrollment and Educational Attainment, P57158159160. Educational Attainment by Race and Hispanic Origin, for Wrightsville Beach and New Hanover County Residents of Wrightsville Beach generally have more education than County residents in general. About 95% of all adults are high school graduates compared to 78% in the County. Nearly half of all residents over the age of 25 have a bachelor's degree or additional advanced degrees. This compares with about 21 % with college degrees in the County as a whole. 11 I 1 I Page 5-2 11 I Present Conditions ' (e) Housing Types, 1990 �i L I Wrightsville % of Total New Hanover % of Total Beach County Total, All Housing 2,41 100% 57,076 100% Units Total, All Single 1,11 46% 36,102 63% Family Units Detached 82E 34% 33.587 59% Attached 28d 12% 2,515 4% (Townhouse) Multi -family 1 22 51 % 15,683 28% 2 units per 50 21 % 3,289 6% structure 3 to 9 units per 35 15% 6,957 12% structure 10 or more 361 15% 5,437 10% units per structure Mobile Homes 5 2%1 4831 1 9% Other 24 1%1 4601 <1 0/- Source. 1990 Census of Population and Housing, STF 1 Profile 8-Housing Unit Characteristics and Tenure, H41/H42/H43. Units in Structure, for Wrightsville Beach and New Hanover County Note: Due to the formatting of census geography, some small areas on the mainland of New Hanover County are included in the figures for Wrightsville Beach. This explains the presence of mobile homes In the statistics, despite the fact that there are no mobile homes within the corporate limits of the Town. As shown in the Housing Types, 1990 table, about two thirds of all housing units at Wrightsville Beach are either a single family residence or a duplex. About 15% of all housing units are multi -family units in relatively small structures, while the remaining 15% are in structures with 10 or more units per building. (f) Owner vs. Renter Occupied Housing, 1990 Wrightsville Beach % of Total New Hanover Count % of Total Total, All Housing Units 2,413 100% 57,076 100% Occupied 1,401 58% 48,139 84% Owner Occupied 715 30% 30,193 53% Renter Occupied 686 28% 17 946 31 Vacant 1 012 42% 8.937 16% Source: 1990 Census of Population and Housing, STF 1 Profile 5—Housing Unit Characteristics and Tenure, H1M2/H3M5. Housing Units, Tenure and Vacancy, for Wrightsville Beach and New Hanover County The Owner vs. Occupied Housing, 1990 table shows that in 1990, 58% of all housing units at Wrightsville Beach were occupied on a year round basis, compared with 84% in the County as a whole. Of the year round units in the Town, slightly more than 50%were inhabited by owner -occupants while slightly less than 500/6 were occupied by renters. Page 5-3 Present Conditions (g) Vacant and Seasonal Housing, 1990 Wrightsville % of Total New Hanover % of Total Beach Count Total, All Housing 2,413 100% 57,076 100% Units Vacant 1,012 42% 8,937 16% For Seasonal, 603 25% 3,345 6% Recreational & Occasional Use All other vacant 1 409 17%1 5593 10% Source: 1990 Census of Population and Housing, STF 1 Profile 5—Housing Unit Characteristics and Tenure, H1/H21H3 H5. Housing Units, Tenure and Vacancy, for Wrightsville Beach and New Hanover County The Vacant and Seasonal Housing, 1990 table shows that in 1990, 25% of all housing units at Wrightsville Beach were being held for seasonal, recreational, and occasional use, compared with just 6% in the County as a whole. (which includes the beach communities) , (h) Housing Value, Owner -Occupied Housing Units Value Wri htsviile Beach New Hanover Gountv Lower Quartile M $133 400 52,000 Median M $192 700 $72 000 Upper Quartile $ 288 500 $103 700 Source: 1990 Census of Population and Housing, Summary Population and Housing Characteristics, North Carolina, Table 9, page 158 for Wrightsville Beach and New Hanover County In 1990, the value of Owner Occupied Housing Units at Wrightsville Beach was approaching three times the value of housing units in the County as a whole. (1) Contract Rent, Renter -Occupied Housing Units, 1990 Contract Rent Wrightsville Beach New Hanover County Lower Quartile M 375 $241 Median M $482 $324 Upper Quartile $ $621 $416 Source: 1990 Census of Population and Housing, Summary Population and Housing Characteristics, North Carolina, Table 11, page 189 for Wrightsville Beach and New Hanover County In 1990, the contract rent of renter occupied housing units at Wrightsville Beach was about one and one half times the contract rent of housing units in the County as a whole. Keep in mind that these contract rent figures apply only to rental units occupied on April 1 of 1990, the date of the official U.S. Census. Thus, most "high season" rental rates would not be reflected in these figures. Page 5-4 Present Conditions ' 5.1.2 Local Economy C] I (a) Industry, Employed Persons 16 and Over In 1990 Wrightsville Beach %of Total New Hanover Count %of Total Agriculture, forest & fisheries 29 2% 931 2% Mining 0 0% 53 <1% Construction 171 10% 5,243 9% Manufacturing Non durable goods 118 7% 5,396 9% Durable Goods 79 4%1 4.093 7% Transportation 47 3%1 2,325 4% Communications & public utilities 92 5% 1,901 3% Wholesale Trade 101 6% 2,567 4% Retail Trade 439 25% 13,161 22% Finance insurance & real estate 119 7% 3,371 6% Services Business and Repair 54 3% 2,636 4% Personal Services 75 4% 2,228 4% Entertainment and Recreation 49 3% 969 2% Professional & related services Health Services 141 8% 5,091 8% Educational Services 109 6% 4,718. 8% Other Professional and related services 130 7% 3,322 6% Public Administration 11 1 % 2,1741 4% Total Employed Persons 16+ 1764 100% 60,1791100% Source: 1990 Census of Population and Housing, STF 3 Page 12 of 29 Population: Industry and Occupation, P77. Industry, Employed Persons 16 years and over, for Wrightsville Beach and New Hanover County The table above is a summary of employment patterns and occupations of Wrightsville Beach permanent ' residents. There are no remarkable differences between permanent Town residents and County residents. This lends support to the notion that Wrightsville Beach is, in some respects, a bedroom community for employers in New Hanover County and the City of Wilmington. (b) Household Income, 1989 L Wrightsville Beach New Hanover Count Median Household Income $35,455 $27,320 Mean Household Income $46,789 $34,397 Source: 1990 Census of Population and Housing, STF 3 Page 16 of 29 Population: Population: Income, P80181110711081110/111. Household, Family, and Non -Family Income in 1989, for Wrightsville Beach and New Hanover County ' Household incomes of Town residents in 1989 were substantially higher than residents of the County as a whole. Given the hefty increases in property values at the beach relative to the mainland, this gap would be expected to continue to widen over the coming years. I Page 5-5 Present Conditions 5.1.3 Impact of Seasonal Population (a) Estimate of Peak Overnight Population, 1995 Household Type: Number of Household or Total Peak Units/Parties Party Size Overnight Population Year Round, Occupied 1,490 2.09 3,114 Residential Units Guests Staying in 1/2 of 745 2.0 1,490 Year Round Residences Vacant and Seasonal 1,068 7.0 7,476 Residential Units Hotel and Motel Rooms 660 2.01 1,320 Staying in Recreational 100 2.5 250 Vehicles Tents and Boats Total 4,028 13,650 Source: 1990 Census of Population and Housing, NC Office of State Budget and Management, Wrightsville Beach Chamber of Commerce, and Glenn Harbeck Associates for Wrightsville Beach. Basic methodology is from 'A Methodology for Estimating Seasonal Population in Coastal North Carolina, 1996 DRAF!' available from the NC Division of Coastal Management, Raleigh, NC. The table immediately above is a matrix for calculating the estimated Peak Overnight Population for Wrightsville Beach as it would likely have occurred over the July 4th holiday in 1995 (1995 is the most recent year for which permanent population estimates are available from the State). In choosing the July 4th holiday, it is important to note that the occupancy rates and party sizes are assumed to be at their most extreme limits for the year. This is consistent with the intent of the calculation: to determine the peak overnight population for the entire year. The estimate consists of five components, in order from top to bottom: (1) Year round residents (2) Visitors staying with year round residents (3) Visitors and summer residents staying in vacation homes, second homes, or condominiums. (4) Visitors staying in hotel and motel rooms (5) Visitors staying in recreational vehicles, tents, boats and other similar portable or temporary housing. Assumptions, based on discussions with the Wrightsville Beach Planning Board, are as follows: • About one half of all year round homes at Wrightsville Beach would have an average of 2 overnight visitors over the peak day of the July 4th holiday. • Vacation homes, second homes, and condos would house an average of 7 occupants —much higher than the average household size of year round residents. • The figure for the total number of hotel and motel rooms at Wrightsville Beach was obtained from an itemized list provided by the Wrightsville Beach Chamber of Commence. • It is not unreasonable to expect that there would be a total of 100 temporary or mobile accommodations throughout the Town and its marinas on July 4th, with an average parry size of 2.5 persons. (b) Estimate of Peak Day Population (Including Day Visitors), 1994 In recent years, Peak Day Population Estimates have ranged from 35,000 to over 40,000 people. While there is no precise way to determine the actual number, methods employed have included aerial reconnaissance counts of persons on the beach, and extrapolations of population levels derived from drawbridge traffic counts and automobile parking levels throughout the Town on peak summer days. With the advent of Interstate-40 and the tremendous growth of the permanent population of New Hanover County since 1990, estimates of peak day population range as high as 50,000 by the year 2000. Because available parking space typically reaches the saturation level by mid-moming on a peak summer day, continued increases in peak day population will be dependent in the future upon higher vehicle occupancy levels, shuttle services, public transportation, and other methods. Page 5-6 Present Conditions 5.2 Existing Land and Water Uses 5.2.1 Existing Land Uses Mapped (a) Categories of Land Use The Existing Land Use Map 1996 provides a detailed, lot by lot inventory of existing land uses throughout the Town of Wrightsville Beach. Categories of land use selected for the inventory, along with their working definitions are as follows: ' Single family residential— a free standing, site built structure Intended for occupancy by a single household unit. ' Single Family, Manufactured Housing —a freestanding, factory built structure intended for occupancy by a single household unit. (While there are no such structures within the corporate limits of Wrightsville Beach, there are quite a number located in the Wrightsville Sound area of the unincorporated County.) Single Family and Duplex Residentlal—Some sections of Wrightsville Beach are characterized by a mixture of single family and duplex (two separate living quarters in a single structure) structures. Multi -family residential —any structure with three or more separate living quarters in the building. (Includes condominium buildings with multiple ownership but which may have a central management service. Office, Institutional and Municipal— includes offices, churches, schools, public buildings and lands, parks, utilities substations and similar use. Private Clubs —includes yacht clubs, beach clubs and any other private club with buildings and/or property specifically dedicated to the club's use. Commercial —any income producing enterprise which cannot be characterized as an office. (Includes, for example, retail establishments, commercial marinas, restaurants, and hotels with all rooms under one ownership Vacant —developable land that is not occupied. (Does not include, for example, tidal marshes and other undevelopable "vacant" areas.) ' (b) Existing Land Use Analysis The distribution of existing land uses at Wrightsville Beach reflects a distinct pattern and predictable mixture of residential and commercial development, influenced strongly by several critical factors. Commercial uses, for example, are located at certain anchors or termination points in the community. These "anchors" Include locations at various bridge ends, at fishing piers, and at the historic central business district or downtown area. Residential uses, on the other hand are influenced as much by the era in which they were developed as by their proximity to other land uses. In this regard, the existing land use map illustrates the telltale lot sizes and land development styles associated with the trolley era, the immediate post war era, and the 1960's, 70's, 80's, and 90's. Land use conflicts at Wrightsville Beach have customarily not been associated with the mixture of uses in close proximity to each other. The fine-grained mixture of uses actually encourages a sense of community and pedestrian traffic and reduces demand for the automobile. Most conflicts, on the other hand, center on the scale and magnitude of uses, whether residential or commercial. Recent examples of such conflicts ' have Included church expansions, large-scale restaurants, and large-scale residential development. Note: While Hurricanes Bertha and Fran (both 1996) caused damage to many structures at Wrightsville Beach, such damage did not result in the total destruction of any buildings or lots within the Town. ' Page 5-7 Present Conditions For a more detailed analysis of land use and development patterns within various neighborhoods at Wrightsville Beach, the reader is directed to Section 9, Land Classification. 5.2.2 Existing Building Heights Mapped The Existing Building Heights Map 1996 provides a detailed, lot by lot inventory of the height of existing buildings throughout the Town of Wrightsville Beach. Categories of building height selected for the inventory, along with their working definitions follow. Please note that all buildings were categorized according to the number of floors from the ground elevation to the peak of the roof, regardless of whether the first habitable floor was elevated or not. The intent is to describe the height of each structure relative to other structures, regardless of whether or not each "story" is inhabited. (a) Building Height Categories More than three stories— Structures over three stories in height, from ground plane to peak of roof. Three Stories— Structures three stories in height from ground plane to peak of roof. One or Two Stories or Vacant— Structures one to two stories In height from ground plane to peak of roof, or developable lots that are currently vacant. (b) Existing Building Height Analysis As noted previously in this document, most recently redeveloped properties at Wrightsville Beach have sought to "max out" their allowable building setbacks and heights. With this in mind, an examination of the Building Heights Map is a very good indicator of where either (1) recent new construction has occurred or (2) recent redevelopment activities are occurring. New construction is most evident at the north end of the outer island while redevelopment activity is observable at the south end of Wrightsville Beach and on waterfront lots on Harbor Island. For a more detailed analysis of building heights within various neighborhoods at Wrightsville Beach, the reader is directed to Section 9, Land Classification. 5.2.3 Existing Water Conditions Mapped CAMA land use planning guidelines call for the mapping and inventory of existing water conditions, including the identification of DEM (Department of Environmental Management) stream classifications, water quality use support (as Identified by DEM), watershed boundaries, wetlands, primary and secondary nursery areas, Outstanding Resource Waters, and other features such as shellfish beds, beds of submerged aquatic vegetation. The intent is also to show these water quality conditions in relation to land side development. (a) Water Quality Categories At Wrightsville Beach, water quality conditions of relevance to this evaluation include DEM water quality use support classifications (SA, SB. etc.) and coastal estuarine wetlands. These categories of water quality condition may be further described as follows: SA Waters —suitable for commercial shellfish harvesting and primary recreation involving swimming on a frequent or organized basis. (By inference, it may also be assumed that waters designated SA will yield at least some level of shellfish harvest.) SB Waters —suitable for primary recreation involving swimming on a frequent or organized basis, but not for commercial shellfish harvesting. Coastal Estuarine Wetlands —saltwater marshes, subject to regular or occasional flooding by tides, including normal wind tides. Marsh plants found here include saltwater Cordgrass (Spartina Page 5-8 ' Present Conditions ' altemifloral, Black Needlerush (Juncus roemerianusl, Glasswort (Salicomia. spp.), Salt Grass (Distichlis spicata), Sea Lavender (Limonium, spp.), Salt Meadow Grass (Spartina patens), and Salt ' Reed Grass (Spartina gynosuroides). (b) Existing Water Conditions Analysis ' The Fragile Areas, 1996 map shows the location of estuarine waters by their water quality classification. At the northern and southern limits of the Town's jurisdiction, for example, these waters are generally classified SA, suitable for sheilfishing. Areas near Harbor Island, on the other hand, are generally classified SB, with the exception of the north shore, which is SA. Prospects for improving the water quality ' adjacent to the marina areas of Harbor Island are doubtful, given the pressures to intensity land and water uses in these areas, with associated increases in pollutants and stomnvater runoff. ' As an aside, it should also be noted that Masonboro Sound, while outside the Town's planning jurisdiction, was nominated and designated as an Outstanding Resource Water (ORW) by the state. The Town's efforts to reduce future increases in pollutants and runoff may result in long tens benefits to the preservation of water quality in these Outstanding Waters. ' Regarding coastal estuarine wetlands, most of the Town's salt water marshes are located between the islands of Wrightsville Beach and the mainland, as well as in the Bradley Creek area. These marshes also serve as primary and secondary nursery areas for many species of finfish, shellfish, and other wildlife. ' For a more detailed analysis of water quality issues and the estuarine system of AEC's at Wrightsville Beach, the reader is directed to Section 8.1.2, Areas of Environmental Concern. 5.3 Current Plans, Policies, and Regulations ' 5.3.1 Plans and Policies (a) 1990. 1985. 1980. and 1976 Wrightsville Beach Land Use Plans The Wrightsville Beach CAMA Land Use Plan, first adopted in 1976, has been used as a guide to help ' future growth and development proceed at a rate and degree acceptable to the Town, while maintaining the quality of life and environmental integrity of the area. The Land Use Plan can be imagined as an umbrella which encompasses the Town's zoning ordinance and its other land use and regulatory ' mechanisms. Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA) regulations require updates to the Plan be made regularly, as specified in the State Guidelines. While previous versions of the Land Use Plan contained much valuable ' research and Information concerning the growth and development of Wrightsville Beach, they were lacking in terms of specific, identifiable policy statements. The 1996 update to the land use plan seeks to remedy this shortcoming by including specific policy statements, which can be referenced by number. ' (b)1988 Land Use Plan Addendum for Wrightsville Sound The 1988 Land Use Plan Addendum addresses growth and development in the Wrightsville Sound area, the mainland adjacent to Wrightsville Beach. This plan was intended to encourage the application of good ' planning techniques to prevent and/or solve growth and development problems in the area. It encouraged a greater cooperative effort between the Town of Wrightsville Beach and New Hanover County in planning and zoning matters. Basic information and most policies developed for the Wrightsville Sound area were included in the 1990 Wrightsville Beach Land Use Plan Update. For the 1996 Update to ' the Town's land use Plan, the Town continues to support cooperative planning with the County (or the City of Wilmington, as applicable). (c) Annexation Feasibility Study, Wrightsville Sound Area, February, 1988. ' This report explores the need for water, sewer and storm drainage improvements for a potential annexation area, Wrightsville Sound, on the mainland. it describes the authority which enables municipalities to undertake involuntary annexation and qualifies an area meeting statutory requirements. It ' describes the Town's major services and their associated expenditures, and projects revenues and Town ' Page 5-9 Present Conditions expenditures from service expansions under the annexation scenario. The study focuses on other facility needs including drawbridge operations, police and fire protection, street improvements, solid waste collection, building inspection services and recreation facilities improvements which would be required for annexation of the area. Subsequent to this study, interest in annexing this area has subsided and is reflected in the Town's land use planning policies (d) Land Planning Study@ Wrightsville Sound Area, December, 1986 This is an earlier study to investigate the feasibility of non voluntary annexation of portions of the Wrightsville Sound area including the cost effectiveness of extending municipal facilities and services. It was subsequently superseded by the 1988 study, above. (a) The New Hanover County Land Use Plan (1986 and 1993 Updates) These two updates to the County's land use plan articulate policies for growth and development in effect for the County, Including the Wrightsville Sound area. In both updates, the County classified land in the Wrightsville Sound area as Resource Protection or Conservation, both of which limit residential density to a maximum of 2.5 units per acre. The County has a Conservation Overlay District (COD) for the waterfront area. The Special Highway Overlay District (SHOD) requires additional landscaping, setbacks, and signage controls along Eastwood Road. Its intent is to preserve the aesthetic appearance of this main traffic artery and gateway to Wrightsville Beach. (f) Airlie Road Plan, May, 1983. While this area is not within the planning jurisdiction of The Town of Wrightsville Beach, land use policies and actions in this area do influence the character of Wrightsville Beach and its immediate vicinity. This plan was prepared by the New Hanover County Planning Department as a neighborhood development plan for the area bounded by Airlie Road and Wrightsville Avenue. The plan seeks to guide future development while maintaining the desirable characteristics of the area. Neighborhood issues and goals are discussed, and policy actions and recommendations are given. The plan also includes alternative development and future land use alternatives for the Airlie Road neighborhood. (g) Greater Wilmington Area Thoroughfare Plan This plan includes Wrightsville Beach, contains a list of planned improvements to thoroughfares within the Wilmington area to the year 2005. The plan is prepared by NCDOT in cooperation with the City of Wilmington Transportation Planning Staff, and adopted by NCDOT and the Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO), which is the area Transportation Advisory Committee. (h) The Greater Wilmington 201 Facilities Planning Study Report, Part 1. Town of Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina. Final Revision, June, 1975 This plan was prepared to "develop a facilities plan for the construction of the most logical, economical, socially acceptable and environmentally sound wastewater treatment and disposal facilities for Wrightsville Beach". (i) Dune Maintenance and Protection Plan. This Plan established procedures and methods for protection of the dune and berm through vegetation maintenance and by the use of restrictive ordinances. This Plan has been implemented at Wrightsville Beach through US Army Corps of Engineers projects. Q) Wrightsville Beach Access Plan. This Plan sets out policies for development of public access points and to encourage beach visitors to use alternative modes of transportation, other than the automobile. With financial assistance from the Division of Coastal Management, the Town has established an organized system of public access points up and down the oceanfront. The implementation of this plan has provided visitors open accessibility to the oceanfront at 300 to 500 foot intervals along approximately 70% of the length of Wrightsville Beach's outer island. (k) Capital Improvement Plan. The Town of Wrightsville Beach has prepared capital improvement plans, in various formats, since the mid-1980's. The current format, which is updated annually, is based on a five year schedule. The purpose of this annual plan is to anticipate and budget ahead for major projects or needs of the Town where Page 5-10 IPresent Conditions ' substantial funding is necessary. A capital Improvement project is customarily defined as a major, non recurring expenditure that may Involve such things as construction, non -recurring rehabilitation, purchase of major equipment, or any planning, feasibility, engineering, or design study related to an individual capital improvement. 5.3.2 Current Land Use Regulations (a) Town Regulations The Town of Wrightsville Beach, like other municipalities in the State, has been granted general statutory ' authority by the North Carolina General Statutes to enact necessary ordinances designed to protect and promote the health, safety and general welfare of its citizens. The local plans and policies of the Town of Wrightsville Beach are enforced through ordinances adopted by the Town Board of Aldermen, which is granted this power by the Charter ratified March 6, 1899 (now revised and consolidated, as adopted July 11,1989). Below is a listing of Town ordinances and enforcement provisions related to land use and development which are also applicable to the satellite annexation areas in the Wrightsville Sound area. Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA) major and minor permits must be acquired for development where necessary. (1) Wrightsville Beach Zoning Ordinance The zoning ordinance is the most prominent land development regulatory tool used by the Town of ' Wrightsville Beach. The ordinance was originally adopted in 1972. The ordinance attempts to carry out its functions by regulating the location and height of buildings, establishing minimum building lot sizes, and establishing certain districts in which particular uses relating to residential, commercial, or institutional uses are either allowed or prohibited. + . ' Currently the Town has twelve zoning districts: three residential districts (R-1, R-1S and R-2); a Private Club District; five commercial districts (C-1 through C-5); a public and semi-public district for Institutional uses; a shore district for the beachfront area; and a conservation district which restricts all uses except for piers and marinas. In addition to the uses allowed within each district, certain "conditional" uses are permitted on a case -by -case review basis. The zoning of Wrightsville Beach and the Wrightsville Sound area as of mid 1996 is shown on the Zoning Map accompanying this plan. ' (2) Subdivision Regulations The Wrightsville Beach subdivision regulations regulate the conversion of raw land into building sites. ' These regulations establish design standards for provision of certain facilities and infrastructure such as streets, water and sewer service, and drainage facilities. Given the limited supply of raw land remaining at Wrightsville Beach, subdivision regulations have limited application. ' (3) Plerhead Line Ordinance This set of regulations, enforced by the Town of Wrightsville Beach, concerns how. far a pier can extend out into the water. Note: NCAC T15:7H.1205 (g) states: "The line of division of areas of riparian access shall be established by drawing a line along the channel or deep water in front of the property, then drawing a line perpendicular to the line of the channel so that it intersects with the shore at the point the upland property line meets the water's edge.' Discussion between the Town Planner and the CAMA enforcement officer for the Wilmington Regional Field Office of the Division of Coastal Management indicated that potential differences for interpretation ' regarding pier locations can be routinely handled and that if a conflict exists, the more restrictive regulation prevails. (4) State Building Code ' The Town of Wrightsville Beach has an active building inspections program and enforces the North Carolina State Building Code. Volume No. 5, the Fire Prevention Code, is of great importance and concern to the Town and its fire department. ' Page 5-11 Present Conditions (5) Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance This ordinance provides development and construction criteria designed to mitigate potential flood losses. Provisions of this ordinance meet and even exceed FEMA requirements. (b) New Hanover County Regulations Affecting the Wrightsville Sound Area (1) New Hanover Counter oning_Ordinance County zoning in the Wrightsville Sound area includes commercial (C), office/industrial (0&1) and low to medium density residential (R-15, R-20) uses. Additional provisions of the County Zoning Ordinance applicable in this area include a Conservation Overlay District, a Planned Development District, and a Special Highway Overlay District (SHOD). (2) New Hanover County Subdivision Regulations The Subdivision Regulations require individuals and developers who wish to subdivide property into new parcels or lots to go through a review and approval process with the County Planning Department and Planning Board. Plats of the subdivision must be submitted, found consistent, and approved before lots may be transferred to new ownership. These regulations also require certain improvements be performed before a subdivision can be approved. Roads and utilities must meet certain construction specifications and floodplains, existing facilities, and certain other items must be delineated. (3) New Hanover County Sedimentation and Erosion Control Ordinance The purpose of this ordinance is to reduce the potential for erosion and sedimentation associated with land disturbing activities. This ordinance requires developers to meet certain specifications in performing construction activities that disturb at least one acre of soil. The specifications include revegetation practices, use of silt fences and rip -rap, reduction of velocity of discharge of runoff water, and other soil conservation practices. (c) Means of Enforcement (Staffing and Ordinance Adequacy) The responsibility for enforcing local land use ordinances, including the State Building Code in Wrightsville Beach, is the responsibility of the Town's Public Works Department. This department is headed by a Director, with additional full-time personnel. The Town also has a staff planner/assistant to the town manager to coordinate planning and zoning matters. All planning and land development matters are brought before the Wrightsville Beach Planning Board, which meets monthly. The Planning Board conducts reviews and makes recommendations to the Town Board of Aldermen, which has final responsibility for making planning decisions. Ordinances having application in the Wrightsville Sound area are enforced by appropriate personnel of New Hanover County planning and Inspections. 5.3.3 Relationship of Land Use Regulations to CAMA Land Use Plan Planning doctrine states that land use regulations should be prepared "in accordance with a comprehensive plan". CAMA land use plans, if prepared properly, can serve the function of a comprehensive plan. Unfortunately, this has often not been the case. In many localities, these regulations were placed in force before the first land use plan was conceived. In other instances, the ordinances were created with little regard for the policies or the land classification system of the land use plan. In still others, there remains the viewpoint that the CAMA land use plan is simply a state mandated technical requirement with which the local government must comply every five years. In the case of Wrightsville Beach, however, the Town's development regulations were evaluated just two years ago in a systematic fashion. (See land Use Plans, Demonstration Project. Town of Wrightsville Beach, NC. 1994.1 A series of specific recommendations were provided regarding appropriate modifications to the Town's land use plan and development regulations. Excerpts and exhibits from other plans and ordinances were included in the appendices to the report, providing examples of how several of the report's recommendations might be carried out. The report concluded: '..the measures necessary to address these development issues do not require Herculean changes in the Town's growth management system.... for the most part, the recommendations set forth in this evaluation involve limited, strategic refinements of the Town's land use plan and existing development regulations ... (Letter of transmittal to the Mayor and Board of Aldermen, 4/21/94). Page 5-12 I Constraints 1 i 1 11 1 L 1 1 1 1 i C] [1 1 6. Constraints 6.1 Land Suitability 6.1.1 Physical Limitations for Development (a) Hazard Areas Hazardous areas at Wrightsville Beach may be described, for the most part, in one of three categories: (1) areas subject to washover and "static" flooding (2) areas subject to storm surge and "dynamic" flooding, and (3) areas subject to shoreline erosion and loss of property. (1) Areas Subject To "Static" Flooding The entirety of both Harbor Island and the Outer Island are subject to total inundation during the 100 year storm. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has identified these areas on the flood Insurance rate maps (F.I.R.M.'s) as being in the A Zone, subject to washover and flooding. As older structures have been replaced over the years, however, the Town has been successful in Implementing new construction standards that elevate most substantial improvements above the 100 year flood level. (2) Areas Subject To Storm Surge And "Dynamic" Flooding These are areas of the coast subject to high velocity wave action and storm surge during severe storms. These areas typically extend along the shoreline and to some distance landward of the frontal dune. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has identified these areas on the flood Insurance rate maps (F.I.R.M: s) as being located in the V zone. (3) Areas Subject To Shoreline Erosion These are typically areas along the ocean shoreline which are especially vulnerable to effects of sand, wind, water and erosion. Such hazardous areas may include beaches, frontal dunes, inlet lands, and other areas in which geologic, vegetative and soil conditions indicate a substantial possibility of excessive erosion or flood damage. Within CAMA such hazardous areas have been framed as the Ocean Hazard system of Areas of Environmental Concern (AEC's), and may be further Identified according to four specific sub areas as follows: (1) The ocean erodible area (2) The high hazard flood area (3) The inlet hazard area and (4) The unvegetated beach area. Each of these areas is described in greater detail under Section 8.1.2E of this plan. (b) Areas with Soil Limitations Unlike many other localities, which may contain a large number of complex soil types and associations, there are only three soil types within Wrightsville Beach's jurisdiction. These three soil types are: Newhan fine sand, Tidal Marsh, and Urban Land. The three may be generally described as follows: • Newhan Fine Sand. This soil type consists of gently sloping, excessively drained sands on dunes and along beaches and coastal waterways. Virtually all of the barrier island portion of Wrightsville Beach, including the beach area and all of the developed area backing up to Banks Channel, consists of Newhan fine sands. " Tidal Marsh. These are the soils of the tidal flood plains between the coastal sand dunes on 1 the ocean and the upland areas on the mainland. Most of these soils are covered by smooth cordgrass, but farther Inland may be increasingly covered by black needlerush. These soils are very poorly drained, have slopes of zero to two percent, and are used mainly for natural habitat for shore and water birds. Most of the area within Wrightsville Beach's jurisdiction, including the area 1 between Banks Channel and the Intracoastal Waterway (except for Harbor Island), is classified as Tidal Marsh. Generally, tidal marsh areas have no potential for conventional development. 1 1 Page 6-1 Constraints • Urban Land. This soil type exists in areas where the original soil profiles have been cut, filled, graded, paved or otherwise changed so that the original soil types (mostly dry, poorly drained sands) have been substantially altered or destroyed. All of the developed portion of Harbor Island is classified as Urban Land. Soils limitations for development at Wrightsville Beach are, for the most part, a non -issue. The Town has a central sewer collection system to remove wastewater from the island, and 'development' is generally prohibited in marsh areas. However, there is still the need for on -site sampling, testing, and study of specific sites before design and construction of projects. Regarding the Wrightsville Sound area, most soils there belong to the Murville-Seagate-Leon association. These soils may be described as 'very poorly drained to somewhat poorly drained', and having a "fine sand to sand surface layer and a fine sand, sand, sandy loam, and clay loam subsoil.' Some of the soils in the area (Johnston, Lynnwood and Murville) are subject to frequent flooding and wetness. This places some constraints on building site development, particularly in terms of subsurface and surface features. A more detailed explanation of the capabilities and characteristics of soil types found at Wrightsville is contained in the E911 Survey g! tL%W Hanove County published by the US Department of Agriculture Soil Conservation Service, 1977. The report also shows the general location and extent of these soils on maps. (c) Water Supply Areas Well water in the region is drawn from the Cretaceous Aquifer, which lies 190 to 1,100 feet below the land surface. This water supply is considered sizable, and the Town wells draw primarily from the Pee Dee Formation. Overall mineral content Is low but iron levels are often high. Water is brackish at this depth. The aquifer receives recharge from infiltration through the overlying sediments and from upland recharge areas to the west. Overlying this aquifer is a limestone -sand unconsolidated sandy layer some 130 feet thick, the Castle Hayne aquifer. Here water is abundant and often rich In iron and hydrogen sulfide. Water is salty at depth near the coast. Above the Tertiary system aquifer (0 to 60 feet) lie the Post Miocene, Yorktown and surficial aquifers of predominantly sands and clay. Water in these aquifers is low in mineral content, rich in iron, and often salty near the coast. Care and consideration must be taken not to overtax the water supply; excessive pumping and depletion of the fresh water will likely result in salt water intrusion into the aquifer on the island and even the mainland. Presently, there are four providers of water to businesses and residents of the Wrightsville Sound area: Cape Fear Utilities Company, private individual wells, the Town of Wrightsville Beach and the City of Wilmington. (d) Areas With Slopes Exceeding 12% There are no known areas in the Town of Wrightsville Beach with slopes exceeding 12%, except perhaps, very small isolated pockets of grade changes and the slopes of remaining natural and man-made berms and sand dunes. (a) Shoreline Areas With High Erosion Potential Much of the north end of the outer island of Wrightsville Beach has the potential for high erosion rates. This has become particularly evident in recent years, with the southward movement of Masons Inlet. Virtually any portion of the oceanfront, however, may be subject to significant changes in erosion/accretion rates. (f) Small Watersheds Draining Into Special Waters All of the planning jurisdiction of Wrightsville Beach drains into the sound waters east of the mainland of New Hanover County. Waters immediately adjacent to and surrounding Harbor Island are generally classified as SB (not suitable for shellfishing) while waters west of the northern and southern ends of the Page 6-2 Constraints I I 11 1 [J 1 outer island are classified as SA (suitable for shellfishing). There are no particular small watersheds at Wrightsville Beach draining into special waters. 6.1.2 Fragile Areas "Fragile areas" are those areas which could easily be damaged or destroyed by inappropriate or poorly planned development. Included are coastal wetlands, sand dunes, ocean beaches and shorelines, estuarine waters and shorelines, outstanding resource waters, public trust waters, complex natural areas, areas sustaining remnant species, unique geologic formations, national landmarks, wooded swamps, prime wildlife habitats, scenic points, archaeological and historical sites, maritime forests, and "404" wetlands. As a coastal estuarine Island, virtually all of Wrightsville Beach consists of or Is adjacent to fragile areas associated with the coastal environment: the tidal and nontidal wetlands, the ocean and estuarine areas, dunes, scenic points, natural areas, and public trust waters. The general location and extent of important fragile area resources at Wrightsville Beach, including tidal wetlands, historic structures, areas of high probability for archaeological sites, and inlet hazard areas at Wrightsville Beach are identified on the Fragile Areas Map, 1996. Some of these fragile areas have been specifically designated by the State of North Carolina as being critical resource areas; environmentally significant and vulnerable to damage and destruction by development. These "Areas of Environmental Concem" or "AEC's" are described in detail, along with applicable policies, under Section 8.1.2 of the Resource Protection Policies Section of this plan. 6.1.3 Areas with Resource Potential As defined by CAMA, Areas with Resource Potential include productive and unique agricultural lands: potentially valuable mineral sites; publicly owned forests, parks, fish and game lands, and other non - intensive outdoor recreation lands; and privately owned wildlife sanctuaries. These areas may be nominated for approval and designation as AEC's by the Coastal Resources Commission. Some may also be a part of other AEC's. Within the jurisdiction of the Town of Wrightsville Beach there are no traditionally accepted areas with resource potential. However, the Town does maintain significant park acreage. Also, it could be said that the extensive marsh and estuarine waters surrounding the Town of Wrightsville Beach are indeed productive fish and game lands. Residents of the Town expressed strong interest in preserving the environmental quality and productivity of these critically important natural areas. 6.2 Community Facilities and Services Capacity In this section, the design capacity and level of utilization of the existing community facilities and services within the Town are examined and analyzed to determine if future demands can be met. Future demands are projected ahead 10 years to the planning horizon of the year 2006. 6.2.1 Wastewater Management (a) Background The Town of Wrightsville Beach operates and maintains a central sewer collection system. The system extends throughout the present corporate limits that encompass the Outer Island and Harbor Island. It includes four (4) small lift stations, and one (1) main lift station which is located at Parmele Boulevard and North Lumina Avenue. The main lift station is connected to the County's Northeast Interceptor System and ultimately to the City of Wilmington's Southside Wastewater Treatment Facility located on River Road next to the Cape Fear River. The system is operated under an intedocai contract agreement between the Town, New Hanover County and the City of Wilmington. This agreement was an outgrowth of Greater Wilmington Area 201 Facility Planning Project of the 1970's. Construction of the Northeast Interceptor and the Wrightsville Beach Connector and Pumping Station was funded In part by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under the Construction Grants Program of the Clean Water Act. Page 6-3 Constraints (b) Capacity The capacity (average daily flow) of the existing main pumping station at Wrightsville Beach is 1.44 MGD (million gallons per day). However, the station has the capability to pump short duration peak flows of 2.88 MGD. The interlocal agreement between the City and Town of Wrightsville Beach is for a 60-day average of 1.5 MGD. Average daily sewer flows for the past ten years at Wrightsville Beach are shown below. DAILY SEWER FLOW (AVERAGE) - 10 YEARS Year total flow(gals) avers a daily flow(gals 01/01/86-12/31/86 256855.000 703,712 O1/01/87-12/31/87 250 925 800 687.466 01/01/88-12/31/88 233,950,000 639 208 01/01/89-12/31/89 236,214,000 647,162 01/01/90-12/31/90 291,136,000 797,633 01/01/91-12/31/91 294,055,630 805 632 01/01/92-12/31/92 276,110,840 754,401 01/01/93-12/31/93 274,455,020 751 932 01/01/94-12/31/94 248,472,860 680 748 01/01/95-12/31/95 256 187 040 701,882 (c) Projected Flows From these figures, a general projection of approximately 850,000 gallons per day can be determined for the year 2000 and 925,000 gallons per day for the year 2006. These numbers should be considered conservative (meaning on the high side) since the overall trend for the past five years has been one of declining flows. (Declining flows are due to the Town's concerted effort over the past several years to reduce groundwater infiltration and inflow into the collection system of underground pipes. Specific projects have included slip lining of existing sewer lines and rehabilitation of existing manholes.) Thus, the average daily volume projected for ten years from now is still well below the 1.44 million gallon per day rated capacity of the Town's main pump station. Beyond these annual average flows, the highest peak pump day in 1995 was 1,328,570 gallons. Public Works Department records for the past ten years indicate that the main pumping station pumped the highest peak flow of 1,987,000 gallons in September, 1988. This peak flow is above the average capacity of the station but well within its current peak pumping capability of 2.88 MGD. Thus, provided that New Hanover County continues to upgrade the capacity of its central sewage treatment plants, the sewer system capacity should handle the sewer service needs of the Town area east of the waterway through at least the year 2006. (d) Wrightsville Sound The Wrightsville Sound area has historically used septic tanks as its primary means of wastewater treatment and disposal. In the time since the last update to the Land Use Plan, New Hanover County has installed a county sewer system serving this area. This system is also connected to the Northeast Interceptor and wastewater is treated at the City's Southside Wastewater Treatment Works. The collection system in the Wrightsville Sound area should also have sufficient reserve capacity to serve anticipated growth in this segment of the planning area through the year 2006. 6.2.2 Drinking Water Supply System (a) System Overview At present, the Town of Wrightsville Beach's municipal water system provides service to all areas of the town east of the Intracoastal waterway and to the satellite annexation areas at Wrightsville Sound west of the waterway. Facilities located east of the waterway include two elevated storage tanks: one near the north end and one near the south end of the barrier island. These elevated tanks have capacities of 300,000 and 200,000 gallons, respectively. The Town also has two water treatment centers (No. 1 on d I t 1 I 1 Page 6-4 Constraints Harbor Island near Town Hall and No. 2 at Aliens Lane on the mainland at Wrightsville Sound) which have associated ground storage reservoirs with a total capacity of 1.5 million gallons. The storage capacity of ' reservoir No. 1 is one million gallons and that of No. 2 is 0.5 million gallons. The Town has a total of ten (10) active water supply wells. One is inactive at this time. (b) Wrightsville Sound Area ' In the Wrightsville Sound segment of the planning area, service is provided by the Town, Cape Fear Utilities Company, and private individual wells. The City of Wilmington has a 24-inch finished water trunk main running along Eastwood Road (US Highway 74) but its service at this time is limited to Landfall (a ' Planned Unit Development) and its associated commercial development at the intersection of US 74 and Military Cutoff (US Highway 17 Truck Route). Cape Fear Utilities Company's water supply wells are located to the west of Wrightsville Sound. An 8-inch trunk main serves the central portion of the mainland segment of the planning area. The Town has two water supply wells in service in the Wrightsville Sound area which are connected to the Water Treatment Center No. 2 at Allen's Lane and to the water mains which serve the satellite annexation properties. The Town's distribution system in the Wrightsville Sound area connects the Town's mainland water treatment facility and supply wells with the satellite annexation properties. The municipal distribution system consists of 12-Inch, 10-inch and 8-inch mains with fire hydrants and vatving required to serve all areas of the Town Including the existing annexed tracts. ' A 14-inch subaqueous waterline connection beneath the Intracoastal Waterway gives the Town considerable flexibility of utilizing all ten (10) of Its water supply wells and combined elevated and ground storage of 2 million gallons both east and west of the Waterway to meet its water supply needs within its ' total jurisdiction. (c) Capacity ' The rated capacity of a water system is based on a number of criteria, some established by State regulations, and others by engineering considerations and practice. The State regulations pertinent to rating the system are: (1) the well field should be able to produce the system design daily average flow in a ' 12-hour pumping period; (2) the total storage available should be at least one average day's flow. The design daily flow applicable to these criteria are the average flows which occur in the system. Fl 1 1 In a resort community such as Wrightsville Beach, the system flows are subject to unusual peaks which occur seasonally. Therefore, while it is not necessary or practical to meet the above State criteria on those peak days, the system must be able to handle those flows for short periods without running out of water. To accommodate these periods, good engineering practice dictates that the well field should be able to meet the peak daily flows in 24 hours pumping time with the largest well out of service. The capacities listed below are based on the above criteria. EXISTING WELL DATA Well Field Set Production Well Location Capacity Capacity #1 1601 N.Lumina 350GPM 228GPM #2 2399 N. Lumina 400GPM 200 GPM #3 1 West Raleigh Rehabilitation In Progress #4 225 Waynick 350 GPM 208 GPM #5 435 Causeway 318 GPM 190 GPM #6 7 Marina 300 GPM 200 GPM #7 302 Pelican 200 GPM 100 GPM #8 201 W. Salisbury 520 GPM 330 GPM #11 2009 Aliens Lane 325 GPM 215 GPM #12 1729 Aliens Lane 220 GPM 100 GPM Totals: 12,975 GPM 11,755 GPM Page 6-5 Constraints Well Field Capacity Established Pumping Rate Established Pumping Rate (Well # 8 out of Service) 2,975 GPM x 12 HOURS = 2,142,000 GPD 1,755 GPM x 24 HOURS = 2,527,000 GPD 1,425 GPM x 24 HOURS = 2,052,000 GPD "Well #3 is in the process of being rehabilitated and returned to active service. Expected production is 150 GPM or 108,000 GPD. Rated capacity maximum production is 216,000 GPD. "Well #9, located at 308 Corbett Street, will likely be reactivated within the next 3 years. Expected rated production is 100 GPM or 72,000 GPD. Maximum production is 144,000 GPO. (d) Average Daily Flows (Demand) Average daily water flows for the past ten years are as follows: AVERAGE DAILY WATER FLOW, 1986 TO 1995 YEAR TOTAL FLOW (GALLONS) AVERAGE DAILY FLOW GALLONS 01/01/86-12/31/86 291,493,900 798,613 01/01/87-12/31/87 381007546 824678 01 /01 /88-12/31 /88 301,435,500 823 594 O1/01/89-12/31/89 319026618 874046 O1/01/90-12/31/90 361557568 990569 01/01/91-12131/91 357367672 979090 01 /01 /92-12/31/92 347,947,000 950,675 01 /01 /93-12/31 /93 373,072,000 1,022,115 01/01/94-12/31/94 353,586,000 968,729 01 /01 /95-12/31 /95 358,269,000 981,559 From the flow data records for the past 10 years, flow has been increasing at an average rate of 3 percent per year. However, in the two most recent years for which average flows are available (1994 and 1995), the rate of increase has shown signs of slowing to about 1 % per year. The following table presents projected average flow rates according to a high (2.3%), medium (1-20/6) and low (.5.1%) growth trend. All numbers have been rounded for simplicity. PROJECTED GROWTH IN WATER USE, AVERAGE DAILY FLOWS High, Medium, and Low Growth Scenarios 1996-2005 Year Hiah Medium Low 1996 1,065,000 1,020,000 995,000 1997 1,085,000 1,030,000 1,005,000 1998 1,115,000 1,055,000 1,015,000 1999 1,145,000 1,065,000 1,025,000 2000 1,170,000 1,085,000 1,035,000 2001 1,200,000 1,105,000 1,045,000 2002 1,225,000 1 125 000 1 055 000 2003 1 255 000 1 140 000 1 065 000 2004 1 305 000 1 160 000 1,075,000 2005 1 1,330,000 1,180,000 1,085,000 From this projection, the average flow demands should be within the maximum capacity of the system through at least the year 2005. Page 6-6 Constraints Cl U C 6.2.3 Transportation Facilities Update (a) General The US 74-76 bridge across the Atlantic Intracoastal waterway is the only means of ingress and egress to the town from the mainland. Crossing the bridge onto Harbor Island, the four -lane drawbridge connects into a five -lane road (US 76), which has a two-lane fork heading to the north end of the beach (US 74- W.Salisbury Street), intersecting with North Lumina. On the other hand, the five-laned US 76 (Causeway Drive) runs Into Waynick Boulevard and Lumina across the Banks Channel Bridge at the center of the town. Waynick Boulevard, which is four-laned, is the major thoroughfare to the southern end of the beach. (b) Traffic Volumes and Roadway Design Capacity Utilization of the main roads on Wrightsville Beach, like all other facilities, is subject to summertime seasonal peaks. The Traffic Volumes table below shows the estimated peak traffic volumes for 1990 and 1996, along with the estimated design capacities of each of the major thoroughfares. TRAFFIC VOLUMES AND ROADWAY DESIGN CAPACITY Town of Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina Est. Peak Est. Design Day Volume'D AIWW Bridge 45,030 52,000 50,000 90.1 104.0 15.4 US 74 14,315 20,800 35,000 40.9 59.4 31.1 ' US 76 24,462 31,200 20,000 122.3 156.0 27.5 Waynick Blvd. 12,684 19,600 28,000 45.3 70.0 54.5 ' Sources of Data: NC Department of Transportation, Division 3, Wilmington, NC and Town of Wrightsville Beach, NC. [1 I 11 •VPD = Vehicles Per Day. +Peak usage is based on NCDOT count of vehicles using AIW W bridge on July 4th Weekend. Peaks for other thoroughfares are derived by increasing AADT by factor of 1.812 which represents the ratio of peak to AADT . ++Provided by NCDOT, based on maximum "free flow" capacity, ( i. a., no traffic lights, roadside parking or other obstructions) . Compared to the maximum design capacities, U.S. 74 and Waynick Boulevard appear to have current excess capacities, while the drawbridge at the Intracoastal waterway and U.S. 76 are over capacity at peak times. However, capacity estimates assume free and open flow on all thoroughfares, without obstructions and limited roadside parking. Any significant variations from these assumed conditions renders design capacities less the optimum shown. In keeping with the dramatic increases in the population of New Hanover County since 1990 (See Population Growth table at Section 5.1.1), percentage increases in peak percent use have also increased dramatically over the same period. ' Page 6-7 Constraints (c) Wrightsville Beach (Heide -Trask) Drawbridge The only roadway access connecting segments of the Town east and west of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway is by the Heide -Trask Drawbridge on US Highways 74-76. The drawbridge is operated and maintained by the North Carolina Department of Transportation. Since the summer of 1985, the Town has maintained radio communications with the drawbridge operator by placing a Town radio in the operator's control booth. The bridge operator also has radio contact with vessels using the Waterway. In November, 1987, the Town was successful in having the US Coast Guard place the drawbridge on a schedule of opening every hour on the hour, year-round for pleasure craft, between the hours of 7:00 am and 7:00 PM. Commercial craft and vessels operated by governmental agencies can still pass through the drawbridge on demand as necessary. The average opening of the drawbridge lasts about four minutes per vessel passing through, but could be longer. The bridge operator notifies the Town's police dispatcher in advance of any time the bridge will be open longer than usual to accommodate the passage of a dredge or barge tow. The County's 911 emergency communication center also has radio communications with the bridge operator and notifies the operator when an ambulance is approaching the bridge. In the same way, the Town's police dispatcher notifies the bridge operator when there is a fire, police or medical emergency within the Town that requires highway access across the bridge. Under these emergency circumstances, the bridge operator will not open the bridge until the emergency has been cleared. Should the bridge become inoperable because of mechanical problems or for other reasons, many beachgoers or resident travelers could find themselves stranded on the beach. Both the Police and Fire Departments maintain radio contact with the bridge and can assist with minor repairs. The Fire Department maintains an initial response plan and plans for long term breakdown and ferry service in conjunction with the North Carolina Department of Transportation. If the bridge were ever disabled during a storm or during dangerous or threatening weather, a temporary ferry shuttle system would also be established, using DOT supplied ferry boats. These ferries would be used to transfer cars and people across the AIW W to the mainland. The boats would also be used to ferry emergency vehicles, school buses, commercial traffic (food delivery trucks, for example). To supplement the ferries, smaller State-owned boats would also be mobilized in order to move people without vehicles. (d) Parking Another problem related to traffic is the demand for public parking spaces. With ever-increasing numbers of day visitors to the beach during the summer season, traffic congestion is compounded and the number of parking space available is limited. Recent figures show that there are 1,899 public parking spaces in Wrightsville Beach, down from 2,137 in 1990 (see Table below). This apparent decrease in parking spaces may be attributed in some measure, however, to a change in the 1990 and 1995 methodologies for counting spaces. In 1995, the Town did not count non -striped parking spaces on South Harbor Island. At the same time, some actual reductions in parking spaces were realized by the loss of about ten on - street spaces along North Lumina Avenue for the creation of a fire lane. Virtually any loss of public parking at Wrightsville Beach must be treated with significance, as an estimated 5,000 cars could be seeking parking at any time on peak days. PARKING FACILITIES TOWN OF WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH 1990 1995 Parking Spaces in Lots 337 350 Total On -Street Parking - Wrightsville Island 1,373 1306 Town Park - Bob Sawyer Drive 104 104 Total On -Street Parking - Harbor Island 323 139 Total Public Parking Within Town 2,137 1,899 Source: Town of Wrightsville Beach Public Works Department and Town Planning Department. Page 6-8 1-11 Constraints ' (a) Wrightsville Sound ' Three (3) major thoroughfares pass through the Wrightsville Sound area (US 74, US 76 and Military Cutoff Road) and several "side streets" cross through the central portions of the area (Stokley Road and Aliens Lane). Traffic routing can seem somewhat confusing at intersections, especially where the major thoroughfares converge and diverge. 11 1 I 1 1 1 I 1 The vehicular use of these mainland roadways sometimes exceeds their capacity. Traffic congestion is often a problem In the Wrightsville Sound area, particularly during the summer months. During summer peak days, such as Saturdays in July, a peak of more than 52,000 vehicles can cross the AIW W bridge. Traffic can back up Eastwood Road more than half way to Military Cutoff Road, especially when the draw bridge goes up to allow multiple vessel passage. The increasing volume of traffic along Airlie Road is frequently slowed by the growing number of bicyclists riding in the road and/or along its shoulder, presenting a serious safety concern. However, the possibility of a bike path would alleviate much of this problem. The narrow width of Airie Road and lack of space for parking places a limit on the extent of development which can occur along the northern portion of the road adjacent to the AIWW. Limited land area, wetlands, trees, and residential homes prevent the widening of this part of Airlie Road. Not all portions of the study area, particularly the interior of Airlie Road neighborhood, are accessible by roadways, be they paved or unpaved. This may deter development of vacant undeveloped residential areas. (f) Transportation Summary Based on the above Information, it appears that the main thoroughfares serving the planning area have sufficient capacity to handle traffic during most periods through the year 2000. However, traffic congestion during certain peak periods will continue to occur. This periodic congestion will have to be tolerated as a fact of life for area residents and visitors as there is no easy solution to the problem, given the inherent limitations of the drawbridge over the AIW W. Nevertheless, further study of roadway, traffic and parking issues is warranted. 6.2.4 Schools The capacities and enrollments of New Hanover County public schools serving the Town of Wrightsville Beach are as shown below. School Capacities and Enrollments of Schools Serving Wrightsville Beach, 1996 Fall1996 Capacity Capacity Name of School Enrollment w/o mobile units w mobile units Wrightsville Beach Elem (K-5) 218 154 203 M.C.S. Noble Jr. High School (6-8) 959 654 692 EA Laney High School (9-12) 1858 1540 1782 Source: Mark Strickland. New Hanover Countv Schools Central Office, 8129196 While increases in the number of school aged children at Wrightsville Beach have been small at best, the New Hanover County School System has experienced an explosion In the student population. As a result, nearly all schools in the system are at or over capacity. Schools serving the Town of Wrightsville Beach are no exception. Wrightsville Beach Elementary School, serving grades K through 5, is the only school in the Town, and is currently over capacity, even with the addition of mobile classroom units. ' Page 6-9 Constraints New Hanover County school officials do not anticipate much growth in the number of elementary school age children within Wrightsville Beach proper over the next few years. However, growth in the elementary school age population in the County is expected to continue to mushroom. Despite the approval of a school bond referendum two years ago, County officials continue to struggle with the need for additional classroom space. Other educational services in New Hanover County, in addition to the public school system, include several private schools (primary, secondary, and special education), the University of North Carolina at Wilmington, and Cape Fear Community College. 6.2.5 Solid Waste Disposal The Town of Wrightsville Beach collects solid waste from all properties under its jurisdiction. Solid waste is disposed of in the County incinerator facility, located on US Highway 421 North. Alternately, should the incinerator be shut down for repairs or maintenance, solid waste is taken to the County Landfill which is also located on US Highway 421 North. There is no County trash collection system in the unincorporated County including Wrightsville Sound. Private waste collection services are contracted by homeowners and businesses in this area. This arrangement is presently adequate and will probably continue. The collected solid waste is disposed of in the County incinerator or, if the unit is down for repairs, in the County landfill. These County facilities are deemed adequate for current and future needs. The County has increased the capacity of the incinerator to match projected demands. Over the past few years, the State of North Carolina has required, and then relaxed, standards for recycling and waste reduction at the local government level. Regardless of these requirements, the Town of Wrightsville Beach has been a leader in the development and implementation of a voluntary recycling program. The Town has set up a recycling center on Seawater Drive near the Police and Fire Departments. 6.2.6 Police Protection The Town's Police Department staff presently consists of 19 sworn officers, 4 desk officers, one secretary and one animal control officer for a total of 25 full-time employees. During the summer of 1990, the Town added one part-time police officer to patrol the beach strand during the peak summer season. The Police Department is also augmented by a reserve consisting of five officers, all of whom are volunteers. The Department has nine patrolling automobiles (marked and unmarked), an animal truck, a parking meter truck, and a life guard truck. The Department offers law enforcement services ranging from investigative services to patrol of residential and commercial property. The Police Department also maintains radio communications with the drawbridge. The Department presently has an emergency response time of less than three minutes and a non -emergency response time of five minutes. The Police Department Headquarters is located at 321 Causeway Drive in the Municipal complex on Harbor Island. The New Hanover County Sheriff's Department serves the Wrightsville Sound area. The unincorporated areas of the County are divided into twelve (12) service sectors. Each sector is patrolled by the Sheriff's deputies, with a total of 52 marked and unmarked vehicles. County law enforcement is generally considered adequate in the Wrightsville Sound area. Police protection services in the planning area are adequate to meet present needs. However, through to the planning horizon of the year 2006, additional staff and vehicles will be required to keep pace with increasing day visitors population, and traffic. Page 6-10 I Constraints 6.2.7 Fire Protection and Emergency Medical Services Fire protection within the corporate limits of the Town of Wrightsville Beach is provided by its municipal Fire Department, with the goal of vigilance to good protection and mitigating fire loss potential. The Town of Wrightsville Beach provides fire protection service for the satellite annexed areas on the same basis and in t the same manner as such services are provided within the rest of Wrightsville Beach. The Department provides first response, EMT-D based emergency medical services as well. The Wrightsville Beach Fire Department is headquartered at the Municipal complex on Harbor Island. The Department is staffed by ten, paid personnel with three men, for the most part, assigned to a rotating 24 hour shift. Qualified part time shift persons are used as much as possible to fulfill the objective of minimal three -person manning. The Town's present fire rating classification is 4. This high rating also extends to the Wrightsville Sound annexation area. The Town's fire station and facilities are adequate to provide services to the present Town limits including the Wrightsville Sound satellite annexation areas. Major fire equipment includes: •1983, 1,250 gpm pumper with 50 feet telesquirt master stream - 500 gallon tank; 600 feet of 5-inch supply; 700 feet of 3-inch attacktsupply; 200 feet of 2.5 inch attack; 400 feet 1.75-inch attack. 0988, 1,250 gpm pumper with 5-inch hose capacity. •1996, 1500 gpm pumperfaerial with 300 gallon tank; 1500 feet 5-inch supply; 1000 feet 75' aerial; 400 feet 2.5-inch preconnect attack; 200 feet 1.75 inch and 200 feet 2 inch preconnect attack. ' • Pickup truck for equipment, logistical support and primary EMS squad. The Department has developed an in-house intern program and training facility which includes a fire training structure, tesVdraft tank, and, drying and ladder training facilities. The response time for the Fire Department within the present corporate limits is within four minutes to the farthest points at the north and south ends of Wrightsville Island. Response time to the Galleria Mali at the western end of the Wrightsville Sound area is within three minutes. These response times represent off- season traffic conditions which exist between Labor Day and Memorial Day. Traffic congestion which can be expected in summer months may affect the response time of the firefighters. New Hanover County has developed a Fire Service District for its unincorporated areas, funded by a separate property tax. There are eight (8) volunteer fire departments serving the unincorporated areas. The Wrightsville Sound area lies within the Seagate Fire District. A County -wide mutual assistance agreement exists between all fire departments to help insure adequate services in extreme situations. ' The increasing population over the past several years and the trend toward larger homes and multifamily housing at Wrightsville Beach reinforces the need to maintain adequate equipment, water reserves, and man power for firefighting. While the Town's water storage system (see Section 6.2.2) provides adequate fire flow capacity, current growth patterns present an increasing consistency of heavier required fire flows being created more uniformly throughout the community. In addition, the number of volunteer firefighters available may not always be sufficient to meet ISO standards for required fire flow. Despite community growth and minimal fire partitioning, average volunteer response has remained constant for many years. The Town will need to continually evaluate the need for additional manpower (recruitment and retention), and training will help the department maintain its Class 4 rating and meet the increasing demand it faces. Engines and firefighting equipment will also need to be maintained and upgraded as needs dictate. ' Page 6-11 Constraints I 6.2.8 Parks and Recreational Facilities In addition to beach access facilities (see Section 4.1), the Wrightsville Beach Parks and Recreation Department operates one 13-acre park and five 'mini -parks'. The mini -parks range in size from .5 to .85 of an acre and are located on both Harbor Island and the barrier island portion of the Town. Generally, the outdoor facilities are adequate to handle the resident population of Wrightsville Beach. Day visitors also come from surrounding areas to visit the 13-acre park. These facilities are summarized below and their locations are shown on the Recreation Facilities, 1996 Map, which accompanies this plan. (1) Wrightsville Beach Park: 13-acre park with tennis courts/backwall, sand volleyball courts, basketball court, shuffleboard courts, horseshoes, one softball field, soccer/football field, jogging/fitness trail, tot lot, children's playground area and equipment, overlook deck and picnic shelter with grilles, 104-car parking lot. (2) Fran Russ Recreation Center: Adjacent to the park area and Town Hall, this building provides indoor areas for recreation and programs, room for community meetings and events, , and has a fully equipped kitchen. (3) Old No. 2 Fire Station —also used for indoor recreational programs. (4) Lees Nature Park: .5 acre nature -oriented park for plant and bind identification. ' (5) Greensboro Street Park:.8-acre park with playground equipment. (6) Wynn Plaza:.85-acre park on Banks Channel provides public 'transient' dockage, a gazebo, and waterfront walkways. (7) South Channel Drive Park: .5-acre park on Banks Channel for water -oriented activities. (8) Island Drive Park: .5-acre park with benches for passive atmosphere. (9) Causeway Park: .5-acre park with benches located at the street under the bridge. (10) Wings Plaza: Landscaped area with benches for passive uses, located in the downtown area across from Wynn Plaza. While no significant additions of park acreage are anticipated through the year 2006, there will be continued demand to make more intensive use of existing facilities and to add additional facilities at , existing park sites. Such facilities may need to address for example, an expanded senior citizens population and the types of recreational activities best suited to that age group. 6.2.9 Public Administrative Capability The Town of Wrightsville Beach was incorporated in 1899. The Town has a Council -Manager form of government. The Board of Aldermen consists of a Mayor and four Aldermen elected at large every four years with staggered terms. The Mayor is elected for a two-year tern. The Board of Aldermen is the governing body of the Town with the Mayor as a voting member and the presiding officer. The Town Manager is appointed by the Board of Aldermen and administers the daily operations of the Town as well as being responsible for implementing and explaining the policies of the Board of Aldermen. The Town provides a full range of services. These services include police and fire protection, sanitation, the construction and maintenance of streets and infrastructure, beach rescue, first responder/defibrillator medical service and parks and recreation. The Town also provides water and wastewater services. The , existing structure of govemment at Wrightsville Beach is performing its necessary functions well and there is no anticipation regarding major changes in the form or size of local government in the Town. The administrative structure of the Town is presented below. I I LJ Page 6-12 Constraints Town of Wrightsville Beach Organization Citizens of Wrightsville Beach Mayor and Board of Aldermen Town Manager General Management Police Town Clerk Administration Finance Investigation Administration Patrol Division Accounting Parking Control Billing Lifeguards Collection Animal Control Records Fire Public Works Administration Administration Prevention Water and Sewer Suppression Sanitation Emergency Preparedness Streets EMT-D Medical Services Zoning/Building Maintenance Parks and Recreation Assistant to the Manager Administration Administration Programs/Activities Planning Park Maintenance Page 6-13 I Estimated Demand I I I I i I I I i I I I I I 7. Estimated Demand 7.1 Population and Economic Projections 7.1.1 Projections of Permanent Population Population projections for Wrightsville Beach are an extrapolation from overall County -wide growth trends and historic patterns over the past several decades. (See Section 5.1.1 Population and Housing) The projections assume that the number of housing units being added to the County's housing stock will resume a more normal rate of Increase of 2000 units per year, down from the current torrid pace of 3000 units annually. At the same time, additions to the housing stock at Wrightsville Beach will continue to hold the town's population level steady at about 2% of the County total. Tendencies toward greater year round occupancy at Wrightsville Beach will be offset by economic forces (obtainable rents, property taxes) which will Increase incentives for rental properties. POPULATION PROJECTIONS Year Wrightsville Beach %of County Population New Hanover Count 1960 723 1.0 71742 1970 1,701 2.1 82 996 1980 2,786 2.7 102,779 1990 2,937 2.4 120,284 1995 Estimate 3 114 2.2 139 2000 Pro'ection 3 200 2.0 160,000 2010 Projection 1 3,4501 2.01 176,000 Source: Census of Population and Housing, 1960 through 1990, North Carolina Office of Budget and Management New Hanover County Planning Department, and Glenn Harbeck Associates. Projections of Seasonal/Peak Day Population With the advent of Interstate-40 and the tremendous growth of the permanent population of New Hanover County since 1990, estimates of peak day population range as high as 50,000 by the year 2000 (from a 1996 level of approximately 35,000 to 40,000—See Section 5.3, Impact of Seasonal Population). Because available parking space typically reaches the saturation level by mid-moming on a peak summer day, continued Increases in peak day population will be dependent in the future upon higher vehicle occupancy levels, shuttle services, public transportation, and other methods. 7.1.2 Economic Projections Section 5.1.2 of this plan provided a comparative examination of the employment characteristics of Wrightsville Beach residents as opposed to New Hanover County residents. This comparison revealed no remarkable differences between the employment patterns and occupations of Wrightsville Beach residents and County residents. Due to Wrightsville Beach's Increasing role as a residential "bedroom community' for the Greater Wilmington area, the Town's economic outlook is apt to continue to reflect the overall economic prospects for New Hanover County. In the absence of a major national economic downturn, such prospects, as described frequently by economists at the University of North Carolina at Wilmington, as well as by several financial institutions in the State, call for continued economic growth and prosperity for the Greater Wilmington area for the foreseeable future. Such continued advances in economic growth for the region can only result in Increasing demand for properties at Wrightsville Beach and continued inflationary pressures on real estate values, rents, and taxes, relative to the balance of the region. I Page 7.1 Estimated Demand i 7.2 Future Land Use Needs Because virtually all developable land at Wrightsville Beach Is either currently in use, projections of future land use needs are not relevant. Nonetheless, It is important to note that development pressures at Wrightsville Beach continue, with special emphasis on redevelopment for residential use. As real estate values continue to mount and commercial services become more readily available on the mainland side of the drawbridge, pressure for displacement of commercial uses by residential development has become Increasingly evident. This land use plan recommends that policies be implemented which seek to preserve the existing commercial/residential balance of development at Wrightsville Beach. 7.3 Demand for Community Facilities and Services For the sake of uninterrupted analysis and continuity of presentation, a discussion of community facilities demands is included in each of the community facility evaluations provided in Section 6.2 of this plan. I Page 7-2 IPolicy Statements I I I C 8. Policy Statements Introduction to the Policies The data collection and analysis described In Sections 4 through 7 of this plan was geared to gathering and summarizing information related to the future development and redevelopment of the Town of Wrightsville Beach. Building on this Information, a series of official local government policies are hereby set forth. As officially adopted policies of the Town of Wrightsville Beach, they serve as the basis for future decisions on land use, development and capital improvements. Policy Format Each major category in the policy section of the land use plan is addressed according to the following format: Discussion A brief summary of the issues, relevant findings and, where applicable, alternative policy responses. In addition, Section 12.1 of this Plan, entitled the Action Agenda, includes a number of potential Implementation Actions designed to carry out the Policies of the Land Use Plan over the next five years. It is important to understand that the narrative (discussion) is not policy, and does not carry the same degree of importance as the actual policy statements. The narrative is designed to provide background and rationale for the ensuing policy statement. In most Instances, the discussion serves to identify a problem or Issue, and may present a summary of findings from other technical studies. There is no intent to establish policy within any discussion section. More detailed discussions of issues related to policies are found in the earlier information sections of the Plan. The policy statements, on the other hand, must be viewed in a wholly different light. As statements of local government principle, the policies should remain substantially unchanged during the five year planning period. Frequent changes to the policies would undermine their effectiveness in achieving intended goals and objectives. Indeed, the policies are designed to maintain a consistent and predictable direction for local government decisions affecting local growth and development during the planning period. In reviewing the pages that follow, the reader is asked to focus greatest attention on the policies, while relying upon the discussion primarily as explanations as to intent. Page 8-1 Policy Statements 8.0 General Vision Policy for Next Ten Years The CAMA Land Use Planning Guidelines suggest that the policy section begin with an overall guiding policy regarding future growth and development. The Town of Wrightsville Beach is generally known throughout the coastal area as having a high quality of life highlighted by its proximity to the services of the Wilmington urban area, and the quality of its natural and built environment. The Town has also been successful in directing development and redevelopment in keeping with a small town, family -oriented community. The following policy statement emphasizes the need for diligence in working to retain the these quality features. 8.1 Resource Protection Policies 8.1.0 Resource Protection Policies Most residents of Wrightsville Beach, when asked at public meetings to identify those features that make Wrightsville Beach special, talked about such things as: the natural habitat for wildlife, good fishing, clean air and water, natural beauty, and water quality. These are the features of the community that make Wrightsville Beach such a unique place, and are so deserving of protection. 0.1 to (Note: In keeping with this policy, the Town shall consider each proposed development activity for its individual Impact on natural and scenic resources. For example, while the addition of a single *privacy wall blocking views to the waters edge may not have a significant Impact on views and Vistas to the water, the cumulative Impact of a great many such walls would eventually have a profound adverse effect on scenic views to the water throughout the town.) 8.1.1 Constraints to Development Development activities at Wrightsville Beach are constrained by a variety of natural and manmade limiting factors, as discussed in sections 6.1 and 6.2 of this plan. Of the various natural limitations on development in the town, the issue of storm water runoff and drainage is among the most significant. Without appropriate development standards, more development typically means more impervious surfaces. In turn, more impervious surfaces can result in more storm water runoff into the sounds or onto adjacent properties. Fortunately, the Town has been active in addressing this issue, and has put in place standards which require stormwater retention on site. Another natural constraint to development at Wrightsville Beach, though one more readily accepted than the storm water runoff problem, is flooding. The entirety of both Harbor Island and the Outer Island are subject to total inundation during the 100 year storm. As older structures have been replaced over the years, the Town has been successful in implementing new construction standards that elevate most substantial improvements above the 100 year flood level. The effectiveness of this policy was especially evident in the aftermath of hurricane Fran. In addition to drainage standards and 100 year flood plain standards, properties in the Town of Wrightsville Beach are also subject to the permitting requirements of the Division of Coastal Management, the Army Page 8-2 Policy Statements I I I 11 I Corps of Engineers as related to wetlands, the Town's Zoning and Pier Head Line Ordinances, and the Town Dune Maintenance Protection Plan. The standards promulgated in each of these areas are important in protecting specific resources at Wrightsville Beach. Policy 8.1.1 A Appropriate, Corrective Drainage Improvements Development.will tlot be allowed; where poor.,Aralnage -or,, seasonsl flooding exlstsr unless i appropriate corrective° Improvements ere to, be�completed as°partof'the:project Appropriate' corrective Improvements shall be :defined as Ahose which I solve Ahe drainage,,"ip ern° without increasing stormwater runoff ion sd)acsr t � properties; or in are avatars whether direct) , or.Indireetl . ° ° r Pollcv 81.1 B Application of Federal State and Local Controls Allowable lend uses In areas; posing physical aonstralnts`should be only those . approved through,, -;where applicabie;,the -Division of Coastal Management, (CAMA),` the Army °Corp , of Enginneers '404"e°permitting processes,° he,Town's Zoning and Pierhead Llne Ordinances"°andk1the,Town:=Dune 'Malntenance andi°�Prctecticn°°Plan. Policy 8.1.1 C Development in the 100 Year Flood lain �Development°shall. be' permissible In,lhe°100=year°flood zone, prcvlded';thet,all' new construction - and .substantial improve�nenta;comply atriCtiy withCAMA regulations and the,,Town's"'Flood °Mama e , prevention n Ordi ance° • :i , 8.1.2 Areas of Environmental Concern The Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA) of North Carolina calls for the identification of certain environmentally fragile and Important land and water areas that are judged to be of greater than local significance. The Coastal Resources Commission (CRC), in cooperation with local governments in the twenty county coastal area, has developed a program of permit review within these areas of environmental concern (AEC's) . The Intent of the regulatory program is not to stop development , but rather to insure the compatibility of the development with the continued productivity and value of certain critical land and water areas. Each basic AEC category is summarized below with the applicable policy statement Immediately following. The reader is urged to consult with the full definition and State -promulgated use standards of each AEC category before contemplating development in these areas. Policy 8.1.2 Areas Of Environmental Concern The Town wlli support and enforce, through Its CAMA Minor Permitting; capacity, "the State, policies and, permitted ;uses in the,'Areas'of, Environmental Concern (AEC's). ° Such'uses:° shall' °be °An,accortl°itrlthAhe'general ise standards for coastal wetlands, estuarine ;waters, es#uarine;shorolines and`public,trust 'areas as stated.7nISA,NCAC Subehapter 7H. Note: The first four AEC's described below together make up the so-called estuarine system AEC's: Coastal Wetlands, Estuarine Waters, Estuarine Shorelines, and Public Trust Waters. They are presented as a system of AEC's due to the strong degree to which they are ecologically interrelated. 8.1.2 A Coastal Wetland AEC'S Coastal wetland AEC's are marshes, subject to regular or occasional flooding by tides, including normal wind tides. At Wrightsville Beach, these are predominantly salt water marshes associated with the sounds and Intracoastal waterway. These marshlands serve as a critical component in the coastal ecosystem. The marsh is the basis for the high productivity of the estuary which is the primary input source for the food chain of the entire coastal environment. Estuarine dependent species of fish and shellfish, such as menhaden, shrimp, flounder, oysters, and crabs, contribute tremendous value to the economy of North Carolina's commercial and recreational fisheries. Marsh plants found in coastal wetlands include saltwater Cordgrass (Spartina altemif)ora), Black Needlerush (Juncus roemerianus), Glasswort (Sallcomla. spp.), Salt Grass (Distichlis spicata), Sea Page 8-3 I Policy Statements Lavender (Limonium, spp.), Salt Meadow Grass (Spartina patens), and Salt Reed Grass (Spartina cynosuroidesl. The roots and rhizomes and seeds of the marsh grasses serve as food for waterfowl, and the stems as wildlife nesting material. The tidal marsh also serves as the first line of defense in retarding estuarine shoreline erosion. The plant stems and leaves tend to dissipate wave action while the vast network of roots resists soil erosion. Coastal wetlands operate additionally as traps for sediments, nutrients and pollutants originating from upland runoff. Siltation of the estuarine bottom is reduced, and pollutants and excess nutrients are absorbed by the plants. These marshes should be considered unsuitable for all development and for those land uses which would alter their natural functions. 8.1.2 B Estuarine Water AEC'S An estuary is a semi -enclosed water body having free connection with the open sea and within which sea water is measurably diluted with fresh water drained from the adjacent land. The immense productivity of estuarine waters results largely from unique circulation patterns, nutrient trapping mechanisms, and the protective habitats they provide. Estuarine circulation, influenced by tidal currents, fresh water influx, and shallow bottom depth, keeps the estuarine waters well flushed, dispersing nutrients, juvenile stages, and wastes. In their natural state, these waters provide many diverse and productive habitats. Common features in estuarine waters include mud flats, eel grass beds, clam and oyster beds, and fish and shellfish nursery areas. At Wrightsville Beach, estuarine waters are found in the Intracoastal Waterway and throughout the sound area. At the northern and southern limits of the Town's jurisdiction, these waters are generally classified SA, suitable for shellfishing . Areas near Harbor Island are generally SB, with the exception of the north shore, which is SA. Masonboro Sound was nominated and designated as an Outstanding Resource Water (ORW) by the state. Primary and secondary nursery areas are located between the mainland and the island in the Shell Island and Bradley Creek areas, and Bradley Creek The high value of commercial and sports fisheries and the aesthetic appeal of coastal North Carolina are dependent upon the conservation and protection of its estuarine waters. Appropriate uses in and around estuarine waters are those which preserve estuarine waters so as to safeguard and perpetuate their biological, economic and aesthetic values. Acceptable uses should be water dependent uses, such as navigable channels, piers and docks, and mooring pilings, provided that they do not directly or indirectly block or impair existing navigation channels, increase shoreline erosion, deposit spoils below mean high tide, cause adverse water circulation patterns, violate water quality standards or cause degradation of shellfish waters. In keeping with this objective, the Town's policy statement concerning estuarine waters discourages the expansion or construction of new marinas. Policy 8.1.2 B Estuarine Waters (1) Appropriate uses-within',estuarine waters may include simple access channels, structures which , prevent erosion,; navigational channe Is, . and, private boat docks, piers,"and,mooring, rpilinga: Expartsion or,econstructlon:of;new,marinas ]s,dlacouraged."°f PH rs antl tlocks for non•water dependent commercial' uses are' not allowed (NCAC 18A' (2) Any, development ;or activity, which" will. profoundly. and adversely, affect coastal and estuarine' waters will not be" allowed.' in °the, design, construction an& operation ;of water dependent=atructures,.�efforts must'be�made to mitigate`�negative�,effects on°water quality,;andifish.habitat, as determined by.�NCAC llik ubchapter 7H and the"Coastal Resources Commission. The..developer and/or owner will bear `the cost of any.requlred mitt ation:. Page 8-4 I Policy Statements I I L I 1 F 8.1.2 C Public Trust Waters AEC'S Pubic Trust Waters at Wrightsville Beach generally are all ocean and estuarine waters from the mean high water mark to the seaward limit of State jurisdiction. The State of North Carolina supports the traditional public rights of access to and use of Public Trust Waters for purposes including navigation, fishing, and recreation. These areas support valuable commercial and sports fisheries, have aesthetic value, and are Important resources for economic development. Navigation channels, piers, marinas, and bulkheads to control erosion are examples of uses which may be found acceptable in Public Trust Waters. An issue of growing concern at Wrightsville Beach and on recreational waters throughout the nation, has been the advent of the jet ski and other similar personal water craft. Concerns have been raised regarding the tendencies of jet skiers to operate these watercraft in a reckless manner. Other concerns relate to their operation in marshes and other shallow water estuaries, where damage to the marsh may occur and where wildfowl is disturbed. Locally, New Hanover County has been taking the lead in coordinating the efforts of various local governments in working with the jet ski industry in developing standards for the operation of these watercraft. A second issue of special concern at Wrightsville Beach, particularly at the north end of the Outer Island, is the trend toward lengthy piers extending out into the town's estuarine waters. As prime waterfront sites — those with deep water close to shore have become developed, remaining "waterfront" sites have been building longer piers to reach water of adequate depth for boat dockage. This oftentimes results in unsightly and environmentally damaging piers extending out into the coastal marsh. And, while State regulations require that such piers shall not block stream channels, the effect in many instances is to Inhibit the movement of water craft in the shallow water estuary. This can be evident at high tide when small boats, which would normally have free movement through the estuary, must constrain their navigation to limited pockets of open water, essentially fenced in by these long pier lengths. In the case of small shallow draft sailing craft, the presence of these long piers may totally prevent the craft from sailing through the affected body of water. Thus, the Town's policy reserves the right to be more restrictive than the State's standards where the public's right to the reasonable, unobstructed use of public trust waters is being compromised. Policv 8.1.2 C Public Trust Areas 8.1.2 D Estuarine Shoreline AEC'S Estuarine Shorelines are non -ocean shorelines extending from the mean high water level along the Town's estuarine sounds for a distance of 75 feet landward. Although characterized as dry land and thus potentially "developable", estuarine shorelines are considered a component of the estuarine system because of the close association with adjacent estuarine waters. These shorelines may be especially Page 8-5 I Policy Statements vulnerable to erosion, flooding, or other adverse affects of wind and water and are intimately connected to the estuary. Because development within the estuarine shoreline AEC can harm the marshlands and estuarine waters, and because of the inherent dynamic and hazardous nature of coastal shorelines, specific restrictions, limitations and standards have been adopted by the State for construction in these areas, as outlined in 15A NCAC 7H at .0209. By regulation, projects cannot weaken natural barriers to erosion, shall have limited impervious surfaces, and shall take measures to prevent pollution of the estuary by sedimentation and runoff. A CAMA (Coastal Area Management Act) permit must also be obtained for compliance with these standards. As in the case of estuarine waters, the Town of Wrightsville Beach wishes to discourage additional marina development in these areas. Policy 8.1.2 D Estuarine Shorelines Marina a development ,or.. axpsnslon ° Is � dlscourhped . along ..estuatine A;ahorelines, , p However,",residential.°"recreational,° research and educational, and ;commerclaf8°[and . uses' are all. appropriate, types of use along the estuarine shoreline, provided -that all standards-, of NCAC -15 -Subchapter 7H relevant to estuarine shoreline 'AEC's are met, and that the: ro osed use Is consistent with` policies, set forth In lhis''Plan. 8.1.2E Ocean Hazard Area AEC'S These are natural hazard areas along the ocean shoreline which are especially vulnerable to effects of sand, wind, water and erosion. Ocean hazard areas include beaches, frontal dunes, inlet lands, and other areas in which geologic, vegetative and soil conditions Indicate a substantial possibility of excessive erosion or flood damage, and where uncontrolled or incompatible development could unreasonable endanger life or property. Improper development can also disturb the natural barrier Island dynamics and sediment transport, and can interfere with the beach's natural defenses against erosion. Furthermore, there is considerable evidence that sea level has been and is expected to continue rising steadily. This will result in higher water levels, inundation of wetland areas, and loss of beachfront area. Within the Ocean Hazard Area AEC are four sub areas as follows: (1) The ocean erodible area (2) The high hazard flood area (3) The inlet hazard area and (4) The unvegetated beach area. Each may be described as follows: • Ocean ErodibleAES. The ocean erodible area is the portion of the island where there exists a substantial possibility of excessive erosion and significant shoreline fluctuation. The ocean erodible AEC is based on a setback from the first line of stable natural vegetation plus an additional area where erosion can be expected from storm surges and wave action. This area includes the ocean beaches and the frontal dune system. Ocean erodible areas are extremely dynamic lands highly susceptible to becoming displaced by the ocean due to erosion, storms, and sea level rise. The sand deposits of ocean beaches and shorelines represent a dynamic zone which does not afford long term protection for development. The nature of tidal action and the force of storms is such that they cause the beach areas to constantly shift. In addition, littoral drift is a natural phenomenon whereby sand is removed from beaches by wave action and littoral currents and is deposited upon a different stretch of the beach. The major management objective is to avoid unnecessary hazards to life or property and to maintain reasonable requirements for public expenditures to protect property or maintain safe conditions. This area must be preserved to the greatest extent feasible with opportunity to enjoy the ocean beaches of the State. Appropriate development within the area must be that which will withstand the prevalent natural forces, comply with CAMA and other state requirements, and not unreasonably interfere with the public's use and enjoyment of the beach area. *Bighj azardEjZLdAEL. This is the area of the coast subject to high velocity wave action and storm surge during severe storms. This area typically extends along the shoreline and to some distance landward of Page 8-6 I Policy Statements I I I LI I I i i f I the frontal dune. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) identifies flood zones for a "l00 year stone on the flood Insurance rate maps (F.I.R.M.'s), and designates the high hazard flood AEC as the V zone. The Interior of the outer Island, Harbor Island, and the Sound are in the A Zone, subject to washover and flooding. The entire Town of Wrightsville Beach lies within the 100-year flood area. The extent of flood hazard areas on Wrightsville Beach and in Wrightsville Sound area is shown on the Fragile Areas, 1996 map. h1lel HazamAEQ. Inlet Hazard areas of environmental concern are especially vulnerable to erosion, flooding, and other shoreline changes due to their proximity to extremely dynamic, migrating coastal inlets. The inlet hazard area is defined to "extend landward from the mean low water line a distance sufficient to encompass that area within which the inlet will, based on statistical analysis, migrate, and shall consider such factors as previous inlet territory, structurally weak areas near the inlet (such as an unusually narrow barrier Island, an unusually long channel feeding the inlet, or an overwash area), and external influences such as jetties and channelization." The State's original Inlet hazard areas were identified in the report to the CRC entitled "Inlet Hazard Area" by Lola J. Priddy and Rick Carraway (September 1978). The inlet hazard area "shall be an extension of the adjacent ocean erodible area and in no case shall the width of the inlet hazard area be less than the width of the adjacent ocean erodible area." At Wrightsville Beach, areas adjacent to both the Mason Inlet and Masonboro Inlet are designated hazard areas. Within the past year, considerable attention has been focused statewide on the situation regarding the Shell Island Resort at the north end of Wrightsville Beach. Recently, the owners of this major resort sought permission to place sandbags to stop the southward migration of Masons Inlet toward the Shell Island Resort until a more permanent solution could be found. The State Coastal Resources Commission voted in January of 1997 to approve the temporary placement of sand bags more extensive than what is normally permitted under CAMA standards. Unvegetated Beach AEQ. These areas are fragile, unstable and unpredictable areas of barrier Islands. They are subject to rapid changes from wind and wave action. They Include the sand reaches often found near inlets and undeveloped beach strands. As in other beach areas, the public maintains a right to access to these beaches. While there are some small areas of unvegetated beach at Wrightsville Beach, there is no unvegetated beach AEC recognized by the Coastal Resources Commission within the Town. Policy 8.1.2 E Ocean Hazard Areas of Environmental Concern (1)`:The Town supports State, 'policies 'for;ocean hazard areas asset forth, In Chapter. y, 15A,',Subchapter 7H of the."StateCAMA regulations. Suitable land -,uses, In ocean hazard areas include ocean shoreline: erosion control activities; and due establishment and stabilization., Residential, commercial, and 'recreational land uses and parking lots for: beach access are also acceptable types of use -in -ocean hazard. areas, provided that they meet all°general.and specific use standards•of 15A. 7H. (2)',7he:Town supports the';policiea^and regulations of, 'Stata and Federal permitting agencies;concerning the development of ocean piers,°,and shall ancourage the proper, maintenance and°safeof�auch�. lers. s +.�� 8.1.3 Turtle Nesting Areas The nesting habits of the loggerhead turtle are a unique natural phenomenon of coastal communities like Wrightsville Beach. Opportunities for the study of loggerhead turtle nesting are becoming more rare. In keeping with the Town's overall growth philosophy of preserving those natural features that are truly a unique part of the heritage of the island community, the Town wishes to make a strong policy statement in support of preserving and protecting the habitat for loggerhead turtle nesting. Policy 8.1.3 Turtle Nesting Areas The Town shalt avoid undertaking any activity or, approving of any activity which would -, destroy remaining`habitat 'for loggerhead turtle nesting. Page 8-7 Policy Statements 8.1.4 A Other Wetlands Not too long ago in the United States wetlands where viewed as "wastelands" to be filled in and made "usable". Today, both the scientific community and the general population recognize the critical importance of wetlands in providing habitat for many, many forms of wildlife and in helping to mitigate the severity of flooding and shoreline erosion. For this reason, the Town wishes to go on record regarding its support for the designation and preservation of all wetlands in its planning jurisdiction. A Other 8.1.4 B Maritime Forest and Tree Cover According to a report published by the North Carolina Division of Coastal Management in November of 1988 (An Assessment Of Maritime Forest Resources On The North Carolina Coast, Michael J. Lopazanski, et al) Maritime forests are the woody plant communities that develop as the end result of primary succession on coastal dune systems. The report further notes that maritime forests are generally restricted to coastal barrier islands. Unfortunately, the maritime forest, as a distinct environmental entity, has been largely eliminated at Wrightsville Beach. Even so, tree cover at Wrightsville Beach, whether officially maritime forest or not, is considered a highly valued asset. Some sections of Harbor Island, in particular, are blessed with a sizable number of significant trees that are worthy of attention and preservation. Policy 8.1.4 B Maritime Forest and Tree Cover Tree cover. at Wrightsville Beach, whether maritime or, otherwise,, is a highly valued i asset. The,Town� encourages efforts to preserveexisting tree cover- In new development , and �redevelopment.` 8.1.4 C Outstanding Resource Waters There are currently no Outstanding Resource Waters (ORW) within the planning jurisdiction of the Town of Wrightsville Beach. On the other hand, there are areas north and south of the town's estuarine waters that have received the ORW designation. In the case of Wrightsville Beach, stormwater runoff from landside development and the presence of a large number of marinas and boat traffic are the most likely causes of water quality degradation in the Wrightsville Beach area. Given current trends at Wrightsville Beach toward even more intensive development and impervious surface areas, it is unlikely that the waters around Wrightsville Beach would be likely to receive the ORW designation. On the other hand, the Town wishes to do its part in controlling storm drainage and stormwater runoff so that Outstanding Resource Waters within the general area of New Hanover County are not adversely affected. Policy 8.1.4 C Outstanding Resource Water Areas The Town `:supports and encourages > the designation; and preservation- of Outstanding Resource, Waters.". The Town: promotes surface water, quality through Its, storm drainage' and � stormwater'runoff policies.', 8.1.4 D Shellfishing Waters For a number of years, the Town of Wrightsville Beach operated its own central sewage treatment plant and emptied its treated effluent into the sound area behind Shell Island. As a result, much of the water in the sound behind the Outer Island was closed to shell fishing. However, with the advent of the New Hanover County Centralized sewer system, and the tie in of Wrightsville Beach to that system, the waters around much of Wrightsville Beach have recovered. This has allowed many of these waters to be designated once more as suitable for shelifishing. Particular areas not suitable for shellfishing are specifically posted by the State shellfish authorities. Page 8-8 Policy Statements 8.1.4 E Water Supply Areas and Other Waters with Special Values As noted In section 6.2.2 of this report (Drinking Water Supply), the Town of Wrightsville Beach relies upon the Castle Hayne Aquifer for its source of water. Over the years, the Town has worked to continually improve upon and expand the quality and pumping capacity of its system of wells. This has resulted in, for example, the placement of wells In the Wrightsville Sound area of mainland New Hanover County. The Town recognizes the critical importance of maintaining reasonable pumping rates for each of its wells. The Town also recognizes that nearly all of southeastern North Carolina now depends on either the Castle Hayne Aquifer or the Cape Fear River for its potable water. Therefore, the Town supports regional efforts to protect the water quality of both the Castle Hayne Aquifer and the Cape Fear River. Policy 8.1.4 E Water Supply Areas and Other Waters with Special Values The Town encourages° reglonal ,efforts to'� protect=the water quality of the Castle Hayne ' eguifer� rid}the°Cape;Fesr�Rlver,°aa°sources of, potable:wat�r, 8.1.4 F Cultural and Historic Resources The State Division of Archives and History has noted that areas along the sound shoreline, particularly along Bradley Creek and the mainland side of the Intracoastal Waterway, may have a higher than average probability for containing archaeological sites. In fact, at least two prehistoric archaeological sites have been documented in the Wrightsville Sound area. Archaeological sites at Wrightsville Beach proper are less likely, and If present would have been long ago destroyed by development and redevelopment activities. In recent years, support for the protection and enhancement of historic structures at Wrightsville Beach has grown in some sectors of the resident population. At the same time, there is a natural dichotomy between those who wish to preserve the historic beach cottage flavor of many of the older structures and those who wish to redevelop these properties with sizable structures at a level commensurate with the dramatically increased value of the real estate. The Town's position is that while it encourages the preservation of its older, potentially historic structures, it cannot reasonably require property owners to do so. The Town has, however, established a vehicle for the property owner to voluntarily have their structure historically designated. Also, while the Town will not attempt to mandate historic preservation, it can establish reasonable standards for redevelopment so that new structures are not grossly out of scale or out of character with remaining older structures. (See Policy 8.3.4) There is also some debate among residents as to whether there are any historic commercial structures at Wrightsville Beach. It could be argued, for example, that most commercial structures in the traditional downtown area have limited architectural merit. In this case, it may be necessary to consider nhistoricm in terms of an entire cluster of buildings, or in terms of an entire streetscape. Proponents of historic preservation have often said that to remove one building from the streetscape of a downtown block has the effect of creating a'missing tooth' in the face of a street. Thus, while the preservation of particular buildings in this area may be subject to debate, the commitment of the Town to preserve the current commercial use, building set backs, and village atmosphere in this part of the town is clear. (See Policy 8.3.13) 6.1.5 Protection of Potable Water Supply As noted above under Policy, Section 8.1.4 E (Water Supply Areas) the Town of Wrightsville Beach is dependent upon a system of wells for its potable water. Proper management of this system of wells is Page 8-9 Policy Statements critical for the long term viability of the well system. At the same time, water conservation practices — whether by construction, adaptive plumbing fittings, or behavioral modification —must also be supported. Poll c "I Protection Of Potable Water Supply �ThesTown's=,groundwater resources shall be conserved'°for longevity through'. proper management,of Its system of wells,.and=by,the encouragement, of, water_ conservation pracblces.° includln ° asuros"'which as be oaken in constructlon of all new structures. 8.1.6. Package Sewage Treatment Plants Package sewage treatment plans have not been an issue in the Town of Wrightsville Beach because the Town, for most of its history, has had access to centralized sewage treatment. Initially, the Town constructed and operated its own centralized treatment plant. Subsequent to that the Town's tied into the New Hanover County centralized sewer system and abandoned its own facility. Policy 8.1.6 Package Sewa a Treatment Plants All,.now: developments: are required t*'connect'to the :Town's central sewer systam. Package sewage treatment plants, and �seuUc=aystems are not allowed.,, 8.1.7 Stormwater Runoff Noted North Carolina hydrogeologist, Ralph C. Heath, when speaking about the coastal area of North Carolina, has stated that the ..'construction... of multi story condominiums, motels and other vacation facilities with their parking lots, tennis courts and swimming pools, is resulting in the creation of large expanses of impervious areas. Disposing of the runoff from these areas during storms in a manner that is not detrimental to the adjacent sounds and ocean is among the most pressing water management problems now confronting the developer and the public officials in this area.' (News: Water Resources Research Institute of the University of North Carolina, November 1986). The construction of large, impervious services associated with commercial and residential development accelerates the rate at which rain waters reach the estuarine sound waters. This rapid influx of fresh water can change the natural salinity of the sound water and disrupt the biological balance of the natural system. The water can also carry higher than normal levels of nutrients and other biodegradable materials that can create excessive oxygen demand for decomposing the material. Much of what is described above can be observed in the continued redevelopment of the Town of Wrightsville Beach. While it may be too late to return the estuarine waters of the Town back to a pristine condition, the Town continues to seek methods by which storm water runoff from new developments can be minimized. The Town intends to give greater attention to this element of development plan review in the future, with the intent of more carefully controlling stormwater runoff into the estuary. 8.1.8 Marinas, Floating Home Development, Mooring and Mooring Fields and Dry Stack Storage Due to its strategic location in the greater WilmingtonlNew Hanover urbanizing area, and the long-standing presence of Masonboro Inlet, the Town of Wrightsville Beach has been a natural draw for marina development. As a result, the sound and Intracoastal waters adjacent to Wrightsville Beach are some of the most congested waters for boating in the entire coastal area of North Carolina. More marinas and more I I I I I Page 8-10 1 1 I Policy Statements i I I I r I n I I LJ I boat slips also mean increasing demand for landside parking spaces, and increased traffic congestion. For these reasons, the Town wishes to discourage further development of marinas, whether by the addition of new marinas, or by the intensification of existing marinas by creating more boat slips in the same amount of surface water. Poll 8.1.8 A Marinas Wet sli s The Town "will disoourage the:expansloe and/or.intensification of exlsting marinas and the development of additional marines Including upland 'marinas In, excavated. Regarding floating homes, it is important to define exactly what a floating home is. According to CAMA Guidelines, a floating structure is ..."any structure, not a boat, supported by a means of flotation designed to be used without a permanent foundation, which is used or Intended for human habitation or commerce. A structure will be considered a floating structure when it is Inhabited or used for commercial purposes for more than 30 days in any one location. A boat may be deemed a floating structure when its means of propulsion has been removed or rendered inoperative and it contains at least 200 square feet of living space area." Floating home development is viewed by the residents of Wrightsville Beach as a waterbome activity which permanently "consumes" public trust waters which are already In short supply. Potential environmental and aesthetic problems associated with floating structures are also deemed to far outweigh any potential economic benefits for the town. PollcV 81.8 B Floatinq Home Development Due to ttie limited ^amount of public ,trust waters surrounding Wrightsville Beach and the heavy,use of those waters: by the, pubilc,�the "To wn°shall, not allow, the effective "Permanent i consumption" of, public trust waters by floating homes,=!�:,' According to CAMA Use Standards, a "free standing mooring" is any means to attach a ship, boat, vessel, floating structure or other watercraft to a stationary underwater device, mooring buoy, buoyed anchor, or piling (as long as the piling is not associated with an existing or proposed pier, dock, or boathouse). According to CAMA Standards, free standing moorings shall be permitted under only two circumstances (1) to riparian property owners within their riparian corridors or (2) to any applicant proposing to locate a mooring buoy consistent with a water use plan that may be incorporated into either the local zoning or land use plan. At Wrightsville Beach, concern for the limited amount of public trust waters available for public enjoyment also creates a major disincentive for additional free standing moorings. Until such time as the Town of Wrightsville Beach undertakes the developmental of a water use plan, and the issue can be addressed in a comprehensive manner, additional free standing moorings will not be approved. Policy 8.1.8 C Moorings and Mooring Fields Additional freestanding, moorings of any kind shall not be allowed -within the.pubiic trust watere,of Wrightsville"Beach. Dry stack storage facilities, while deemed preferable to wet slip storage, nonetheless require substantial amounts of associated parking, are significant traffic generators, and contribute to boating congestion on already overtaxed waters. For these reasons, the expansion and development of additional dry stack storage facilities is discouraged at Wrightsville Beach. Poliry e While,8.sD Sandividual owners Is preferred over wet slip storage, the Town shall discourage the expansion and°development of additional dry stack storage facilitles. -'- Commercial fishing Is an important part of the coastal heritage of many communities In eastern North Carolina, including Wrightsville Beach. While the Town is not Interested in increasing the size of the commercial fishing fleet in the waters in and around Wrightsville Beach, it is nonetheless committed to preserving this Important part of the area's coastal heritage. Page 8-11 Policy Statements Policy 8.1.8 E Commercial Fishing Dockage Commercial fisheries;vessel-dockage at,currently used commercial facilities along the soundaide waterfront Is acce table. The zoning ordinance of the Town of Wrightsville Beach contains special provisions for what is defined in the ordinance as a vessel for hire. The provision requires that any vessel available for hire carrying ten (10) or more passengers must apply for a special use permit as to where it can be docked and conduct it business. Policy 81 8 F Vessels for Htre Charter Boats and Cruise Ship Dockage Vessels;tor hire arvd,icharteraboatslcruiso�.ships shaliaoniy,.be ailowed.1n conJungtion with'existing marinas-and shall not cause ° an ' expansion' :in the amount of surface water consumed, or parking,demand�. erated.-Smallsr charter and cruise ships,shell?be _- preferred over larger 8.1.9 Industrial Impacts on Fragile Areas The Town of Wrightsville Beach has a history of very little industrial development. Traditional reasons for lack of industrial development include a lack of sufficient volumes of water and other utilities, a lack of suitable extensive areas of land at reasonable prices, and a general incompatibility with the desired vision of the community by many Wrightsville Beach residents. Opposition to any industrial development at Wrightsville Beach was unanimous at Town meetings arranged to allow for input to the land use plan. 8.1.10 Development of Sound and Estuarine System Islands All sound and estuarine islands in the vicinity of Wrightsville Beach have extremely fragile environmental conditions and would be highly unsuited for development. The residents of Wrightsville Beach also have expressed universal support for County and State efforts to preserve Masonboro Island. 8.1.11 Development Within Areas That Might Be Susceptible to Sea Level Rise There has been considerable discussion and debate over the past decade or more about sea level rise and its theoretical affect on beach and shore line erosion along North Carolina's coast. One commonly held viewpoint is that gradual sea level rise is causing the barrier Islands of the North Carolina coast to migrate landward. Under this theory, individual oceanfront land owners are said to experience this migration as 'beach erosion'. The scientific evidence to support this viewpoint is subject to considerable debate. Regardless of what causes beach erosion, the Town supports a policy of regular beach renourishment as the most practical means of balancing the public's interest in the beach shoreline with the protection of private property Investments. In the absence of renourishment, the Town's next policy of choice is for relocation of threatened structures. Page 8-12 II� Policy Statements 8.1.12 Upland Excavation for Marina Basins As the immediate coastal area of New Hanover County, indeed the State of North Carolina, has become more Intensively developed for shoreline uses, natural sites for deep water marinas have become increasingly scarce. State regulations which discourage or prohibit the destruction of wetland habitats, ■ primary nursery areas and other Important, environmentally sensitive estuarine areas have made /■ opportunities for new marina developments difficult at best. As a result, marina facilities carved out of upland areas have occasionally been viewed as a viable option. In the case of Wrightsville Beach, however, the value of "upland" real estate is so prohibitive that excavating such land for a marina basin is 1� economically unfeasible. In addition, previously mentioned concerns about parking demands and traffic generation associated with any form of marina development cause the Town to discourage such developments. 'i i �t IJ Polic 81 12 U land Excavation For Marina Basins The Tow(t;�}+ulll dlacouragetheexpanslon;ofi.gxating,m'arinasaend the development of . additional ai»arinasncludinsi uplandnarines:In excavated basins:".. i �� 8.1.13 Marsh Damage From Bulkhead Installation The Town of Wrightsville Beach supports State standards for bulkheads and rip rap as identified in the State's general permit for the construction of such structures in estuarine and public trust waters. To meet the requirements of the general permit, proposed bulkheads and/or rip rap can be placed only along shore lines either (1) void of wetland vegetation —including marsh grass and wooded swamp --or, (2) where all construction is to be accomplished landward of such vegetation. 8.1.14 Water Duality Problems and Management Measures Designed to Address Them The majority of the Resource Protection Policies stated above, including but not limited to policies concerning Areas of Environmental Concern, marina development, and stormwater runoff, are designed to curtail or haft the further degradation of water quality of sound and beach waters at Wrightsville Beach. The Town continually seeks to develop new management practices and measures to Implement Improvements in water quality. Policy 8.1.14 Water Quality Problems and Management Measures Designed to Address Them The . Town -shall continue to''seek, improved marine management, stormwater runoff and other`development:standards which will protect and enhance the wateryquality et the , estuarine. system. ....�� H 8.2 Resource Production And Management Policies 8.2.0 Resource Production and Management Due to the fully developed, urban nature of Town of Wrightsville Beach, resource production and 1 management of the land resource, in the traditional sense of those words, is not applicable at Wrightsville 1 Beach. Real estate values are so high as to preclude the use of available land for productive agricultural, commercial forest lands, and mineral production areas. Nonetheless the estuarine system within which the • town is located is one of the most 'productive" ecosystems on earth. For this reason the Town has ■ committed itself to participating in no activity nor approving of any activity which would seriously damage ■ the long-term productive capability of the estuarine system. Page 8-13 Policy Statements (# Policy 8.3.0 A Growth of Town's Jurisdiction Expansion -of the Town's ETJ and/or, corporate limits on, the mainiand/Wrightsvfile Sound area `shall not be supported, - " " Policy 8.3.0 B Population Increases The .Town shall discourage large. Incremental amounts, of growth,and development, and. large increases An, population. , Policy 8.3.0 C Types of Development to be Encouraged The Town°!wlli.encourage 1 single'; family snd'duplex•residences,;.appropriate nelsthbo h6od-orlentei!°and foca[:businesses:':and�parks and natural .areas. ` 8.3.1 Industries Desired and Local Assets Desirable to Such Industries If ®I Section 8.1.9 above discussed several of the reasons why the Town of Wrightsville Beach has traditionally (' not received nor pursued significant levels of industrial development. Chief among those reasons were 1 for example, a lack of suitable extensive areas of land at reasonable prices and the general incompatibility of industrial development with the desired vision for the future of Wrightsville Beach by most town residents. In addition, the Town's position as a "bedroom community" for the greater Wilmington urbanizing area allows industries to be located elsewhere in the southeastern North Carolina on lands more suited for such use. 8.3.2. Provision of Services to Development Generally The Town's philosophy of providing services to development has two principal components. First, the Town is committed to providing the best quality services possible while holding the tax rate to a I reasonable level. This means for example, that the Town's water system, garbage collection, law enforcement and parks and recreation should be among the best available in southeastern North Carolina for a community the size of Wrightsville Beach. Second, additions or expansions to the Town's public ' facilities or services made necessary by new or expanding development should be paid for by that new or expanding development. The Town feels that existing residents and property owners should not be burdened with the expense of subsidizing new development. I� Page 8-16 I� I Policy Statements 1 r Ll 1 I I Regarding solid waste disposal in particular, the Town has been quite successful in establishing a recycling program that has earned the support of Town residents as well as the admiration of visitors to the beach. While finding markets for the recycled material continues to be challenge for most recycling programs, the Town Is committed to an ongoing recycling effort. Solid 8.3.3 Urban Growth Pattern Desired The urban growth pattern at Wrightsville Beach is strongly influenced by its historic relationship to the town's abundance of beach and sound shoreline. This has created strong incentives for a relatively high intensity of use throughout the community, but particularly along the community's waterfront margins. In recent years, the demand for additional residential development has outstripped the demand for other 1 land uses at the beach. For example, the economic returns or "land rents" associated with the commercial development at Wrightsville Beach have been outstripped by the economic returns associated with residential development. To retain its small town character with a reasonable complement of services close at hand, the Town recognizes that it must act to reinforce the community's existing development pattern, including the protection of both existing commercial and residential areas. More will be said about the specifics of such a policy in Section 8.3.13, dealing with the traditional downtown area of Wrightsville Beach, and in the Land Classification section of this plan. Policy 8.3.3 Urban Growth Pattern Desired The %wna shall sup"pot# a °small town,' growthpattern��uhich re[riforces.3te common ty`a , exiating:resldentlal:pnd.com.merclai.;°areas and protects the existing resldentfal 8.3.4 Types of Residential Development Desired In keeping with the general vision statement for the community, including preservation of the small town character and quality of the natural and built environment, the Town has elected to take a firm stance in opposition to the development of additional multi family complexes and high rise structures at Wrightsville Beach. At the same time, the Town also wishes to address perhaps the single greatest development Issue facing the town today —the mass and bulk of new single family residential structures. These massive single family structures involve dramatic increases in square footage, bedrooms, baths, 1 etc. over first or second generation beach cottages. Despite the favorable connotation typically Page 8.17 Policy Statements associated with the "single family" structures, the development impacts associated with these structures can be similar in nature to the impacts associated with multi family development. These impacts can include: the number of people the structure can (or should) accommodate, the amount of additional automobile parking required, the amount of water consumed, the amount of sewage generated, the volume of trash produced, the amount of stormwater runoff diverted into the sound, and the additional fire risk and suppression capabilities needed. The following policy reflects the position that the Town will review all proposed "developments' objectively on their merit and on their impact on the community, regardless of their building "label". (i.e. single family home). Implementing this policy may involve revisions to the Town's development regulations to explicitly address the mass, bulk and size of new residential structures. Modifications to building regulations may involve refinements in building standards for new residential structures as they relate to (1) surrounding structures and neighborhood context (2) building size and proportional lot size and (3) impacts of such structures on Town services, infrastructure and the environment. 8.3.5 Types of Commercial Development Desired Many Town residents have had a long-standing concern about the potential introduction of franchise -type commercial businesses along with their "anywhere USA" architectural building facades and signage. While the architectural design and character of commercial development is at the core of the issue, there are also traffic generation and parking related issues. Wrightsville Beach has severe traffic congestion during a growing part of the year. Therefore, businesses locating at Wrightsville Beach should serve primarily the basic service needs of Wrightsville Beach area residents and visitors. Such businesses help reduce travel demand by Wrightsville Beach residents and visitors who must otherwise travel the length of the island and over the drawbridge to obtain services on the mainland. Businesses serving an area -wide clientele should be located in appropriate commercial areas on the mainland so as not to add unnecessarily to the traffic burden at Wrightsville Beach. As noted previously, the existing commercial base of Wrightsville Beach is being threatened by redevelopment into residential uses. One development concept that gained support during the public involvement process for the land use plan was a mixed use form of development allowing for ground floor retail uses with second floor residential uses above. In this manner, the community -serving ground floor retail uses are allowed to continue while upper story residential uses assist in increasing the ground rent generated by the real estate. This form of development may be especially appropriate for the traditional downtown area of Wrightsville Beach. This development form may also be suitable for the current marina area near the drawbridge. The application of this development form in the marina area is more fully described in the Land Classification section of this plan. At the same time, there are some justifiable questions about mixed use developments as they might occur at Wrightsville Beach. For example, what type of parking standards would be appropriate for apartments or condominiums over retail businesses in the traditional downtown area? What types of ground floor commercial uses might qualify as "community serving"? These are the questions that the Town must seek to answer before any such development could be approved. (See Implementation Action 8.3.5 under Section 12 of this plan) Page 8-18 I Policy Statements IJ I I 8.3.6 Redevelopment Including Relocation of Threatened Structures Wrightsville Beach residents who attended the public meetings for the land use plan were in agreement ' that, beach renourishment aside, the next policy priority of the Town ought to be the relocation of structures that are endangered or damaged by wave action and shore line erosion. This policy raises Important Issues regarding the current situation regarding the Shell Island Resort at the north end of Wrightsville Beach. In the Shell Island situation, the size and mass of the building preclude the possibility ' of relocating the stricture away from its endangered location. Thus, while this relocation policy may not be applicable to the Shell Island Resort, it does support the Town's policy position that no additional multi family complexes and high rise structures should be built anywhere at Wrightsville Beach. By keeping the relative size and scale of new construction to a reasonable size, options are left open regarding the possibility of relocating structures to safer locations, should the need arise. r I Policv 8.3.6 Redevelopment. Including Relocation of Threatened Structures Relocation '.of structures endengered ' or tlamagetl by •vrave, action and/or shoreline erosion As encouraged. Redevelopment of damaged or destroyed ° structures wlll be permitted by the Town according .to'Town,ordinances, 'provided all current bullding standards andCAMA requirements are met. 8.3.7 Commitment to State and Federal Programs ' CAMA Guidelines suggest that local governments address the level of local commitment to State and Federal programs including Items such as erosion control, public access, highway improvements, dredging and other related government activities. The Town of Wrightsville Beach acknowledges and supports applicable State and Federal programs which work to improve the quality of life of town residents and protect the quality of the natural environment. The Town attempts to cooperate and assist in the Implementation of these programs whenever possible. ' Federal and State assistance programs of most Importance to Wrightsville Beach include the State's beach access program, State and Federal channel maintenance and inlet projects, beach renourishment, and bridge and road improvement programs. It is worth noting that for each Federal or State program mentioned above, both local area residents as well as residents from outside the community are benefited. This is consistent with what the Town believes State and Federal programs should do. II Ij Page 8-19 Policy Statements Policy 8.3.8 A Assistance to Channel Maintenance Including Interstate Waterways The Town supports -State" and Federai.channei and inlet -maintenance projects. All dredging and stabilization operations' must be performed so as to minimize any damage to fisWand wildlife_ habitat., When, dredge material is°.sultable,`,the Town encourages such material to be��used to � nourish"area beaches. Regarding beach renourishment in particular, the Town continues to have concerns regarding the use of a disproportionately large percentage of room tax revenues to support tourism promotion and marketing efforts. With the advent of Interstate 40 into the Wilmington area, the need to aggressively promote Southeastern North Carolina relative to the attractiveness of other areas of North and South Carolina has diminished. At the same time, the need to employ these revenues for beach renourishment has reached critical levels. The Town, therefore, supports the return of the local room tax revenues in accordance with its original formula — a minimum of 60% for beach renourishment, and a maximum of 20% for tourism promotion. Policy 8.3.8 B Assistance to Beach Nourishment The' ,Town supports the appilcatlon and'idesignation ofAhe local room? taxAn.accordance' with"Its original iIntent= a minimum of 800% to provide a trust fund for beach - , renourishment projects; and`a maximum of 20% to support tourism promotion -and marketing efforts.` With regard to the Town's beach hardening policy, town residents support a position consistent with that of renourishing the beach and relocating structures as necessary —rather than hardening the shore line. In the case of the Shell Resort Island situation, Town officials viewed their support for protective measures at the north end of Wrightsville Beach as a temporary means of protecting the resort and the Town's public access way until a more permanent solution to the inlet migration can be found. Policy 8.3.8.13 Soundside Bulkheads The'.Town' will encourage the appropriateconstruction', and maintenance of estuarine bulkheads as necessary, within the context of the'CAMAregulations.' �� 8.3.9 Energy Facility Siting and Development As defined in the CAMA Guidelines, "major energy facilities are those energy facilities that, because of there size, magnitude and scope of impacts, have the potential to significantly effect the coastal zone. For the purposes of this definition, major energy facilities include but are not necessarily limited to (1) all oil refining facilities, (2) natural gas terminals and associated facilities, (3) oil and gas storage facilities storing more than 15 million gallons on a single site, (4) electric generating facilities of 300 MGW or larger, (5) thermal energy generation, (6) pipe lines greater than 12 inches in diameter that carry crude petroleum, natural gas, or LNG -LPG or synthetic gas." In the past several years, proposals have been brought forward by energy companies to explore the outer continental shelf of the coast of North Carolina for natural gas and/or oil. These proposals would typically be located approximately 25 miles or more off the coast with exploration occurring in deep water. Offshore activity normally generates land -based support facilities and operations. Public input on this subject has demonstrated consistent strong local opposition to both off shore drilling and land -based activities —not only in Wrightsville Beach but anywhere along the coast of North Carolina. Page 8-20 I Policy Statements I I I I I 1 I a r Policy 8.3.9 Energy Facility Siting and Development The' Town is opposed to'oHshore,continental, shelf drilling for oil and gas. The -location of<shoreaide'OCS'facilitles at or,,adjacent to Wrightsville Beach; would ,be Inappropriate, ning ]a Inconsistent with currentsorogulations, and would not be allowed within the Torirn's corporate Ilmltar .. 8.3.10 Tourism While tourism and visitation to Wrightsville Beach from outside the community has general support from the residents and property owners of Wrightsville Beach, such support is not without some reservations. A natural dichotomy exists between those residents who choose to make Wrightsville Beach their year round home and those who own rental properties and have businesses catering to the tourism trade. The conclusion coming out of this discussion is one that basically says "We the residents and property owners of Wrightsville Beach will provide a quality tourism experience in hopes that this will draw a'quality" tourist ' The Town feels that it can best achieve this objective by providing for adequate law enforcement, business activities that cater to families, convenient, quality services, a well maintained, attractive beach strand and clean waters capable of supporting swimming and fishing. Policy 8.3.10 Tourism The Town bf Wrightsville B ae ah°shall welcome: visitors to the �area•with,a quality tourist experience :within`a'year round 'beach -community. Factors'relatedAo',this policyanclude: public safety, an. atmosphere conducive to,families, convenient vervices,;a quality beech strand and !fishable° wimma6le°�waters. ' •_ 8.3.11 Public Beach and Waterfront Access Compared to many coastal beachfront communities, the Town of Wrightsville Beach provides a sizable number of public access points to both the beach and sound areas of the community. These access points are most evident in the older, central part of the community on the Outer Island where street ends provide access to the beach on the east and to the sound on the west. Concerns about beach access tend to focus primarily on the north and sound ends of the Outer Island. To ' the north, for example, there are several private streets which do not allow for public access to the beach —nor do they allow parking on the streets. Public access on Shell Island is focused entirely within designated parking lots provided for that purpose. The south end of the island, on the other hand, presents a different situation. In this case, while there are several beach access points along the south strand, a lack of parking associated with these beach access points effectively precludes their use. Regarding the sound side access points in the older, central part of the Outer Island, there has been discussion regarding the need to specifically identify the west end of all streets as official public access points to the sound. The intent of this action is to head off actions on the part of some property owners who would seek to block off these public access ways by constructing fences or other barriers within the right of way. There has also been a fair amount of debate regarding the permitting of individual over -the -dune structures for individual property owners. While the Town recognizes that over -the -dune structures are advantageous in minimizing wear and tear and ultimate destruction of the frontal dune system, there is also a recognition that the construction of too many of these individual dune crossovers would eventually destroy the aesthetics of the beach strand and frontal dune. Therefore, the Town will continue to address requests for over -the -dune crossovers on a case -by -case basis. The Wrightsville Beach Wildlife ramp for boat access to the sound has also been a subject of considerable debate within the town. State reports have indicated that this ramp is the most heavily used ramp in all of Southeastern North Carolina. It is also generally known that the great majority of boaters using the ramp are not residents of the town. Parking at the ramp is very congested on weekends and competition for use of the three existing ramps is oftentimes at a premium. Plans have been formulated to increase the Page B-21 Policy Statements capacity of the number of boat ramps at the facility. Even so, given the current and anticipated demand for boating access over the coming years, Town officials wish to go on record as requesting that New Hanover County and other appropriate public agencies take action to provide for boating access from sites on the mainland. This is designed to relieve pressure on the Wrightsville Beach boat ramp and the associated traffic congestion and parking. Finally, Town residents have expressed their support for a Town policy of discouraging the development of soundside waterfront property for exclusive residential use that effectively walls off the waterfront from the public. Recently, the Town turned down a request for a multi -family residential waterfront development that would do exactly that. (More on this subject is presented in the land classification section of the plan, specifically the Marina Area discussion.) 8.3.12 Parks and Recreation In addition to the beach strand and permanent open space associated with the estuarine marshes in the sound area of the community, the Town of Wrightsville Beach is fortunate to have a significant amount of park and open space land located on Harbor Island near the Town government complex. The Town received the municipal complex and park area from the U.S. Department of Interior by legislative act in the early 1980's. In addition, the linearity of much of the town's land area affords a very high percentage of all properties in the community with direct or very convenient access to the ocean or sound. The Town has also shown a consistent commitment to providing public access to the ocean beach through numerous public accessways. These multiple accessways are supported by off-street parking lots as well as widespread use of on -street parking spaces, particularly In the older, central part of town. Because of these existing opportunities for recreation and the near built -out condition of the town, there is not significant pressure to create additional park and open space areas. However, increasing demands and pressures on the active use of the Town's existing facilities call for continued attention to Improvements and enhancements to the existing facilities. Page 8-22 I Policy Statements I I Policy 8.3.12 Parks and Recreation The eTown supports'the development maintenance and enhancement -of its parks and- recreationalfacilities for the''=benefit ` O Town'residents. 8.3.13 Downtown area Compared to commercial areas in many other communities, the downtown commercial district of Wrightsville Beach is in pretty good shape, economically. Nonetheless, most residents and property owners in the community would offer the opinion that the downtown commercial area could stand to be upgraded from a physical standpoint. Effectuating these physical improvements may require a public - private partnership, wherein the Town provides technical assistance and the property owners improve their buildings. From the Town's standpoint, Improvements such as new sidewalks, street lights, landscaping, etc., can be used as appropriate leverage to get the private sector to act. Such Improvements might be offered in exchange for the property owners in the area agreeing to commit to the development of appropriate design guidelines and building standards for building rehabilitation. Several specific implementation actions are listed in the action agenda of this plan in furtherance of this policy. Whatever improvements are made, town residents affirmed the perspective that the downtown area should retain a traditional pedestrian -oriented, village type atmosphere —as opposed to a more modem suburban/automobile shopping center type atmosphere. rPolicy 8 3.13 Downtown Area I 1 I F LJ I I 8.3.14 Community Appearance The overall community vision for Wrightsville Beach calls for the retention for the "small town character and quality of the natural and man made environment". In contrast to many non -resort towns, the community appearance of Wrightsville Beach is critical to the perceived quality of the town. Several components of community appearance are addressed in the policies under this heading. One distinguishing feature of this land use plan update is its emphasis on the identification and preservation of neighborhoods within the community. The purpose of this effort is to preserve those aspects of each neighborhood that make it unique within the Town of Wrightsville Beach. At the same time, those aspects of neighborhoods which are not desirable can be eliminated. ' Policy 8.3.14 A Neighborhood Character and Preservation The ,Town encourages the; Improvement, ow preservation and ;enhancement of the Tn's areas of unique character and neighborhoods.,, One of the outstanding features of Wrightsville Beach is the degree to which properties within the community have exposure to either the ocean or sound waters. It is these scenic vistas and views that give value to the real estate and make Wrightsville Beach such a pleasant place to visit. In recent years, however, there have been proposals brought forward to develop sections of the waterfront in a manner which would effectively wall off the water from the public right of way. Recently, the Town turned down a development application for multi family residential development that would have done essentially that. The Town's policy therefore is to discourage development from acting to block off scenic vistas and views. Policv 8.3.14 B Scenic Vistas and Views In recognition and appreciation of the scenic -vistas and views of coastal waters, the Town shall: discourage development forms ;(i.e. 'wall to waif :or lengthy, continuous buildings and privacy wails); along, estuarine and ocean shorelines which would block views to the water. The west side of Waynick' Boulevard shall -receive particular, protection;` i.e. the Town shall not permit structures in this area, other,,,than, customary docks P Piers,and `associated small -see through, azebos". 's Page 8-23 I Policy Statements As noted previously under Section 8.1.4F, there Is a natural debate between those citizens of the community who wish to preserve the more modest beach cottages of previous eras and those who wish to maximize development on the extremely valuable real estate on Wrightsville Beach. At the present time, requiring owners of property to preserve the historic character of the structures on their lots is not deemed feasible. At the same time, however, the Town does wish to encourage owners of older homes to keep them in good condition. In the meantime, the Town will work to develop standards to keep new development from becoming grossly out of scale with existing structures. Policy 8.3.14 C Historic Preservation The Town shall encourage the regular maintenance° and preservation of alder,historic., structures:�where-deslred.-e- Regarding overhead utilities, there is strong support for placing overhead poles and wires underground. While the costs of putting utilities underground on a wholesale basis may be prohibitive, the Town will continually look for opportunities to place utilities underground as redevelopment may occur In different neighborhoods within the community. In addition, there may also be opportunities to put utilities underground following a major storm event. Policy 8.3.14 D Undergrounding of Utilities As opportunities ;and! budgeting constraints allow, � the "Town 'will work with nei hborhoods to.` ut 8utllitles under round: ` 8.3.15 Transportation Traffic and Parking Based on public input received, most residents and visitors would agree that traffic congestion and parking are two of the greatest constraining factors for future of growth and development or redevelopment within the Town of Wrightsville Beach. While road and street capacities are not strained on an average annual basis, traffic volumes and parking demand must be practically measured according to peak loads during the high summer season. Policy 8.3.15 A Transportation Planning, Generally The Town,shaile undertake.aetratflo management progr8in ewhich!aeeks to achieve a balance between Dedestrian "bicycle and vehicular movement and afeW. The Town recognizes that the long term viability of the community's transportation system will be dependent upon a balanced mix of automobile, pedestrian, and bicycle transportation. Regarding public transportation, the Town feels that this is best handled by the private sector. The Town remains open to proposals from private companies wishing to provide shared ride services to, from, and within the town. Policy 8.3.15 B Public Transportation The -Town will consider, proposals ;from. private entities ;tor establishing public transportation from' Wrightsville Beach to the adjacent -mainland areas.' The notion of a high rise bridge replacing the Heide Trask draw bridge has been debated for many years. Generally, a high rise bridge is not favored by most community residents for at least two basic reasons. First, the construction of a high rise bridge would dramatically change the gateway appearance of the community for travelers coming over the Intracoastal Waterway. Such a bridge would dominate the sky line and radically change the whole image of this part of New Hanover County. Second preliminary designs have shown that a much larger area of land would be required on both sides of the Intracoastal Waterway to accommodate the slope of a taller bridge as it returns to grade. The consumption of extremely valuable real estate for the accommodation of massive bridge ramps seems imprudent at best. A third argument, though less clear, holds that Wrightsville Beach is essentially already completely developed, and therefore, has limited ability to generate significant amounts of additional traffic. With few areas of raw land available for significant new development, this argument goes, future increases in traffic generation should be minimal. However, there are several factors working against this argument. First, Page B-24 I Policy Statements i I I I iJ I I I I I' J I automobile ownership levels per capita have been increasing dramatically for decades. Also, despite the lack of vacant, undeveloped land, current trends at the beach are toward a dramatic intensification of residential development density. As a result, it could be argued that there will indeed be substantial increases in traffic volumes as the beach continues to redevelop over the coming years. For example, a new, seven -bedroom single family "mini castle" housing people from three different families with three or more cars will generate more traffic volumes than an older, single family beach cottage with one or two cars. Multiply this example by hundreds of residential lots at Wrightsville Beach and the increases in traffic volume become apparent. All that said, it remains to be seen whether such traffic increases would ever be sufficient to turn public opinion In favor of a high rise bridge. Regarding pedestrian and bicycle traffic, Wrightsville Beach is a natural fit for these alternatives to the automobile. The success of the loop around the center of Harbor Island is the most obvious example of local area support for such walking, running and biking by Wrightsville Beach area residents and visitors. Also, the compact development forms of the older parts of Wrightsville Beach lend themselves very well to pedestrian and bicycle movement. While there have been calls for the establishment of designated bike lanes on many streets on the island, it would appear that a more practical solution to the bike lane issue would be to allow for the mixing of the bicycle and automobile traffic on, for example, Lumina Avenue where slow speeds are in order anyway. The most troublesome intersection within the Town of Wrightsville Beach is the US 74/76 Keel Street Intersection with Causeway Drive at the eastern foot of the draw bridge. At this single intersection, traffic from both major roads from the Outer Island converge at a single point. Traffic congestion at this location is compounded by volumes of automobile traffic emerging from the commercial/marina area just south of the draw bridge and from the public boat ramp north of the draw bridge. Improvements to the traffic circulation system in this part of the island are strongly supported by Town officials working with the North Carolina Department of Transportation. Future development of properties north and south of this intersection, whether for changes in development at the marina area, or for planned increases in the size of the public boat ramp should be given consideration. E Keel The popularity of the Town of Wrightsville Beach as a destination has increased dramatically with the advent of 1-40 connecting southeastern North Carolina with the Piedmont area of North Carolina. "Locals" have been known to measure demand for parking by noting the hour at which day visitors to Wrightsville Beach can no longer easily find a convenient, non -metered parking space. Over the past four or five years that benchmark hour has fallen from late morning to much earlier in the day. Much of the older part of Wrightsville Beach was developed in an era when off-street parking was not part of the standard development model. As a result, both overnight guests and day visitors find themselves competing for the same on -street parking spaces. Nonetheless, studies have shown that on -street parking is one of the most efficient forms of parking in terms of the amount of land area consumed relative to the number of parking spaces provided. (This is because the travel lanes for the street also serve as maneuvering lanes for the parking spaces). On -street parking has also been shown to have a "calming" influence on the speed of traffic on the street. Page B-25 Policy Statements 8.3.16 The Wrightsville Sound Area The Wrightsville Sound area of mainland New Hanover County is of fundamental concern to the Town of Wrightsville Beach. This is understandable, given the fact that the area leading to the drawbridge is the sole point of access to the Town. Also, the Town has annexed certain properties within the Sound area for reasons related primarily to water supply and tax revenues. Given these interests, the Town wishes to pursue the development of a joint plan, in cooperation with the County (or the City of Wilmington, if annexed), for the short and long range development of the Sound Area. Over the long run, it is hoped that a uniform approach to planning and development regulation in the Wrightsville Sound area will bring a more consistent quality of development to the area. Consistent standards for signage, landscaping, building setbacks, parking, and drainage, etc. could do much to prevent this area from degenerating into intense strip development. Page 8-26 I Policy Statements I I 11 I I 11 I t I I r I r I 8.4 Continuing Public Participation Policies The public participation plan and program for the Wrightsville Beach land use plan is discussed fully in section 11 of this document. For the sake of completeness, however, a summary of the importance of public participation in the Wrightsville Beach land use plan is included here. Since its Inception, North Carolina's Coastal Area Management Act land use planning program has placed a high level of emphasis on public participation in the development of local use plans and policies. The intent is to Insure that the resulting plan and policies reflect, as closely as possible, the will of the people in the community. Two key elements must be included in any effective public participation program: (1) public education, and (2) public involvement. The most effective format for public participation involves two way communication between citizens and local planning officials. The public participation strategy employed in the development of the Wrightsville Beach land use plan involved a variety of activities. Included were key town meetings held at the beginning, midpoint and conclusion of the planning process. Numerous meetings with the Town Planning Board, all advertised and open to the public, focused the Board's attention on the plan and its policies. It should also be noted that the Planning Board was pleased at the level of newspaper coverage given to the development of the plan including, particularly, fairly in depth articles appearing in the Wright Times. Regarding neighborhood planning in particular, the intent of this plan is to encourage planning to be as responsive as possible to the specific wishes of the residents of various neighborhood within the Town. At the same time, neighborhood planning has been found to be effective in gaining the participation of more citizens in the future of their community. As a consequence, the Town achieves greater participation and resident commitment to the proper governance of the community, and the citizens gain a greater say in decisions affecting their everyday lives. The following policies are designed to affirm the Town's position on public participation during plan development, as well as following plan adoption. PollcV 8.4.0 Basic Policy Statement Regarding Public Participation Wrightsville Beach believes .that °on -going, effective; public ;Involvement, :combined [with factual analysis of any public. issue, is the key to crating and maintalning a direction for . the community : upon which all may agree. Policy 8.4.1 Land Use Plan Update Process Public ,Involvement will be ,encouraged .among all permanent residents,; business owners°`end property awnets°durin each°Land Use�Plan U date. Policy 8.4.2 On -going Public Participation Public^ Involvement �In planning°°matters-°will continue beyond°the p►awiupdate;process through providing public"°en ducatio'antl;information, utilization„of the:news media and. mailers, and public opportunitles`for discussion and'comment.onaand.use issues.'The Planning;Board will advertise the public meetings held'to°discuse°iand use "and associated matters. Policy 8.4.3 Neighborhood Planning The Town shall encourage a high level of involvement by citizens and property owners I planning decisions through neighborhood' planning. With ,neighborhood support,, the own shell, Institute `an on -going neighborhood planning program, within which different parts of the Town will be addressed on a rotating basis. Page 8-27 Policy Statements I 8.5 Storm Hazard Mitigation, Post -Disaster Recovery And Evacuation Plans 8.5.0 Description of Storm Hazard Risk , 8.5.0 A. Storm Effects During coastal storms, including both hurricanes and northeasters, Wrightsville Beach is subject to beach erosion, storm surge, wave action, flooding, high winds, and beach washover. Of these, storm surge and , high winds are typically the two most damaging storm effects at Wrightsville Beach. These storm effects may be listed at the following levels during hurricane events of increasing magnitude(as measured on the Saffir-Simpson scale): Hurricane Storm Surge Maximum Cateaory Sustained Winds Category 1 4-5' above normal 74-95 mph Category 2 6-8' above normal 96-110 mph Category 3 9-12' above normal 111-130 mph Category 4 13-18' above normal 131-155 mph Category 5 over 18' above normal over 155 mph , 8.5.0 B. Hazard Areas Mapped All properties within the Town of Wrightsville Beach east of the Intracoastal Waterway are located in an area susceptible to flooding during a storm event. Areas closest to the beach and near the north and south Inlets, however, are at a higher level of risk, due to the effects of storm surge and wave action. These areas are shown as "V" zones on the FEMA flood insurance rate maps and are identified as the Highest Risk Area at Wrightsville Beach on the Fragile Areas Map. 8.5.0 C. Existing Development at Risk ' By comparing the Fragile Areas Map with the Existing Land Use Map, a determination can be made as to the degree to which existing development is at risk at Wrightsville Beach. Based on this comparison, it is estimated that approximately 20% of all structures within the Town are at a high level of risk (storm surge and high winds), while the remaining structures (80% of the total) are at a lesser level of risk ("static flooding and high winds). In addition, structures closer to the beach usually have a higher real estate value than structures away from the beach. However, hurricane Fran demonstrated that building codes and flood regulations can significantly reduce the risk of catastrophic loss. That is, those structures that were well elevated suffered less damage than those built closer to sea level. Another way to examine the degree to which properties are at risk is to compare the value of development within the three distinct geographic areas of the community: the Outer Island, Harbor Island, and the Mainland. The Town has complied the following figures: % of Total % of Total Residential Commercial Tax Value Tax Value Outer Island 78% Harbor Island 21 % 50% 28% Mainland 1 % 21 % Presumably, structures located on the Outer Island and Harbor Island would be more susceptible to loss in , the event of a major storm than would be structures on the Mainland. Page 8-28 Policy Statements ! 8.5.1 Storm Hazard Mitigation Policies 1 LJ II I I 1 I I I L.1 I I i i t 8.5.1 A. Storm Effect Mitigation In the case of severe storms, conditions exist which pose a serious threat to life and property at Wrightsville Beach . Accordingly, the Town has adopted a Flood Plain ordinance which benefits storm hazard mitigation. Wrightsville Beach is an active participant in the National Flood Insurance Program and is supportive of its hazard mitigation elements. The Town exceeds the FEMA Criteria for minimum structure elevation in both the "A" and "V" zones and also allows less enclosed storage space on the first floor than Is allowable under the National Flood Insurance Program. 8.5.1 B. Discouragement of Hazardous Development The Town strictly follows the CAMA development guidelines and has used land use tools, such as zoning, to discourage development in hazardous locations. Pollcv 8.5.1 B. Discouragement of Hazardous Develo ment the [owne hall users variety of rrietitods,"lncludTng 0arlicularlyr4CAMA'setback9e� req'uirements'Eand�asoning, �toadisconrege the'd.... I ont�oiaprgperty that can ;"y ` i easanablY�°�tsetor'eseen°as°pctentiallp;hazardbus".-..� i`��e..,:_ . _', " ; 8.5.1 C. Public Land Acquisition Due to the multiple street ends providing public access to both the beach and sound, and the sizable land area in public ownership around the Town Hall complex, there is little incentive for the Town to acquire additional properties for public use. However, the Town remains open to opportunities for selective property acquisitions on a case by case basis, including the donations of property for tax benefits. Page 8-29 1 Policy Statements 8.5.1 D. Evacuation The Town of Wrightsville Beach coordinates its evacuation efforts with the County, primarily related to the opening of shelters. Due to the Town's close proximity to the mainland, evacuation issues related to development density and evacuation times are of lessor significance at Wrightsville Beach. Special contingencies are in place to ensure the use of the drawbridge and the safe evacuation of the Town under a variety of emergency scenarios. 8.5.2 Post Disaster Reconstruction Policies 8.5.2 A. Emergency Management Plan The Town of Wrightsville Beach coordinates disaster related activities with New Hanover County. Coordination focuses primarily on return access, debris pick up, and County health inspections. 8.5.2 B. Local Reconstruction Policies The Town of Wrightsville Beach has adopted, by ordinance, the establishment of an Emergency Management Agency. This Emergency Management Agency is activated during disaster or potentially disastrous situations. The Town has established mutual aid agreements for assistance in the areas of clean up, damage assessment and reconstruction activities. 8.5.2 C. Recovery Task Force Immediately following a storm event, the Town shall first assess the extent of the structural damage to determine a further course of action. Depending on the extent of damage caused by the event, various personnel will be involved in land use decision -making. Those who may be involved include: 1. Mayor and Board of Aldermen 2. Town Manager 3. Public Works Director 4. Chief Building Inspector 5. Fire Chief 6. Police Chief 7. Assistant to the Manager 8. Representative from CP&L ' 9. CAMA Officials 10. Representative from NCDOT 11. Representative from Telecommunications Industry Page 8-30 Policy Statements Policy 8.5.2 C Recovery Task Force Depending upon ;the"'degree of^damage, following's°"major storm tvent;•!the Town shall have on call , a roariety of public ° officials° to serve as's Recovery.Taste Force to orchestrate "the Tawn'a -recovery . The •potential membetship'and duties of the Task Force, shall be specified in -the, Town's Emergency . Management ° and Operations Plan. 8.5.2 D. Staging Schedule for Reconstruction and Repair The staging schedule for the re-establishment of essential services and the reconstruction and repair of properties damaged during a storm event, will depend on the severity of the stone and the damage inflicted. The Town will be working to restore essential services related to the public health safety and. welfare first. Properties suffering minor damage will have building permits issued as expeditiously as possible. Properties suffering major damage will be allowed to implement temporary protective measures to protect their property from further damage, or to correct a public safety problem. 8.5.2 E. Public Infrastructure Repairs and Replacement As a part of the Town's on -going infrastructure planning activities, the Town shall maintain assessments of current infrastructure usage and need for expansion, repair or replacement. Then, following a major stone event, damage to existing public infrastructure will be evaluated as to potential opportunities for expansion or replacement. in keeping with capital improvement planning and repair needs. Policy 8.5.2 E. Public Infrastructure Repairs and Replacement The Town of," Wrightsville Beach' "w11i°asseswany �damage°to public Infrastructure .at-. the°. earliest time after the event °Damage which may affect, life, and safetyassues will is corrected to's the extent that hazards'have been minimlzed. long term repair or " replacement wili,be prioritized based on resources "available,Impact on' he integrityof the : infrastructure; mitigation, of 1uture hazardous", situations; and on -going capital Improvement ° needs` Page 8-31 Land Classification 9. Land Classification 9.1 Purpose of Land Classification and Relationship to Policies ' The CAMA Land Use Planning Guidelines require that local governments in the coastal area classify various parts of their planning jurisdictions in accordance with the desired density and character of development for each area of their community. By delineating land classes on a map, the Town can specify where various forms of development and redevelopment might best occur, and where natural and cultural resources should be conserved. Unlike zoning, however, which has the force of law, land classification is merely a tool to help implement policies and is not, in the strict sense of the term, a regulatory mechanism. The State's land classification system has several suggested categories. For example, the Developed class is intended for areas that are already urban in nature. The Transition class is intended for areas that are expected to become urban within the next decade. The Rural class is intended for areas that are not expected to become urban within the next decade —and so forth. In the case of Wrightsville Beach, however, the entire incorporated area, (excluding marshes, the beach strand, and public trust waters) is essentially already urban in nature. In other words, the area is already fully developed and is currently receiving the full range of urban services, including particularly, centralized water and sewer. According CAMA Guidelines, all of the developable area of Wrightsville Beach qualifies for inclusion in the Developed class, with the balance of the area—i.e. marshes, the beach strand and public trust waters —qualifying for the Conservation class. Designating the entire land area of the Town into a single land class, however, defeats the purpose of providing policy guidance to the Town for different parts of the community. For this reason, the Town has elected to subdivide the Developed class into several sub -categories. These sub -categories ' correspond to neighborhood planning areas within the Town with distinct development characteristics or common attributes. Policy positions can then be included in each of these neighborhood sub- classifications to help the Town maintain the distinguishable neighborhood qualities unique to each area. ' 9.2 The Land Classification System at Wrightsville Beach The purpose of the land classification system for the Town of Wrightsville Beach, therefore, is to Identify 1 areas of similar character and association for which custom-tailored development policies may be drafted and implemented. For example, the Old Harbor Island area has a development character quite different from the development character of the Shell Island area. To employ the same development policies for each of these areas would be inappropriate, eventually resulting in the total loss of the unique character of each of these areas. In other words, as development and redevelopment occurs at Wrightsville Beach, it should be designed in context of the neighborhood planning area In which it is located. I I This section describes the several 'neighborhood planning areas" at Wrightsville Beach. All neighborhood planning areas fall into the broad classification of Developed under the State guidelines for planning in the coastal area. For each neighborhood, a Description Of Area Character is presented, followed Immediately by a statement of Policy Emphasis to be employed by the Town in making development decisions for that area. 9.3 The Land Classification Map The land classification map for Wrightsville Beach is provided at the back of this document. The general location of each land class (neighborhood planning area) in the town is also provided as a part of each area description below. ' Page 9-1 Land Classification 9.4 Developed Areas (Neighborhood Planning Areas) 9.4.1 Central Beach Area Description o/ Area Character The Central Beach Area extends from Stone Street on the south to Mallard Street on the north. This centrally located area is one of the most "self contained' sub areas of Wrightsville Beach, having a good range of services close at hand. While the area is characterized by a predominance of traditional single family and duplex beach cottages, it also contains the traditional central business district of the Town of Wrightsville Beach, a church, Johnnie Mercer's Fishing Pier, etc. Many of the cottages in this area are quite old and, therefore, have historic Interest. Lot sizes are consistently some of the smallest in the town. Most residential structures are three stories or less in height and are characterized by wide, functional porches fronting on at least the street. Building materials tend to be of wood and asbestos. The Central Beach Area is perhaps the most pedestrian -oriented of any part of the beach, with heavy foot traffic on area sidewalks and considerable on -street bicycling. Off-street parking is limited in this area with designated on -street parking "up for grabs" by overnight visitors and day visitors alike. Public access to the shoreline is plentiful with all east -west running streets providing access to the beach strand at their eastern end. The Town also retains right of way easements at the west end of all east -west running streets (where they intersect with Banks Channel). While single family and duplex beach cottages are the predominant land use in the area, there are also a few examples of multi -family accommodations, particularly near the area's two commercial service districts: (1) The traditional central business district area, and (2) Johnnie Mercer's Pier area. The commercial service districts for the central beach area are compact in nature and individual businesses are generally small in scale. The water quality of sound side public trust waters in Banks Channel adjacent to the Central Beach area is classified as SB (suitable for swimming but not for shellfishing). There is a noticeable absence of tall sailboats in this section of Banks Channel because the area is framed by the two low-level bridges to the north and south. Policy Emphasis: The policy emphasis of this plan is on retaining the modest scale of most of the structures in the Central Beach Area, as well as its pedestrian -oriented nature. Additional large scale and/or intensive single family (mini -castles) shall be discouraged. Building heights of three stories or less (total, from ground level) shall be considered appropriate. Architectural designs shall be encouraged which continue to employ (1) functional porches facing at least the street and (2) wooden exterior siding. Additional multi -family residential or intensification of existing multi -family developments shall not be allowed. While new large scale or Intensified commercial development shall not be permitted, existing commercial areas shall be protected for the useful services these businesses provide to the area. 9.4.2 The North End Description of Area Character The North End extends from Mallard Street on the south to Mason's Inlet on the north. The North End is one of the "newest" parts of the Town of Wrightsville Beach, having been developed in the 1970's and 1980's. The area is characterized by medium to large scale single family homes on relatively large lots, as well as a high number of multi -family residential units, housed in large scale, high density structures. With the exception of hotel developments (Holiday Inn and the Shell Island Resort), there are no commercial uses in this part of the town. Building materials are of wood, stucco and concrete construction. Building heights tend to be two or three stories for single family detached residential structures and four or more stories for mufti -family residential units. In recent years, the area has witnessed the introduction of several four story single family homes. These taller residential structures are still clearly in the minority. Page 9-2 Land Classification, While bicyclists may be seen traveling to the north end of the island, this area is perhaps the least pedestrian -oriented of any part of Wrightsville Beach. Unlike the balance of the barrier island, public access to the beach is confined to designated, special purpose parking lots. Most side streets in this section of the town are private with no opportunities for on -street parking or public access at street ends. Off-street parking associated with each residential unit is adequate, however. The sound side public trust waters adjacent to this portion of Wrightsville Beach have a water quality classification of SA (suitable for swimming and for shellfishing). Navigable water, however, is quite limited, with the predominance of the sound side estuarine system consumed by coastal marshes. The predominance of marshes and limited navigable waters has resulted in instances of private piers being constructed great distances Into the marsh. Such lengthy piers have raised concerns about aesthetics and environmental impacts on the marsh ecosystem. ' Policy Emphasis: The policy emphasis of this plan is to allow for the continued use of each land parcel as currently built upon, with no further multi -family development, whether by new development or by increases in development Intensity or scale. With the recent introduction of several four story single family residences Into the area, public sentiment about additional four story structures has been negative. For this reason, this plan recommends that the Town seek to discourage or curtail the construction of single family residences of greater than two to three stories (total from ground level) in the North end area. This is consistent with building height policies for single family houses in all other areas of the community. The Town will also apply pier length controls to the North End by extending the Town's pier head line to this area. 9.4.3 The Parmele Area Description of Area Character The Parmele Area of Wrightsville Beach consists of a small peninsula of streets extending landward from the point of intersection of Parmele Boulevard and Lumina Avenue. This area is characterized by single family and duplex residential structures. At the far end of Parmele Boulevard, the Town maintains its public works complex. Lot sizes in this area of Wrightsville Beach are larger than those found in the central beach area, but clearly smaller than those found, on average, in the North End of Wrightsville beach. Buildings are typically two or three stories in total height. Homes built in this area tend to maximize their building envelopes from side lot line to side lot line, creating a solid wall of houses along the water's edge. This area contains the highest percentage of permanent residents of anywhere on the outer island. There is no on -street parking permitted and, due to its configuration as a peninsula, there is no through traffic. ' With the closing of the Town's sewage treatment facility at the site of the current public works complex some years ago, the estuarine waters adjacent to the Parmele area are classified as SA (suitable for swimming and for shellfishing). Policy Emphasis: The policy emphasis of this plan is on maintaining the Parmele area for exclusive single family and duplex ' residential uses. (Town public works facility not affected) A maximum building height of three stories (total, from ground level) shall be considered appropriate for this area. 9.4.4 The Waynick Boulevard -South Lumina Area ' Description of Area Character The Waynick Boulevard -South Lumina Area extends along both sides of Waynick Boulevard and South Lumina Avenue from Stone Street on the north to the point where Waynick Boulevard ultimately turns at Sunset Street on the south. (The Surf Motel, at the intersection of Sunset Street and South Lumina, is Included in this area). The area is characterized by a predominance of single family and duplex land uses, ' Page 9-3 Land Classification but with a fair number of multi -family and hotel accommodations. Building forms tend to be a mixture of traditional beach cottages and more modem, large scale residences. Due to Its exposure to Banks Channel along the entire length of Waynick Boulevard, this area has a strong emphasis on boating. The water quality of sound side public trust waters in Banks Channel adjacent to this area is classified as SB (suitable for swimming but not for shelifishing). Lots tend to be somewhat larger in size than in the Central Beach Area of the outer island. Most lot owners on the east side of Waynick have property ownership across the boulevard on the west side, adjacent to Banks Channel. As a result, there are a large number of docks and piers along Waynick Boulevard associated with homes located on the east side of Waynick Boulevard. Adding to the emphasis of boating in this section of the outer island, are the presence of two boating/yacht clubs. Waynick Boulevard itself is characterized by large volumes of automobile traffic, and unmetered parallel parking spaces. While Waynick Boulevard is not pedestrian oriented, the abundance of on -street parallel parking here brings many pedestrians to the area. South Lumina, on the other hand, is a quiet street in this part of Town and is well used by pedestrians. Despite its relatively high traffic volumes, Waynick Boulevard is a popular route for bicyclists due to the continuous view from the Boulevard to the sound. Compared to the Central Beach Area, there are, perhaps, fewer than half as many public access points (street ends) to the beach in this section of the outer island. This results in a quiet beach strand relative to the Central Beach Area. Pier head lengths along this section of the outer Island are well established due to the heavy use of the Banks Channel area by recreational and commercial boaters alike. Policy Emphasis: The policy emphasis of this plan for the Waynick Boulevard -South Lumina Area is to encourage a continuation of the predominant single family and duplex residential development. Consistent with the modest size of most lots in this area, and with the objective of preserving views to both the ocean and sound, building heights of two to no more than three stories (total, from ground level) shall be considered appropriate. Existing commercial, multi -family and yacht club uses should continue to be allowed in their present form, but with no greater Intensification of building mass or height. The Banks Channel side of Waynick Boulevard should continue to be used for docks and piers related to recreational boating in the soundside area. The Town shall not permit improvements along the sound side of the road which would block the open vista from Waynick Boulevard to Banks Channel. 9.4.5 The South End Description of Area Character The South End area extends from the turn in Waynick Boulevard at Sunset Street on the north to Masonboro Inlet on the south. The area has been developed predominantly for single-family uses. Lot sizes tend to be quite small (comparable in size to the Central Beach Area) except along the ocean front. There are also more empty lots here than in any other area of the outer island. Older homes in this area tend to be quite small, consistent with the small size of the originally platted lots. Recently, there has been a noticeable trend toward dramatically taller (greater than three stories —total height from ground level) residential structures in this part of the outer island. This recent construction has been out of scale with the modest size of the lots in this area. While public accessways to the beach are available at several locations in the area, there is very little parking available for day visitors. As a result, public accessways to the beach are used predominantly by residents (home owners and renters) in the immediate area. While there are public right of way easements to Banks Channel at the western end of each street in the area, limited public parking has traditionally precluded any significant use of these right of ways for access to the sound. Water quality in the sound area adjacent to the South End varies from SA (suitable for swimming and for shellfishing) near Masonboro Inlet to SB (suitable for swimming but not for shellfishing) in Banks Channel. Page 9-4 ' Land Classification This is one of the few areas on the outer island where side streets run in both an east -west and north - south grid pattern. The street system grid is not continuous, however, with Interruptions from one block to the next. Right-of-ways can be quite narrow, further contributing to the prevailing intimate scale of development at this end of the Beach. Policy Emphasis: The policy emphasis of this plan is to allow the South End area to be used exclusively for the retention and development of traditional single family beach cottages (Coast Guam Station not affected), at a scale compatible with the original homes, modest lot sizes and street rights of way in the area. The avoidance of single family "mini -castles" packed on to small lots will also help avoid fire safety problems related to fire spreading quickly from one large structure to the next. Building heights of two to no more than three stories (total, from ground level) shall be considered appropriate in this area. Multi -family development ' shall not be permitted in this area. 9.4.6 Old Harbor Island Description of Area Character Old Harbor Island is that portion of Harbor Island generally east of the Intersection of Island Drive and Causeway Drive. This area is characterized by a predominance of small to medium scale single family residential homes under a canopy of tree lined streets. This area has a very cohesive neighborhood feeling, with a large number of permanent residents, including many long term residents. The area's commercial uses are clustered at the west end of bridge to the outer Island. The town's only public school, Wrightsville Beach Elementary School, is also located in this area at the north end of Coral Drive. Lot sizes tend to be quite small in Old Harbor Island. Recently, the area has witnessed the replacement of ' several formally modest homes with significantly larger residential structures. Many homes in this part of Wrightsville Beach are of traditional ground level construction and one to two stories in total height. While it is recognized that redevelopment may eventually increase the average height and bulk of structures in the area, recent new construction has been grossly out of scale with the character of the area. The configuration of streets and compact scale of the neighborhood lends itself well to pedestrian movement and a lack of through traffic. Sidewalks are present throughout much of the area, and speed humps work to slow automobiles. The water quality of Mott Channel and Banks Channel is classified as SB (suitable for swimming but not for shelifishing). There are a large number of private piers and docks along the entirety of the water's edge. Policy Emphasis: The policy emphasis of this plan is to allow for the continued enhancement and "healthy" redevelopment of the area, while seeking to define reasonable limits for the height, size, mass and bulk of new replacement homes. Building heights of two to no more than three stories (total, from ground level) shall be considered appropriate for this area. If such height limits and other standards are not implemented in the near future, and current trends continue, redevelopment will eventually destroy the current attractive relationship of the scale the structures to the neighborhood's tree canopy and to other structures in the area. 9.4.7 Pelican Drive, Lees Cut, Channel Walk & Lookout Harbor Description of Area' Character This area is that portion of Harbor Island generally north of West Salisbury Street adjoining Lees Cut, plus Lookout Harbor and the adjacent commercial area near the west end of the Salisbury Street bridge. Most of this area was developed in the 1970's and consists of a mixture of single family and duplex residential along Pelican Drive and multi -family residential elsewhere. ' Page 9-5 Land Classification Pelican Drive consists of a single row of single family and duplex homes situated between West Salisbury Street on the south and Lees Cut to the north. Until very recently, all homes along Pelican Drive were two stories in total height and of a very similar scale, age and architectural character. Recently, however, two homes were increased to three stories and two others to more than three stories in total height. Channel Walk and Lees Cut are two multi -family developments located on the north side of West Salisbury Street as it approaches the draw bridge. These two and three story units have their own recreational amenities and function independently from one another as well as from the balance of the town. Lookout Harbor and several commercial and office uses anchor the east end of West Salisbury Street just before the bridge crosses over Banks Channel to the outer island. The multi -family units at Lookout Harbor are each greater than three stories in height. The water quality classification of Lees Cut is SA (suitable for swimming and for shellfishing). The entire area has good proximity to the Town's recreational facilities and pedestrian "loop" around the central portion of Harbor Island. According to wildlife authorities, the public boat ramp on the north side of the draw bridge adjacent to the intracoastal waterway is the most heavily used launching facility in southeastern North Carolina. Policy Emphasis: The policy emphasis of this plan for this portion of Harbor Island is to allow for the continued use of each land parcel as currently built upon, with no increases in development intensity or scale. In keeping with the prevailing height and character of existing single family and duplex homes along Pelican Drive, building heights of two to no more than three stories (total, from ground level) shall be considered appropriate along this street. No further multi -family development, whether by new development or by increases in development Intensity or scale at existing locations, shall be allowed. Any redevelopment of the existing commercial areas should be oriented toward community and neighborhood services. 9.4.8 Causeway Drive/Marinas Area Description of Area Character This area of Harbor Island extends from the Intracoastal waterway on the west along the south side of Causeway Drive to its intersection with Island Drive. The area is characterized by a mixture of single and multi -family residential, marine, service, and retail land uses. Residential uses range from single family homes to modestly scaled multi -family residential units to the high rise Seapath Boataminiums. The mixture of marine service and retail land uses provides for "indirect" public access to Mott Channel and the Intracoastal waterway in this area. This area generally has the largest concentration of commercial uses of anywhere on the island. Street access to the commercial area south of the drawbridge is hampered by traffic congestion and turning movements at the Keel Street intersection. Any future redevelopment in this area will need to take this problem into consideration. The non-residential portions of this sub -area are currently undergoing pressures for change. Recent development applications have included a proposal to replace an existing dry and wet slip marina with multi -family residential development. The application was denied by the Town. The water quality of Mott Channel and the Intracoastal waterway south of the drawbridge is classified as SB (suitable for swimming but not for shellfishing). The relatively narrow adjoining channels are some of the most intensively used coastal waters in the State of North Carolina. The number and density of boat slips, both wet and dry, is very high in this area. This, combined with a large number of marine services and water -oriented restaurants on both sides of the Intracoastal waterway, makes these waters very popular for recreational boating. Weekend boating traffic is especially heavy. Page 9-6 I Land Classification Policy Emphasis: The policy emphasis of this plan is to retain the existing land use mix for this part of Wrightsville Beach. ' Existing single family, duplex, and multi -family development should be allowed to continue as presently configured, with no significant intensification of development. Existing commercial land areas should be retained for the services they provide to area residents as well as for the provision of indirect access to ' Mott Channel and the Intracoastal waterway. Future redevelopment proposals for the marina area, in particular, should include the following objectives: (1) retention of boating access to the public, whether by private or public means, (2) preservation of visual and physical access to the water's edge by the general public, and (3) preservation of community -serving commercial services. Residential uses in this area are not out of the question, provided that such uses shall not act to "wall off the water" in an exclusionary way. Given the size and configuration of the properties in this area, an overall plan for the future use of the entire commercial area south of the drawbridge would be In order. Such a plan could include, for example, ground floor retail, with a continuous public boardwalk along the water's edge, and, ' perhaps, residential units above. (This mixed use format with public access has worked successfully in other waterfront communities, and would be one way to satisfy the objectives outlined above.) ' 9.4.9 Town Government and Parks Area Description of Area Character The core of Harbor Island is a triangle -shaped area of land and marsh. This centrally located property accommodates most Town government functions, as well as providing for significant organized recreation and passive open space. Policy Emphasis: Policy emphasis for this portion of Wrightsville Beach should be on the retention of this area for the ongoing provision of local government services and parks and recreation., Recent initiatives to prepare a long-range master plan for the use of this important resource should continue to be supported. 9.4.10 The Mainland/Wrlghtsviile Sound Area ' Description of Area Character The Mainland/Wrightsville Sound area consists of those land areas transacted by the three principle roads 1 through the area approaching the draw bridge to Wrightsville Beach: Airlie Road, Wrightsville Avenue and Eastwood Road. The Town's interests in this area are related primarily to ground water supplies, traffic management, and 'gateway' appearance issues. This area also provides an important service function to ' Town residents, by accommodating large scale or intense commercial and retail service functions that would not be appropriate within the Town proper. The Town's interests in groundwater supplies in the Wrightsville Sound Area include two wells and a ' 500,000 gallon storage tank located on Aliens Lane. In recent years, the area has become increasingly commercial as long-standing residential uses of modest scale and value have been replaced by much more Intensive commercial uses and upscale residential developments. All traffic to and from Wrightsville Beach must pass through this 'gateway' area. As a result, the Town has an interest in the safe and efficient traffic movement through the area and in the appearance of developments along these corridors approaching Wrightsville Beach. While planning jurisdiction over this area has been the responsibility of New Hanover County, recent annexation initiatives by the City of Wilmington will soon bring this area under the City's planning and zoning controls. Both of these local governments have shown a willingness to work together with the Town on planning issues related to the Wrightsville Sound area. ' Page 9-7 Land Classification Policy Emphasis: The policy emphasis of this plan will be on working proactively with the City of Wilmington (and/or New Hanover County) to address land development, traffic management and gateway appearance issues. The Town will also maintain an ongoing Interest in maintaining and protecting its groundwater supply facilities in the area. 9.5 Conservation Areas Purpose The purpose of the Conservation class is to provide for the effective long-term management and protection of significant limited or Irreplaceable areas. Management of these areas is needed due to the natural, cultural, recreational, scenic or natural productive values of both local and more than local concern. Description of Area Character Within the planning jurisdiction of the Town of Wrightsville Beach, the Conservation class includes all wetland, beach and sound areas and shoreline AEC's associated with the Atlantic Ocean, the Intracoastal waterway and the various channels and marshes surrounding Wrightsville Beach. Also included in this classification are interior marshlands adjacent to the government complex on Harbor Island. Policy Emphasis: The policy emphasis of this plan for Conservation areas shall be to protect the natural integrity and functioning of these areas, as well as in providing open space and visual relief. Approved uses shall be in accordance with CAMA General Use Standards for AEC's, with priority given to direct and indirect public access having a minimal impact on the natural functioning of these systems. The Town shall also maintain an on -going concern for the preservation of views and vistas to these areas, by carefully controlling development along the water's edge which would serve to block or wall off the public from these valuable scenic and recreational resources. Page 9-B 11 Intergovernmental Coordination 10. Intergovernmental Coordination i10.1 Uses of the Land Use Plan The Wrightsville Beach land Use Plan, including the policy statements and the land classification map, will serve to coordinate numerous policies, standards, regulations, and other governmental activities at the local, State and Federal levels. Such coordination is achieved in three ways: 1. State and Federal government agencies are required to review local land use plans when considering any actions or activities under their jurisdiction. Their actions are to be consistent, whenever possible, with the intent of the local land use plan. ' 2. The policies and land classification system described in the land use plan provide a basis for planning and budgeting for the provision of public facilities and services such as water and sewer systems, roads and schools. ' 3. The land use plan can serve as a coordinating instrument in helping to bring together the various regulatory policies and decisions of the local government into one document. At Wrightsville Beach, all three categories of coordination were employed during development of the plan, and will continue to be employed until the next plan update is prepared in approximately five years. As such, the information contained in the plan serves as a benchmark for the condition of the Town in 1996, and a baseline from which to measure change over time. ' 10.2 Coordination With Other Governmental Jurisdictions ' The preparation of the Wrightsville Beach Land Use Plan and Policies has proceeded in a manner which recognizes the growth issues and planning activities of other local government jurisdictions, as well as State and Federal agencies. In preparing the plan, the policies and land classification designations of the Wilmington -New Hanover CAMA Land Use Plan for the nearby Wrightsville Sound area were reviewed. In addition, The Town has been actively engaged in certain joint local government issues specifically relevant to the land use plan throughout its development. These issues have included, for example, joint meetings to address the NC DOT Transportation Improvement Program, the jet ski issue, and the southward movement of Mason's Inlet, among others. State and local representatives involved In population projections, marine fisheries, water quality monitoring, and historic, archaeological preservation and local zoning were also consulted. Federal ' authorities in charge of wetlands identification, channel maintenance, and flood insurance were contacted. Further, within Town government, representatives of the following local government functions were consulted and involved in plan preparation: General Management, Fire Protection, Police, Parks and Recreation, Planning, and Public Works. I ' Page 10-1 I Public Participation Plan and Process 1 I 11 J I 11. Public Participation Plan and Process 11.1 Public Participation Plan Introduction Since its inception, North Carolina's Coastal Area Management Act Program has placed a high level of emphasis on public participation in the development of local land use plans and policies. The intent is to insure that the resulting plan and policies reflect, as closely as possible, the will of the people in the community. Meaningful public Involvement was an important element in preparing an updated land use plan for the Town of Wrightsville Beach. For the public involvement program to be effective, two key factors were included: 1) public education and 2) public input. The most effective format for public involvement includes this two-way communication between citizens and local officials. The public involvement strategy employed for the Wrightsville Beach Land Use Plan provided numerous opportunities for effective communication. First and foremost was the appointment of the Town Planning Board as the Steering Committee for the Plan. This 7-member board is appointed by the Board of Aldermen and represents various Interests and geographic areas of the community. The Planning Board had an active, leadership role throughout the preparation of the Land Use Plan. The Committee's role was particularly critical during the formulation of the Land Use Policies and the Land Classification Map. In this capacity, the Planning Board offered local perspectives, providing input on the accuracy of information gathered, and feedback on the policies as they developed. All Planning Board meetings were open to the public and several, jointly hosted with the Board of Aldermen, were designed specifically to gamer public input in an organized, constructive fashion. The following is a summary of program phases and key meetings for public involvement in the preparation of the Town of Wrightsville Beach Land Use Plan: 11.2 Public Involvement Process 1. Strategy Development and Public Participation Plan The first priority in carrying out the public participation strategy for the Land Use Plan was to meet with key local officials to discuss and receive approval of the planning process for citizen involvement. During this phase, the planning consultant, the Town Staff, the Planning Board and the Board of Aldermen each had a constructive role In preparing, reviewing, and approving the proposed planning and public involvement strategy. Also, State concerns, suggestions, and requirements for the planning process were conveyed to the Town staff and officials during a special presentation made by a representative of the Division of Coastal Management at the Town Hall. 2. Issue Identification by the Public (Town -Wide Meeting No. 1) Issue identification for the Land Use Plan consisted of a major Town meeting held at Wrightsville Beach Elementary School. A concerted effort was made to schedule the meeting date to maximize public exposure and media attention. The meeting was jointly hosted by the Planning Board and the Board of Aldermen. Special meeting announcements were prepared and efforts were made to distribute them to a wide cross section of community interests. Announcements were also sent to local news media. The purpose of this meeting was to provide the public with the opportunity to make their concerns known about growth and development issues facing the Town. The intent was to accomplish this task as early as 11 Page 11.1 Public Participation Plan and Process possible in the planning process, so that these concerns might be recorded and used as a foundation for the preparation of the Plan. The specific involvement technique used to solicit public Input was a modified nominal group process using Index cards and display sheets. Following the identification of issues, the relative priority of each issue was identified by a simple voting process. After the meeting was completed, all issues were typed up exactly as recorded and sorted into policy categories consistent, to the extent possible, with subject areas compatible with the CAMA guidelines. The complete listing and ranking of all Issues as identified at the meeting was then presented to the Planning Board for discussion and review. This written tabulation of growth issues was also made available for public information and review. 3. Discussion of Public Input and Growth Factors Based in part on the issues identified during Phases 1 and 2 above, and in keeping with the data collection and analysis requirements of the CAMA land use planning guidelines, a growth factors analysis was prepared for Initial review by the Planning Board. To accomplish this task, a draft of the analysis was distributed to the Planning Board for their review and comment. Each Planning Board member was asked to review the document for both its scope and its accuracy. As a result of the review, changes were made and additional research was conducted to address specific comments and points felt to be in need of clarification. 4. Policy Development Work Sessions with Planning Board With the results of the initial public input in hand, and with the major findings of the Growth Factors Analysis complete, the consulting planner, working closely with the Town planning staff and Planning Board, prepared a draft set of land use policies. The format for reviewing the draft policies involved several lengthy work sessions designed to give the Planning Board the opportunity to review the Town's existing policies and to compare them to the set of proposed policies. These work sessions were beneficial in identifying draft policies most in need of modification, deletion or addition. Based on the direction received during these work sessions, the consulting planner then prepared a revised set of draft Polices for public review. 5. Public Open House on Draft Policies and Land Classification System (Town -Wide Meeting No. 2) Once a set of draft land use policies were in place, the Planning Board hosted an open public meeting at Wrightsville Beach Elementary School to receive public input and comment on the work to date. To facilitate efficient and equitable input from the public, the draft policies were enlarged on poster sized sheets and arranged on the walls of the meeting room in a "walk -around questionnaire" format. The public was then invited to circulate around the room expressing their level of agreement or disagreement with each policy statement as well as being able to provide additional written comments on the sheets. Also, planning board members were positioned around the room at the various stations to allow for informal discussions regarding the various policies, or to clarify technical terms or Issues. This meeting was well attended and quite productive. 6. Joint Meeting Between Planning Board and Board of Aldermen to Discuss Draft Policies and Public Comments Received A joint work session on the draft policies and land classification system was held to provide the opportunity for the Planning Board and Board of Aldermen to meet in a round table discussion. The purpose of the meeting was not to formally adopt the plan, but rather to seek consensus as to the adequacy of the policies for formal public review, and generally, for submission to the CAMA program staff. While this meeting was also open to the public, (and several members of the public did attend) its primary intent was to allow the two boards to concentrate their time and attention on the draft policies, rather than on receiving additional public input at this time. Page 11-2 Public Participation Plan and Process 7. Completion of Draft Land Use Plan for Public Review ' After the joint work session on the draft plan was completed, appropriate revisions to the policies were made in accordance with directives received from the two boards during the round table discussion. Also, explanatory narrative was prepared as background for each policy section of the plan, and incorporated Into a complete draft of plan, combining all sections prepared to date. Also included in this draft was the ' Implementation Actions section. Unlike the Town's previous land use plans, however, this plan section was prepared as a separate element, allowing this section to be updated on an annual basis without altering the balance of the plan. A formal public meeting was then scheduled by the Board of Aldermen to accept public comment on the full plan. ' 8. Public Comment Meeting /Follow-up Review Session (Town -Wide Meeting No. 3) A formal public meeting (courtesy hearing) was then scheduled by the Board of Aldermen for October 30, 1996 to accept public comment on the full plan. Notification for the meeting Included an announcement printed in the newspaper of general circulation as well as regular notification through the public meetings notification process. All comments received at the meeting, whether favorable, neutral or negative, were noted for the record and for further action as appropriate. Once public comments were accepted and recorded, the Board of Aldermen provided direction as to those changes that would be appropriate before sending the draft plan on to the State for review. Plan revisions were then completed in accordance with directives received. 9. State Review and Comment/ Prepare Revisions As Appropriate ' Following additional revisions to the plan in accordance with directives received from the Planning Board and Board of Aldermen, the plan was sent to the State CAMA program staff for review and comment in early November 1996. Comments were received from the State in late- January, 1997. The consulting planner then prepared revisions to the Plan for review by the Planning Board. The Planning Board approved the changes at a meeting held on February 4,1997. The Board of Aldermen, at their meeting on February 13, 1997, then reviewed and approved the revisions as authorized by the Planning Board. The Board of Aldermen then met on February 27,1997 to set a date for a formal public hearing on the land use plan, as required, no less than 30 days hence. The public hearing was set for April 10,1997. 10. Board of Aldermen Adoption of Plan (Town -Wide Meeting No. 4/Public Hearing) ' The Board of Aldermen held a formal public hearing on April 10,1997 to formally present the plan for public review and comment. Notice of the meeting was in accordance with requirements for public hearings for the local adoption of CAMA Land Use Plans, as well as the Town's normal protocol. Following the hearing, the plan was reviewed for a final time by the Town Planning Board, with revisions made and recommended to the Board of Aldermen. Adoption of the plan was then completed on May 8, 1997 by formal action and vote of the Board of Aldermen. The plan was then submitted to the Coastal Resources Commission for certification by that body. ' 11. Coastal Resources Commission Certification ' The officially adopted Town of Carolina Beach Land Use Plan was submitted to the North Carolina Coastal Resources Commission for certification by that body at their regular meeting on May 29-30, 1997. ' Page 11-3 Public Participation Plan and Process 11.3 Summary of Meetings Held During Planning Process The following phases and meetings correspond to the phases of the public involvement process described above. 1. Strategy Development/ Public Participation Plan 1/2/96 Planning Board Town Hall Introduce Consultant and CRC Representative/Staff Discuss land use planning 2. Issue Identification by the Public (Town -Wide Meeting No. 1) 1/30/96 Ping Brd Brd Aldrmn W.B. Elem School Town Meeting to identify issues 3. Discussion of Public Input and Growth Factors 2/13/96 Planning Board Town Hall Review of Citizen Input Overview of Plan 4/30/96 Planning Board Town Hall Review of Growth Factors Analysis Discuss Land Classification 4. Policy Development Work Sessions with Planning Board 5/28/96 Planning Board Town Hall Review Draft Policies Review Neighborhoods 6/9/96 Planning Board Town Hall Review Draft Policies 6/24/96 Planning Board Town Hall Review Draft Policies 5. Public Open House on Draft Policies and Land Classification System (Town -Wide Meeting No. 2) 7/29/96 Ping BrdBrd Aldrmn W.B. Elem School Town Meeting to Review Policies 6. Joint Meeting Between Planning Board and Board of Aldermen to Discuss Draft Policies and Public Comments Received 8/7/96 Ping Brd/Brd Aldermen Town Hail Joint Meeting to Review Public Input on Policies 7. Completion of Draft Land Use Plan for Public Review No public meetings; writing and editing completed during this time. 8. Public Comment Meeting /Follow-up Review Session (Town -Wide Meeting No. 3) 10/30/96 Board of Aldermen Town Hall Public Hearing to receive public input on the completed draft plan 9. Review of State Comments Received and Revisions Made 2/4/97 Planning Board Town Hall Review Comments and Revisions to Plan; approve changes; forward to Brd of Aldrmn 2/13/97 Board of Aldermen Town Hall Review Comments and Revisions to Plan Approve changes Page 11-4 Public Participation Plan and Process 10. Public Hearing (Town -Wide Meeting No. 4) 2/27/97 Board of Aldermen Town Hall Set date for formal public hearing. 4/10/97 Board of Aldermen Town Hall Public Hearing by the Board of Aldermen for consideration of adoption. Received comments from public and staff. Asked Planning Board to review. 11. Planning Board Final Review and Recommendation 5/6/97 Planning Board Town Hall Reviewed comments —made recommendations to Board of Aldermen to adopt with comments inserted. 12. Local Adoption of Plan 5/0/97 Board of Aldermen Town Hall Adopted the land use plan. 13. Coastal Resources Commission Certification 5/30/97 Coastal Resources Commission Regular meeting to certify the Plan. Page 11-5 Appendices 12. Appendices ' 12.1 Evaluation of Effectiveness of Previous Land Use Plan While the previous land use plan contained much detailed Information about existing conditions in the Town , Its effectiveness as an instrument of local government policy was limited. Three specific shortcomings of that plan, and measures taken in this land use plan update to correct those deficiencies are outlined as follows: ' Plan Deficiency. • The policy section of the Town's previous land use plan had few discrete policy statements. Rather, this section consisted of a running narrative within which the reader may or may not have found statements which reflect the Town's official position on a given issue Corrective action taken for this plan update: For each policy area, a discrete policy statement consisting of no more than one or two sentences has been developed to clearly state the Town's position on that Issue. Further, each policy statement has been assigned a unique policy reference number so that specific policies can be easily referenced in evaluating development proposals, rezoning petitions, etc. brought before the Planning Board and the Town Board of Aldermen. Plan Deficiency. • The Town's previous land use plan did not specifically Identify Implementation ' actions. Implementation actions are a fundamental requirement of the Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA) guidelines for land use plans. Without implementation actions, the Town did not have the benefit of an ' agreed upon strategy for carrying out the Policies. Nor is there any way to assess whether the Town was effective in carrying out implementation action actions since none were listed. Corrective action taken for this plan update: ' A new section of the land use plan has been created which brings together in one place all suggested Implementation actions designed to carry out the policies. Rather than scattering these actions throughout the text of the Policies, this section provides an appropriate means of clearly organizing all potential actions for convenient review and use. A further benefit of this approach is that the action ' section may be updated on a regular basis (e.g. annually in conjunction with the Town's budget process) without changing the policy portion of the plan. If the document is maintained in a three ring binder for frequent users of the plan, the previous year's action agenda may be simply removed and a new section Inserted. This approach should make monitoring of the plan's implementation easier as well. ' Plan Deficiency: • The format of the previous land use plan's land classification system offered little or ' no policy guidance. The Land Classification Map prepared for the last land use plan was basically a tracing of the Town's mapped zoning districts. Essentially, the Town's Land Classes were the result of sub -categories created within the Developed classification which conformed very closely to the Town's zoning districts. While this ' clearly reflects a high degree of consistency between the Land Classification Map and the zoning ordinance, it afforded no additional guidance to development decisions beyond that already contained in the Town's zoning ordinance. Corrective action taken for this plan update: For this plan, the Land Classification Map has been restructured to differentiate between the various unique neighborhoods in the Town that have similar design, function, age, and/or character. Policy ' positions were then formulated and Included in the Land Use Plan to help the Town maintain the distinguishable neighborhood qualities unique to each of these neighborhood areas. These policy positions, in turn, provide consistent guidance to Town Officials in applying the rules of the Town's zoning ordinance to specific developments. tPage 12-1 Appendices 12.2 Sources and Locations of Additional Information To find out more about various aspects of land use and development at Wrightsville Beach, the interested citizen is invited to visit the Town offices where a variety of studies, plans, maps, aerial photographs and booklets are maintained on file. 12.3 Action Agenda For the Wrightsville Beach Land Use Plan Introduction to the Action Agenda The Action Agenda of the Wrightsville Beach Land Use Plan is provided to identify specific implementation actions in furtherance of the Town's development policies. (For a complete listing of the full policy statements associated with each issue, see Section 1 Executive Summary or Section 8 Policies) These actions are normally intended to be accomplished within the five year planning period between adoption of this plan and the next land use plan update (scheduled for 2001). Implementation actions are designed to suggest possible courses of action available to the Town to carry out the Policies. In some instances, a single implementation action may be listed in support of more than one policy. In other instances, where the Town is already implementing a policy, an on -going program of implementation may be mentioned. In still others, a particular policy may not warrant or require a specific implementation action to be effective. The suggested actions are not all-inclusive nor are they binding; additional actions may be added and others removed as conditions change. In fact, it is suggested that this summary of policies and implementation actions be reviewed on an annual basis during development of the Town's work program and budget approval process. In this manner, the effectiveness of the policies and implementation actions can be better evaluated. Further, by making this Action Agenda a separate section of the plan (as opposed to scattering the implementation actions throughout the text of the plan), these actions can be updated and re-inserted Into the document on a regular basis. Policy Area OVERALL COMMUNITY VISION Policy 8.0 General Vision Policy for Next Ten Years RESOURCE PROTECTION POLICIES Implementation Action(s) Action 8.0 The Town staff, Planning Board, and Board of Aldermen shall employ the policies contained in this land use plan on a routine basis in evaluating building proposals and other matters concerning growth and development. Policy 8.1.0 Basic Policy Statement Regarding - See specific Implementation Actions Resource Protection listed below as they pertain to specific ' policy issues. Policy 8.1.1 A Appropriate, Corrective Drainage Improvements Action 8.1.1 A The Town shall study the issue of impervious surfaces ' related to new construction and redevelopment with an eye toward minimizing paved surfaces which , would increase runoff onto adjacent properties or into estuarine waters. Page 12-2 11 I Appendices 1 I 1 1 11 Policy 8.1.1 B Application of Federal, State, and Local Controls Policy 8.1.1 C Development In the 100 Year Floodplain Policy 8.1.2 Areas Of Environmental Concern Policy 8.1.2 A Coastal Wetlands Policy 8.1.2 B Estuarine Waters Policy 8.1.2 C Public Trust Areas Policy 8.1.2 D Estuarine Shorelines Policy 8.1.2 E Ocean Hazard Areas Policy 8.1.3 Turtle Nesting Areas Action 8.1.1 C Recognizing the critical role of the National Flood Insurance Program in protecting private property and lives at Wrightsville Beach, the Town shall continue to strictly enforce ordinance provisions which bring structures into compliance with the Town's flood plain protection standards. Action 8.1.2 The Town shall continue to administer the CAMA Minor Permit Program in accordance with CAMA standards for Areas of Environmental Concern. Action 8.1.2 C (1) The Town shall develop a water use and harbor management plan to address the competing interests for use of public trust waters at Wrightsville Beach. Action 8.1.2 C (2) The Town shall continue to participate on the special local government committee appointed to address the management and proper regulation of jet skis and similar personal watercraft. Action 8.1.2 C (3) The Town shall extend the pierhead line to the north end of Wrightsville Beach. Action 8.1.8 D As part of its water use and harbor management plan (See Action 8.1.2 c (1)), the Town shall address the issue of marina development and expansion. Development along estuarine shorelines shall be subject to zoning and site plan approval in accordance with the intent of these policies Action 8.1.3 The Town shall explore the feasibility of having one or more appropriate areas of the Town designated as a turtle nesting sanctuary. Page 12-3 Appendices Policy 8.1.4 A Other Wetlands Policy 8.1.4 B Maritime Forests and Tree Cover Policy 8.1.4 C Outstanding Resource Water Areas Policy 8.1.4 D Shelifishing Waters Policy 8.1.4 E Water Supply Areas and Other Waters with Special Values Policy 8.1.4 F Cultural and Historic Resources Policy 8.1.5 Protection Of Potable Water Supply Policy 8.1.6 Package Sewage Treatment Plants Policy 8.1.7 Storm Water Runoff Policy 8.1.8 A Marinas, Wetsiips Policy 8.1.8 B Floating Home Development Policy 8.1.8 C Moorings and Mooring Fields Action 8.1.4 B (1) The Town shall work with the New Hanover County Agricultural Extension Service and utility companies to reduce tree trimming damage. Action 8.1.4 B (2) The Town shall investigate participation in the Tree City USA program. Action 6.1.4 F The Town shall continue to work with the Historic Landmark Commission in its efforts to preserve historic structures at Wrightsville Beach. Action 8.1.7 The Town shall study the issue of impervious surfaces related to new construction and redevelopment with an eye toward minimizing paved surfaces which would increase runoff onto adjacent properties or into estuarine waters. Action 8.1.8 A As part of its water use and harbor management plan (See Action 8.1.2 c (1)), the Town shall address the location and operation of wet slip marinas. Action 8.1.8 B As part of its water use and harbor management plan (See Action 8.1.2 c (1)), the Town shall continue current policies which - prohibit floating homes from occupying limited public trust surface water areas. Action 8.1.8 C As part of its water use and harbor management plan (See Action 8.1.2 c (1)), the Town shall address the location and design of moorings and mooring fields. 11 [1 11 11 I Page 12-4 Appendices [1 I 1 u 1 [I III 1) I� 1 [1 Policy 8.1.8 D Dry Stack Storage Policy 8.1.8 E Commercial Fishing Dockage Action 8.1.8 D As part of its water use and harbor management plan (See Action 8.1.2 c (1)), the Town shall address the location and operation of dry stack storage facilities. Action 8.1.8 E As part of its water use and harbor management plan the Town shall address the location and operation of commercial fishing dockage. Policy 8.1.8 F Vessels for Hire, Charter Boats and Action 8.1.8 F As part of its water Cruise Ship Dockage use and harbor management plan the Town shall address the size, location and operation of vessels for hire, charter boats, and cruise ship dockage. Policy 8.1.9 Industrial Impacts On Fragile Areas Policy 8.1.10 Development Of Sound And Estuarine System Islands Policy 8.1.11 Development Within Areas That Might Be Susceptible To Sea Level Rise Policy 8.1.12 Upland Excavation For Marina Basins Policy 8.1.13 Marsh Damage From Bulkhead Installation Policy 8.1.14 Water Quality Problems and Management Measures RESOURCE PRODUCTION AND MANAGEMENT POLICIES Action 6.1.12 As part of its water use and harbor management plan (See Action 8.1.2 c (1)), the Town shall address the issue of upland excavation for marina basins. Such development shall also be subject to zoning and site plan review in keeping with the intent of these policies Action 8.1.14 The Town shall continue to enforce the existing stormwater retention ordinance which requires on -site retention of the first 4" of rainfall in a 24 hour period. Policy 8.2.0 Basic Policy Statement Regarding Action 8.2.0 The Town shall Resource Production and Management request a meeting with state water quality monitoring officials to receive an update on water quality conditions, monitoring programs,. and to identify significant water quality issues. Policy 8.2.1 Productive Agricultural Lands Policy 8.2.2 Commercial Forest Lands Policy 8.2.3 Mineral Production Areas —Existing and Potential Page 12-5 Appendices Policy 8.2.4 Fisheries Resources (Commercial and Action 8.2.4 The Town shall, Recreational) through proclamation and public awareness, assist in promoting the annual Big Sweep clean-up. Policy 8.2.5 Off Road Vehicles Policy 8.2.6 Development Impacts ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT POLICIES Policy 8.3.0 Basic Policy Statement Regarding Economic & Community Growth & Development Policy 8.3.0 A Growth of Town's Jurisdiction Policy 8.3.0 B Population Increases Policy 8.3.0 C Types of Development to be Encouraged Policy 8.3.0 D Density of Development Policy 8.3.0 E Building Standards, Generally Action 8.2.6 The Town shall conduct a review of its development standards to identify and prevent potential adverse impacts on natural and scenic resources at Wrightsville Beach. Action 8.3.0 D The Town shall conduct an examination of its zoning ordinance to identity acceptable density and building sizes in each of the various zoning districts. Action 8.3.0 E As part of the Town's neighborhood planning effort, the Town shall conduct a survey and inventory of prevailing building heights, setbacks, lot coverage, and other factors for the particular neighborhood under study. The purpose of this survey shall be to establish a baseline from which to measure appropriate change in the neighborhood. Policy 8.3.0 F Building Height Action 8.3.0 F The Town shall undertake ordinance revisions to clarify building height measurements and standards. Policy 8.3.1 Industries Desired and Local Assets Desirable to Such Industries Policy 8.3.2 Provision of Services to Development, Action 8.3.2 The Town shall review Generally and update fees associated with water and sewer extensions and hook-ups. Page 12-6 [1 Appendices Policy 8.3.2 A Potable Water Supply Policy 8.3.2 B Wastewater Treatment and Disposal Policy 8.3.2 C Solid Waste Disposal Policy 8.3.3 Urban Growth Pattern Desired Policy 8.3.4 Types of Residential Development Desired Action 8.3.2 A The Town shall continue to enhance the existing water supply system, and shall explore alternatives for supplementing the existing system. Action 8.3.2 C The Town shall continue to monitor the recycling market to identify additional items for recycling. Action 8.3.3 The Town shall not significantly alter the existing balance of commercial and residential uses through zoning actions or other policy decisions. Action 8.3.4 The Town shall not approve rezonings which would allow for additional multi -family complexes, high-rise structures, and motels at Wrightsville Beach. As part of the Town's neighborhood planning, the zoning ordinance shall be examined for possible amendments to encourage appropriate, compatible building forms. ' Policy 8.3.5 Types of Commercial Development Action 8.3.5 (1) The Town shall Desired amend the zoning ordinance to establish building size, height, mass, ' and setback standards which support the existing development character of nearby properties. 1 I Policy 8.3.6 Redevelopment, Including Relocation of Threatened Structures Policy 8.3.7 Commitment to State/Federal Programs Action 8.3.5 (2) The Town shall not issue permits for projects which would allow for additional multi -family complexes, high-rise structures, and motels at Wrightsville Beach. Such development forms shall be permitted only on sites where they are presently located. Action 8.3.5 (3) The Town shall explore the desirability and feasibility of amend Its zoning standards to allow for appropriate mixed use developments in keeping with the intent of policy 8.3.5(3) Page 12-7 Appendices Policy 8.3.8 A Assistance to Channel Maintenance, Including Interstate Waterways Policy 8.3.8 B Assistance to Beach Nourishment Action 8.3.8 B (1) The Town shall, as part of its capital improvement planning process, budget appropriate funds necessary to support on -going beach renourishment at Wrightsville Beach Policy 8.3.8 C Beach Hardening Policy 8.3.8.13 Soundside Bulkheads Policy 8.3.9 Energy Facility Siting and Development Policy 8.3.10 Tourism Policy 8.3.11 A Beach and Waterfront Access Policy 8.3.11 B Soundside Waterfront Access Policy 8.3.12 Parks and Recreation Action 8.3.8 B (2) The Town shall support the reinstitution of the original 80/20 apportionment of room tax revenues with priority for beach renourishment. Action 8.3.10 The Town shall continue to work n partnership with the Wrightsville Beach Chamber of Commerce to promote quality tourism. Action 8.3.11 A The Town shall review the integrity of the existing dune system to determine the necessity of dune walkovers/crossovers in preventing ocean water washovers. Action 8.3.11 B (1) The Town shall review its development regulations to discourage development forms which would act to wall off views of the water. Action 8.3.11 B (2) The Town shall develop and implement an action plan to identify and protect public street ends for public access to the water. Such a plan may include, for example, the placement of tasteful signage at each street end noting that the street end is a public right of way for access to the water (whether such access is "improved" or not). Page 12-8 ' Appendices ' Policy 8.3.13 Downtown Area Action 8.3.13 The Town shall encourage and assist downtown property owners in the development of architectural design guidelines for the traditional downtown area of Wrightsville Beach. ' Policy 8.3.14 A Neighborhood Character and Action 8.3.14 A The Town will Preservation undertake a program of neighborhood based meetings on a rotating basis. ' Policy 8.3.14 B Scenic Vistas and Views Action 8.3.14 B The Town shall review its development regulations to discourage development fors which ' would act to wall off views of the water. Policy 8.3.14 C Historic Preservation Action 8.3.14 C The Town shall continue to work with the Historic ' Landmark Commission in its efforts to preserve historic structures at Wrightsville Beach. Policy 8.3.14 D Undergrounding of Utilities Action 8.3.14 D The Town shall budget funds to match neighborhood efforts to place overhead utilities underground. Policy 8.3.15 A Transportation Planning, Generally Action 8.3.15 A The Town shall continue to work with the NCDOT on a ' program to achieve a better balance between vehicular and non -vehicular movement at Wrightsville Beach. t Policy 8.3.15 B Public Transportation Policy 8.3.15 C High Rise Bridge Policy 8.3.15 D Pedestrian and Bicycle Traffic See Implementation Action 8.3.15 A ' above Policy 8.3.15 E Keel Street Intersection Action 8.3.15 E The Town shall continue to work with the NCDOT and ' the NC Wildlife Commission on Improvements to traffic flow at the Keel ' Street intersection. Policy 8.3.15 F Parking ' Policy 8.3.16 The Wrightsville Sound Area Action 8.3.16 The Town shall re- initiate a dialogue with the New Hanover County and/or the City of ' Wilmington regarding the future development of the Wrightsville Sound and development standards for the Wrightsville Avenue and Eastwood Road travel corridors. I' Page 12-9 Appendices CONTINUING PUBLIC PARTICIPATION POLICIES Policy 8.4.0 Basic Policy Statement Regarding Continuing Public Participation Policy 8.4.1 Land Use Plan Update Process Policy 8.4.2 On -going Public Participation Policy 8.4.3 Neighborhood Planning STORM HAZARD MITIGATION)POST-DISASTER RECOVERY, & EVACUATION POLICIES AND PLANS Action 8.4.3 The Town will undertake a program of neighborhood ' based meetings on a rotating basis. Policy 8.5.0 Basic Policy Statement Regarding Action 8.5.0 The Town shall review Storm Hazard MitigatioNPost-Disaster Recovery, damage caused by hurricane Bertha and Evacuation Policies and Plans and Fran, as well as other storms, to determine refinements in emergency management plans and procedures. Storm Hazard Mitigation Policies Policy 8.5.1 A Storm Effect Mitigation Policy 8.5.1 B. Discouragement of Hazardous Development Policy 6.5.1 C. Public Land Acquisition Policy 8.5.1 D. Evacuation Post Disaster Reconstruction Policies Policy 8.5.2 A. Emergency Management Plan Policy 8.5.2 B. Local Reconstruction Policies Policy 6.5.2 C. Recovery Task Force Action 8.5.1 A Recognizing the critical role of the National Flood insurance Program in protecting private property and lives at Wrightsville Beach, the Town shall continue to strictly enforce ordinance provisions which bring structures into compliance with the Town's flood plain protection standards. (See implementation Action 8.5.1 A above) (See Implementation Action 8.5.1 A above) (See Implementation Action 8.5.1 A above) (See Implementation Action 8.5.1 A above) Policy 8.5.2 D. Staging Schedule for Reconstruction Action 8.5.2 D. The Town shall and Repair establish a mutual assistance program with several other communities in North Carolina for building inspection operations. Page 12-10 Appendices 1 1 1 1 Policy 8.5.2 E. Public Infrastructure Repairs and Action 8.5.2 E. The Town shall Replacement inventory all damage to capital items after storms and include needed repairs and replacement in the following year's CIP. 1 Page 12-11 LAND CLASSIFICATION,1996 • • . ^ - 7� Pelican Dr., Lees Cut, Channel Walk and . 10 Central Beach Area Lookout Harbor ❑2 The North End ® Causeway DrJMarinas The Parmele Area 09 Town Government/Park Waynick BlvdJS.Lumina ® Mainland/Wrightsville The South End W901 0 [.091A.-ITAN 0 rol• - I/ © Old Harbor Island © Estuarine System of ' Islands and Marshes l•lleYa•aWr-NIa r WW WYulbndaaMl ab swanDue be-erdae ey Is NNy i al ar OWeelleatY• aWr OeYalle rt t•rla p taW •tlq rsionne lhlr.Xrr IIt1I-rl r aWw/p41rIlY irl ha r wrrlalber rw was lnalw• Ila-awn. '; alYn a•ua•a. w •a••tas a+asrlenau m aL.I.a.a. ~61s aal..ra map, WW the swlvrll^I roaYaa a a. rr w al.11 r+a.apr. 6�.sA_Se• - .L.. - _- __-��a� - -f rti �u� � f.. k. 1 , /" a. `.,L-.�. � as •''^Y•+s•>: � �__ Aai['IW----------�': Zi, • i•�•'W-_W •1.• T1171 i: '' '-•_ •+----._-___-_ �__ __4'! i`C.M1 V\1�- •. ' �i� f� �`. 1 ` .e.. • ^ ^ . ".' kf _ _ 4.:�_:% .IY -.i •-ra•R �. _.Y•: .e,e-.wC C -Y„ � 1 , to _s _sarl+.iSi?� %, '•'•'••. «'J •COIL 7L•\L^. Att �1�11 /,,,r.,;•I'•- �5 *{♦` L' .-;' ` ).. •ram �.; • L '.� ^r} :YC, r � j'0 / ,• ' s.. '•1::••n r �.. - _ -_ ::S Y. :��''J �b ''�L'n ^ •;n. •.r :.1 .F); .......... 1`1. r.Y.�;.:r. 1 '. �' .^ •aa. r� �-1• 1'? r- ... 1.•♦.. rI 7 / '?I'� rr :`':'1 L'::-. `�.1.. ,, rr ..:� +.I..�.Y•i �:.� :] '.rrs i)♦F�1~ • :5�'0 :. (.•,_••�::.•'.♦l ...r-C: •V�j,:C: "•5. •: l.j. - ... ) 'J rt: { •'.i,.' ,•i.-'. •. .::: :: :,'.' ':': Cur :.1 •mot• _ _ .•Y 1 .b •I.: t'r J ..e fir• , •y ti•',. f T J 1• 1• r [ •t- L' S - .err jj 4. •4 1 iC ,•, I . S: •.vY _ _ l 4 1•: • I i.L F+y - i .7 •� - a � 'n:r� I _ _ 'MY"LYE: ••. _., ) _ t -)� i / i ` I•/• •M•+ /Y /IYYI LIYI •/�• . rL .. _1••_[ : ri. '• '•�1,-: �' • /IYIJ IMIYYYI � / I •� �`C\a - I I � I--�---'—�t—a'--•"E— �"s�-^-- e! . .__ 1 I_I Y_I i��-` 1 j-I� I- ►- I- - I—i--3-1-'—l—I— -�-�=> --E i! 9� i i i i-1 a-i I I 1 ' ..I.I,I, sell. 0 800 1600 2400 3200 1996 CAMA LAND USE PLAN 1 TMpprepera the tllnpamentugogram, l Town of Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina • � through by the avid Carolina Coastal Manag9ement Frogre t Mraugh funds provided by the Coastal Zone Management Act of /♦, 1172 as emended, which is administered by the Office of Ocean and G^oestal Resource Management, National Oceanic and AmrottphedcAdministreaon. Technical Assistance by NORTH APPROXIMATE SCALE IN FEET Glenn Harbeck Associates 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 i 1 1 1' Nowlandwerweawee Mdrofthehtl Alai wwew.y rre YewMee b dap the a.vebprwra pahem pm,erlty a" the wnynrNYe Avenw and Ease o Rwd wnWe, where ere Town Me ereerel amen NlMlhe ewe..tlw ereer. 1 L7�J'. y r` •fir. IRIRI iM/Il fl Y U 1' ;. r eNyr jeeee Li . III alit aCIA I EXISTING LAND USE,1996 ❑ Single Family Residential E Single Family Manufactured Housing ❑ Single Family and Duplex Residential Multi -Family Residential ® Office, Institutional, and Municipal Private Clubs Commercial ❑ Vacant 11 +Ir re•: -:I RRe 0 800 1100 2400 3200 1996 CAMA LAND USE PLAN The prsp�tlonofthismapwes 9neneed In pert throe rh�e grant - Town of Wrightsville Beach, North. Carolina provided the Narth Carolina Coeslal ManeMgemeet P ram, ' 9lrough funtls provided by the Coastal Zane anagement Act of L'\ 1972, es amended, which la admlydstered by the Oflice of Ocean `\ and Coastal Rescums Management, National Oceanic and7Z"Lj ' Aunosphadc Administreflon. Technical Assistance by NORTH APPROXIMATE SCALE IN FEET - - Glenn Harbeck Associates NORTH RVI •'. \ LIIR! LMII!/1 0 e 0 600 1600 2400 3200 717 APPROXIMATE SCALE IN FEET 0---H BUILDING HEIGHT,1996 More Than Three Stories ® Three Stories ❑ One or Two Stories, or Vacant Note: All building heights are estimated to the approximate peak of the roof, regardless of whether the first habitable floor of the structure has been elevated or not. The intent of this map is to show relative building heights rather than the number of habitable floors. %V1 .. 't •''. r"/ r t 1+ `) 1l . ., � .,; •fit • 11 \ •. Y, 1 ii / • •. t 1� 4 j 1 F • Al'.• ' / I l • r 4. n 1 tr ,..•..:. .v,-1' ,,:',i�•. F /;, 1� , �: \1 � � - ''a;.:.>^.�n:�ii •:� � � t;�.+.4..".• `7? �' ri t41. :'1 •R;•.:-%°'� '`� :Ly i/ ••.� yd. ll\i .S'�t �•l r ii t.'.1i% r t�1��911�1�i�alt�t� ! 11 •I. I. r I .eI A. The preparation of this map was financed In part through a grant provided by the North Carolina Coastal Management Program, through funds provided by the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972. as amended, v/Mch is administered by the Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administrallon. 1996 CAMA LAND USE PLAN Town of Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina m00ol; Technical Assistance by Glenn Harbeck Associates 0 r. :s a a.1:'a�\••" Y i .I ' ',ry > .�' a• ; it# a° %.,�j``trf ! * tt .r'.?�;1 ' �'• _—�J CMI ■ t S • � )_ � ♦ia� �zc Be i 1 . 5 4 0 800 1100 2400 32110 pThprooe�v=�d by he Noof rth thismap Coastal Mand In egart emen�P�rogmm, grant veorpnM funds provided by the Coastal Zone Managger Aci of 1972 as amended, wldch b adrNrseleree by the O = of Ocean and doastel Resource Menapemss Natlonel Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. NORTH APPROXIMATE SCALE IN FEET RECREATIONAL FACILITIES,1996 Park ® Public Boat Ramp Q Regional Beach Access 4 Local Beach Access ♦ Neighborhood Beach Access ® Fishing Pier Boat or Other Private Club Commercial Marina CIM 4 4 LIM 1996 CAMA LAND USE PLAN, Town of Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina ' � ��V Technical Assistance by Glenn Harbeck Associates I -. FRAGILE AREAS, 1996 Land In 100 Year Floodplain Tidal Wetlands/Estuarine AEC I fee— Me Water Quality Classification Will sN Approximate Location of Historic Structure Area of High Probability For Archaeological Sites memo ell, 0* a Inlet Hazard Area awe All ar Flood With Velocity (Wave'Action) Aill Ill --- Area of 1 00-Ye Vill 00 Vill 7 V - 1—n A-0 Z r•QA Q sli jg we eel.. 0 810 16110 2400 3101 a ... . NORTH APPROXIMATE SCALE IN FEET Theprep tionoftNsmp"sflnoncedtnpartOwWOOgraM 1proAded Pthe North Caroline Goal Man ement P ram. iough kinds Worrilifed by the a ro?,At of 1972 as serminded. which Is ac=wby thT4 of Cool and doestal Real Management. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration CA MA C1-M LAND USE PLAN Town of Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina Technical Assistance by Glenn Harbeck Associates 0 500 1600 2400 3200 APPROXIMATE SCALE IN FEET A,... if 001/• The preparation a Ihle map way %:—d In pad tlxoagh a grant pp,Wded try the Nodh Carolina Coastal Managgement Program, Nrotrph lends provided a/ dre Coasts Zone Managemera Act a 1972 ae emended, which b adMniaterad hY Ma Otiloe a Ocean and l:oastal Resource ManagemenL Natbnel Oceanic and Atmoephedc AMnlnlstratlon. COMMUNITY FACILITIES,1996 MC Municipal Complex © Fire Station PW Public Works Dept. Elementary School CG Coast Guard Station W Place of Worship Water Supply Well O Water Supply Storage `�sj Sewage Lift Station �■ Sewage Collection Main Trunk Water Supply Main 1996 CAMA LAND USE PLAN Town of Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina Technical Assistance by Glenn Harbeck Associates