CAMA Land Use Plan-2005

Town of Wrightsville Beach
2005 CAMA Land Use Plan
Core Plan
Prepared for the Town of Wrightsville Beach
Land Use Plan Steering Committee by
Mark T. Imperial, Ph.D.
A,
Melinda Powell -Williams
Town of Wrightsville Beach
321 Causeway Drive
P.O. Box 626
Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480
Telephone [phone] Fax [phone]
May 24, 2006

Town of Wrightsville Beach
CAMA Land Use Plan Update
2003 to 2005
Board of Aldermen
Mayor Robert O'Quinn, roquinn ,towb.org
Ed Miastkowski, emiastowski(a towb.org
Kitty Brunjes,[e-mail]
David Cignotti, dci ng otti(a,towb.org
Steve Whalen, [e-mail]
Ed Paul,[e-mail]¢
Steering Committee
Larry Mahl, Chair, 256 - 4481
Bill Sisson, Vice -Chair, sissonw(a)bellsouth.net, 392 - 3770
Norman Ake], Nhakel(c)acninc.net, 256-0675
Mack Arnold, Arnoldmana juno.com, 256-3895
Bill Baggett, Williamb(iDwilmin on.net, 256 - 2251
Keith Beatty, KeithbeattyPintracoastalrealty.com, 509-1447
Jim Busby, [e-mail], 443-3992
Eddie Collins, 256-5840
Bob Cook, bob-ann(a,earthlink.net, 256 - 9196
Peggy Gentry, 256 - 8845
Joetta Joris, Joioris(@intracoastalrentals.com, 256 - 2709
Lori Rosbrugh, Lwr(@,Iawfirm.com, 772-9960
Town Staff
Robert Simpson, Town Manager [e-mail] 256 - 7900
Tracie Davis, Director of Planning and Parks tdavisatowb.org 509 — 5019
Tony Wilson, Building Code Administrator twilson(@towb.org 509-5019
Melinda Powell -Williams, Development Code Administrator mpowelI(@,,towb.org 509-5019
Anne Britt, Administrative Assistant abritt(i�towb.org 509 — 5019
Planner -in -Charge
Mark Imperial, Ph.D. University of North Carolina at Wilmington
[e-mail] 962 — 7928
Websites
hn://www.townofwrightsvillebeach.com/
http://www.townofiv6ghtsvillebeach.com/LUP/landuseplan.htm
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Toivn of Wrightsville Beach 2005 CAMA Land Use Plan: Core Plan
Table of Contents
Table of Contents ii
List of Tables and Figures
vii
Financial Support
ix
Acknowledgements
ix
Acronyms Used In the CAMA Land Use Plan
x
Community Vision Statement
xii
Section 1: Introduction
1
1.0 Introduction
1
1.0.A Organization of the Report
2
Section 2: Community Concerns & Aspirations
4
2.0 Introduction
4
Section 3: Population, Economy, & Housing
7
3.0
Introduction
7
3.1
Permanent Population Estimates
7
3.1.A Permanent Population Trends
9
3.1.13 Permanent Population Projection
11
3.2
Key Population Demographics
12
3.2.A Age of the Population
12
3.2.13 Racial Composition
13
3.2.0 Educational Attainment
13
3.2.1) Housing Stock
13
3.2.A.1 Age of Structures
16
3.2.A.2 Occupancy
16
3.2.A.3 Vacant and Seasonal Housing
17
3.2.A.4 Development and Redevelopment Activity
18
3.3
Housing Value
19
3.4
Income
21
3.4.A Low and Fixed Income Population
22
3.5
Local Economy
23
3.5.A Employment
24
3.5.13 Unemployment
25
3.5.0 Retail Sales
26
3.5.1) Summary of Community Economic Activity
26
3.6
Future Population Estimates
27
3.6.A Permanent Population Estimates
27
3.6.13 Seasonal Population Estimates
28

3.6.0 Alternative Ways of Estimating Peak Population 30
Section 4: Natural Systems
32
4.0
Introduction
32
4.1
Areas of Environmental Concern
32
4.1.A Estuarine and Ocean System
33
4.1.A.1 Estuarine Water
33
4.1.A.2 Estuarine Shoreline
34
4.1.A.3 Coastal Wetlands
34
4.1.A.4 Public Trust Areas
35
4.1.13 Ocean Hazard System
36
4.1.13.1 Ocean Erodible Area
36
4.1.13.2 What is the 1939 Building Line
37
4.1.13.3 High Hazard Flood Area
37
4.1.13.4 Inlet Hazard Area
38
4.1.13.5 Unvegetated Beach Area
38
4.2
Soil Characteristics
38
4.3
Water Quality
39
4.4
Shellfishing & Primary Nursery Areas
42
4.5
Hazards
43
4.5.A Flood Hazard Areas
43
4.5.A.1 FEMA Flood Insurance
43
4.5.13 Hurricanes
45
4.5.B.1 Storm Surge Areas
46
4.5.0 Nor'Easters
46
4.5.1) Severe Thunderstorms
47
4.5.E Tornadoes
47
4.5.17 Urban Fires
48
4.6
Non -coastal Wetlands
48
4.7
Water Supply and Wellhead Protection Areas
48
4.8
Environmentally Fragile Areas
49
4.8.A Natural Heritage Areas
49
4.8.13 Areas Containing Endangered Species
49
4.9
Composite Map of Environmental Conditions
50
Section 5: Existing Land Use and Development
51
5.0 Introduction
51
5.1 Existing Land Use
51
5.1.A Neighborhood Characteristics
52
5.I.A. I Central Beach Area
52
5.1.A.2 North End
53
5.1.A.3 The Parmele Area
53
5.1.A.4 The Waynick Boulevard -South Lumina Area
53
5. LA.5 The South End
54
5.1.A.6 Old Harbor Island
55
5.1.A.7 Pelican Drive, Lees Cut, Channel Walk, and Lookout
55
Harbor

5.1.A.8 Causeway Drive/Marina Area 56
5.1.A.9 Town Government and Parks Area 56
5.1.A.10 Mainland/Wrightsville Sound Area 56
5.1.A.I I Conservation Areas 56
5.1.A.12 Historic, Cultural, and Scenic Areas 56
5.1.13 Projection of Future Land Needs 57
Section 6: Community Facilities & Town Services 58
6.0 Introduction 58
6.1 General Administration 58
6.2 Fire Protection & Emergency Medical Services 59
6.3 Police Department 60
6.4 Department of Planning and Parks 60
6.4.A Division of Planning and Inspections 61
6.4.13 Division of Parks and Recreation 62
6.5 Public Works Department 64
6.6 Schools 64
Section 7: Infrastructure Carrying Capacity
65
7.0
Introduction
65
7.1
Public and Private Water Supply Systems
65
7.2
Public and Private Wastewater Systems
68
7.3
Stormwater System
70
7.4
Solid Waste Disposal and Recycling
71
7.5
Parking Facilities
72
7.6
Transportation System
72
7.6.A Wrightsville Beach (Heide Trask) Drawbridge
72
7.6.13 Traffic Counts and Roadway Design Capacity
73
Section
8: Land Suitability Analysis
74
8.0
Introduction
74
8.1
Land Suitability Analysis
74
8.2
Implications of the Land Suitability Analysis
75
Section 9: Plan for the Future: Policies and Recommended
76
Actions
9.0 Introduction
76
9.1 Land Use and Development
77
9.2 Infrastructure Carrying Capacity
79
9.3 Public Access and Recreation
81
9.4 Water Quality and Natural Environment
87
9.5 Hazard Mitigation
93
Section 10: Tools for Managing Development
98
10.0 Introduction
98
10.1 Role and Status of the Land Use Plan
98
10.2 Existing Development Management Program
100
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Toivn of Wrightsville Beach 2005 CAITIA Land Use Plan: Core Plan
10.2.A Wrightsville Beach's Land Development Regulations
10.2.A.I Wrightsville Beach Zoning Code
10.2.A.2 Subdivision Regulations
10.2.A.3 Minimum Housing Standards
10.2.A.4 Pierhead Ordinance
10.2.A.5 Building Code
10.2.A.6 Floodplain and Damage Prevention Ordinance
10.2.A.7 Additional New Hanover County Regulations
Affecting the Wrightsville Sound Area
10.2.13 CAMA Requirements
10.2.0 Permitting Process
10.2.13 Nonregulatory Efforts to Implement CAMA Policies and
Recommendations
10.3 Additional Tools
10.4 Action Plan and Implementation Schedule
Section 11: Required Policy Analysis
11.0 Introduction
11.1 Consistency of the Policies with CAMA Management Topics
11. LA Land Use Compatibility
11.1.13 Infrastructure Carrying Capacity
11. LC Public Access & Recreation
11.1.13 Water Quality & Natural Environment
11. LE Natural & Man-made Hazards
11.1.17 Local Areas of Concern
11.2 Consistency Between the Policies and the Future Land Use Map
11.2.A Residential Density
11.2.13 Comparison of the environmental composite map, land
suitability map, and future land use map
11.2.0 Availability of Waters and Sewers to Future Development
11.2.13 Natural Hazards
11.2.E Protecting Shellfish Waters
11.3 Impact of the Policies on Management Topics
Appendix A: Supporting GIS Maps
AEC Coastal Wetland and Estuarine Waters Map
AEC and Fragile Areas Map
Closed Shellfishing Areas Map
DWQ High Quality and Outstanding Resource Waters Map
Fish Nursery Areas Map
Special Flood Hazard Zones Map
Flood Zone Map
Storm Surge Map
Hurricane Storm Surge Inundation Map
NC CREWS Exceptional, Substantial, and Beneficial Map
Significant Natural Heritage Areas Map
Existing Land Use Map
100
103
104
104
104
104
105
105
105
107
108
110
112
113
113
113
114
114
115
117
118
119
119
120
120
121
121
121
122
Al
-v-

Zoning Map
Public Access and Recreation Map
Infrastructure Map
Transportation System Map
Appendix B: Detailed Policy Analysis
B 1
B.0 Introduction
B 1
B.1 Public Access
B 1
B.2 Land Development
B 1
B.3 Infrastructure
B 2
B.4 Natural Systems
B 2
B.5 Local Areas of Concern
B 3
Appendix C: Maps for the Land Suitability Analysis and
C 1
Environmental Composite
Environmental Composite Map
Land Suitability Analysis Map
Appendix D: Activities Identified in the Town's NPDES
D 1
Phase II Stormwater Permit Application
D.0 Introduction
D 1
D.I Public Education/Outreach Measures
D 1
D.2 Public Involvement and Participation Measures
D 4
D.3 Illicit Discharge Elimination Measures
D 5
DA Post Construction Stormwater Management Measures for New
D 8
Development and Redevelopment
D.5 Pollution Prevention/Good Housekeeping for Municipal
D 9
Operations Measures
Appendix E: Future Land Use Map E 1
Future Land Use Map
Appendix F: Action Plan & Implementation Schedule F 1
Appendix G: Impact of Policies on Management Topics G 1
Appendix H: Adjacent Jurisdiction Comments H 1
-vi-

List of Tables and Figures
Table 2.1 Existing and Emerging Conditions
5
Table 2.2: Planning Issues and Concerns
6
Table 3.1: Comparison of Population Characteristics of Selected North Carolina
8
Beach Communities
Table 3.2: Population
9
Table 3.3: Percent Population Growth (1960 — 2000)
10
Table 3.4: Population Growth in North Carolina Coastal Communities (1990 —
11
2001)
Table 3.5: Persons by Age (1990 — 2000)
12
Table 3.6: Racial Composition (1990 — 2000)
13
Table 3.7: Educational Attainment for Persons 25 and over (2000)
14
Table 3.8: Percent Change in the Housing Stock (1990 — 2000)
14
Table 3.9: Percent of Housing Stock (1990 — 2000)
15
Table 3.10: Age of Structures in Wrightsville Beach
15
Table 3.11: Percent of Owner vs. Renter Occupied Housing (1990 — 2000)
17
Table 3.12: Percent Change in Owner vs. Renter Occupied Housing (1990 —
17
2000)
Table 3.13: Percent of Vacant and Seasonal Housing (1990 — 2000)
18
Table 3.14: Percent Change in Vacant and Seasonal Housing (1990 — 2000)
18
Table 3.15: Building Permits Issued (1999 — 2004)
19
Table 3.16: Development and Redevelopment Activity (1999 — 2003)
19
Table 3.17: Housing Value of Owner Occupied Housing Units (2000)
20
Table 3.18: Monthly Contract Rent for Renter Occupied Housing Units (2000)
20
Table 3.19: Income (1999)
21
Table 3.20: Median Income (1999)
21
Table 3.21: Poverty Status (1999)
21
Table 3.22: Employment Status
23
Table 3.23: Wrightsville Beach Occupations
23
Table 3.24: Employed Persons 16 and Over (2000)
24
Table 2.25: Wrightsville Beach Class of Worker (2000)
25
Table 3.26: Unemployment (2003)
25
Table 3.27: New Hanover County Tourism Revenue ($ Millions)
26
Table 3.28: Wrightsville Beach Motels & Number of Rooms
29
Table 3.29: High and Low Seasonal Population Estimates
29
Table 4.1: Receiving Streams Adjacent to Wrightsville Beach
41
Table 4.2: Parcels Located in the Flood Zone
43
Table 4.3: Flood Insurance Policies
44
Table 4.4: Loss Statistics for Wrightsville Beach and New Hanover County,
44
North Carolina (1978 — 2002)
Table 4.5: Hurricanes and the Saffir-Simpson Scale
45
Table 4.6: Approximate Impact of Various Storm Levels (Acres Impacted)
46
Table 4.7: Fujita-Pearson Tornado Scale
47
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To►vn of Wrightsville Beach 2005 LAMA Land Use Plan: Core Plan
Table 5.1: Land Usage in Wrightsville Beach (2004)
52
Table 6.1: School Capacity and Enrollment
64
Table 7.1: Water Connections
66
Table 7.2: Well Field Capacity (Gallons Per Minute)
66
Table 7.3: Average Daily Water Flows (1986 — 2003)
67
Table 7.4: Average and Maximum Daily Water Use by Month (2002)
67
Table 7.5: Projected Service Area Demand for Water
68
Table 7.6: Average Daily Wastewater Discharges (2002)
69
Table 7.7: Average Daily Wastewater Flow (1986 — 2003)
69
Table 7.8: Owner of Drainage Systems
70
Table 7.9: Marked Parking Spaces
72
Table 7.10: Estimated Peak Traffic Volumes (1990 — 2003)
73
Table 10.1: Wrightsville Beach's Development Management Program
101
Table 10.2: Dimensional Table of Conforming Uses
103
Table 10.3: Dimensional Table of Non Conforming Uses
104
Table B.1: Analysis of the Implementation of the 1996 CAMA Land Use Plan
B 4
Table D.1: Public Education and Outreach Management Measures
D 3
Table D.2: Public Involvement and Participation Management Measures
D 6
Table D.3: Illicit Discharge and Elimination Management Measures
D 7
Table DA: Post Construction Stormwater Management Measures for New
D 10
Development and Redevelopment
Table D.5: Pollution Prevention/Good Housekeeping for Municipal Operations
D 11
Management Measures
Table F.1: Action Plan & Implementation Schedule 2005 - 2011
F 2
Table G.1: Impact of Policies on Management Topics
G 2
Figure 3.1: Population Growth in Wrightsville Beach (1960 - 2000)
10
Figure 3.2: New Hanover County Population Growth (1960 — 2000)
10

Financial Support
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 1972 Coastal
Zone Management Act (CZMA), as amended, which is administered by the Office of Ocean
and Coastal Resource Management, National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
The Town or Wrightsville Beach also provided funding and staff support for the planning
effort.
Acknowledgements
The development of the land use plan began early in 2003 with a decision by Town leaders to
commit the community's economic resources and the valuable time of citizens and staff to
update the Town of Wrightsville Beach's Land Use Plan. Funding and technical assistance
for the planning process was obtained from the Department of Environment and Natural
Resources (DENR) Division of Coastal Management (DCM). Additional technical
assistance in the preparation of this document was obtained from the University of North
Carolina at Wilmington's (UNCW's) Master of Public Administration Program and the Cape
Fear Council of Governments (COG). Special recognition and thanks go to the following
individuals who supported the development of this Phase I report:
■ Ms. Andrea Surratt, Ms. Tracie Davis, Mr. Tony Wilson, and Mr. Jon Giles for their
willingness to share knowledge of Wrightsville Beach and guidance in the
development of the Land Use Plan;
■ Mr. Scott Logel and the Cape Fear Council of Governments for their assistance with
the mapping and land suitability analysis;
■ Ms. Anne Britt for her tireless preparation of the Land Use Plan Steering Committee
minutes and staff support;
■ Mr. John Carey, Mr. Frank Smith, Mr. Mike Vukelich, Mr. Tom Ames, Mr. Billy
Beasly, Ms. Kelly Strickland and Mr. Shannon Slocum for their willingness to share
their knowledge of the operation of the Town of Wrightsville Beach with the Land
Use Plan Steering Committee;
■ Ms. Raquel Ivins for her assistance in updating and maintaining the website for the
Land Use Plan Update planning process;
■ All Land Use Plan Steering Committee Members who willingly donated their time
and expertise to the development of the Land Use Plan Update; and,
■ All members of the public who participated in the November 2003 and December
2004 Public Workshops and attended Land Use Plan Steering Committee Meetings
during the planning process.

Acronyms Used In the CAMA Land Use Plan
AEC
Areas of Environmental Concern
CAMA
Coastal Area Management Act
CFCC
Cape Fear Community College
CIP
Capital Improvement Program
COE
Corps of Engineers, United States
CRAC
Coastal Resource Advisory Committee
CRC
Coastal Resource Commission
CRS
Community Rating System
CZMA
Coastal Zone Management Act
DCM
Division of Coastal Management
DENR
Department of Environment and Natural Resources
DOT
Department of Transportation
DWR
Division of Water Resources
DWQ
Division of Water Quality
EMS
Emergency Medical Service
EMT
Emergency Medical Technician
ETJ
Extraterritorial Jurisdiction
FAR
Floor Area Ratio
FEMA
Federal Emergency Management Agency
GIS
Geographic Information System
HQW
High Quality Waters
ICC
Infrastructure carrying Capacity
ICW
Intracoastal Waterway
LPO
Local Permit Officer
LSA
Land Suitability Analysis
LUP
Land Use Plan
LUPSC
Land Use Plan Steering Committee
MG
Million Gallons
MGD
Millions of Gallons per Day
MHWL
Mean High Water Line
MLWL
Mean Low Water Line
MS4
Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System
NC
North Carolina
NCAC
North Carolina Annotated Code
NCDOT
North Carolina Department of Transportation
NFIP
National Flood Insurance Program
NOAA
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
NPDES
National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System
NSW
Nutrient Sensitive Waters
-x-

ORW
Outstanding Resource Water
OSDS
Onsite Sewage Disposal System
PL
Public Law
SW
Swamp Waters
UNCW
University of North Carolina at Wilmington
U.S.
United States
WTA
Wilmington Transit Authority

Town of Wrightsville Bench 2005 LAMA Land Use Plan: Come And
Community Vision Statement
We, the residents, businesses and property owners of the Town of
Wrightsville Beach, shall maintain and enhance our community as
one of the finest family oriented beach communities in the United
States. This requires due diligence and working to retain our
small town, family friendly character while preserving and where
possible enhancing the quality of the natural and man-made
environment. It is essential that we maintain the quality of life
that makes Wrightsville Beach a community that is a desirable
place for visitors and residents alike.

Town of Wrightsville Beach Section 1: Introduction
Section 1
Introduction
1.0 Introduction
Coastal areas of the United States have experienced tremendous population growth and
development since the 1960s. In response, the United States Congress passed the 1972
Coastal Zone Management Act (CZMA), as amended. The State of North Carolina
established itself as a leader amongst the states by enacting the 1974 Coastal Area
Management Act (CAMA). The overall objective of CAMA is to insure the orderly balanced
use and preservation of our coastal resources on behalf of the people of North Carolina and
the nation (NC PL 113-102A b4). Of particular importance, the Act:
■ Defined North Carolina's Coastal Area to include its twenty coastal counties.
■ Created the Coastal Resource Commission (CRC), a fifteen member body appointed
by the Governor to create policy and pass rules governing development activity in the
Coastal Area.
■ Created the Coastal Resource Advisory Council (CRAC), a forty-five member
advisory body that advises the CRC and works as a liaison between the CRC and
local governments.
■ Created the Division of Coastal Management (DCM), the division that carries out the
policies of the CRC and CAMA.
An essential feature of CAMA is the requirement that each coastal county prepare a land use
plan that is updated every five years. The Town of Wrightsville Beach has long recognized
the benefit of land use planning and chosen to create its own land use plan rather than be
folded into New Hanover County's plan.
At nearly every Board of Aldermen and Planning Board meeting, decisions are made
concerning zoning, variances, location of buildings, and allocation of funds for projects.
Wrightsville Beach's Land Use Plan provides guidance to local decision -makers to achieve
the long-term vision for the community as articulated in previous plans. This allows local
decision makers to be proactive rather than reactive and helps maintain Wrightsville Beach
as one of the finest family oriented beaches on the East Coast of the United States.
Wrightsville Beach has prepared a series of Land Use Plans over the past four decades:
■ 1976 Wrightsville Beach Land Use Plan
■ 1980 Wrightsville Beach Land Use Plan
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Tojvn of Wrightsville Beach SectionIntroduction:
■ 1985 Wrightsville Beach Land Use Plan
l�
■ 1990 Wrightsville Beach Land Use Plan
■ 1996 Wrightsville Beach Land Use Plan
Each version of the Land Use Plan continues to be a valuable source of information and
r
provides policy direction to the Town concerning future development.
•
This Land Use Plan (LUP) update will be its sixth land use plan. It encompasses all
geographic areas in the community and its extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ). It also
considers issues pertaining to future land use and development and natural resource
protection. The plan is long range in nature and looks beyond current issues to address
.
potential future land use and environmental issues over the next 10 to 15 years.
The Town of Wrightsville Beach's 2005 CAMA Land Use Plan was prepared in accordance
with newly promulgated guidance by DCM entitled Technical Manual for Land Use
•
Planning. The planning effort involved analyzing data on the economy, population, land use,
•
land suitability, and natural systems of Wrightsville Beach. The Town's Geographic
Information System (GIS) was updated and used to create a series of maps contained in
Appendix A. The GIS data were also used to perform a land suitability analysis and to
•
generate the environmental composite map contained in Appendix C. Finally, this report
•
contains a series of policies and recommended actions that comprise the Town's plan for the
future. The policies and recommended actions are designed to address the issues identified at
a public workshop in November 2003 and at Land Use Plan Steering Committee meetings.
This plan also incorporates other policies and recommended actions developed as a result of
other planning processes over the last three years.
1.0.A Organization of the Report
0
The 2005 CAMA Land Use Plan is organized into a series of sections. Section 2 addresses
the community's aspirations and concerns. This section identifies existing and emerging
conditions and summarizes the issues discussed at a public workshop held November 15,
�i
2003. It also summarizes the public participation efforts during the planning process.
•
Section 3 describes the Town of Wrightsville Beach's population, housing, and economy and
identifies trends that potentially influence land use or impact natural resources. This section
presents a profile of the community and its key demographic characteristics as well as
estimates of its projected year round and seasonal populations. Section 4 contains the natural
systems analysis. It describes the Areas of Environmental Concern (AECs) found within and
•
adjacent to Wrightsville Beach. The section also describes other important natural features
and flood zones. Section 5 analyzes existing land use and development while Section 6
analyzes community facilities and Town services. Section 7 examines the Town's
•
infrastructure carrying capacity and its adequacy to serve the year round population, the
influx of summer residents and visitors, and projected changes in the population. Section 8
contains a land suitability analysis required by DCM's revised planning guidelines. Section
9 describes the plan for the future and the plan's goals, objectives, policies, and
recommended actions. Section 10 describes the tools for managing development and the
-2-

Town of Wrightsville Beach Section 1: Introduction
current development management program. It also summarizes future implementation
efforts. The action plan and implementation schedule is described in greater detail in
Appendix F. Finally, Section 11 contains the required policy analysis. It examines the
consistency of the land use plan's policies with CAMA's required management topics. It
also examines the consistency between the land use plan's policies and the future land use
map contained in Appendix E. Additionally, it examines the consistency of the policies with
the DCM's benchmarks for the management tools. A detailed version of this analysis is
contained in Appendix G.
-3-

•
•Tojvn
of Wrightsville Beach Section, , ,Concerns
•
•
•
•
Section 2
•
•
•
Community Aspirations & Concerns
•
•
•
2.0 Introduction
•
.
This section of the land use plan identifies the community's aspirations and concerns. The
identification process took place in three steps. First, a series of existing and emerging
conditions were identified by examining a wide range of data sources including:
•
■ Examining the 1996 Land Use Plan;
•
■ Examining the 2002 Surface Water Use Plan;
■ Examining the 2003 National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES)
•
Phase II Comprehensive Storm Water Management Report;
■ Examining the Town's Hazard Mitigation Plan
.
■ Reviewing survey data from the 2002 loop survey;
■ Reviewing survey data from the beach strand surveys in 2002 and 2003;
■ Discussions with Town staff;
■ Input from the public; and,
•
■ Analysis of data contained in subsequent sections of this report.
The product of this analysis was the identification of a series of existing and emerging
conditions warranting further investigation during the planning process. These conditions
can be categorized into 4 broad categories
■ Population Housing and Economy
■ Water Quality and Environmental Conditions
■ Infrastructure Carrying Capacity
•
■ Public Access
•
Each of the conditions described in Table 2.1 has the potential to influence future land use
and development decisions and could impact environmental and quality of life concerns.
•
Second, a comprehensive effort to educate and involve the public in the planning process was
•
undertaken. A website for the planning process was developed that contains agendas and
minutes of the Land Use Plan Steering Committee meetings. The products of the planning
•
process were also posted on the website for public comment. A public workshop was also
•
held early in the planning process on November 15, 2003. After a short presentation, the
•
•
•
-4-
•

Table 2.1 Existing and Emerging Conditions
■ Permanent population remaining steady
■ More seasonal property owners
■ New owners/residents believed to be more affluent
■ Limited lots for new development
■ Re -zoning of commercial to residential properties
Population,
0 Increasing property values
Housing,
0 Increasing redevelopment
& Economy
0 Building Out of Lots to maximum FAR
■ Increasing housing size
■ Loss of commercial business on the beach
• No heavy industry at Wrightsville Beach
■ Small tourists oriented businesses are seen as appropriate for Wrightsville
Beach
■ Visual pollution, lack of visual access to water and buildings that look out of
place at Wrightsville Beach
Water Quality
0 Preserve dunes in order to protect from storm damage
& Environmental
m Litter on beaches and roads
Conditions
■ Need to maintain/improve water quality
■ Heavy Traffic congestion in summer months
Infrastructure
■ Not enough parking spaces for the number of day trippers during the
Carrying
summer months
Capacity
0 Little or no mass transportation
■ Need to encourage more pedestrian traffic.
■ No bike paths
■ Need to maintain visual access to water.
■ Plentiful public accesses
• Need more restrooms
■ More walkovers desired in order to protect dunes and aid in access
Public Access
■ User conflicts in ICW (e.g., boaters, kayakers, jet skis, wake boards, etc.)
■ No wake zones not enforced
■ Congested waters in ICW
■ User conflicts on beach front between surfers, swimmers, kite surfers etc.
■ Congestion at boat ramp
public was split into a series of breakout groups with members of the Land Use Plan Steering
Committee and Town staff. The goal of the breakout sessions was to identify issues,
concerns, and problems that the Land Use Plan Update should address. The breakout groups
also discussed community aspirations and the vision for the community. Participants were
then given the opportunity to rank the issues that were most important. The results of the
public workshop and the complete list of issues identified by the public were posted on the
town's website and made available for further comment.
-5-

Town of Wrightsville Beach Section 2: Community Aspirations & Concernsl
Table 2.2: Planning Issues and Concerns
• Determining the appropriate density of development on the Island.
■ Maintaining the current balance of residential and commercial development
■ Improving or enhancing the existing commercial district.
Land
E Determining if the current height/floor area restrictions (FAR) are adequate.
Development
a Improving the application and enforcement of ordinances
■ Communicating the requirements of ordinances and other town decisions to
the public.
Infrastructure
■ Improving traffic flow on the Island, particularly during summer months.
Carrying
N Examining residential, commercial, and visitor parking restrictions.
Capacity
0 Lack of mass transportation.
■ Building bike paths and otherwise encouraging more pedestrian traffic.
■ Improving or maintaining visual access to the beach.
• Maintaining adequate facilities and services for beach goers.
Public Access
n Reducing user conflicts along the beach.
■ Reducing user conflicts on the ICW.
■ Improving the management of the boat ramp.
■ Protecting and preserving current building setbacks and restrictions to
Natural
prevent further encroachment.
Hazards
0 Continuing to protect dunes and preserve their ability to minimize potential
storm damage.
Water Quality
E Protecting and preserving water quality
Natural
Resources
This list of issues and the policies and recommended actions became the starting point for the
Land Use Plan Steering Committee's discussions. The product of these discussions is the list
of planning issues and concerns contained in the Town of Wrightsville Beach's Phase I
report on Land Use and Future Development [Table 2.2].
During Phase II of the planning process, the Land Use Plan Steering Committee turned its
attention to developing the policies and recommended actions contained in the plan for the
future. The draft policies and recommended actions were presented at a public workshop in
December 2004 where the public was given an opportunity to provide feedback and rank the
priorities of the policies and recommended actions. The Land Use Plan Steering Committee
used this public input when finalizing the policies and recommendations and preparing the
implementation strategy.
M

Tomi of Wrightsville Beach Section 3: Population, Housing, & Econonry
Section 3
Population, Housing, & Economy
3.0 Introduction
The Town of Wrightsville Beach is widely recognized as one of the finest family oriented
beach towns on the East Coast of the United States. The mix of residential and resort
development, the quality of the natural and man-made environment, and the beautiful sandy
beaches, clear water, and small town atmosphere create a high quality of life for residents
and visitors alike. This section of the land use plan identifies important community
characteristics and demographic trends. The analysis draws primarily on data drawn from
the 2000 Census, Wrightsville Beach land use records, and other regional data sources. In
the discussion that follows, comparisons are drawn with New Hanover County and other
barrier beach communities summarized in Table 3.1 to help interpret these data.
3.1 Permanent Population Estimates
The population of a municipality with a large influx of seasonal residents requires a careful
analysis because there are many distinct categories of residents including:
■ Property owners and non property owners;
■ Residents and non residents;
■ Registered voters and non registered voters;
■ Business owners and non business owners.
The Division of Coastal Management (DCM) guidelines require input from all groups of
potentially affected residents and members of the public. This section of the land use plan
focuses on the population and demographic characteristics of the year-round population of
Wrightsville Beach. Because the Bureau of the Census and other state agencies collect these
data, there is much more accuracy in these data than there is in the seasonal population
estimates presented later in this section of the land use plan.
The North Carolina State Data Center identifies the 2001 estimated year-round population of
Wrightsville Beach as 2,604 persons [Table 3.2]. According to the U.S. Department of
Commerce, Bureau of the Census, the 2000 population was 2,593 persons. The municipality
-7-

Tolvn of Wrightsville Beach Section 3: Population, Housing, & Econonty
Table 3.1: Comparison of Population Characteristic of Selected North
Carolina Beach Communities
Percent Percent Median
Housing Percent Median of Total value of
Units in Labor Owner
OccupiedLocal INIedian occupied Force16 hold Family Capita in 1-unit
Government Age all year & Over Income Income Income detached Housing
Southern 51.4 49.2 %" 51.3 % $61,676 $68,250 $35,933 97.4 % $221,500
Shores
Kitty Hawk
40.6
48.3 %
69.9 %
$42,813
$48,656
$22,960
67.8 %
$144,600
Kill Devil
36.7
48.8 %
76.6 %
$39,712
$44,681
$20,679
82.9 %
$104,500
Hills
Nags Head
42.7 1
27.4 %"
67.0 %
$53,095
$61,302
$30,157
83.3 %"
$143,900
Atlantic Beach
48.7
20.5 %"
63.3 %
$38,312
$52,411
$31,339
30.8 %
$207,800
Pine Knoll
61.8
37.9 %"
36.8 %"
$53,800
$60,662
$34,618
47.7 %
$220,500
Shores
Indian Beach
58.8
4.1 %"
52.7 %
$47,250
$45,250
$25,826
2.7 %
$625,000
Emerald Isle
50.1
27.3 %"
54.3 %"
$53,274
$60,257
$31,316
58.7 %"
$200,000
North Topsail
45.1
21.6 %
64.4 %"
$45,982
$53,125
$33,972
25.7 %
$137,500
Beach
Surf City
48.1
26.7 %
61.7 %
$40,521
$48,654
$25,242
55.6 %
$177,100
Topsail Beach
55.6
21.9 %
53.7 %"
$55,750
$64,167
$35,838
81.1 %"
$281,300
Wrightsville
37.1
41.8 %
65.6 %
$55,903
$71,641
$36,575
31.3 %
$480,600
Beach
Carolina
43.6
56.2 %
68.0 %
$37,662
$44,882
$24,128
42.8 %
$156,000
Beach
Kure Beach
50.5
46.3 %
56.7 %
$47,143
$55,875
$26,759
61.2 %
$188,300
Bald Head
56.3
14.7 %
39.9 %
$62,083
$56,964
$45,585
87.5 %
$525,000
Island
Caswell Beach
59.9
32.7 %"
56.1 %
$57,083
$63,750
$41,731
43.7 %
$242,300
Oak Island
49.2
46.2 %
48.8 %
$40,496
$48,775
$23,964
83.5 %"
$119,400
Holden Beach
55.4
18.4 %"
49.6 %
$59,583
$70,000
$36,113
84.7 %
$247,300
Ocean Isle
53.4
8.3 %
37.8 %"
$67,639
$65,625
$42,605
69.3 %
$340,700
Beach
Sunset Beach
60.2
30.5 %
58.5 %"
$47,356
$57,019
36,181
51.8 %"
$219,600
New Hanover
36.3
85.6 %
66.5 %"
$40,172
$50,861
$23,123
60.7 %"
$135,600
County
North Carolina
35.3
88.9 %"
65.7 %
$39,1984
$46,335
$20,307
64.4 %"
$108,300
NC Beach
50.26
31.44 %
56.75 %
$50,356
$57,065
$32,118
59.47 %"
$249,145
Municipal
Average.
WrightsvilletPTlowest
7tt'
S't'
6t
1:`
4`
3'
3�
Beach Rank
highest
highest
hi hest
hi hest
hi hest
lowest
highest
grew during this one year time period (2000 to 2001), at an annual rate of 0.4 percent while
New Hanover County increased at a rate of 2 percent during the same period. During the
2000 to 2001 time period Wrightsville Beach's population remained constant at 1.6 percent
county's overall population.
The permanent population of Wrightsville Beach in 1990 was estimated to be 2,937 persons.
The 10-year growth rate from 1990 to 2000 was -11.7 percent. The growth for the 11-year
period was -11.3 percent. Annualized this is equal to a loss of 1 percent of Wrightsville
Beach's permanent population per year. The important conclusion to be drawn from these
data is that the permanent population of Wrightsville Beach is currently declining.
-8-

Toivn of Wrightsville Beach Section 3: Population, Housing, & Economy
Table 3.2: Population
Year
1960
Wrightsville
Beach
723
Percent of
County Pop.
1.0%
New Hanover
County
71,742
1970
1,701
2.0%
82,996
1980
2,786
2.7%
102,779
1990
2,937
2.4%
120,284
2000
2,593
1.6%
160,327
2001 *
2,604
1.6%
163,682
Source: United States Census of Population and Housing 1970 to 2000
*NC State Data Center Municipal Population Estimate 2001
3.1.A Year Round Population Trends
Figures 3.1 and 3.2 examine population growth in Wrightsville Beach and New Hanover
County from 1960 to 2000. It is readily apparent that while New Hanover County's
population continues to increase steadily, Wrightsville Beach's greatest period of growth was
from 1960 to 1980. It then leveled off as the acreage of land available for development
declined. Over the last decade, Wrightsville Beach's population has declined slightly.
Table 3.3 shows that from 1960 to 1980, Wrightsville Beach's growth rate was faster than
New Hanover County and has since declined dramatically. For example, during the 1990 to
2000 period the population of Wrightsville Beach declined by 11.7 percent while New
Hanover County increased by 33.3 percent during the same period. To further put this in
context, Wrightsville Beach's 11.3 percent population decrease was the 4`h greatest loss of
population of the 20 barrier island beach municipalities in North Carolina.
The cause of these trends was the unprecedented building boom in New Hanover County
triggered in part by the completion of I-40 and the lack of substantial land area available for
new development in Wrightsville Beach. The decrease in population from 1990 to 2000 in
Wrightsville Beach is also due to other factors such as:
Redevelopment -conversion of quadraplexes and triplex structures to larger duplexes
and single-family homes;
A dramatic increase in home prices that has caused many year-round residents to sell
their homes to owner's who are using them primarily for seasonal purposes; and,
Redevelopment of smaller single-family homes to larger homes used for seasonal
purposes.
As a result, the number of seasonal homes increased by 85.4 percent from 603 seasonal
homes in 1990 to 1,100 in 2000. Evidence suggests these trends will persist over the next 5
to 10 years. Wrightsville Beach is not expected to experience any significant population

Figure 3.1: Population Growth in Wrightsville Beach (1960 — 2000)
Wrightsville Beach
4000�
H 3000
E
„r
0
—�— Wrightsville
12 2000
Beach
a 1000
0
1960 1970 1980 1990 2000
Year
Figure 3.2: Population Growth in New Hanover County (1960 — 2000)
Table 3.3: Percent Population Growth (1960 — 2000)
Decade
1960-1970
WrightsvillePercent
Beach
1,701
Increase
978
New Hanover Absolute
Growth County Increase
135.3 % 82,996
Percent
Growth
11,254
15.7
1970-1980
2,786
1085
63.8 % 102,779
19,783
23.8 %
1980-1990
2,937
151
5.4 % 120,284
17,505
17.0 %
1990-2000
2,593
-344
-11.7 % 160,327
40,043
33.3 %
2000-2001*
12,604
111
1 0.4 % 163,682
1
3,355
2.1 %
Source: United States Census of Population and Housing 1970 to 2000
*NC State Data Center Municipal Population Estimate 2001
-10-

Town of Wrightsville Beach Section 3: Population, Housing, & Economy,
Table 3.4: Population Growth in North Carolina Coastal Communities (1990 - 2001)
Sunset Beach
1990Municipality
Population
311
2001
Population
1,849
Percent Growth
1990-2001
494 %
Percent Growth
(Avg. Yearly 90-01)
44.9 %
Ocean Isle Beach
523
441
15.6 %
1.4
Holden Beach
626
819
30.8 %
2.8 %
Oak Island
4,550
6,898
51.6 %
4.6 %
Caswell Beach
175
392
124 %
11.2 %
Bald Head Island
78
184
135 %
12.2 %
Kure Beach
619
1,573
154 %
14 %
Carolina Beach
3,630
5,225
43.9 %
3.9 %
Wrightsville Beach
2,937
2,604
11.3 %
1
Topsail Beach
346
481
39 %
3.5 %
Surf City
970
1,423
46.7 %
4.2
North Topsail Beach
947
833
12 %
1
Emerald Isle
2,434
3,538
45.3 %
4.1 %
Indian Beach
153
93
39.2 %
3.6
Pine Knoll Shores
1,360
1,529
12.4 %
1.1 %
Atlantic Beach
1,938
1,777
8.3 %
.75
Nags Head
1,838
2,801
52.3 %
4.7 %
Kill Devil Hills
4,238
6,122
44.4 %
4 .0 %
Kitty Hawk
1,937
2,991
54.4 %
4.9 %
Southern Shores
1,447
2,201
52.1 %
4.7 %
Duck
0
459
N/A
N/A
Source: Land Use Plan (Phase I) Surf City 2003
growth. However, given recent development projects in the surrounding areas (e.g.,
Mayfaire), vehicular traffic is likely to increase, particularly during seasonal periods.
3.1.B Permanent Population Projections
When preparing a land use plan, it is useful to include a projection of future population so
that local decision makers can plan for growth. Typically, population projections for beach
communities are presented as an extrapolation from the overall countywide growth trends
and historic patterns over the past several decades. This estimation technique would assume
that Wrightsville Beach's permanent population would continue to hold steady at around 1.6
percent of New Hanover County's total. Unfortunately, this technique would provide an
unrealistic estimate of Wrightsville Beach's population. Given the lack of developable land
and existing height and density restrictions, there is no reason to believe that Wrightsville
Beach's population will grow in any significant way over the next 5, 10, or 20 years unless
there are significant changes in the density allowed pursuant to the Town's zoning
ordinances and a corresponding redevelopment of land in accordance with these higher
densities. Instead, given current zoning and the policies and actions recommended in this
plan, the population is likely to increase or decrease slightly as the ratio of full time to
seasonal residents varies. If the current trend towards seasonal housing continues, the
population is likely to continue its slight decline. If the trend reverses itself, the population
- 11 -

Town of Wrightsville Beach Section 3: Population, Housing, & Economy
Table 3.5: Persons by Age (1990 - 2000)
Age
Group
0-4
Wrightsville
Beach
1990
59
Percent
Total
2.0 %
Wrightsville
Beach
2000
78
Percent
Total
3.0 %
New
Hanover
County
1990
7,434
Percent
Total
6.2 %
New
Hanover
County
2000
9,177
Percent
Total
5.7
5 to 17
257
8.8 %
152
5.9%
19,880
16.5 %
24,415
15.2 %
18 to 24
551
18.8 %
436
16.8 %
15,000
12.5 %
19,249
12.0 %
2544
1,107
37.7 %
882
34.0 %
39,155
32.6 %
48,838
30.5 %
45-64 1
621
1 21.1 %
1 657
1 25.30/ol
23,7491
19.7 % 1
38,0611
23.7
65+
342
1 11.6 %
1 388
1 15.0%1
15,0661
12.5 % 1
20,5671
12.8 %
Total
2,937
1 100.0 %
1 2,593
1 100.0%1
120,2841
100.0 % 1
160,3071
100.0 %
Source: United States Census Population and Housing 1990 and 2000
might increase slightly to around 3,000 but these increases are likely to have a negligible
effect on the town's infrastructure or services.
3.2 Key Population Demographics
In order to better understand the population of Wrightsville Beach, it is useful to examine
several key population, economic, and housing demographics and compare them to New
Hanover County and other NC barrier beach communities [Table 3.1].
3.2.A Age of the Population
The median age of residents of the Town of Wrightsville Beach is 37.1 years. This is
comparably young among NC beach communities. In fact, of the 20 barrier beach
communities, Wrightsville Beach has the 2nd lowest median age. The low median age may
be explained, in part, by its proximity to Cape Fear Community College (CFCC) and the
University of North Carolina at Wilmington (UNCW). The barrier beach municipality with
the highest median age is Pine Knoll Shores (61.8) and the lowest is Kill Devil Hills (36.7).
While younger than other barrier beach communities, the median age is slightly older than
the median age in New Hanover County (36.3).
40
In both 1990 and 2000, on a percentage basis, Wrightsville Beach had fewer school age
.
children than New Hanover County [Table 3.5]. This may be due to the high cost of housing
on Wrightsville Beach and the economics of young families. In both 1990 and 2000, there
were higher percentages of young adults aged 18 to 24. This may be due to the attractiveness
of Wrightsville Beach to college students and young single professionals. In 1990 and 2000,
•
the age groups ranging from 25 to 64 on a percentage basis were more prevalent in
•
Wrightsville Beach than in New Hanover County. In 1990, the percentage of people aged 65
and over in New Hanover County was slightly larger than the percentage in Wrightsville
-12-

T01V/1 of Wrightsville Beach Section 3: Population, Housing, &Economy
Table 3.6: Racial Composition (1990 — 2000)
Source: NC State Data Center Municipal Population -Race 1990 and 2000
Beach. However, in 2000 the percentage of those 65 and over in Wrightsville Beach was
larger than New Hanover County [Table 3.5]. While Wrightsville Beach is a young
community when compared to other barrier beach communities, it appears to be experiencing
a slight aging of its overall population.
3.2.B Racial Composition
Table 3.6 demonstrates that less than 2 percent of Wrightsville Beach's population is non-
white and 0.3 percent is black. This stands in contrast to New Hanover County where 21
percent of the population is non -white and 20 percent is black. Comparing the 1990 and
2000 racial compositions, Wrightsville beach has become slightly more diverse, but still lags
far behind New Hanover County [Table 3.6].
3.2.0 Educational Attainment
Residents of Wrightsville Beach are generally better educated than residents in New Hanover
County [Table 3.7]. Approximately 99.9 percent of all adults in Wrightsville Beach are high
school graduates compared to 86 percent in New Hanover County. Sixty percent of residents
have a bachelor's degree or additional advanced degrees compared to only 31 percent in the
County.
3.2.D Housing Stock
Tables 3.8 and 3.9 look at changes in the housing stock in Wrightsville Beach and New
Hanover County from 1990 to 2000. It is important to note that due to formatting in census
data, some small areas of mainland New Hanover County are included in the figures for
Wrightsville Beach. This explains the presence of mobile homes in these statistics even
though there are no mobile homes within the Town's corporate limits.
-13-

Town of Wrightsville Beach Section 3: Population, Housing, & Economy
Table 3.7: Educational Attainment for Persons 25 and Over (2000)
Education Completed
Less than 9 Grade
Beach iii(2000)
15
PercentWrightsville
0.7 %
New Hanover
3,818
Percent
3.5 %
9-12 no Diploma
10
0.5 %
10,938
10.2 %
HS Graduate
277
13.5 %
26,327
24.5 %
College, No Degree
378
18.4 %
24,767
23.0 %
Associates Degree
124
6.0 %
8,481
7.9 %
Bachelors Degree
923
44.8 %
23,985
22.3 %
Graduate or Professional Degree
332
16.1 %
9,355
8.7 %
Total
2,059
100.0 %
107,671
100.0 %
Source: United States Census of Population and Housing 2000
Table 3.8: Percent Change in the Housing Stock (1990 - 2000)
New
Wrightsville Wrightsville Percent Hanover Hanover
Beach Beach Change County County
Housing Units 1990 2000 1990 2000
Total, All Housing Units 2,413 3,097 28.3 % 1 57,0761 79,616
PercentNew
Change
39A %
Total All Single Family Units
1,110
1,283 15.6 %
36,102
52,910
46.5 %
Detached
826
968 17.2 %
33,587
48,320
43.9 %
Attached (Townhouse)
284
315 9.8 %
2,515
4,590
82.5 %
Multi -Family
1,222
1,797
47.1 %
15,683
21,766
38.9 %
2 units per structure
504
720
30.0 %
3,289
4,097
24.6 %
3 to 9 units per structure
352
483
37.2 %
6,957
8,994
29.3 %
10 or more units per structure
366
594
62.3 %
5,437
8,675
10.9 %
Mobile Homes
1 57
17
-70 %
4,831
4,891
59.6
Other
1 24
0
-
1 4601
49
-838
Source: United States Census of Population and Housing 1990 and 2000
Compared to New Hanover County (27.3 percent), a larger percentage of the housing stock
on Wrightsville Beach is multi -family development (50.6 percent) [Table 3.9]. The number
of single-family homes in New Hanover County increased by 46.5 percent from 1990 to
2000 while it increased only 15.6 percent in Wrightsville Beach [Table 3.8]. These
differences are likely to become even more pronounced during the next ten-year period due
to the rapid development in New Hanover County and the dwindling supply of vacant lots
available for development in Wrightsville Beach. There are a little more than 100
undeveloped lots suitable for development left in Wrightsville Beach.
-14-

Tolvn of Wrightsville Beach Section 3: Population, Housing, &Economy
Table 3.9: Percent of Housing Stock (1990 - 2000)
Total, All Housing Units
Wrightsville
Beach
1990
Percent
Total
100.0 %
Wrightsville
Beach
2000
3,097
Percent
Total
100.0 %
New
Hanover
County
1990
57,076
Percent
Total
100.0 %
New
Hanover
County
2000
79,616
Percent',
Total
I00.0 .
2,413
Total All Single Family Units
1,110
46.0 %
1,283
41.4 %
36,102
63.3 %
52,910
66.5 %
Detached
826
34.2 %
968
31.3 %
33,587
58.8 %
48,320
60.7 %
Attached (Townhouse)
284
11.8 %
315
10.2 %
2,515
4.4 %
4,590
5.8 %
Multi -Family
1,222
50.6 %
1,797
58.0 %
15,683
27.5 %
21,766
27.3 %
2 units/structure
504
20.9 %
720
23.2 %
3,289
5.8 %
4,097
5.1 %
3 to 9 units/structure
352
14.6 %
483
15.6 %
6,957
12.2 %
8,994
11.3 %
10 or more units/structure
366
15.2 %
594
19.2 %
5,437
9.5 %
8,675
10.9 %
Mobile Homes
57
1 2.4 %
17
1 0.5 %
4,8311
8.5 %
4,891
6.1 %
Other
24
1 1.0%1
0
1 0.0 %
4601
0.8 %
49
0.1 %
Source: United States Census of Population and Housing 1990 and 2000
Table 3.10: Age of Structures in Wrightsville Beach
Year Structure Built
1999 to March 2000
Number
32
Percent
1.0 %
1995 to 1998
135
4.4 %
1990 to 1994
434
14.0 %
1980 to 1989
802
25.9 %
1970 to 1979
671
21.7 %
1960 to 1969
313
10.1 %
1940 to 1959
567
18.3 %
1939 or earlier
143
4.6 %
Total
3,097
100 %
Source: United States Census of Population and Housing 2000 and Permit Records
Wrightsville Beach Planning and Parks
Within the Town of Wrightsville Beach, a relatively small percentage (31.3 percent) of the
total housing is in single-family unit/detached housing. This is the 3`a lowest percentage of
any NC barrier beach community. Although the U.S. census reports that 17 mobile homes
are found in Wrightsville Beach, they are actually located in Wrightsville Beach's extra
territorial jurisdiction. Therefore, there are no manufactured or mobile homes within the
Town limits. The NC barrier beach with the highest percentage of single family/detached
homes is Southern Shores (97.4 percent). The lowest percentage of single-family homes is in
Indian Beach (2.7 percent) and the 2" a lowest is Atlantic Beach (30.8 percent). In New
Hanover County, 60.7 percent of housing is in single family/detached units while in NC it is
64.4 percent.
-15-

Toivn of TVrightsville Beach Section 3: Population, Honsin , & Economy
Duplexes accounted for 23.2 percent of all housing units in Wrightsville Beach in 2000
compared to only 5.1 percent in the County. The percentage of duplexes in Wrightsville
Beach increased slightly from 20.9 to 23.2 percent from 1990 to 2000 while the percentage
.
of duplexes in the County decreased from 5.8 to 5.1 percent. The number of duplexes at
•
Wrightsville Beach increased by 30 percent from 1990 to 2000 while the number of duplexes
in the County increased by 24.6 percent over the same period of time.
•
Housing units with 3 or more units per structure accounted for 29.8 percent of housing in
w
1990. The percentage increased slightly to 34.8 percent in 2000. Comparatively, the same
type of units increased slightly during this period in New Hanover County to 22.2 percent.
The number of housing units with 3 or more units per structure increased by 42 percent in the
•
County from 1990 to 2000 while the same units increased by 50 percent in Wrightsville
Beach.
3.2.A.1 Age of Structures: The last inventory of housing age in Wrightsville Beach was
during the 2000 U.S. Census. Only 19.4 percent of housing in Wrightsville Beach has been
•
built since 1990. This may be attributed to the fact that there are few developable lots left on
Wrightsville Beach. Most future development is expected to be redevelopment rather than
new development.
•
3.2.A.2 Occupancy: In Wrightsville Beach, 41.8 percent of the total housing units were
•
occupied year round. An occupied unit is defined as a unit where a person or group of
persons is living at the time the Census is conducted. The occupants must have no other
normal place of residence for the unit to be counted as occupied. Similarly, if the occupants
w
are only temporarily absent (i.e., on vacation) the unit is counted as occupied. Wrightsville
•
Beach has 7 highest occupancy rate among NC barrier beach communities. The highest
percentage is Carolina Beach (56.2 percent) while the lowest is Bald Head Island (14.7
percent). This statistic characterizes Wrightsville Beach as a mixed resort and residential
community, with population spiking during summer months and approximately half of the
•
housing standing empty during the winter months. By way of contrast, in North Carolina the
percentage of housing units occupied year round is 88.9 percent. In New Hanover County
the figure is 85.6 percent.
In Wrightsville Beach, owner occupied housing accounted for 29.6 percent of all units in
1990 and 23.0 percent in 2000 [Table 3.11]. As shown in Table 3.12, the number of
occupied units in Wrightsville Beach actually decreased by 7.6 percent from 1990 to 2000
while it increased by 41.6 percent in the county. From 1990 to 2000, the number of owner
occupied units also decreased slightly (-0.4 percent) while during the same period the
County's owner occupied units increased by 46.1 percent. Renters occupied 28.4 percent of
all housing at Wrightsville beach in 1990 and 18.8 percent in 2000. During this same period,
renter occupied housing decreased by 15.2 percent at Wrightsville Beach, while in the
County renter occupied housing increased by 34.1 percent. The high cost of living and the
growth of seasonal, recreational, and occasional housing units helps explain the low
occupancy rate. The increased home values and other aforementioned trends in the housing
market may also work to decrease the number of properties that are rented on a year-round
basis in Wrightsville Beach.
-16-

Town of Wrightsville Beach Section 3: Population, Housing, & Economy
Table 3.11: Percent of Owner vs. Renter Occupied Housing (1990 — 2000) .
Source: 2000 Census of Population and Housing
Table 3.12: Percent Change in Owner vs. Renter Occupied Housing (1990 — 2000)
Source: United States Census of Population and Housing 2000
3.2.A.3 Vacant and Seasonal Housing: Given the large influx of seasonal residents, it is
useful to understand the vacant and seasonal housing available on Wrightsville Beach. As
indicated in Tables 3.13, 41.9 percent of all housing at Wrightsville Beach was vacant in
1990. Of this, 25 percent was for seasonal, recreational or occasional use, which is defined
as vacant but not for rent or sale. In 2000, the percentage of vacant housing increased to 58.2
percent with 36.1 percent used for seasonal, recreational or occasional purposes. This
translates into an 85.4 percent increase in the housing used for seasonal, recreational or
occasional purposes during the 1990 to 2000 time frame. During the same period, there was
only a 28.3 percent increase in housing units [Table 3.14].
The vacancy rates are obviously much higher in Wrightsville Beach when compared to the
County due to the large number of seasonal properties and the influx of seasonal residents,
many of whom rent properties for some period of time. For example, New Hanover County
as a whole had a very low vacancy rate during the 1990 - 2000 time period. In 1990, 15.7
percent of all units were vacant, with 5.9 percent being used for recreational purposes. In
2000, 14.4 percent of all housing was vacant in New Hanover County with 5.5 percent being
-17-

Toivn of Wrightsville Beach Section 3: Population, Housing, &Economy
Table 3.13: Vacant and Seasonal Housing (1990 — 2000)
Source: United States Census of Population and Housing 1990 and 2000
*Seasonal: held for occupation during summer
*Occasional Use: Unoccupied but not for rent or for sale
Table 3.14: Percent Change in Vacant and Seasonal Housing (1990 — 2000)
Source: 1990 and 2000 Census of Population and Housing
used for recreational purposes [Table 3.13]. However, the vacancy rate for non -seasonal
housing in Wrightsville Beach is much higher than in the county as a whole and has
increased at more than twice the pace of the county vacancy rate.
3.2.A.4 Development and Redevelopment Activity: Another important trend is the
redevelopment of existing parcels now that there are few vacant lots available for
development. Table 3.15 reports on the building permits issued from 1999 through October
2004. Data were not collected from 1996 through 1998 due to changes in the computer
tracking software. Of the 110 newly erected structures, 34 (or 30.9 percent) were built on
lots where the previous structure was destroyed or removed to allow for new construction.
Table 3.16 looks at all development and redevelopment activity from 1999 through 2003. A
similar pattern emerges with a significant amount of redevelopment activity. During this 5-
year period, 86 new residential structures were built; 69 (or 80 percent) of which were single-
family homes and 17 were duplexes. During this same period, 34 projects demolished and
-18-

Town of Wrightsville Beach Section 3: Population, Housing, & Economy,
Table 3.15: Building Permits Issued (1999 — 2004)
Type of Building
Sin le Famil
1999
10
2000
11
2001
4
2002
7
2003
6
2004*
21
Total
69
Manufactured Home
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Commercial
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Duplex
3
2
2
3
1
5
16
Demolish and Rebuild
6
5
3
8
3
9
34
Total
19
19
1 9
18
10
35
110
*Only data through October 2004
Source: Wrightsville Beach Planning and Inspections Yearly Reports 1999 to 2004
Table 3.16: Development and Redevelopment Activity (1999 — 2003)
Type of Development
New Single Family
1999
8
2000
11
2001
4
2002
7
2003
6
Total
36
New Duplex
2
0
2
0
1
5
Demolish And Rebuild Commercial
0
1
0
0
0
1
Demolish and Rebuild Single Family
2
1
2
3
2
10
Demolish and Rebuild Duplex
I
1
1
4
0
7
Demolish Single Family Rebuild Duplex
0
4
0
0
1
5
Demolish Duplex Rebuild Single Family
0
0
0
1
0
1
Demolish Multifamily rebuild Duplex
0
2
0
0
0
2
Demolished Not Rebuilt
3
5
2
1
2
13
Modifications
367
243
265
225
226
1 1326
Source: Wrightsville Beach Planning and Inspections Yearly Reports 2000 to 2003
rebuilt either a single-family or duplex structure [Table 3.16]. Of the structures classified as
redevelopment, 69 percent retained their current use. Five lots (19 percent) increased their
usage by converting from a single-family development to a duplex. Three lots (12 percent)
decreased usage by converting from either multi -family development to duplexes or to
single-family homes.
3.3 Housing Value
One measure of a community's vitality is the value of its housing stock. Since Wrightsville
Beach is a barrier beach community, it is not surprising to find that the value of owner
occupied units is generally much higher at Wrightsville Beach than in the County. Over 47.3
percent of owner occupied housing at Wrightsville Beach is valued at $500,000 or greater.
In comparison, only 4.1 percent of housing is valued above $500,000 in New Hanover
County [Table 3.17]. Not surprisingly, the cost of rent is also much higher at Wrightsville
Beach than in the County. In Wrightsville Beach, 80.8 percent of rent is above $750 while in
-19-

Town of TVrightsville Beach Section 3: Population, Housing, & Economy)
Table 3.17: Housing Value For Owner Occupied Housing Units (2000)
Values
Less Than $50,000
Wrightsville
Beach iii
0
Percent
Total
0.0 %
New Hanover
County 2000
966
Percent
Total
2.6
50-99,000
22
4.3 %
9,017
24.0 %
100-149,999
14
2.7 %
11,783
31.4 %
150-199,999
23
4.5 %
6,916
18.4 %
200-299,999
74
14.4 %
1 4,633
12.3 %
300-499,999
138
26.8 %
2,647
7.1 %
500,000-999,9999
201
39.1 %
1,251
3.3 %
1,000,000+
42
8.2 %
304
0.8 %
Total
514
100.0 %
37,517
1 100.0
Source: United States Census of Population and Housing 2000
Table 3.18: Monthly Contract Rent for Renter Occupied Housing Units (2000)
Contract/Rent
Gross Rent
Wrightsville
Beach iii
PercentMonthly
Total
County 2000
Percentanover
Total
Less than $200
0
0.0 %
1,516
6.3 %
$200-$299
0
0.0 %
1,011
4.2 %
$300-$499
13
2.2 %
3,829
15.9 %
$500-$749
77
12.7 %
9,454
39.3 %
$750-$999
236
39.1 %
5,329
22.2 %
$1,00041,499
183
30.3 %
1,755
7.3 %
$1,500 or more
69
11.4 %
306
12.9 %
No Cash Rent
26
4.3 %
1 841
1 3.5 %
Total
604
1 100.0 %
1 24,041
1 100.0 %
Source: United States Census of Population and Housing 2000
New Hanover County only 42.4 percent of rent is above $750 [Table 3.18]. Given the
tremendous increase in property values in recent years, these trends are likely to increase.
The median value of owner occupied housing in the Town of Wrightsville Beach is
$480,600. This is the 3`d highest value amongst NC barrier beach communities. The NC
barrier island beach municipal average is $249,145. By way of contrast, New Hanover
County's median value of owner occupied housing is $135,600 while in North Carolina it is
$108,300. The highest median value for owner occupied housing is at Indian Beach
($625,000). The 2°d highest is at Bald Head Island ($525,000). The lowest median value of
owner occupied housing is in Kill Devil Hills ($104,500).
-20-

Tolvn of Wrightsville Beach Section 3: Population, Housing, & Economy
Table 3.19: Income (1999)
Income Range
Less than $10,000
Number
73
Percent
5.5%
$10,000 to $14,999
25
1.9 %
$15,000 to $24,999
132
9.9 %
$25,000 to $34,999
198
14.8 %
$35,000 to $49,999
190
14.2 %
$50,000 to $74,999
298
22.3 %
$75,000 to $99,999
171
12.8 %
$100,000 to $149,999
68
11.5 %
$150,000 to $199,999
28
2.1 %
$200,000 or more
153
5.1 %
Source: United States Census Population and Housing 2000
Table 3.20: Median Incomes (1999)
Source: North Carolina State Data Center Municipal Data 1989 and 1999
3.4 Income
Given the value of its housing stock, it should not be surprising that Wrightsville Beach is an
affluent community with approximately 53.8 percent of the population making more than
$50,000 per year. The U.S. Bureau of the Census collected the latest information on the
income in Wrightsville Beach in 2000 but the income information was gathered from the
previous year. Consequently, the latest information available is for the calendar year 1999
[Table 3.19 & 3.20.]
The median household income in Wrightsville Beach is $55,903 making it the 61h highest
amongst NC barrier beach communities. This is substantially higher than New Hanover
County ($40,172). The highest median household income among NC barrier beach
communities is in Ocean Isle ($67,639) and the lowest is found in Carolina Beach ($37,662).
The median family income in Wrightsville Beach ($71,641) is the highest of all NC barrier
beach communities and is substantially higher than New Hanover County ($50,861) and
North Carolina ($46,335). By way of contrast, the lowest median family income is in Kill
Devil Hills ($44,681).
-21-

Town of Wrightsville Beach Section 3: Population, Housing, & Economy',
Table 3.21: Poverty Status
Wrightsville Wrightsville
Hanover North
PovertyNew
Status 1999„
Beach,.
Families
12 2.0 %
8.3 % 9.0 %
Families with related children
12
7.1 %
13.6 %
13.3 %
under 18
Families with related children
0
0 %
15.6 %
16.5 %
under 5
Families with female
12
20 %
18 %
27.4 %
householder with no husband
resent
With related children under
12
40 %
38.6 %
34.3 %
18
With related children under 5
0
0 %
51.2 %
45.9 %
Individuals
255
9.5 %
13.1 %
12.3 5
18 years and over
233
9.5 %
12.2 %
11.0 %
65 years and over
9
2.2 %
9 %
13.2 %
Source: United States Census of Population and Housing 2000
The per capita income in Wrightsville Beach is $36,575, making it the 41h highest among NC
barrier beach communities. This is substantially higher than New Hanover County ($23,123)
and North Carolina ($20,307). The highest per capita income among NC barrier beach
•
communities is at Bald Head Island ($45,585) while the lowest is Kill Devil Hills ($20,679).
The important conclusion to draw from these data is that regardless of how you measure
income in Wrightsville Beach, the trends over the last decade are towards a growth in income
with median household income rising by 57.5 percent, median family income increasing by
•
53.1 percent, and per capita income rising 23.1 percent.
S
3AA Low and Fixed Income Populations
Given the high rent and home values, it should not be surprising to learn that there is very
"people
little of what the U.S. government classifies as living in poverty" in Wrightsville
Beach. However, because the Census includes areas within Wrightsville Beach's ETJ, there
are 12 households or 2 percent of the population defined as living in poverty [Table 3.21 ].
The average amount of public assistance income for this population was $4,200. By way of
contrast, in Wrightsville Beach there are 249 households earning in excess of $100,000,
approximately 20 percent of all households. Moreover, the percentage of persons living in
poverty in Wrightsville Beach (2.0 percent) is lower than the percentages found in the state
•
(9.0 percent) and New Hanover County (8.3%).
The number of households in Wrightsville Beach reporting Social Security income is 310
with the median social security income per household was $12,509. The number of
•
-22-

Town of Wrightsville Beach Section 3: Population, Housing, & Economy
Table 3.22: Employment Status
BeachWrightsville
Population 16 years of age and over
Number
2,514
Percent
100 %
In Labor Force
1,648
65.6 %
Civilian Labor Force
1,609
64 %
Employed
1,577
62.7 %
Unemployed
32
1.3 %
Armed Forces
39
1.6 %
Source: United States Census of Population and Housing
Table 3.23: Wrightsville Beach Occupation
Occupation
Management, Professional, and related
NumberWrightsville
624
Beach
Percentage:
39.6 %
New Hanover
County Percentage
34.5 %
Service
287
18.2 %
16.5 %
Sales and Office
428
27.1 %
27.0 %
Farming, Fishing, and Forestry
0
0.0 %
0.2 %
Construction, Extraction, and maintenance
159
10.1 %
10.7 %
Production, Transportation, and material
moving
79
5 %
11.1 %
Source: United States Census of Population and Housing 2000
Wrightsville Beach households reporting retirement income was 179 with a mean retirement
income of $28,427. By way of contrast, North Carolina's mean retirement income was
$16,831. Thus, there is a significant population of retired individuals, many of which may be
on fixed incomes. However, these retirees are more affluent than those found elsewhere in
the county or state.
3.5 Local Economy
A vibrant economy is essential to assure a community's continuing prosperity. Wrightsville
Beach is a mixed community with almost 50 percent of housing occupied year round.
During the summer months, the Wrightsville Beach population more than doubles as tourists
and vacationers as well as summer residents flood the island. Accordingly, Wrightsville
Beach is dominated by a service -based economy [Tables 3.22, 3.23, and 3.24]. No
traditional industry is found on the island. Many of the year-round residents work in the
New Hanover County area. Approximately 85.7 percent of all persons employed who live in
Wrightsville Beach drive to work alone while 5.1 percent car pool. Non -Wrightsville Beach
residents occupy many of the service jobs related to tourism on Wrightsville Beach.
- 23 -

Town of Wrightsville Beach Section 3: Population, Housing, &Economy
Table 3.24: Employed Persons 16 and Over (2000)
Industry
Agriculture Forestry fishing hunting and mining
Beach iii
0
PercentWrightsville
Total
0.0 %
County 2000
369 1
Percent
Total
.5
Construction
151
9.6 %
8,130
10.0 %
Manufacturing
65
4.1 %
8,001
9.8 %
Wholesale Trade
70
4.4 %
2,480
3.1 %
Retail Trade
153
9.7 %
11,407
14.0
Transportation, Warehousing and Utilities
36
2.3 %
3,349
4.1 %
Information
54
3.4 %
2,013
2.5 %
Finance, Real Estate, Rental and Leasing
174
11.0 %
5,060
6.2 %
Professional scientific, management,
administrative, and waste management services
229
14.5 %
7,693
9.5 %
Educational Health and Social Services
255
16.2 %
16,202
19.9 %
Arts, Entertainment, Recreation, Accommodation
and Food Services
304
19.3 %
8,761
10.8 %
Other Services (Except Public Administration)
60
3.8 %
4,408
5.4 %
Public Administration
26
1.6 %
3,365
4.1 %
Total Employed Persons 16+
1,577
1 100.0 %
1 81,238
100.0
Source: United States Census of Population and Housing 2000
Local students from area colleges and high schools often fill seasonal and year-round service
related jobs.
3.5.A Employment
The percentage ofpersons in the labor force (16 and over) at Wrightsville Beach is 65.6
percent making Wrightsville Beach the 5�h highest among NC barrier beaches [Table 3.22].
This is likely due to the younger median age in Wrightsville Beach. This is also comparable
to the percentage of persons in New Hanover County in the workforce (66.5 percent). It is
also similar to the percentage of the total North Carolina population in the work force (65.7
percent). Examining Table 3.23, it appears that slightly more Wrightsville Beach residents
work in the sectors of management, professional and related occupations, and service
occupations when compared to New Hanover County. This is likely due to the well-educated
population and the Island's reliance on service -oriented business establishments.
Table 3.24 summarizes employment patterns of permanent residents in Wrightsville Beach
16 and over. Employment patterns are similar to those found in New Hanover County.
However, a few differences deserve attention. Manufacturing employs only 4.1 percent of
Wrightsville Beach residents but almost 10 percent of New Hanover County residents.
Finance and real estate employ 11 percent of Wrightsville Beach residents and 6.2 percent of
the New Hanover County. Professional, scientific, management, administrative and waste
management industries employ 14.5 percent of residents of Wrightsville Beach but only 9.5
-24-

Torun of Wrightsville Beach Section 3: Population, Housing, & Economy
Table 3.25: Wrightsville Beach Class of Worker
Source: United States Census Population and Housing 2000
Table 3.26: Unemployment
Source: North Carolina Employment and Security Commission Labor Market Information Division
*North Carolina Percentages begin in November not October
percent of the County. The larger number of residents employed in finance, real estate and
professional industries also reflect its more educated population and higher median income.
Approximately one -fifth of Wrightsville Beach residents are employed by arts,
entertainment, recreation, accommodation, or food services, compared with 10.8 percent of
the County. This can be explained by it being a tourism destination and its younger age
structure. There are slightly more private wage and salary workers and self-employed
workers in Wrightsville Beach than in New Hanover County [Table 3.25].
3.5.B Unemployment
Unemployment tends to be a lagging indicator in that it follows the business cycle. Overall,
unemployment rates generally declined between October 2002 and October 2003. New
Hanover County has the lowest unemployment rates in the region and these rates are
generally below those found at the state Ievel.
- 25 -

Table 3.27: Tourism Revenues in New Hanover County($ Millions)
1990
$153.23
1991
$172.04
1992
$172.46
1993
$185.93
1994
$202.84
1995
$220.91
1996
$235.07
1997
$242.26
1998
$257.41
1999
$294.08
2000
$309.77
2001
$300.75
2002
1$302.59
3.5.0 Retail Sales
Another measure of a community's economic vitality is its retail sales. According to
Wilmington Industry, with the exception of Brunswick County, retail sales decreased in 2001
(most recent data available). They rose 1.1 percent in Brunswick County to $844.1 million.
They fell 2.9 percent in Pender County to $236.1 million. Sales in New Hanover County fell
3.4 percent to 3.2 billion. Statewide, sales fell 4.6 percent to 126.7 billion. The 2001
changes compare to growth rates of 13 percent in Brunswick County, 9.7 percent in New
Hanover County, and 1.3 percent in Pender County and 5.8 percent in the state. The sales
data is somewhat older than the unemployment data, which indicates a growing rather than a
shrinking economy.
3.5.D Summary of Community Economic Activity
Wrightsville Beach's economy generally reflects the trends that occur in New Hanover
County and the larger tri-county region. Therefore, it is expected that as the regional
economy improves, so will Wrightsville Beach's. Wrightsville Beach is also heavily
dependent on the tourism industry. In general, if this industry is doing well, the Town's
economy is doing well. Thus, the local economy is affected by larger statewide and national
fluctuations in the economy that influence tourism. However, as noted in Table 3.27, the
growth in county tourism revenue has flattened out. The same trend appears to hold on the
Island and may be due to the limited season and the limited number of hotel rooms.
Moreover, as described in Section IV, the local economy can also be influenced by events
outside of human control (e.g., weather, hurricanes).
-26-

3.6 Future Population Estimates
Given the large influx of summer tourists and the corresponding impacts on the Town's
infrastructure, services, and natural resources, it is important to have good estimates of the
seasonal population. The following distinctions are useful to consider:
■ Permanent population: year round residents who declare Wrightsville Beach as
their primary residence on their census form and other government documents.
This includes people who both own and rent residential property on a year round
basis.
■ Seasonal population: people who are temporary residents of Wrightsville Beach
who either rent or own property but declare another location as their primary
residence. This includes people who own or rent property and reside at
Wrightsville Beach for the summer season or visit only on weekends. It also
includes the additional population occupying housing units rented on a weekly or
monthly basis. Given the transitory nature of this population, it is likely to vary
over the course of the summer and during any given week with lower numbers on
weekdays and higher numbers on weekend days.
Related to seasonal population is the peak seasonal population. This figure is the largest and
is the combination of the permanent and seasonal residents plus the additional visitors,
guests, and tourists that visit the Island during a peak summer weekend day rather than a
typical weekday.
While it is important for planning purposes to know these numbers, they are difficult to
estimate with any precision and require making assumptions based upon experience and an
understanding of the underlying population demographics, seasonal tourism industry, and the
habits of beach goers. In making these estimates, it is also important to use a variety of
techniques whenever possible to help evaluate the reasonableness of the assumptions used by
any one technique.
3.6.A Permanent Population Estimates
As noted earlier, the permanent population in 2000 was 2,593 persons, a reduction of 11.7
percent since 1990. Accordingly, Wrightsville Beach has been losing population at a rate of
a little more than 1 percent per year over the last decade. These trends are due to the
conversion of higher density structures to lower density structures, the conversion of year
round homes to seasonal homes, and the redevelopment of year-round homes into larger
seasonal homes. There are also only approximately 100 undeveloped lots. If these are
developed as year-round homes, it might lead to a small increase (232 persons) in the year
round population to approximately 2,825. However, these small increases are likely be offset
by the current trends that are leading to a declining population. Accordingly, in the absence
of significant changes in zoning that allow higher densities, increased heights, or other
changes that allow increased population, the permanent population is projected to fluctuate
-27-

Toivn of Wrightsville Beach Section 3: Population, Housing, & Econonryi
around its current level (2,593) over the next 5, 10, and 20 year periods as the ratio of year
round to seasonal residents changes. If the current population declines continue at their
current rate, the population could decline to 2,290 by 2010 and 2,022 by 2020. If the trend
reverses itself, the population might increase to around 3,000. In either case, it is unlikely to
have a significant impact on service delivery.
3.6.B Seasonal Population Estimates
One of the most frequently used techniques for estimating seasonal populations is to use the
number of housing units and occupancy rates to determine how many people per housing unit
occupy different types of housing units. According to the 2000 Census and the number of
building permits issued for residential construction issued between 2000 and 2003 as
determined by the Wrightsville Beach Department of Planning and Parks, there were
approximately 3,130 housing units in Wrightsville Beach in 2003. If we assume the same
occupancy rate for 2003 as the U.S. Bureau of Census found in 2000 (41.8 percent), there are
1,308 housing units occupied by permanent residents in 2003. This equates to an average of
2.02 persons per unit. Using the same methodology, there were 1,130 seasonal and
recreational housing units, and vacant housing accounted for an additional 692 units. For the
purposes of this analysis, vacant housing is treated similar to seasonal and recreational
housing in terms of the assumptions made about the number of persons per unit, however,
slightly different occupancy rates are used in the calculations. There are also 892 hotel
rooms [Table 3.28].
Table 3.29 summarizes the seasonal population projections and it includes both a high and a
low estimate. The high estimates use many of the standard estimates of the number of
persons per unit used by other barrier beach communities, however, only a 95 percent
occupancy rate was used in calculating seasonal and vacant housing [See Table 3.29]. Since
the assumptions made in other barrier beach communities may be unrealistic given the higher
rental costs and home values in Wrightsville Beach, a low estimate was also calculated using
more conservative estimates of the average number of people per unit and occupancy rates.
The high and low estimates make several assumptions. First, to account for occasional
visitors staying with year round residents, the high estimate assumes that there is an
additional person per unit (3.02). The low estimate drops this estimate to .25 persons per unit
(2.27). In both cases, a 100 percent occupancy rate is assumed. Second, the high estimate
uses the standard number used for the number of occupants in a vacation cottage (6.5 persons
per unit) and assumes a 95 percent occupancy rate for seasonal and vacant housing units.
The low estimate drops the average number of people per unit to 4.5 per unit and assumes an
85 percent occupancy rate for seasonal housing and a 75 percent occupancy rate for vacant
housing. Finally, the high estimate uses the standard number of 3.5 persons per hotel/motel
unit with a 100 percent occupancy rate. The low estimate assumes only 2.5 per hotel/motel
unit and a 90 percent occupancy rate. The calculations are fairly simple and involve using
the following equations:
-28-

Table 3.28: Wrightsville Beach Motels & Number of Rooms
HotelName of
Blockade Runner
of Units
150
Carolina Temple Apartments
16
Harbor Inn
20
Holiday Inn Suns ree
184
Ocean View Motel
40
One South Lumina
21
Sandpeddler Motel and Suites
21
Shell Island Motel and Suites
160
Silver Gull Motel
32
Station One, Inc
104
Summer Sands Motel Suites
32
The Surf Suites
45
The Glenn
25
Waterway Lode
42
Total
892
Source: http://www.cape-fear.nc.us/
Table 3.29: High and Low Seasonal Population Estimates
Housing Units
Permanently Occupied Housin 1,308
Persons/unit
2.27
Total
2,969
Persons/unit
3.02
Total
3,950
Seasonal or Recreational Housing 1,130
4.5
4,322
6.5
6,978
Vacant Housing 692
4.5
2,336
6.5
4,273
Hotel/Motel Rooms 892
2.5
2,007
3.5
3,122
Total
11,634
18,323
'For the low estimate, the following assumptions were used to calculate the total number of persons:
.25 guests per permanent housing unit on average; 85% occupancy rate for seasonal recreational
housing; 75% occupancy rate for vacant housing; and 90% occupancy rate for hotel rooms.
2For the high estimate, the following assumptions were used to calculate the total number of
persons: 1 guest per permanent housing unit on average; 95% occupancy rate for seasonal
recreational housing; 95% occupancy for vacant housing; and, 100% occupancy rate for hotel
rooms.
(# units) X (Occupancy rate) X (# of people per unit) _ # of people
These calculations produce a high estimate of 18,323 and a low estimate of 11,634 people
with a mid -range estimate of around 14,979. Thus, while the high estimates may typify a
peak summer weekend (e.g., July 0), the low estimate may better reflect an average summer
weekend. In either case, these numbers reflect the population on weekends as compared to a
weekday where the number of people per unit and the occupancy rates will be substantially
lower.
wo

Tojvn -of Wrightsville Beach Section 3: Population, Housing, & Economyli
To estimate the future high seasonal population, one can assume that the 100 vacant parcels
are all developed as seasonal or recreational units. This would add an additional 618 people
for a projected future seasonal population of 18,941. To estimate the future low seasonal
population, one can assume that the 100 vacant parcels are developed as additional
permanently occupied housing. This would add an additional 227 people for a projected
future seasonal population of 11,861.
These figures do not include people who may travel to the island during the day. This
additional strain on the Town's infrastructure is difficult to estimate. However, data from the
Wrightsville Beach 2003 Survey of Beachgoers provide information that allows us to make
•
some informed assumptions about these travel behaviors. The average carload of people
traveling to the beach is unlikely to be much larger than 4 people and is probably closer to 3
people. The typical length of stay at the beach is about 5 hours. Since people tend to arrive
at the beach after 11 AM, only a limited turnover in the spaces is likely to occur by
beachgoers. People also travel to the Island for shopping and to frequent restaurants.
It is hard to estimate these numbers with any precision because you run the risk of double
counting since some of these people have already been counted in the estimates of the
seasonal population. What is known is that there are 1,792 public parking spaces on the
Island, 1,479 of which are located on Wrightsville Island and are used by beachgoers. If we
assume an average of 3 people per car and that all of the spaces turn over 1.5 times, 6,700
people may travel to the beach by automobile to engage in some activity on the beach on any
given weekend day. There are an additional 313 spaces on Harbor Island. It is unclear what
•
the use pattern is for these spaces, although at least some of these spaces accommodate
people traveling to Harbor Island for shopping or food. It is also probable that some number
•
of people visit the Island during the evening hours for shopping and food.
3.6.0 Alternative Ways of Estimating Peak Population
It is also useful to look at other ways of estimating peak population. Given its geographic
configuration with only one entry point at the Heide Trask Bridge over the ICW, it might be
possible to estimate changes in seasonal population by looking at changes in the traffic
counts at the bridge. Traffic counts were obtained for January 7 through January 13 and July
27 through August 1, 2003. The lowest total traffic count observed was 17,963 on January
10, 2003 (Friday). This included 8,892 cars leaving the island and 9,071 entering the island.
By way of comparison, the average daily traffic leading across the bridge to Wrightsville
Beach in 2003 was 22,000. This does not reflect any seasonal fluctuation, only the overall
yearly average. This typifies the average amount of traffic generated by year round residents
an businesses operating on Wrightsville Beach on a year round basis.
•
During the July 27 — August 1 counts, the highest total count observed was 44,785 on July
27, 2003 (Sunday). This included 21,902 cars entering the Island and 22,883 exiting the
Island. Subtracting the total trips observed in January, 26,822 additional car trips were
observed on the Island in the summer compared to the winter. This indicates that there is 2.5
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i

Totvn of Wrightsville Beach Section 3: Population, Housing, & Economy
times more traffic over the bridge during the summer compared to the winter. If one assumes
that the travel patterns of year round residents are similar to seasonal residents, this might
suggest an average summer population of around 6,492. However, since the summer traffic
counts include people visiting the beach, this likely overestimates the average seasonal
population.
It is also possible to estimate seasonal population by comparing water consumption and
wastewater discharges during summer and winter months using the figures provided later in
Section VII. The lowest month for average daily use of water is January with 557,000
gallons. The highest month for average daily use is July with 1.621 million gallons.
Approximately 40 percent of this increased water use is for irrigation purposes (648,400
gallons), which reduces the volume to 972,600 gallons. Accordingly, average daily water
use is 1.75 times greater during summer months. If we assume that water use patterns among
seasonal residents during summer months are similar to permanent residents in winter
months, then the average seasonal population would be approximately 4,547. If one assumes
that summer visitors use more water, then the estimates would be lower.
In terms of average daily wastewater discharges, the lowest month is January with an average
daily discharge of 406,000 gallons. The highest month is July with an average daily
discharge of 892,000 gallons. Accordingly, wastewater discharges are 2.2 times higher in the
summer than in the winter. Assuming that seasonal residents use their toilets in a manner
similar to year round permanent residents, then the average seasonal population would be
approximately 5,721.
Using these alternative estimation techniques, the average seasonal population appears to be
somewhere between 4,547 and 5,721. Since the water consumption and wastewater numbers
are based on average daily use, it is important to remember that the population for five
weekdays could be much lower than the two weekend days. Using the following algebraic
formula, it is possible to estimate various peak seasonal populations based on different
assumptions about the summer weekday populations:
2x + 5y = 5,721 X 7
2x = 40,047 — 5y
x = 20,024 — 5/2y
Where
x = population on a weekend day
y = population on a weekday
Using this formula, a population of 4,000 on a summer weekday equates to 10,024 on a
weekend day. A population of 3,500 on a summer weekday would equate to 11,275 on a
weekend day. These estimates are similar to the lower estimates of the peak seasonal
population described in the previous section.
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Town of Wrightsville Beach Section 4: Natural Systenisl
Section 4
Natural Systems
4.0 Introduction
•
Protecting and enhancing Wrightsville Beach's natural systems is critical to the quality of life
•
of residents and visitors. The Town's previous land use plans demonstrate a strong
commitment to preserving the beautiful and abundant natural resources located in and
adjacent to Wrightsville Beach. Accordingly, any residential, commercial, or other
development activities permitted by the Town of Wrightsville Beach shall be compatible
with current regulations, development patterns, Areas of Environmental Concern (AEC),
wetlands requirements, soil suitability, and must take measures to mitigate any potential
•
environmental degradation. This section of the land use plan describes and analyzes the
natural features and environmental conditions within the jurisdiction of the Town of
Wrightsville Beach.
One of the basic purposes of the North Carolina's Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA) is
to establish a management program capable of rational and coordinated management of
•
coastal resources. Development of local land use plans and the designation and regulation of
AECs provide the foundation for North Carolina's coastal resource management program. In
combination, these mechanisms allow state and local governments to preserve and enhance
•
the state's coastal resources. State guidelines have been adopted to ensure uniformity and
consistency in land use plans and in the regulation of AECs, however, local governments
have a lot of flexibility when developing polices and taking actions to protect them.
Accordingly, an important component of the land use plan is to identify the AECs present
•
within the Town's jurisdiction.
4.1 Areas of Environmental Concern
The State Guidelines for Area of Environmental Concern (I5A NCAC 7H, or regulations
governing development for AECs) require that local land use plans give special attention to
.
the protection of appropriate AECs. CAMA charges the Coastal Resources Commission
(CRC) with the responsibility for identifying the areas —water and land —in which
uncontrolled or incompatible development might result in irreversible damage. CAMA
further instructs the CRC to determine what development activities are appropriate in such
areas, and local governments are required to give special attention to these areas when
developing their land use plan. An AEC is an area of natural importance designated by the
•
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Town of Wrightsville Beach Section 4: Natural Systems
CRC. An AEC may be easily destroyed by erosion or flooding. It may also have
environmental, social, economic or aesthetic values worthy of protection. AECs have also
been designated to protect them from uncontrolled development that causes irreversible
damage to property, public health, or the environment.
To limit detrimental impacts on AECs, CAMA established a permitting program. The intent
of the permitting program is not to stop development, but rather to ensure the compatibility
of development with continued productivity and value of critical land, waters and natural
resources. Responsibility for the permitting program is shared between the CRC and local
governments. Local governments permit "Minor" development activities, while "Major"
development activities require permits from the CRC (DCM personnel are the staff
representatives of the CRC). This permitting process is discussed in Section V.
The CRC established four categories of AECs:
■ Estuarine and Ocean Systems
■ Ocean Hazard Systems
■ Public Water Supplies
■ Natural and Cultural Resource Areas
Two categories of AECs are not present within the Town of Wrightsville Beach's
jurisdiction, public water supplies and natural and cultural resources areas. The two
categories found within Town's jurisdiction are Estuarine and Ocean Systems, and Ocean
Hazard Systems. As a result, shoreline erosion is an important issue for residents in the
Town of Wrightsville Beach. According to a study conducted by the NC Division of Coastal
Management, the long-term average annual erosion rate within the Town of Wrightsville
Beach is 2 feet per year.
4J.A Estuarine and Ocean System
The estuarine and ocean system AEC is a broad category that includes the Town's sounds,
marshes, and the surrounding shorelines. The system includes the following components:
■ Estuarine waters;
■ Estuarine shorelines;
■ Coastal wetlands; and,
■ Public trust areas.
4.1.A.1 Estuarine Water: Estuarine waters include all waters of the Atlantic Ocean with the
boundary of North Carolina and all waters of the bays, sounds, rivers, and tributaries seaward
of the dividing line between coastal fishing waters and inland fishing waters (GS 113A-
113(b)(2)). Wrightsville Beach's estuarine waters include the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW),
Masonboro Sound, Mott's Channel, Lee's Cut, and Bank's Channel. Estuaries are extremely
productive natural systems [See AEC Coastal Wetlands and Estuarine Waters Map in
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Town of Wrightsville Beach Section 4: Natural Systems
Appendix A]. Masonboro Sound, located adjacent to the Town's ETJ, was also nominated as
an outstanding resource water (ORW) by the state.
Estuarine waters in and around Wrightsville Beach provide important habitat for a diverse
range of shellfish, birds and other forms of marine wildlife. Important habitat features of an
estuarine system include its mud and sand flats, eel grass beds, salt marshes, submerged
vegetation flats and clam and oyster beds. They provide nursery areas and serve as habitat
for a variety of marine and benthic species. Generally speaking, development activities,
which are water dependent, require water access and cannot function elsewhere may be
allowed within this AEC. These uses include simple access structures, structures to prevent
erosion, boat docks, marinas, and mooring pilings.
4.1.A.2 Estuarine Shoreline: The estuarine shoreline is the non -ocean shoreline, extending
from the normal high water level or normal water level along the estuarine waters, estuaries,
sounds, bays, fresh and brackish waters, and public areas (I5NCAC 7H.0209). For non -
Outstanding Resource Waters, the estuarine shoreline is defined as 75-feet landward from
mean high water line (MHWL) [See AEC Coastal Wetlands and Estuarine Waters Map in
Appendix A]. For ORW waters the distance is 575 feet, however, there are no ORW waters
within Wrightsville Beach. CAMA permits control development within the shoreline areas.
Generally, development in this area may not weaken natural barriers to erosion, must have
limited hard surfaces, and must take steps to prevent pollution of the estuary by
sedimentation and runoff.
4.1.A.3 Coastal Wetlands: The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE) defines wetlands as
those areas inundated and saturated by surface or ground water at a frequency and duration to
support, and that under normal circumstances support, a prevalence of vegetation typically
adapted for life in saturated soil conditions. Wetlands have significant values that support
the unique lifestyle and quality of life enjoyed by Wrightsville Beach residents and visitors.
These values include:
■ Water Storage: wetlands are able to store heavy rain, surface runoff, and flood
waters, and thereby reduce downstream flooding
■ Shoreline Stabilization: ground cover and roots of wetland plants help hold soils
in place and prevent sedimentation and nutrient transport
■ Water Quality: wetlands plants can enhance water quality by removing pollutants
from surface water runoff
■ Wildlife and Aquatic Habitat: the variety of plants, hydrologic and soil
conditions associated with wetlands provide abundant food and cover for animal
populations and support a number of endangered species and other rare plants and
animals.
■ Recreation and Education: the rich array of plants and animals supported by
wetlands provide significant consumptive and non -consumptive use values such
as hunting, fishing, bird watching, kayaking, etc.
CAMA defines coastal wetlands as any salt marsh or other marsh subject to regular or
occasional flooding by tides and containing some, but not necessarily all of the following
-34-

marsh plant species: Cord Grass, Black Needlebrush, Glasswort, Salt Grass, Sea Lavender,
Bulrush, Saw Grass, Cat -tail, Salt Meadow Grass, Salt Reed Glass. This definition does not
include flooding by tides associated with hurricanes, tropical storms, or severe weather
events (15A NCAC 07H.0206).
According to mapping developed by the DCM, Wrightsville Beach has coastal wetlands of
the brackish saltwater variety. There are 114 acres of wetlands within Town limits, of which
112 acres are coastal wetlands or salt water marsh. Therefore, coastal wetlands comprise 8.5
percent of the land area within Wrightsville Beach. There are also 1,114 acres of coastal
wetlands in the ETJ [See AEC Coastal Wetlands and Estuarine Waters Map in Appendix A].
Coastal wetlands are considered to be unsuitable for all development activities and other land
uses that alter their natural functions.
4.1.A.4 Public Trust Areas: Public trust areas include coastal waters and the submerged
tidal lands below the MHWL. The water and submerged tidal lands are held in trust for the
public to use through such activities as fishing, swimming, and boating. These areas will
often overlap with estuarine waters, but they also include many inland fishing waters. As
general guidance, the following lands and waters are considered to be public trust areas:
■ All waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the lands underneath, from the MHWL
seaward to the state's official boundary three miles offshore;
■ All tidally influenced waters below and associated submerged lands below the
MHWL;
■ All navigable natural water bodies and the lands underneath from the normal high
water line seaward (Navigable waters include anything you can float a canoe in).
This does not include privately owned lakes where the public does not have
access rights;
■ All water in artificially created water bodies that have significant public fishing
resources and are accessible to the public from other waters; and,
■ All waters in artificially created water bodies where the public has acquired rights
by prescription, custom, usage, dedication or any other means (CAMA Handbook
for Development in Coastal North Carolina).
Accordingly, the Town or Wrightsville Beach's public trust waters include all estuarine
waters, their tributaries, and the Atlantic Ocean.
Since the submerged tidal waters are held in trust for the public, the state's policy is to ensure
that the public is able to maintain access to these waters. Accordingly, development,
structures, and land uses that interfere with public's rights to access and use of these waters is
inconsistent with state policy. Conversely, navigation channels, piers, marinas, and
bulkheads to control erosion are examples of uses that are frequently considered to enhance
the public's use of these public trust areas.
An issue of growing concern in Wrightsville Beach is the growth in user conflicts associated
with uses of public trust waters, particularly conflicts associated with jet skis and other
personal watercraft. Concerns have been raised regarding the tendencies of jet skiers to
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Toivn of ;, 4: Natural Systems
operate watercraft in a reckless and dangerous manner. Other concerns relate to their
operation in marshes and other shallow estuarine waters, where damage to the marsh occurs
and where waterfowl are disturbed. In 2002, the Town of Wrightsville Beach developed a
•
Surface Water Use Plan. This plan identified user conflicts on public trust waters and
recommended actions to remedy user conflicts. Many of these recommended actions will be
included in this LUP update.
•
A second issue concerns the trend towards lengthy piers extending out into the Town's
estuarine waters, particularly at the North End of the Island. Prime waterfront sites with deep
water close to shore have become developed. As a result, remaining waterfront sites have
been building longer piers to reach water of adequate depth for boat dockage. This results in
S
unsightly and environmentally damaging piers extending out into coastal marsh. While state
regulations require that piers shall not block stream channels, the effect in many instances
has been to inhibit the movement of watercraft in the shallow water estuary. This is
particularly evident at low tide when navigation is limited to pockets of open water. In some
cases, the presence of these long piers can prevent boats from navigating the affected water
body. Thus, the Town's policy reserves the right to be more restrictive that the State's
standard where the public's right to access is being compromised by construction of long
piers. No pier may be constructed which extends beyond the pier -head line. This issue was
also addressed in the 2002 Surface Water Use Plan.
4.1.B Ocean Hazard System
e
Ocean Hazard AECs are areas where potential erosion and the adverse impact of sand, wind,
and water make uncontrolled or incompatible development unreasonable and hazardous to
life and property. The Ocean Hazard category at Wrightsville Beach includes 4 areas:
■ Ocean erodible area
•
■ High hazard flood area
■ Inlet hazard area
■ Unvegetated beach area
.
Development and land use in each area requires a CAMA development permit. All
components of the ocean hazard AEC are shown or labeled on the AEC and Fragile Areas
Map in Appendix A. However, the map is for planning purposes only and careful on -site
investigation is required for any development or construction in or adjacent to an ocean
hazard AEC.
4.13.1 Ocean Erodible Area: Ocean erodible areas are located along the beach strand
where there is significant risk of excessive beach erosion and significant shoreline fluctuation
due to natural processes such as hurricanes and tropical storms (15 NCAC 07H.0304). There
are 205 acres of oceanfront property on Wrightsville Beach. The seaward boundary of this
area is the mean low water line (MLWL). The landward boundary is described as follows:
-36-

60 feet or 30 times the annual erosion rate landward of the first line of stable
vegetation for small structures and 120 feet or 60 times the annual erosion rate for
large structures. For Wrightsville Beach, the vegetation line established in the
1980 photos is called the recession line; or
A distance landward of the recession line described in (1) above to the recession
line that would be generated by a storm having a 1-percent chance of being
equaled or exceeded in any given year (i.e., 100-year storm event).
The ocean erodible area is defined on a lot -by -lot basis due to the significant variation in the
first line of stable vegetation. The most restrictive method for determining the setback
distance and the recession line is always used (15 NCAC 7H.0304). This line is not to be
confused with the 1939 Property Line or other buffer or setback lines established by the State
or the Town of Wrightsville Beach. Each line has a distinct regulatory purpose.
4.1.B.2 What Is The 1939 Property Line? If you own ocean front property in Wrightsville
Beach located between Masonboro Inlet and Heron Street, you should be aware of the
existence of the 1939 Property Line and its impact on your property. The 1939 Property Line
was created by an Act of the North Carolina General Assembly in 1939 in connection with a
beach renourishment project at Wrightsville Beach. The effect of this Act was to grant
ownership of the property lying east or seaward of the 1939 Property Line to the Town of
Wrightsville Beach. Ownership of the property lying west or landward of the 1939 Property
Line remained with the adjoining property owner. The 1939 Act also required the Town to
prepare a survey of the property line and record the survey in the New Hanover County
Register of Deeds. Such a map was prepared and recorded in 1939 and can be found in Map
Book 3 at page 71 in the Office of the New Hanover County Register of Deeds.
The existence of this property line affects the property between Masonboro Inlet and Heron
Street in one of two ways. First, the 1939 property line is a property line and therefore
establishes the easternmost or seaward boundary of your property even though some older
deeds for lots adjacent to the Atlantic Ocean incorrectly include in their legal description that
the property extends to the MHWL. Second, the 1939 Property Line established a property
line from which any structure connected on the property must be setback. The required
setback is controlled by the Town's zoning ordinances (Chapter 155 in the Town of
Wrightsville Beach Code of Ordinances). Other setback requirements imposed by CAMA
also apply to any structure built on the property. The most restrictive setback is always
applied to mitigate potential storm damage and protect public health and safety.
4.1.13.3 High Hazard Flood Area: The Ocean Hazard System AEC also covers lands subject
to flooding, high waves, and heavy water currents during a major storm. The high hazard
flood area is defined as the area subject to high velocity waters including but not limited to
hurricane washover in a storm having a one percent chance of being equaled or exceeded in
any given year. This area is identified as coastal flood with velocity hazard or "V zones" on
Federal Flood Insurance Rate Maps. "V zones" are determined by an engineering analysis of
expected flood levels during a storm, expected wave and current patterns, and the existing
topography of the land. The high hazard flood area is land expected to experience washover
and high velocity waters during a 100-year storm event. This AEC often overlaps with the
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Town of Wrightsville Beach Section 4: Natural Systems
ocean erodible and inlet hazard AECs. Harbor Island and some oceanfront properties of
Wrightsville Island are located in V zones. The interior of Wrightsville Island is in the "A
zone". A zones are subject to flooding and washover, but not wave action during a 100-year
storm event. The entire Town of Wrightsville Beach lies within the 100-year flood zone [See
the Flood Zone Map in Appendix A].
4.1.B.4 Inlet Hazard Area: The Inlet Hazard Area AEC covers the land adjacent to Mason's
Inlet, located at the North End of Wrightsville Island. The Inlet Hazard Area extends inland
a sufficient distance to encompass the area where the state reasonably expects the inlet to
migrate in the future (15 NCAC 7H .0304). Masonboro Inlet, located at the southern end of
the Island is not designated as an inlet hazard area because it is stabilized with a jetty
preventing its migration. Development within the inlet hazard area on the North End must
comply with three key use standards: (1) it must comply with setbacks for the ocean hazard
area found in the preceding section; (2) the density for commercial and residential structures
is limited to no more than 3 units per acre; and, (3) only residential structures of 4 units or
less or commercial structures less than 5,000 square feet are allowed [See AEC and Fragile
Areas Map in Appendix A].
4.1.B.5 Unvegetated Beach Area: The final ocean hazard system AEC is the unvegetated
beach area. This is defined as land within the ocean hazard system where no stable natural
vegetation is present. This area is subject to rapid and unpredictable landform change from
wind and wave action.
4.2 Soil Characteristics
Three soil types are located within the jurisdictional boundaries of Wrightsville Beach.
Newhan Fine Sand consists of gently slopping excessively drained sands located mostly on
dunes, beaches and along coastal waterways. Almost the entire barrier island portion of
Wrightsville Beach including the developed area abutting Banks Channel consists of Newhan
Fine Sand. Tidal marsh soils are found in the tidal flood plains between coastal sand dunes
and the ocean and upland areas of the mainland. Soils are often covered by smooth
cordgrass, but further inland may be covered with black needlebrush. Tidal marsh soils are
poorly drained, generally have slopes of zero to two percent, and primarily serve as natural
habitat for birds and other wildlife. A large part of the area within Wrightsville Beach's
jurisdiction, including the area between Banks Channel and the ICW, excluding Harbor
Island, is classified as tidal marsh. Generally tidal marsh has limited suitability for
development. Urban land soils exist 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) are substantially altered or destroyed. The entire developed portion of Harbor
Island is classified as urban land soil.
All three soil types found on Wrightsville Beach have limited development potential for
onsite sewage disposal systems (OSDS) due to poor filtration or being wet with poor filter.
However, these soil conditions are of limited importance because Wrightsville Beach is
served by a central sewer system.
1191 HM

Town of Wrightsville Beach Section 4: Natural Systems
In the ETJ, most soils belong to the Murville-Seagate-Leon Association. These soils range
from very poorly drained to somewhat poorly drained and have a fine sand to sand surface
layer. Subsoil is composed of fine sand, sand, sandy loam, or clay loam. Johnston, Lynwood
and Murville soils in the Wrightsville Sound Area are subject to frequent flooding and
wetness. Each site should be inspected before construction to determine site -specific
building constraints on subsurface and surface features. The Soil Survey of New Hanover
County published by the U.S. Department of Agriculture Soil Conservation Service (1977)
provides further information on the capabilities and characteristics of the soil types, their
location and extent.
4.3 Water Quality
Surface waters should contain a balanced amount of nutrients and has normal fluctuations in
salinity and temperature. It should also have plenty of oxygen and little suspended sediment
so that marine life can breathe and receive enough sunlight to grow. Monitoring changes in
North Carolina's water quality is important. Data collected helps scientists evaluate
changing water quality conditions. Factors affecting water quality include:
■ Nutrients: while essential for plants and animals, they can be harmful if there is
an overabundance;
■ Sediments: can cloud the water and hamper the growth or even kill aquatic
plants;
■ Water temperature: changes in normal water temperatures can affects when
animal and plants feed, reproduce, and migrate;
■ Salinity: changes in salinity can adversely affect a wide range of marine life
■ Dissolved oxygen: is essential for animals living within the estuary. Reduced
levels of dissolved oxygen (e.g., due to an algae bloom or eutrophic conditions)
can adversely affect marine life.
■ Contaminants and other pollutants: there are a variety of other contaminants and
pollutants that can adversely affect the growth, survival, and reproduction of
marine and benthic organisms.
As a strategy for the management of North Carolina's waters, DENR's Division of Water
Quality (DWQ) assigns classifications to water bodies. The primary classifications are:
SC: unacceptable quality.
SB: suitable for marine fish, shellfish, and wildlife habitat. Not suitable for
commercial shellfish harvesting. Suitable for swimming, fishing, recreation and
all other legitimate uses including navigation.
SA: suitable for marine fish, shellfish and wildlife habitat, shell fish harvesting
for direct human consumption, recreation and all other legitimate uses including
navigation.
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BeachTown Of Wrightsville 4: Natural Systems
Additional water quality classifications include:
■ High Quality Waters (HQ99: waters are ranked as high quality based on
biological, chemical or physical characteristics through division monitoring or
special studies.
■ Outstanding Resource Waters (OR 99: unique and special surface waters of the
state that are of exceptional state or national ecological or recreational
•
significance that require special protection to retain existing uses
■ Swamp Waters (Sid: waters that are located so as to generally have low
velocities.
■ Nutrient Sensitive Waters (NS99: waters that experience or are subject to
•
excessive bloom of microscopic or macroscopic vegetation.
These designations highlight important characteristics of water bodies that should be
protected through local land use plans.
The water quality within the planning jurisdiction of the Town of Wrightsville Beach is
generally good but needs improvement. There are no areas within the jurisdiction of
Wrightsville Beach known to have chronic waste treatment malfunctions. This is due to the
centralized sewage treatment system. The system has no chronic malfunctions and operates
within its NPDES permit conditions. However, since their original classification in 1981,
some waters have degraded from unimpaired to impaired due primarily to nonpoint source
•
pollution. Consequently, most inland waters in and adjacent to Wrightsville Beach are now
permanently closed to shellfishing [See Closed Shellfishing Areas Map in Appendix A].
Since the Island is nearly built out, additional development is unlikely to significantly
increase these water quality problems since these activities are subject to stormwater
requirements. Moreover, redevelopment activities often produce a net improvement in
stormwater management. However, continued development within the Howe Creek, Bradley
Creek, and Hewlett Creek watersheds will impact water quality in and adjacent to
•
Wrightsville Beach unless actions are taken to minimize nonpoint source pollution in these
watersheds [See Table 4.1).
The highest quality waters are located in Masonboro sound area in the Town's Extra -
Jurisdictional Territory (ETJ). These waters were nominated by DNER's DWQ as
outstanding resource waters (ORW) [See DWQ High Quality and Outstanding Resource
Waters Map in Appendix A]. This designation is given to the most pristine and productive
waters in North Carolina. At the northern and southern ends of the Town's jurisdiction,
•
water quality is classified SA making it suitable for swimming, fishing and shellfishing.
However, many of these waters are closed to shellfishing due to high fecal coliform counts in
•
water quality samples [See Closed Shellfishing Areas Map in Appendix A]. Areas near
Harbor Island are generally classified SB meaning that they are suitable for swimming and
•
fishing but not shellfishing. Generally, water quality is better at the Northern and Southern
.
ends due to circulation and flushing patterns. Conversely, water quality in the central part of
the island is worse due to the prevalence of stormwater outfalls, circulation patterns, and its
proximity to Bradley Creek [See AEC Coastal Wetlands and Estuarine Waters Map in
Appendix A].
-40-

Town of Wrightsville Beach Section 4: Nahiral Systems
Table 4.1 Receiving Streams Adjacent to Wrightsville Beach
Receiving
Stream
Water
Quality
Use
Support
Water
Quality
Stream Name
Segment
Classification
Rating
Issues
Howe Creek
From source to Intracoastal Waterway
SA, ORW
Fully
Waters are classified as SA but
including tributaries
Supported
are subject to closure for shell -
fishing activities based on
Division of Marine Fisheries
classification. Bacterial
pollution from stormwater runoff
is the primary water quality
problem.
Intracoastal
From the western mouth of Howe Creek
SA, HQW
Partially
Waters are classified as SA but
Waterway
to the SW mouth of Shinn Creek,
Supporting
subject to closure for shell -
exclusive of the Wrightsville Beach
fishing activities based on
Recreational Area
Division of Marine Fisheries
classification. Bacterial
pollution from stormwater runoff
is the primary water quality
problem along with Marinas.
Bradley Creek
From source to Intracoastal Waterway
SC, HQW
Partially
Waters are classified, as SC.
including tributaries
Supporting
Fecal Coliform is the primary
water quality problem.
Hewlett Creek
From source to Intracoastal Waterway
SA, HQW
Fully
Waters are classified as SA but
including tributaries
Supported
are subject to closure for shell -
fishing based on Division of
Marine Fisheries classification.
Bacterial pollution from
stormwater runoff is the primary
water quality problem.
Wrightsville
Any waters within a line beginning at a
SB
Partially
Waters are classified as SB.
Recreation
point on the mainland along the
Supporting
Urban Runoff and Marinas are
Area
Intracoastal Waterway 1400 feet North
the primary reasons for the water
(including
of the U.S. Hwy. 74-76 bridge
quality problem.
Lees Cut,
extending directly across the
Molts Channel
Waterway to the northern edge of Lees
and portion of
Cut, thence along the northern edge of
Banks Channel
Lees Cut to the end of the Cut crossing
the Cut in a northeasterly
Direction to a point on Wrightsville
Beach 1900 feet northeast of the U.S.
Hwy. 74 bridge, thence along
The western shoreline of Wrightsville
Beach to a point 4000 feet Southwest of
the U.S. Hwy. 76 bridge, thence in a
northwesterly direction across Banks
Channel and mud flats to a point on the
eastern side of the Intracoastal
Waterway across from the southern
edge of Bradley Creek, thence along the
eastern side of the waterway to a point
1750 feet
Northeast of Channel Marker # 128,
thence directly across the waterway in a
easterly direction to Money Point and
along the western edge of the
Intracoastal Waterway in a northeasterly
direction to the point of beginning.
-41-

Table 4.1 Receiving Streams Adjacent to Wrightsville Beach (Cont.)
Source: Wrightsville Beach, NPDES Phase II Comprehensive Stormwater Management Program Report (Wrightsville
Beach, NC: Town of Wrightsville Beach, 2003)
4.4 Shellfishing & Primary Nursery Areas
Salt marshes and estuaries along the North Carolina coast serve as nursery grounds for 90
percent of fish species. North Carolina was the first state to protect these fragile ecosystems.
The nursery system in North Carolina contains 3 categories:
Primary nursery areas;
Secondary nursery areas; and,
Special secondary nursery areas.
!
Only one category, primary nursery areas are found within the Town of Wrightsville Beach
.
[See Fish Nursery Areas Map in Appendix A]. Primary nursery areas are generally located
in the upper portions of creeks and bays. These areas are usually shallow with soft muddy
•
bottoms and are surrounded by marshes and wetlands. Low salinity levels and abundance of
food make these areas ideal for young fish and shellfish. To protect juveniles, many
•
commercial fishing activities are prohibited in primary nursery areas including the use of
trawl nets, seine nets, dredges, or any mechanical devices used to harvest clams and oysters.
•
Violators face substantial penalties. There are approximately 18 acres of primary nursery
area within Wrightsville Beach's corporate limits and 1,100 acres within the ETJ. This is
•
significant. In North Carolina, 80,144 acres are designated as primary nursery areas. Thus,
approximately 1.4 percent of NC's primary nursery areas are located with Wrightsville
•
Beach's planning jurisdiction.
•
•
Secondary nursery areas are located in the lower portions of creek and bays. Young fish and
•
shellfish (primarily blue crabs and shrimp) move into these waters as they grow and develop.
Trawling is not allowed in secondary nursery areas. There are 35,502 acres of secondary
nursery areas in North Carolina, none of which are located in Wrightsville Beach. Special
•
secondary nursery areas are located adjacent to secondary nursery areas but are closer to
•
open waters of sounds and the ocean. When juvenile species are abundant, these waters are
closed to trawling for a majority of the year. In North Carolina, 31,362 acres are designated
•
as special secondary nursery areas.
•
•
-42-
•

Table 4.2: Parcels Located in the Flood Zone
Zone Parcels (lots) that Percent of Parcels
Intersect Flood Zone (%)
Source: Wrightsville Beach GIS
4.5 Hazards
The Town of Wrightsville Beach is located in the southeastern coastal plain along the eastern
edge of New Hanover County. It is a barrier island community bordered by the Atlantic
Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW). Due to its geographic proximity, the town is
susceptible to a variety of natural and manmade hazards such as flooding, hurricanes,
nor'easters, severe thunderstorms, tornadoes, and urban fires.
4.5.A Flood Hazard Areas
The 100-year flood plain is the accepted benchmark for defining flood hazard areas. All of
Wrightsville Beach East of the ICW lies within the 100-year flood plain [See Special Flood
Hazard Zones and the Flood Zones Maps in Appendix A]. The flood plain in Wrightsville
Beach is mapped in two classifications:
AE zones: Areas where there is a 1 percent chance of a hundred year flood event;
VE zones: Areas where there is a 1 percent chance of a hundred year flood event.
The interior of the outer island and the sound are in the A zone, subject to washover and
flooding. This constitutes about 1,651 parcels, or 52.1% of Wrightsville Beach land area.
Development in these areas is subject to local setbacks and stringent base flood elevation
requirements. "V zones" are determined by an engineering analysis of expected flood levels
during a storm, expected wave and current patterns, and the existing topography of the land.
Generally development in these areas is subject to more stringent elevation and setback
standards because the land is subject to flooding high waves and heavy water currents during
a major storm. Approximately 1,519 parcels or 47.9% of land in Wrightsville Beach is
located within the VE zone [Table 4.2]. Setbacks for oceanfront lots in the AE and VE zones
are 30 times the annual erosion rate. This setback requirement is doubled for multi -family
and non-residential development if total square footage is more than 5,000 square feet.
4.5.A.1 FEIVIA Flood Insurance: According to the Federal Emergency Management
Agency (FEMA) there are 4,406,664 flood insurance policies in force. Flood insurance is
available in 19,859 participating communities nationwide including Wrightsville Beach
where over 2,500 policies are in force [Table 4.3]. Since 1978, there have been over 3,000
documented losses with total payments exceeding $45 million.
- 43 -

Town of Wrightsville Beach Section: 4: Natural Systems
Table 4.3: Flood Insurance Policies
Number of Policies Insurance in Force
Wrightsville Beach 2,598 $484,878,600
North Carolina 1 101,216 $16,090,301,300
hftp://www.fema.gov/nfip/ 10 1 10212.shtm
Table 4.4: Loss Statistics for Wrightsville Beach and New Hanover
County, North Carolina (1978 - 2002)
Wrightsville Beach
Total Losses Total Payment
3,067 $45,410,981.55
Wilmington
187 $2,667,193.21
New Hanover County
2,304 $36,087,363.27
North Carolina
47,956 $554,004,322.40
http://www.fema.gov/nfip/10400212.shtm#37
To help minimize losses, Wrightsville Beach is an active participant in the National Flood
Insurance Program's (NFIP's) Community Rating System (CRS). The CRS is a voluntary
incentive program that recognizes and encourages community floodplain management
activities that exceed the minimum NFIP requirements. As a result, flood insurance
premiums are discounted to reflect the reduced flood risk resulting from the community
•
actions meeting the three goals of the CRS: (1) reduce flood losses; (2) facilitate accurate
insurance rating; and (3) promote the awareness of flood insurance. For CRS participating
•
communities, flood insurance premiums are discounted in increments of 5 percent. A class 1
community receives a 45 percent premium discount while a Class 9 community gets a 5
0 percent discount (a Class 10 is not participating in the CRS and receives no discount).
The CRS classifications for local communities are based on 18 creditable activities,
organized under four categories: (i) public information; (ii) mapping and regulations; (iii)
flood damage reduction; and, (iv) flood preparedness. There are 994 communities receiving
•
flood insurance premium discounts based on their implementation of local mitigation,
outreach, and educational activities that go beyond minimum NFIP requirements. While
premium discounts are one benefit of participating in the CRS, the real benefit is that these
activities help save lives and reduce property damage. Wrightsville Beach's CRS rating is
•
the best in the state. As of October 2003, its CRS rating was a Class 5 indicating excellent
community mitigation efforts. As a result, Wrightsville Beach residents receive a 25 percent
discount in their flood insurance premiums.
-44-

Table 4.5: Hurricanes and the Saffir-Simpson Scale
CategoryWind
,•
Storm Surge
1
74 — 96
Damage to shrubs, trees, foliage,
Storm surge 3 to 5 ft above normal.
and unanchored mobile homes.
Low lying roads inundated. Minor
Some damage to poorly
pier damage.
constructed signs
2
97 — 111
Considerable damage to shrubs,
Storm surge 6 to 8 ft above normal.
trees, and foliage. Some trees
Low lying roads inundated. Low
blown down. Major damage to
lying escape routes cut by rising
exposed mobile homes.
water 2 to 4 hours before storm's
Excessive damage to poorly
arrival. Considerable pier damage.
constructed signs. Some roof
Marinas flooded. Evacuation of
and building damage
some shoreline and low lying areas
required.
3
112 — 131
Foliage torn from trees. Large
Storm surge 5 to 12 ft above
trees blown down. All
normal. Serious flooding at coast
constructed signs blown down.
and many smaller structures near
Some damage to roofing
the coast destroyed. Larger
materials and buildings. Some
structures near the coast damaged
window and door damage.
by battering waves and floating
Some structural damage to small
debris.
buildings
4
132 — 155
Shrubs and trees blown down.
Storm surge 13 to 18 ft above
All signs down. Extensive
normal. Major damage to lower
damage to roofs, windows, and
floors of structures near the shore
doors. Complete failure of roofs
due to flooding and battering by
on many small structures.
waves and floating debris. Major
Complete destruction of mobile
beach erosion.
homes
5
155+
Considerable damage to roofs of
Storm surge possibly greater than
buildings. Severe and extensive
18 ft above normal. Major damage
damage to windows and doors.
to lower levels of all structures less
Complete failure of roofs on
than 15 ft above mean sea level
many structures. Extensive
shattering of glass in windows
and doors. Some complete
building failure. Small
buildings overturned or blown
away
4.5.B Hurricanes
One of the main flooding threats is from hurricanes. A hurricane is a cyclonic storm that
originates in tropical ocean waters. As a hurricane develops, barometric pressure at its center
falls while its winds increase. Winds at or exceeding 39 miles per hour result in a named
tropical storm that is closely monitored by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration's (NOAA's) National Hurricane Center [Table 4.5]. When winds exceed 74
miles per hour, it becomes a hurricane.
- 45 -

Table 4.6: Approximate Impact of Various Storm Levels
(Acres Impacted)
Source: Wrightsville Beach GIS
Hurricanes are judged by their power according to the Saffir-Simpson Scale. This measure
of the power of a hurricane classifies hurricanes according to a sliding scale from 1 to 5 (with
category 5 storms as the most severe) [Table 4.5]. Since hurricanes derive their strength
from warm ocean waters, they generally deteriorate in intensity when they make landfall.
The forward momentum at the time of landfall can range from just a few miles per hour to
upwards of 40 miles per hour. The forward motion, combined with the counterclockwise
surface flow make the front right quadrant of the hurricane the most dangerous in terms of
damaging winds and storm surge.
4.5.13.1 Storm Surge Areas: Since Wrightsville Beach is located entirely within the 100-year
floodplain, it is particularly vulnerable to storm surges and corresponding erosion, wave
i
action, flooding, high winds, and beach washover associated with hurricanes. Storm surge is
water pushed toward the shore by the force of winds swirling around the hurricane or low-
.
pressure meteorological system. The advancing surge combines with the normal tides to
create the hurricane storm tide otherwise known as the storm surge. As a result, the MHWL
.
can rise by 15 feet or more. The rise in water level causes severe flooding in coastal areas,
•
particularly when a storm surge coincides with high tide. Wind and wave action is then
superimposed on this storm surge water level.
The speed and strength of the storm is important in determining the impact of the storm
•
surge. Waves and currents associated with the storm surge may cause extensive damage.
Water weighs approximately 1,700 pounds per cubic yard; periods of prolonged wave action
can demolish any structure not specifically designed to withstand such forces. Table 4.6
shows the acreage of land impacted by storm surge for a fast moving hurricane at various
•
storm levels. The areas subject to storm surges are depicted graphically on the Storm Surge
and Hurricane Storm Surge Inundation Maps in Appendix A.
4.5.0 Nor'Easters
Another type of storm event with the potential for damage and severe beach erosion is what
is known as a nor'easter. Unlike hurricanes, these storms are extra -tropical, deriving their
strength from horizontal gradients in temperature. Although nor'easters are more diffuse and
•
less intense than hurricanes, they occur more frequently, cover much larger stretches of
shoreline, and can last much longer.
-46-

Tojvn of Wrightsville Beach Section 4: Natural Systems
Table 4.7: Fujita-Pearson Tornado Scale
F 0
DamageLength
Light
40
— 72
<1
<0.01
F 1
Moderate
73 —112
1 — 3.1
0.01— 0.03
F 2
Considerable
113
—157
3.2 — 9.9
0.04 — 0.09
F 3
Severe
158
— 206
10 — 31
0.1 — 0.31
F 4
Devastating
207
— 260
32 — 99
0.32 — 0.99
F 5
Incredible
261—
318
> 100
> 1
While their damage is less than hurricanes, they can cause coastal flooding, wind damage,
and severe beach erosion. A number of nor'easters have impacted North Carolina in recent
decades, including the nor'easter in March 1983 that brought widespread flooding and beach
erosion. Another severe nor'easter hit the Outer Banks on Halloween 1991 and caused
substantial beach erosion.
4.5.D Severe Thunderstorms
Thunderstorms are common throughout North Carolina and can occur in all months.
Thunderstorms are the result of atmospheric instability and convection due to temperature
differentials. Severe thunderstorms can contain tremendous amounts of energy and can bring
lightening, damaging wind gusts, hail, and wind shears. Severe thunderstorms can damage
trees and cause extensive property damage and power outages. They can also be associated
with tornadoes.
4.5.E Tornadoes
The national weather service defines a tornado as a violently rotating column of air in contact
with the ground and extending from the base of a thunderstorm. The Fujita-Pearson Tornado
Scale rates tornadoes based on path, length, width, and intensity [Table 4.7]. Between 1953
and 2003, on average New Hanover County experiences one tornado approximately every
3.6 years. While nine tornadoes occurred between 1990 and 2003 in New Hanover County,
only one of these occurred at Wrightsville Beach. However, another was in relatively close
proximity in 2003. Although tornadoes can occur throughout the year, most occur during the
spring months of March (13 percent), April (11 percent), May (22 percent), and June (14
percent).
-47-

Toivn of Wrightsville.
Urban
Urban fires are a manmade hazard. They occur in populated areas and usually involve
•
buildings, structures, or outside areas. The potential for the spread of urban fires depends
upon surface and fuel characteristics, recent climatic conditions, and current meteorological
•
conditions, particularly wind. The likelihood of an urban fire in Wrightsville Beach is not
much different than other towns. However, the likelihood of an urban fire spreading rapidly
.
in Wrightsville Beach is high. The maximum setback for the Town is 15 feet. There are a
•
large number of multistory structures on the island with eves extending two or three feet into
the setback. Many of the structures have wooden patio style sundecks and widow walks,
which can act as fuel to spread urban fires. Other combustible materials such as landscaping
•
materials, stairs, lattices, AC mounting structures, fences, and cars located in setbacks can
further increase the likelihood of a fire spreading to adjacent structures. Moreover, if a fire
starts to spread, the fact that many houses are located on dead end streets that are not easily
accessible can hinder or delay rescue and firefighting efforts.
4.6 Non -coastal Wetlands
s
Within the planning jurisdiction of the Town of Wrightsville Beach there are also 1.6 acres of
•
non -coastal wetlands Iocated in the corporate limits, and 25 acres in its ETJ. These non -
coastal wetlands are classified as exceptional significance, not high potential risk. There are
also 4 acres of non -coastal wetlands classified as beneficial, not high potential risk that are
located within the ETJ [See NC CREWS Exceptional, Substantial and Beneficial Map in
Appendix A]
4.7 Water Supply and Wellhead Protection Areas
There are no surface water supply waters or watersheds in the vicinity of Wrightsville Beach.
Well water in the region is drawn from the Cretaceous Aquifer, which lies 190 to 1,100 feet
below the land surface. Water is often brackish at this depth. This water supply is of
considerable size, and the Town wells draw primarily from the Pee Dee Formation. Overall,
mineral levels are low but iron levels are often high. The aquifer receives recharge from
•
infiltration through the overlying sediments and from upland recharge areas in the west.
Overlying the aquifer is a limestone and unconsolidated sandy layer some 130 feet thick, the
Castle Hayne aquifer. Water here is abundant and often rich in iron and hydrogen sulfide.
Above the tertiary system aquifer (0 to 60 feet) lays 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 over tax the water supply; excessive pumping and depletion of the fresh water will likely
result in salt water intrusion in the aquifer on the island and even the mainland.
• - 48 -

Toivn of Wrightsville Beach Section 4: Natural Systems
4.8 Environmentally Fragile Areas
Fragile areas are defined as sensitive areas that are easily destroyed by inappropriate or
poorly planned development. Fragile areas include: AECs; coastal wetlands; non -coastal
wetlands; sand dunes; ocean beaches and shorelines; estuarine waters; estuarine shorelines;
public trust waters; complex natural areas; prime wildlife habitats; areas that sustain remnant
species; areas with unique geologic formations; natural areas identified by the North Carolina
Natural Heritage Program; and archeological and historical resources as well as other
sensitive areas not currently protected under existing rules. Given its location, almost all of
Wrightsville Beach is located within or adjacent to fragile areas. Many of these areas have
previously been discussed. This section describes natural heritage areas and the areas
containing endangered species.
4.8.A Natural Heritage Areas
The North Carolina Natural Heritage Program inventories, catalogues, and facilitates
protection of the rarest and most outstanding elements of the natural diversity of our state.
This includes plants and animals that are rare, or natural communities that merit special
consideration as land use decisions are made. The information generated by this program
supports informed evaluations of the trade-offs between biological diversity and development
projects before plans are finalized. The information also facilitates the establishment of
priorities for protecting North Carolina's most significant natural areas.
There are no significant natural heritage areas identified within the planning jurisdiction of
Wrightsville Beach. However, Masonboro Island, located adjacent to the south end of
Wrightsville Beach is a Natural Heritage Area [See the Significant Natural Heritage Areas
Map in Appendix A].
4.8.B Areas Containing Endangered Species
Endangered species are plant or animal species in danger of extinction within the foreseeable
future throughout a significant portion of its range. The term "threatened species" is used
when a plant or animal is deemed likely to become endangered within the foreseeable future
throughout all or a significant portion of its range. Areas that contain, or are likely to
contain, endangered species in the Town of Wrightsville Beach include the dry sand areas of
the oceanfront beach, dunes, and the marshes along the estuarine shoreline. Endangered
animals identified on Wrightsville Beach include various types of birds including the piping
plover, a variety of sea turtles, and other transitory wildlife. In order to help preserve
endangered wildlife, turtle nesting areas are marked each year in order to protect the nests.
The north end of Wrightsville Beach is also designated as a bird sanctuary. It is important to
keep in close contact with state and local agencies charged with protecting endangered
species and sightings of rare and endangered plants and animals should be reported.
TbE

Town of Wrightsville Beach Section 4: Natural Systenis
4.9 Composite Map of Environmental Conditions
The Environmental Composite Map contained in Appendix C shows the extent and overlap
of the environmental and natural features described in this section. Using the limitations and
opportunities that features have to guide development decisions, the map shows the location
of the following three categories of land:
■ Class T Land containing only minimal hazards and limitations that my be
addressed by commonly accepted land planning and development practices
■ Class H. Land containing development hazards and limitations that may be
addressed by methods such as restrictions on types of land Uses; special site
planning; or the provision of public services
■ Class III. Land containing serious hazards for development or lands where the
impact of development may cause serious damage to functions of natural
systems.
Only Class I lands are located in the ETJ while much of the developed land area contained
within the corporate limits of the Town of Wrightsville Beach is Class II. Class III lands
constitute many of the AECs.
-50-

Section 5
Existing Land Use and Development
5.0 Introduction
The Town of Wrightsville Beach developed in a manner similar to that of many other North
Carolina barrier beach communities. There is an accessible commercial area in the center of
Town, and the remainder of the community is stretched out to the north and the south in a
linear grid with residential development occurring on relatively small lots. Wrightsville
Beach remains a relatively small community with a large influx of summer visitors.
Accordingly, land use conflicts are limited primarily to issues related to the influx of tourists
(e.g., traffic, litter, lighting and noise). The amount of commercial activity in the Town
remains limited and there are no industrial or manufacturing uses.
The Town of Wrightsville Beach is approaching a completely built out stage of development
with development activity increasingly focused on redevelopment of existing structures.
Redevelopment activity consists primarily of the construction of larger single-family
residences and conversion of multi -family development to larger duplexes. Similarly, little
commercial development is anticipated unless it involves redevelopment of existing
commercial parcels. Within the ETJ, development and growth are expected at a much faster
pace. It is expected that several of the large tracts of vacant land on the mainland will be
developed within the next 5 years. This section of the land use plan describes the current
land use in the Town of Wrightsville Beach.
5.1 Existing Land Use
The total land area within the Town of Wrightsville Beach municipal boundary is 1,326.31
acres. Within the Town of Wrightsville Beach there are 1,920 separate parcels of land (i.e.,
lots). The number of total parcels in any type of land use is 1,739. The number of acres in
the parcels being used is 460. There are 139 lots over 1 acre in the Town of Wrightsville
Beach. There are approximately 100 vacant lots within the Town.
Table 5.1 shows various categories of existing land use within the Town of Wrightsville
Beach. This information is displayed graphically on the Existing Land Use Map located in
Appendix A. The largest categories of developed land are residential (47.9 percent),
commercial (11.8 percent), and recreational (7.8 percent). Approximately, 22.1 percent of
the land area is undeveloped, but much of this land area consists of wetlands or other AECs.
-51-

Table 5.1: Land Usage in Wrightsville Beach (2004)
Residential
Acres
283.7
Percent
Total
47.9
Acres per person
0.108
Commercial
69.7
11.8
0.027
Recreational
46.4
7.8
0.017
Office and Institutional
44.3
7.5
0.017
Utilities and
Transportation
16.5
2.8
0.006
Undeveloped
130.9
22.1
0.050
Industrial
0.7
0.1
0.000
Total
592.2
100
0.227
Source: GIS Town of Wrightsville Beach Planning and Parks
* Land Use Percentages were calculated using GIS to sum parcel areas based on
land use codes. This information exists as part of the New Hanover County
Land Records Information.
The following sections provide a narrative description of the Town of Wrightsville Beach
and its diverse neighborhoods.
5.1.A Neighborhood Characteristics
One of the unique features of Wrightsville Beach that adds to its quality of life is the
presence of its many neighborhoods.
5.1.A.1 Central Beach Area: 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 cottages, it
also contains the Town's traditional central business district, a church, and Johnnie Mercer's
Fishing Pier. Residential lot sizes are some of the smallest in the town. Most of the
residential structures are three stories or less in height and are characterized by functional
porches fronting on the street. Building materials tend to be wood and asbestos. While
single family and duplex cottages are the predominant form of land use there are a few
examples of multi -family accommodations, particularly near the traditional central business
district and Johnnie Mercer's Pier. These districts are compact in nature and individual
businesses are generally small in scale.
The central beach area is one of the most pedestrian friendly sections of the beach with heavy
foot traffic on sidewalks and considerable on -street bicycling. Off-street parking is limited
while on street parking is heavily used. Public access to the shoreline is plentiful with all
east -west running streets providing access to the beach. The town also retains right-of-way
easements at the west end of the streets where they intersect with banks channel. The water
quality of sound -side public trust waters in Banks Channel adjacent to the Central Beach
-52-

Area is classified SB. There is a noticeable lack of tall sailboats in this section of banks
channel due to the two low-level bridges to the south and north that frame the area.
5.1.A.2 North End: 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 Town, developed in the 1970's
and 1980's. The area is characterized by medium to large single-family homes on relatively
large lots. There are also a high number of multi -family residential units in large scale, high -
density structures. With the exception of two motels developments (Holiday Inn and Shell
Island Resort), there are no commercial uses in this part of town. Building materials are
wood, stucco, and concrete construction. Building heights tend to be two or three stories for
single-family units and four or more for multi -family residential units. In recent years, the
area has witnessed the introduction of several four story single-family homes.
While bicyclists may be seen traveling to the north end, this area is not pedestrian oriented.
Unlike the balance of the barrier island, public access is limited to designated special purpose
parking lots with no opportunity for on -street parking and only a few public accessways
associated with street ends. Off street parking associated with each residential unit is
adequate.
The sound side public trust waters are classified as SA, however, navigable water is quite
limited, with the predominance of the sound side estuarine system consumed by coastal
marshes. The predominance of marshes and limited navigable water caused a few private
piers to be constructed great distances into the marsh. Such lengthy piers raise concerns
about aesthetics, environmental impacts on the marsh ecosystem, and serve as potential
obstructions to navigation. The length of these piers is now restricted.
5.1.A.3 The Parmele Area: The Parmele area consists of a small peninsula of streets
extending landward from the point of intersection of Parmele Blvd and Lumina Avenue.
Single family and duplex residential structures characterize this area. At the far end of
Parmele Boulevard, the Town maintains its Public Works complex. Lot sizes in this area are
generally larger than those found in the Central Beach Area, but smaller than those found at
the North End. Buildings are typically two or three stories in height. Homes 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 a high percentage of permanent residents. There is no on -street parking
and due to its configuration as a peninsula there is no through traffic. The waters adjacent to
the Parmele area are classified as SA.
5.1.A.4 The Waynick Boulevard -South Lumina Area: 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 ultimately turns at Sunset Street
to the south. The Surf Motel at the intersection of Sunset and South Lumina is included in
this area. The area is characterized by a predominance of single-family and duplex homes
mixed with a fair number of multi -family and hotel accommodations. Buildings tend to be a
mixture of traditional beach cottages and modern large-scale residences.
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•Tojvn
of Wrightsville Beach SectionDevelopment
Lots tend to be somewhat larger than the central beach area. 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. Adding to the emphasis of boating
•
in this section of the outer island, is the presence of two boating/yacht clubs.
.
Large volumes of automobile traffic and metered parallel parking spaces characterize
Waynick Boulevard itself. 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 fewer than half as many public access points
(street ends) to the beach in this section of the outer island. The result is a quiet beach strand
•
relative to the Central Beach Area. Due to its exposure to Banks Channel along the entire
length of Waynick Boulevard, this area has a strong emphasis on boating. Pier head lengths
•
along this section are well established due to the heavy use of Banks Channel area by
recreational and commercial boaters alike. Water quality on the sound side is classified as
SB.
5.1.A.5 The South End: The South End extends from the turn in Waynick Boulevard at
Sunset Street to 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 except along the
oceanfront and are comparable in size to those in the Central Beach Area. There are also
more empty lots here than in other areas of the outer island. Older homes in this area tend to
be quite small and are consistent with the small size of the originally platted lots. Recently,
there has been a noticeable trend towards dramatically taller (4 stories total height from the
•
ground) residential structures in this part of the outer island. The recent construction has
been out of scale with the modest size of the originally platted lots.
This is one of the few areas on the outer island where streets run both east -west and north -
south in a 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
•
intimate scale of development at this end of the beach. Public accessways to the beach are
available at several locations. However, primarily homeowners and renters use them because
•
there is little parking for visitors. While there are public right-of-way easements to Banks
•
Channel at the western end of the each street in the area, the lack of parking limits their use.
Water quality in the sound area adjacent to the South End varies from SA near Masonboro
Inlet to SB in Banks Channel.
• -54-

5.1.A.6 Old Harbor Island: Old Harbor Island is the 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. The area's commercial uses are clustered at the west end of the
bridge to the outer island. The Town's only public school, Wrightsville Beach Elementary,
is located in this area at the north end of Coral Drive.
Lot sizes tend to be quite small and many homes consist of traditional ground level
construction, one to two stories in total height. Recently, the area has witnessed the
redevelopment of several modest homes with significantly larger residential structures.
The configuration of streets and compact scale of the neighborhood lends itself well to
pedestrian movement and lack of traffic. Sidewalks are present throughout much of the area
and speed bumps work to slow automobiles/traffic. There are a large number of private piers
and docks along the entire length of the shoreline. The water quality of Mott's Channel and
Banks Channel is classified as SB.
5.1.A.7 Pelican Drive, Lees Cut, Channel Walk, and Lookout Harbor: This area is the
portion of Harbor Island generally north of West Salisbury Street joining Lees Cut plus
Lookout Harbor and the adjacent commercial area near the west end of the Salisbury Street
Bridge. Most of the area was developed in the 1970's and consists of a mixture of single
family and duplex homes along Pelican Drive and multi -family residential elsewhere.
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 recently, all homes along
Pelican Drive were two stories in height and similar in scale, age and architectural character.
Recently, some homes have increased to three stories or more in height. Channel Walk and
Lees Cut are two multi -family developments located on the north side of West Salisbury
Street as it approaches the drawbridge. These two and three-story units have their own
recreational amenities and function independently from one another. Lookout Harbor and
several commercial and office uses anchor the east and west end of 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 entire area has good proximity to the Town's recreational facilities and the pedestrian
"loop" around the central portion of Harbor Island. According to wildlife authorities, the
public boat ramp on the north side of the drawbridge adjacent to the ICW is the most heavily
used launching facility in southeastern North Carolina. The water quality classification of
Lees Cut is SA.
5.1.A.8 Causeway Drivel Marina Area: This area of Harbor Island extends from the ICW
on the west along the south side of Causeway Drive to the intersection with Island Drive. A
mixture of residential, marine, retail, and service establishments characterizes this area.
Residential uses range from single-family homes to multi -family residential units and high
-55-

rise condominiums located in Seapath Towers. The mixture of marine service and retail uses
provides indirect public access to Mott's Channel and the ICW. This area generally has the
largest concentration of commercial uses on the island. Traffic congestion and turning
•
movements at the Keel Street intersection hamper street access to the commercial area south
•
of the drawbridge. Any future development in this area will need to take this into
consideration.
•
The relatively narrow adjoining channels are some of the most intensely used coastal waters
•
in the State of North Carolina. The number and density of boat slips, both wet and dry, is
very high. The density of boat slips, combined with a large number of marine services and
water -oriented restaurants on both sides of the ICW, make the waters popular with
recreational boaters and boating traffic is especially heavy on summer weekends. Water
quality in Mott's Channel and the ICW south of the drawbridge is classified as SB.
5.1.A.9 Town Government and Parks Area: The core of Harbor Island is a triangle shaped
area of land and wetland. This centrally located property accommodates most Town
•
government facilities, and provides recreational facilities and open space.
5.1.A.10 Mainland/Wrightsville Sound Area: The mainland/Wrightsville Sound area
consists of those land areas transected by three principle roads in the area approaching the
•
ICW drawbridge: Airlie Road, Wrightsville Avenue and Eastwood Road. The Town's
•
interest in this area is 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 for the Town proper.
5.1.A.11 Conservation Areas: There are also a wide range of conservation areas located in
the Town of Wrightsville Beach. The purpose of the conservation land use classification 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 value of both local and more than local concern.
w
5.1.A.12 Historic, Cultural, and Scenic Areas: The Town of Wrightsville Beach
•
incorporated in 1899. Its Historic Landmark Committee is charged with recognizing
properties that represent different eras of Wrightsville Beach's development. Currently, 18
•
properties are recognized as historic landmarks on Wrightsville Beach. The goal of these
designations is to help preserve the historic nature of the community.
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5.1.B Projection of Future Land Needs
When preparing a land use plan it is often useful to consider how much land is likely to be
needed to accommodate future development. Unfortunately, given that Wrightsville Beach
has little vacant undeveloped land and that annexations by the City of Wilmington prevent
further expansion, there is little developable land left to satisfy future demand. Moreover, as
noted in Section III, the declining population and lack of significant population growth
reflect the lack of any new developable land. Accordingly, future development pressure
should increasingly focus on the redevelopment of existing residential and commercial
development. However, current size and density restrictions will serve to limit the extent of
these redevelopment efforts.
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Town of Wrightsville Beach Section 6: Community Facilities & Town Services
Section 6
Community Facilities
& Town Services
6.0 Introduction
The Town of Wrightsville Beach 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 2-year term. The Board of Aldermen is the
governing body of the Town with the mayor as a voting member and 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 fire protection, police
protection, sanitation, 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 government at
Wrightsville Beach is performing the necessary functions well and there are no anticipated
changes in the size or scope of the local government. The following sections of the land use
plan analyze community facilities, departments and Town services to identify potential issues
and determine whether the Town's services are adequate to serve the town's current and
expected populations and the influx of seasonal tourists.
6.1 General Administration
The General Administration Department is located in Town Hall and is responsible for a
variety of services including preparation of agendas, correspondence and reports for the
Mayor and Board of Aldermen; preparation and oversight of the annual budget; preparation
of financial reports; investment of Town funds; preparation and processing of utility bills;
and payments; and processing of accounts payable. This department is also responsible for
maintaining financial and historical records for the Town and personnel records for Town
employees.
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Town of Wrightsville Beach Section 6: Commnnity Facilities & Town Services
6.2 Fire Protection & Emergency Medical Services
The Town's municipal fire department provides fire protection and emergency medical
services within Wrightsville Beach corporate limits, including the annexed areas. The
mission of the Wrightsville Beach Fire Department is to enhance the quality of life in
Wrightsville Beach through fire prevention, fire suppression, emergency medical services
(EMS) and protection from dangerous conditions created by man or nature. The Town's
Public Protection (ISO) Classification is 4. The Fire Department also coordinates the Town's
disaster preparedness & response activities. Beginning in the 2004 summer season, the Fire
Department also assumed responsibility for the Town's ocean rescue program.
The Wrightsville Beach Fire Department is headquartered at 10 Seawater Lane, within the
municipal complex located on Harbor Island. Eleven career firemen and approximately 30
volunteers staff the Fire Department. Eight of the volunteers live in the fire station under the
Department's intern program. The Fire Department's equipment inventory includes the
following apparatus.
■ Pumper/Aerial Ladder: 1996 model; 1500 g.p.m. pump; 300 gallon water tank;
75' aerial ladder with 1000 g.p.m. master stream nozzle; ground ladders; supply
& attack hose
■ Pumper: 1988 model; 1250 g.p.m. pump; 500 gallon water tank; ground ladders;
supply & attack hose
■ Pumper: 1983 model; 1250 g.p.m. pump; 500 gallon water tank; 50' telescoping
boom with 1000 g.p.m. master stream nozzle; ground ladders; supply & attack
hose
■ EMS Squad: 1994 model; four wheel drive with basic life support equipment
On -site facilities include a fire training structure, a ladder -training tower, and a drafting tank.
Once dispatched by the County's 911 center, the Fire Department's response time within
Town limits is normally less than 4 minutes. During the summer months, however,
responses can be delayed due to heavy traffic conditions. To assure that sufficient resources
are available to respond to structural fire alarms, the Town maintains mutual aid agreements
with New Hanover County and the City of Wilmington. The Fire Department also provides
mutual aid resources when requested by other New Hanover County fire departments.
The Fire Department's emergency medical program is an integral part of the New Hanover
Regional EMS system. Fire Department personnel provide immediate emergency medical
technician (EMT) level care as "first responders" while New Hanover Regional Paramedics
provide advanced life support and patient transport capability.
Fire Department resources are adequate to meet present needs. However, replacement of
aging fire apparatus and fire station facilities must be considered within the 5-year planning
horizon. The current trend toward construction of larger residential structures may also strain
available firefighting manpower and water supplies. It also increases the likelihood that an
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Tojvn of in 6: Community Facilities & Tojvn
urban fire could spread. In order to maintain or improve its Class 4 rating, the Town must
continually evaluate the adequacy of its firefighting resources relative to growth in the
community.
6.3 Police Department
S The Police Department is located at 321 Causeway Drive in the Municipal Complex on
• Harbor Island. The Police Department's staff presently consists of 22 sworn officers, 4 desk
officers, and one administrative assistant for a total of 27 full-time employees. During the
summer, one part-time police officer is hired to patrol the beach strand. A reserve force
consisting of five reserve police officers, all of which are volunteers, augments the Police
• Department on a year round basis.
r The Police Department offers law enforcement services ranging from investigative services
to patrol of residential and commercial property. The Police Department also maintains a
radio communications dispatch center and communications with the drawbridge. The Police
Department has ten patrol vehicles (marked and unmarked) and a parking meter mechanics
truck. The Police Department presently has an emergency response time of less than three
minutes and a non -emergency response time of five minutes.
Future demand for services is expected to increase. The Police Department will need to
increase personnel staffing and equipment to meet the ever-increasing demands for services
and increasing workloads. These demands can be attributed to the completion of Interstate
40, the large influx of summer visitors, the growth of the area's student population and the
tri-county area's population increase.
6.4 Department of Planning and Parks
The Department of Planning and Parks was created in 2003. The department has a unique
organizational structure that combines the services offered by traditional parks and recreation
with those of planning and inspections. The department is committed to enhancing the
quality of life of residents and visitors. The department achieves this goal by consistently
enforcing all federal, state, and local regulations pertaining to land use and development,
offering leisure activities of an active and passive nature, and developing, beautifying,
conserving, and maintaining the parks and public areas of Wrightsville Beach.
11S11M

Town of Wrightsville Beach Section 6: Community Facilities & Town Services
6AA Division of Planning and Inspections
The Division of Planning and Inspections reviews all development activities within
Wrightsville Beach Town limits. Planning and Inspections enforces local building and
zoning codes, the international building code, minimum housing standards, and CAMA's
local permit program. Staff available for assistance includes the Planning and Parks
Department Director, Building Code Administrator, Development Code Administrator, and
Administrative Assistant. There is also a LPO who assists with CAMA permits. Staff is
available to assist with the permitting process and answer questions. The Division of
Planning and Inspections also provides staff support to the Planning Board, a 7-member
board with the following powers and duties:
To make careful studies of present conditions and the probable future
development of the town and its environs. Such studies may include but are not
limited to land use surveys; population studies; economic base studies; schools,
parks, and recreation studies; traffic studies; and urban renewal studies.
To formulate and maintain a comprehensive plan of the town and its environs for
the purpose of achieving a coordinated, adjusted, and harmonious development of
the municipality which would promote, in accordance with present and future
needs, the safety, morals, order, convenience, prosperity, and general welfare of
its citizens; efficiency and economy in the process of development; convenience
of traffic; safety from fire and other dangers; adequate light and air; healthful and
convenient distribution of population; provision of adequate open spaces; good
civic design and arrangement; wise and efficient expenditures of public funds;
adequate provision for public utilities; and other matters pertaining to public
requirements. The comprehensive plan shall consist of a number of parts which
may include but not be limited to the following: a land use plan, a major
thoroughfare plan, a utilities plan, a plan for economic development, a recreation
plan, a school plan, and a community facilities plan.
To suggest revisions from time to time to the existing zoning ordinances and to
make other recommendations as the Planning Board deems appropriate from time
to time to the Board of Aldermen regarding zoning ordinances.
To suggest revisions from time to time to the existing subdivision regulations and
to make other recommendations as the Planning Board deems appropriate from
time to time to the Board of Aldermen regarding subdivision ordinances.
To review and make recommendations to the Board of Aldermen upon the extent,
location, and design of all public structures and facilities; on the acquisition and
disposal of public properties; on the opening, abandonment, widening, extension,
narrowing, or other change to streets and other public ways; and on the
construction, extension, expansion, or abandonment of utilities, whether publicly
or privately owned. However, in the absence of a recommendation from the
Planning Board after the expiration of 30 days from the date on which the
question has been submitted in writing to the Board, the Board of Aldermen may
if it deems wise, take final action.
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Toivu of Beach Sectioni
t'
To submit, in April of each year, to the Board of Aldermen, a report of its
activities, for the preceding year.
■ The Planning Board is authorized to appoint committees made up in whole or in
S
part of citizens of the town who are not members of the Planning Board.
Provided, however, that the creation of the committees and the appointments
thereto shall be subject to the prior approval of the Board of Aldermen
6AB Division of Parks and Recreation
The Division of Parks and Recreation provides a variety of facilities and services that
contribute significantly toward the community's quality of life. The Division of Parks and
Recreation is staffed by a program supervisor, a parks and maintenance supervisor, a
maintenance crew chief, an administrative assistant and a variety of part time and contracted
employees. A Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee serves as the advisory body for the
Division of Parks and Recreation. The Committee suggests policies to the Planning and
Parks Department, the Planning and Parks Director, and the Board of Aldermen. The
Committee also serves as a liaison between the local decision makers and the citizens of
Wrightsville Beach. The Committee consults with and advises the Department, the Director,
and the Board in matters affecting recreation policies, programs, personnel, finances, and the
acquisition and disposal of lands and properties related to the community recreation program,
and to its long-range plan for recreation.
Programs and activities provided year-round by the Division of Parks and Recreation
include: adopt a beach access; senior aerobics; pilates; yoga; tennis lessons; sand wheel
chairs; tone and stretch classes; shag lessons; and after school programs. Seasonal programs
vary from year to year and generally include: softball; basketball; flag football; various
summer camps; surf lessons; and a variety of special events designed to attract both residents
and visitors.
In addition to maintaining a variety of beach access facilities, 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. Generally, the outdoor facilities are adequate to handle the residential population of
Wrightsville Beach. Day visitors also come from surrounding areas to visit the 13-acre park.
•
These facilities are summarized below and are displayed graphically on the Public Access
and Recreation Map contained in Appendix A.
•
■ Public Access Sites: There are 44 public access points on the Island that range
from simple walkways to handicap accessible dune walkover structures. Some of
the access sites include shower and changing facilities. This equates to 10
marked sites per mile of oceanfront beach, the second most in North Carolina.
■ Public Beach Parking: The Town provides 605 parking spaces in public parking
lots located adjacent to marked access spaces, the most public parking lot spaces
per mile of beach in the state. Additional roadside spaces provide further
accessibility to the Town's beaches.
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■ Wrightsville Beach Park: 13 acre park with tennis courts/backwall, sand
volleyball courts, a basketball court, shuffleboard courts, horseshoes, one softball
field, soccer/football fields, a jogging/fitness trail, a tot lot, a playground area and
equipment, an overlook deck and picnic shelters with grills, a104 car parking lot,
and public restrooms.
■ Fran Russ Recreation Center: Adjacent to the park area and Town Hall, this
building provides indoor areas for recreation programs including yoga, aerobics,
shag, pilates, tone and stretch, and after school programs, as well as serving as a
room for community meetings and events. This facility includes a fully equipped
kitchen
■ Lees Nature Park: .5 Acre nature oriented park for plant and bird identification.
■ Greensboro Street Park: .8 acre park with playground equipment
■ Wynn Plaza: .85 acre park on Banks Channel providing "transient" dockage, a
gazebo, and waterfront walkways
■ South Channel Drive Park: .5 acre park on Banks Channel for water oriented
activities
■ Island Drive Park: .5 acre park with benches for passive atmosphere
■ Causeway Park: .5 acre park with benches located at the street under the bridge
■ Wings Plaza: Landscaped area with benches for passive uses, located in the
downtown across from Wynn Plaza.
■ Kayak Trail
While these facilities are suitable to meet present needs, facilities are heavily utilized. There
are many facility additions and improvements that could greatly help to improve the quality
of life at Wrightsville Beach. Possible improvements include:
Addition and Renovation to the Frances L. Russ Recreation Center: The
addition and renovation would greatly enhance the Parks and Recreation
program. In 2000, the Number 2 Fire Station, once used for indoor recreational
programs, was removed from the Recreation Department. Currently all available
indoor programmable space is used. The addition would also provide additional
public meeting space.
An additional soccer field: This would alleviate crowding during warm months
and provide for additional programming space. The existing soccer field is used
year round due to lack of indoor space, league demand and general public
demand.
Addition of lights to the tennis courts and softball fields: this would allow the
thriving tennis and softball programs to expand operating hours and meet current
public demand
While no significant additions to park acreage are anticipated through 2013, there will be
continued demand to make better use of existing facilities and to add additional facilities at
existing sites.
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6.1: School Capacity and Enrollment
Source: New Hanover County Department of Education
6.5 Public Works Department
The Public Works Department provides a vast array of services to the citizens of Wrightsville
Beach. These services include water and wastewater treatment, solid waste collection,
vehicle and equipment maintenance, and street and infrastructure maintenance. Work is
organized and accomplished by the use of a computerized work order system. When there is
an area in Wrightsville Beach needing attention, Public Works submits a work order request
to have the work done. Public Works also relies on Wrightsville Beach residents and visitors
to help notify about problem areas around town. These tasks are accomplished through the
five divisions of the Public Works department and are described in more detail in Section
VII, which examines the infrastructure carrying capacity.
6.6 Schools
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 its
student population. As a result, nearly all schools are at or over capacity. Wrightsville
Beach elementary serves grades k-5 and it is the only school in the Town. It is approaching
capacity even with the addition of mobile classrooms. The most recent capacities and
enrollments of New Hanover County Schools serving the Town of Wrightsville Beach are
shown in Table 6.1. In addition to the public school system, other educational facilities in
New Hanover County include several private schools (primary, secondary, and special
education), the University of North Carolina at Wilmington, and Cape Fear Community
College.
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To1V/1 of Wrightsville Beach Section 7. Infrastructure Carrying Capacity
Section 7
Infrastructure Carrying Capacity
7.0 Introduction
Another important consideration in developing a land use plan for any barrier beach
community is ensuring that the infrastructure carrying capacity is adequate to serve the
population and the influx of seasonal residents and visitors frequenting the island. Since the
Town of Wrightsville Beach is approaching a built out status and is unlikely to see
significant growth or development, its infrastructure appears to be adequate to handle
projected population increases and the influx of seasonal residents and visitors. The
following sections review important aspects of Wrightsville Beach's infrastructure and some
of the services provided by its Public Works Department.
7.1 Public and Private Water Supply Systems
At present, the Town of Wrightsville Beach's municipal water system provides service to all
areas of the Town east of the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW), and to the satellite annexation
areas at Wrightsville Sound west of the waterway. The number of connections is included in
Table 7.1. Facilities located east of the waterway include two elevated storage tanks. One is
located near the north end and the other is at the south end of the Island and the elevated
tanks have capacities of 300,000 and 200,000 gallons, respectively. The Town also has two
water treatment centers (No 1 on Harbor Island near Town Hall and No 2 at Allens Lane on
the mainland at Wrightsville Sound) that have ground storage with a total capacity of 0.5
million gallons. The Town has a total of 11 active water supply wells. One is inactive at this
time [Table 7.2].
In the ETJ, Wrightsville Beach, the City of Wilmington, and private industrial wells provide
service. The City of Wilmington has a 24-inch finished water trunk main running along
Eastwood Road (U.S. 74) but its service is limited to Landfall (a planned unit development)
and associated commercial developments. Wilmington'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 that are connected to the Water Treatment No. 2 at Allen's Lane
and to the water mains serving the ETJ.
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Town of Wrightsville Beach Section 7: Infrastructure Carrying Capacity
Table 7.1: Water Connections
Type of Connection
Number of
Percent
connections
Residential
2,214
0.713
Commercial
227
0.261
Industrial
2
1
0.006
Institutional
1
0.001
Source: Wrightsville Beach Public Works
Note: Due to the ETJ, the number of connections does not match the
number of housing units noted in previous tables
Table 7.2: Well Field Capacity (Gallons Per Minute)
Well
1
Well Field Location
1701 N Lumina
Set Production Capacity
230 GPM
Capacity
230 GPM
2
2399 N Lumina
195GPM
195 GPM
3
399 N Lumina
200 GPM
200 GPM
4
275 Wa nick
205 GPM
205 GPM
Causeway186GPM
186 GPM
Marina
210 GPM
210 GPM
01 Pelican
115 GPM
115 GPM
N35
01 W Salisbury250
GPM
250 GPM
4 Corbett
0 GPM
0 GPM
001 Allen's Lane
130 GPM
130 GPM
12
1729 Allen's Lane
170 GPM
170 GPM
Source: Wrightsville Beach Public Works
The Town's distribution system in the Wrightsville Sound Area connects the Town's
mainland water treatment facility to annexation properties. The municipal distribution
system consists of 12-inch, 10-inch and 8-inch mains with fire hydrants and valving serving
all areas of the Town including the ETJ. A 14-inch sub -aqueous waterline connection
beneath the ICW gives the Town considerable flexibility allowing utilization of all 11 wells
and the combined use of the elevated and ground storage tanks east and west of the ICW to
meet its water supply needs. Waterlines are displayed graphically on the Infrastructure Map
located in Appendix A.
Well water in the region is drawn from the Cretaceous Aquifer, which lies 190 to 1,100 feet
below the land surface. The water supply is considered sizeable, and the Town wells draw
primarily from the Pee Dee Formation. The aquifer receives recharge from infiltration
through the overlying sediments and from upland recharge areas to the west. Overlying this
aquifer is the Castle Hayne Aquifer, a limestone -sand unconsolidated sandy layer some 130
feet deep. Water is salty at this depth near the coast. Above the tertiary system aquifer (0 to
60 feet) lies the Post Miocene, Yorktown and surficial aquifers of predominantly sands and

Table 7.3: Average Daily Water Flows (1986 — 2003)
1986
Total Flow (Gallons)
291,493,900
AverageYear
798,613
1987
381,007,546
824,678
1988
301,435,500
823,594
1989
319,026,618
874,046
1990
361,557,568
990,569
1991
357,367,672
979,090
1992
347,947,000
950,675
1993
373,072,000
1,022,115
1994
353,586,000
968,729
1995
358,269,000
981,559
1996
324,718,319
889,639
1997
373,996,000
1,024,647
1998
344,680,000
944,329
1999
369,150,000
1,011,370
2000
352,510,000
965,781
2001
385,235,000
1,055,438
2002
369,502,164
1,012,335
Source: 2003 Wrightsville Beach Surface Water Supply Plan
Table 7.4: Average and Maximum Daily Water Use By Month (2002)
Month
January
Average Daily Use
(Million Gallons)
0.557
Maximum Daily Use
(Million Gallons)
0.692
February
0.575
0.678
March
0.692
1.073
April
0.963
1.781
May
1.264
1.934
June
1.444
1.776
July
1.621
2.007
August
1.486
2.000
September
1.133
1.463
October
0.972
1.475
November
0.749
0.985
December
0.699
0.793
Source: Wrightsville Beach Public Works
clay. Care and consideration must be taken in order not to overtax the water supply.
Excessive pumping and depletion of fresh water may lead to salt water intrusion into the
aquifer on the island and even the mainland. Units of government that provide public water
either individually or together with other units of local government, are required to prepare a
'SYjM

Town of Wrightsville Beach Section 7. Infrastructure Carrying Capacity'
Table 7.5: Projected Service Area Demand for Water
Year
2002
Total Demand
369,380,000
Average Daily
Demand
1,012,000
2010
377,775,000
1,035,000
2020
380,695,000
1,043,000
2030
384,345,000
1,053,000
2040
387,995,000
1,063,000
Source: 2003 Wrightsville Beach Surface Water Supply Plan
local water supply plan and submit the plan to the DENR's Division of Water Resources
(DWR).
Water supply plans are useful because they analyze water use and project future demand.
The last local water supply plan prepared for the Town of Wrightsville Beach was submitted
to DENR on July 30, 2003. This plan reports on municipal water services for 2002. The
total water use reported for 2002 was 369.502 million gallons (MG). The average daily
water use in 2002 was 1.012 MG [Table 7.3]. The largest average daily use and maximum
daily use in Wrightsville Beach were in July 2002 at 1.621 million gallons per day (MGD)
and 2.007 MGD, respectively [Table 7.4]. In a resort community such as Wrightsville
Beach, the system flows are subject to unusual peaks that occur seasonally. Therefore, while
it is not necessary or practical to meet the state criteria on 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 peak
daily flow in 24 hours pumping time with the largest well out of service.
As demonstrated by Table 7.5, the water supply system is more than capable of meeting
projected service area demand based on current population projections. The biggest long-
term issue is whether the population growth in New Hanover County and its use of the same
aquifer system could ultimately impact Wrightsville Beach's water supply.
7.2 Public and Private Wastewater Systems
There are no private wastewater systems operating within the Town of Wrightsville Beach.
The Town of Wrightsville Beach connected with the City of Wilmington in 1983.
Connection to the public sewer system is required for all residents and businesses within the
Town. Given that the Town of Wrightsville Beach is nearly built out, the sewer system has
adequate capacity to serve expected growth over the next 5 years. The Town's sewer system
is displayed graphically on the Infrastructure Map located in Appendix A. Table 7.6 displays
the average daily wastewater discharge in 2002. Table 7.7 displays the average daily
wastewater flow from 1986 until 2003. These tables indicate that wastewater flows have
declined modestly since 1999, which may be due in part to the slight population decline in
recent years.
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Table 7.6: Average Daily Wastewater Discharges (2002)
Source: Wrightsville Beach Public Works
Table 7.7: Average Daily Wastewater Flow (1986 — 2003)
Year
1986
Total Flow
(Gallons)
256,855,000
ne
Daily Flo
(Gallons)
703,712
1987
250,925,800
687,466
1988
233,950,000
639,208
1989
236,214,000
647,162
1990
291,136,000
797,633
1991
294,055,630
805,632
1992
276,110,840
754,401
1993
274,455,020
751,932
1994
248,472,860
680,748
1995
256,187,040
701,882
1996
238,307,400
652,897
1997
255,627,150
700,348
1998
247,720,000
678,685
1999
273,220,000
748,548
2000
261,790,000
717,233
2001
228,012,720
624,692
2002
238,119,472
652,382
Source: Wrightsville Beach Public Works
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Town of Wrightsville Beach Section 7. Infrastructure Carrybig Capacity
Table 7.8: Owner of Drainage Systems
Ownership
New Hanover County
Percent
<1 %
Total Feet
375 Ft
Total Outfalls
1
Private Systems
13.2 %
6,200 Ft
6
Town
42.5 %
20,052
34
NCDOT
42.7 %
20,055
48
Source: Wrightsville Beach, NPDES Phase H Comprehensive Stormwater Management Program
Report (Wrightsville Beach, NC: Town of Wrightsville Beach, 2003)
7.3 Stormwater System
The stormwater system within the Town of Wrightsville Beach is a municipal separate storm
. sewer system (MS4). The MS4 consists of approximately 47,000 feet of piping, manholes,
and outfall pipes. There are approximately 500 feet of open ditch and 2,500 linear feet of
sheet flow area. The stormdrains are displayed graphically on the Infrastructure Map located
in Appendix A.
Harbor Island saw significant development changes in the late 1960's after its annexation by
Wrightsville Beach. These changes included paving of roadways, installation of sewer
systems, and installation of storm drainage systems. The construction of the Federal
Desalination Plant, which is located in what is now the Municipal Complex included storm
•
drainage systems for those areas.
The construction of the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) highway
•
systems of U.S. Hwy 74, 76 and the N. Lumina connector included the construction of storm
•
drainage systems appropriate to those areas. During the 1960's, portions of these systems
were extended to provide drainage for Town streets and some private entities. Some of the
private entities include Station 1, Blockade Runner Hotel, Carolina Yacht Club, and the
a
Coast Guard Station at the South end of Wrightsville Beach.
The last construction involving storm drainage occurred in the mid 1980's with the
development of the northern part of the Shell Island area. As part of that development
project, efforts were made to contain the stormwater on the properties developed through the
•
use of French -drain systems. The most notable examples are Shell Island Resort, Duneridge,
and the municipal parking lots at 2938 N. Lumina and 2498 N. Lumina. The Wrightsville
Dunes development made use of brick pavers as a component of the driveway/parking areas
to provide more pervious surface than would be typical with concrete or asphalt construction.
Adjacent to, but on the opposite side of Hwy 74 at Duneridge, there is a sheet flow area of
700 feet. The border between the road surface and the sound has been left to natural growth
in order to provide a buffer for the sound and to assist in the trapping of potential pollutants.
The ownership and drainage systems within the area of Wrightsville Beach are divided as
•
shown in Table 8.7. New Hanover County and private systems are located on properties
other than Town or state land and do not have recorded easements or maintenance contracts
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Town of Wrightsville Beach Section 7. Infrastructure Carrying Capacity
with the Town. The Town performs no maintenance on these systems. Maintenance
activities are limited to Town systems and routine non -construction maintenance on NCDOT
systems. Routine non -construction maintenance includes street sweeping, leaf collection,
video inspection, high-pressure water cleaning, and vacuum debris removal. In addition,
Town systems also benefit from construction maintenance activities such as line repair,
replacement, and catch basin repairs. Maintenance activities are triggered by one of two
methods:
Direct complaint; or
Scheduled maintenance.
The Town maintains a work order system that allows the scheduling of maintenance
activities with variable intervals. These activities are scheduled monthly, bi-monthly,
quarterly, semi-annually, and annually. Work orders document the issue and date,
completion date, and total man-hours required for completions.
Despite these efforts, the Town's low elevation and the fact than many outfall pipes are
underwater during high tides create frequent drainage problems after major storm events.
The Town has identified the following areas as priority drainage problems:
■ The area between Stone and Columbia Streets on North Lumina Avenue;
■ Greensboro Street through the intersection on Salisbury on North Lumina
Avenue;
■ Cypress Drive;
■ Myrtle Court; and,
■ Marina Street.
To help alleviate these drainage problems, the Town requires that all new development
maintains its stormwater runoff at preconstruction levels. In addition, the Town is exploring
the feasibility of installing infiltration systems under roads during their scheduled NCDOT
maintenance.
7.4 Solid Waste Disposal and Recycling
The Town of Wrightsville Beach collects solid waste twice weekly from all residential units
in its jurisdiction. Commercial waste is picked up as needed up to 7 days per week by the
Town of Wrightsville Beach. There is no County trash collection system in the
unincorporated County including Wrightsville Sound. Homeowners and businesses in this
area contract private waste collection services. This arrangement is presently considered to
be adequate and will continue for the foreseeable future. Solid waste is disposed of in the
County incinerator or the county landfill. County facilities are adequate to meet current and
future needs. The Town of Wrightsville Beach also operates a recycling center on Seawater
Drive between the Police and Fire stations. The recycling center serves Wrightsville Beach
residents and visitors.
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Tomi of Wrightsville Beach Section 7. Infrastrncture Carrying Capachry
Table 7.9: Marked Parking Spaces
Location
Parking Spaces in Lots Wrightsville Island
„0
337
1995
350
2002
560
On Street Parking Wrightsville Island
1,373
1,306
919
Parking Spaces in Lots Harbor Island
104
104
148
On Street Parking Harbor Island
323
139
165
Total Marked Parkin
2,137
1,899
1,792
Source: Wrightsville Beach Public Works Department
7.5 Parking Facilities
With increasing numbers of visitors, there is a high demand for public parking spaces during
summer months. However, according to Table 7.9 the number of marked spaces available
for parking has decreased from about 2,137 marked spaces in 1990 to 1,762 marked spaces in
2002. This includes 560 spaces in public parking lots and 919 parking spaces on
Wrightsville Island.
7.6 Transportation System
The U.S. 74-76 Bridge across the ICW is the only means of ingress or egress to the Town of
•
Wrightsville Beach from the mainland. The four -lane drawbridge connects into a 5-lane road
(U.S. 76) that has a two-lane fork (U.S.-74 W. Salisbury Street) intersecting with North
Lumina. On the other end, the five -lane U.S. 76 (Causeway Drive) runs into Waynick
Boulevard and Lumina across the Banks Channel Bridge at the center of Town. Waynick
.
Boulevard, which is four lanes, is the major thoroughfare to the southern end of the beach.
The road system is displayed graphically on the Transportation System Map located in
Appendix A.
7.6.A Wrightsville Beach (Heide Trask) Drawbridge
The Heide Trask drawbridge on U.S. Highways 74-76 is operated and maintained by the
NCDOT. 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 direct radio contact with vessels using the ICW. The bridge is scheduled to
open every hour on the hour between 7 AM and 7 PM for recreational vessels. Commercial
craft and government -operated vehicles can pass through the bridge on demand as necessary.
The average opening of the drawbridge is 4 minutes per vessel. The bridge operator notifies
Town's police department any time the bridge will be open longer than normal. The
County's emergency communications center also has contact with the bridge operator and
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Town of Wrightsville Beach Section 7. Infrastructrure Carrying Capacity
Table 7.10: Estimated Peak Traffic Volumes (1990 — 2003)
notifies the operator when an ambulance is approaching the bridge. Police also notify the
bridge operator when there is fire, police or a medical emergency 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 other reasons,
many beach -goers or resident travelers could find themselves stranded on the beach. The
Town's police and fire departments maintain radio contact with the bridge and can assist with
minor repairs. In 2004, major maintenance was completed on the bridge. It is not expected
that major repairs will become necessary in the near future.
7AB Traffic Counts and Roadway Design Capacity
Like other facilities, roads are in highest demand during the summer months. Table 7.10
shows the estimated peak day traffic volumes for 1990, 1996 and 2003. Compared to the
maximum design capacities, Waynick Blvd and U.S. 74 appear to have excess capacities.
However, the ICW bridge approaches capacity on peak summer days. U.S. 76 is often over
capacity on peak summer days.
It appears that the main thoroughfares have sufficient capacity to handle traffic during most
periods through the year 2013. However, traffic congestion during certain peak periods will
continue to occur, particularly during the summer months. The periodic congestion is likely
to remain a fact of life for residents and visitors because there are no easy or inexpensive
solutions to the problem given inherent limitations associated with the drawbridge.
Nevertheless, further study of roadway, traffic, and parking issues is warranted.
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Toivn of Wrightsville Beach Section 8: Land suitability Analysis
Section 8
Land Suitability Analysis
8.0 Introduction
One of the DCM requirements (NCAC 15A 7B. 0702 (5)) and its newly promulgated
Technical Manual for Land Use Planning is to perform a land suitability analysis (LSA)
using data disseminated by state agencies, New Hanover County, and information from
Wrightsville Beach's GIS. The overall purpose of the analysis is to provide the Town of
Wrightsville Beach with information on the best and least suited areas for development in
order to guide the formation of policies and recommendations for managing future growth
and development. The analysis is intended to apply to undeveloped land that may experience
future development or land that has the potential for redevelopment.
8.1 Land Suitability Analysis
The LSA uses GIS applications and data from state and local sources to classify undeveloped
land with a rating based on its suitability for development. The computer model divides the
planning jurisdiction into 1-acre grid cells. Each grid cell is measured for suitability based
on the totality of factors affecting the cell. Many factors on or adjacent to undeveloped land
affect the degree to which it is suitable for development. For example, whether the site has
access to water and sewer infrastructure (positive factor) or has coastal wetland located on
the parcel (negative factor). Final ratings fall into one of four categories: least suitable for
development; low suitability; medium suitability, and highly suited for development.
The first step of the analysis was to complete the mapping of the factors used in the LSA to
display their extent and applicability within the jurisdiction. These factors are identified on
various maps located in Appendix A. The CRC and the DCM defined criteria in which the
presence or proximity of a prescribed set of factors are determined to impact the suitability of
land for development and automatically assigned a suitability ranking to factors based on the
following criteria. Areas within:
■ Beneficial Non -Coastal Wetlands have low suitability;
■ Storm Surge Areas have low suitability;
■ 100 year Flood Zones have low suitability;
■ HQW/ORW Watersheds have low suitability;
■ 500 feet of a Significant Natural Heritage Areas have low suitability;
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■ A half -mile of Primary Roads have high suitability, within a half -mile to a mile
have medium suitability, and areas greater than a mile have low suitability;
■ A half mile of Developed Land have high suitability, within a half -mile to a mile
have medium suitability, and greater than one mile away have low suitability;
■ A quarter -mile of Water Pipes have high suitability, within a quarter mile to half -
mile of water pipes have medium suitability, and greater than a half -mile have
low suitability;
■ A quarter -mile of Sewer Pipes have high suitability, within a quarter -mile to a
half -mile have medium suitability, and greater than a half -mile have low
suitability;
■ Coastal Wetlands are least suitable;
■ Exceptional and Substantial Non -Coastal Wetlands are least suitable;
■ Protected Lands are least suitable; and,
■ Estuaries Waters are least suitable.
For example, one criteria states that land within 500 feet of a wastewater treatment plant
should receive a `low' suitability ranking while land within a half mile or less of water
infrastructure is `highly' suited for development. The overall suitability rating score for each
acre of undeveloped land will be the composite of the suitability ratings for each factor. In a
sense, it is an average of all of the individual ratings.
The Town of Wrightsville Beach and its LUPSC also had an opportunity to provide input to
the land suitability analysis by providing an importance weighting or ranking for each factor.
Although the CRC and DCM decided on criteria that establish the suitability levels for each
factor, the Town is allowed to decide on the relative importance of each factor in the overall
analysis. This is done by ranking the factors as follows: 1 for important (lowest); 2 for very
important; and 3 for highest importance (highest). However, the LUPSC decided to follow
the state's recommended guidelines with respect to the rankings.
8.2 Implications of the Land Suitability Analysis
The LSA's results are displayed graphically in Appendix C. Unfortunately, the LSA had
little practical affect during the LUPSC's efforts to develop policies and recommendations.
The results of the LSA are best used for evaluating sizable tracts of undeveloped land in
larger municipalities or at the county level. However, in Wrightsville Beach there are no
large tracts of undeveloped land other than coastal wetlands and recreational lands. The LSA
also has problems when applied to long, thin barrier beach municipalities such as
Wrightsville Beach due to the scale and dynamic nature of the data used. Accordingly, by
definition the LSA will conclude that a great deal of land that is already developed is
unsuitable for development. Most importantly, the Town of Wrightsville Beach is nearly
built out and most of the estimated 100 vacant parcels are smaller than an acre in size and are
in -fill lots suitable for development. Thus, the LSA results have limited applicability with
respect to guiding future development decisions. Nevertheless, the Land Suitability Map
found in Appendix C is a useful planning tool that provides some indication of the areas
within town limits that are best suited for land development.
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Section 9
Plan for the Future:
Policies and Recommended Actions
9.0 Introduction
The policies and recommended actions described in this section of the land use plan address
the issues raised at a Public Workshop held November 15, 2003, early in the planning
process. They also reflect issues identified during the 9 steering committee meetings that led
to the preparation of the Phase I Report on Land Use and Future Development: Final Report,
which was approved by the Board of Aldermen on June 10, 2004.
When the steering committee turned its attention to preparing policies for the revised land
use plan in June 2004, the policies from the 1996 Land Use Plan were used as a starting point
for discussions. In most cases, the policies described in the following sections extend or
refine policies from the 1996 Land Use Plan. In other cases, the policies and
recommendations address issues that arose since the adoption of the 1996 Land Use Plan.
The steering committee also made an attempt to incorporate policies from other recent plans
into this document including the 2002 Surface Water Use Plan, the 2003 National Pollutant
Discharge Elimination System Phase II Comprehensive Stormwater Management Report,
and the 2004 Hazard Mitigation Plan. Finally, some policies and recommended actions were
included to address requirements contained in the revised guidance developed by North
Carolina's Division of Coastal Management (DCM) developed pursuant to the Coastal Area
Management Act (CAMA). A public workshop was then held on December 4, 2004 to get
public input on the proposed policies and recommended actions, some of which were then
modified by the Land Use Plan Steering Committee in response to the public input. The end
result of this process was the following set of goals, objectives, policies, and recommended
actions. An asterisk (*) indicates that the policy or recommended action exceeds State
Requirements.
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9.1 Land Use and Development
Goal 9.1: Adopt and apply local policies that balance protection of natural resources and
fragile areas with economic development.
Objective 9.1.A: Maintain the small-town, family -friendly atmosphere at Wrightsville Beach
by encouraging architecture in keeping with the Town's traditions, traditional family homes,
neighborhood and locally oriented businesses, parks and natural areas.
Policy 9.1.A.1: Types of development encouraged: The Town will encourage single-
family and duplex residences, appropriate neighborhood -oriented businesses, parks, and
natural areas.
Recommended Action 9.1.A.l.a: The Town shall develop an inventory and map of
all nonconforming uses in the community.
Policy 9.1.A.2: High rise and multi family structures: 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 and Board approved mixed -use
developments.
Policy 9.1.A.3: Residential development% New or expanded single family and duplex
homes that are out of scale with structures in their vicinity will be discouraged. The
Town supports maintaining a height limit of 40 feet and a floor area ratio of .7 (70%) of
the lot area.
Policy 9.1.A.4: Downtown Area: The Town supports the continuation of a commercial
downtown area to encourage a "village type" atmosphere with appropriate local
businesses.
Policy 9.1.A.5: Commercial Development: The Town will encourage commercial
establishments providing basic goods and service to year round residents and visitors.
Examples include appropriately scaled and designed grocery stores, drug stores, sit down
restaurants etc.
Recommended Action 9.1.A.5.a: The Department of Planning and Parks shall
research and recommend to the Board ways to encourage commercial businesses and
prevent rezoning commercial to residential.
Policy 9.1.A.6: Revitalization and Mixed Use: The Town supports the concept of
appropriately sized mixed -use projects in order to revitalize and preserve the economic
viability of existing commercial areas on the Island.
Recommended Action 9.1.A.6.a: The Town shall contract with professionals to run
a charrette process that brings together the elected and appointed officials, town staff,
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Toivn qf Wrightsville Beach Section'Planfor the Future
business community, land owners, community groups, and residents to develop a
plan to preserve and revitalize commercial areas in Wrightsville Beach.
•
Recommended Action 9.1.A.6.b: The Town shall modify its ordinances and the
policies contained in the land use plan to reflect the results of the charrette process.
Recommended Action 9.1.A.6.c: The Town shall work with businesses, landowners,
community groups, and residents to create incentives to implement the results of the
•
charrette process.
Policy 9.1.A.7: 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, and
floor area ratios.
Policy 9.1.A.8: Density of Development: The Town shall not approve development or
redevelopment projects that exceed current density restrictions.
*Policy 9.1.A.9: Development of Sound and Estuarine Areas: All estuarine islands
and spoil islands are subject to the conservation (P-1) provisions of the Town's zoning
ordinance.
Policy 9.1.A.10: Mineral Production -existing and Potential: Mineral production and
extraction activities, other than dredging for beach renourishment or channel
maintenance, shall not be permitted within the planning jurisdiction of Wrightsville
Beach.
*Policy 9.1.A.11: Development Impacts: New development and redevelopment shall
not be permitted which would act to degrade the quality of natural and scenic resources at
Wrightsville Beach.
*Policy 9.1.A.12: Energy Facilities: The Town is opposed to offshore drilling for oil
and natural gas or locating any other energy facility within or adjacent to the Town's
corporate limits.
Policy 9.1.A.13: Neighborhood Preservation: The Town encourages the improvement,
preservation, and enhancement of the Town's areas of unique character and
neighborhoods.
Policy 9.1.A.14: Historic Preservation: The Town will encourage the regular
maintenance and preservation of older historic structures where appropriate.
Policy 9.1.A.15: Estuarine Shorelines: Residential, recreational, research, educational,
and commercial land uses are all appropriate types of use along the estuarine shoreline
provided all standards of 15NCAC Subchapter 7H relevant to estuarine shoreline AECs
are met, and the proposed use is consistent with the policies set forth in this plan.
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Policy 9.1.A.16: Areas of Environmental Concern. The Town will support and enforce
through its CAMA Minor Permitting capacity, the State policies and permitted uses in
AECs. Acceptable uses within the individual AECs of the estuarine system shall be those
requiring water access or those that cannot function elsewhere. Such uses shall be
consistent with the general use standards for coastal wetlands, estuarine waters, and
public trust areas stated in 15NCAC subchapter 7H.
*Policy 9.1.A.17: Coastal Wetlands: Acceptable land uses in Coastal Wetlands may
include utility easements, fishing piers, and docks. Examples of uses not permitted
include restaurants, businesses, residences, apartments, motels, hotels, parking lots,
private roads, and highways.
Policy 9.1.A.18: Ocean Hazard Areas The Town supports State policies for ocean
hazard areas as set forth in Chapter 15NCAC subchapter 7H of the State CAMA
regulations. Suitable land uses in ocean hazard areas include ocean shoreline erosion
control activities, dune establishment and stabilization. Residential, commercial and
recreational land uses and parking lots for beach access are also acceptable uses in ocean
hazard areas provided they meet all general and specific standards of 15NCAC: 7H.
Policy 9.1.A.19: Piers: The Town supports the policies and regulations of State and
Federal permitting agencies concerning the development of ocean piers, and shall
encourage proper maintenance and safety of such piers.
Policy 9.1.A.20: Town Facilities: 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.
9.2 Infrastructure Carrying Capacity
Goal 9.2: To ensure that public infrastructure systems are appropriately sized, located and
managed so the quality and productivity of the AEC's and other fragile areas are protected
and restored.
Objective 9.2.A: Ensure that the location and capacity of public infrastructure is consistent -
with the Town's growth and development goals.
Policy 9.2.A.1: Bridge & Road Improvements: The Town supports State and Federal
bridge and road improvement programs.
*Policy 9.2.A.2: Underground Utilities: The Town will continue to explore
opportunities to put utilities underground.
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Toivn of Wrightsville Beach Section 9: Plan for the Fnhrre
*Recommended Action 9.2.A.2.a: The Public Works Department shall develop a
feasibility study for putting utilities underground when damage from major storm
events necessitates their replacement.
Policy 9.2.A.3: On -Street Parking: The Town shall encourage on -street parking for
visitors, unless the addition or retention of these facilities creates a public safety concern.
Policy 9.2.A.4: Joint Planning Relationships: The Town shall maintain an on -going
joint planning relationship with the City of Wilmington and New Hanover County 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
corporate limits.
*Policy 9.2.A.5: Bicycles: The Town supports the use of bicycles as a functional means
of reducing automobile traffic and parking demand at the beach.
*Recommended Action 9.2.A.5.a: To advance this policy, the Department of
Planning and Parks shall undertake the following actions:
■ Review Bike Path Plan to determine possible phases of implementation.
■ Seek grants for implementing varied Phases.
■ Place signage for current bike paths.
■ Place bike racks throughout community.
*Policy 9.2.A.6: Public Transportation: The Town will consider proposals from private
entities for establishing public transportation from Wrightsville Beach to adjacent
mainland areas.
Policy 9.2.A.7: Maintenance of Central Sewer System: The Town shall maintain the
ordinance which requires that all new development or redevelopment tie into the
centralized sewer system.
Policy 9.2.A.8: Operation of Water and Wastewater Facilities: The Town shall ensure
efficient uninterrupted operation of water and wastewater facilities.
Recommended Action 9.2.A.8.a: The Public Works Department shall monitor the
capability and maintenance of wastewater facilities and where necessary make
improvements.
Recommended Action 9.2.A.8.b: The Public Works Department shall monitor the
Town's water supply to determine if aquifers are threatened, or if other alternatives
are required.
*Policy 9.2.A.9: Maintaining Adequate Fire Protection: The Town shall take steps to
maintain its fire protection and ensure that future development does not threaten its
current North Carolina Response Rating of 4.
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Town of Wrightsville Beach Section 9: Plan for the Fiat
*Recommended Action 9.2.A.9.a: The Town shall adopt an ordinance requiring
sprinklers or other necessary fire protection measures for new development projects
where such actions will help ensure that the Town maintains its current North
Carolina Response Rating of 4.
Policy 9.2.A.10: Maintaining Adequate Infrastructure Carrying Capacity: The
Town shall conduct an analysis of infrastructure before rezoning parcels to allow for
more intensive development or changing development standards to allow for higher
densities and intensities. This analysis shall determine if existing infrastructure can
provide adequate service to the Town as a whole in light of the proposed re -zonings or
development standard changes. The infrastructure analysis shall review road capacity,
water and sewer capacity, fire flow capacity, public access and other infrastructure
demands related to future development.
9.3 Public Access and Recreation
Goal 9.3: Public Access and Recreation: Maximize public access to the beaches and public
trust waters of the Town of Wrightsville Beach and maximize recreational opportunities for
residents and visitors.
Objective 9.3.A: Access for All Segments of the Community: Implement policies and
recommendations that assure satisfactory access to all segments of the community including
persons with disabilities.
*Policy 9.3.A.1: Existing Access Facilities: The Town shall maintain and where possible
improve existing public access facilities. Where possible the Town should seek funding
from federal, state, or county sources for these improvements.
*Recommended Action 9.3.A.l.a: When making improvements to existing public
access facilities, the following are considered to be priorities for improvements:
■ Fixing the dune walkover structures at public access sites 4 and 5;
■ Bike racks;
■ Additional shower and bathroom facilities;
■ Additional changing stations (clothes);
■ Installation of mats or other devises at one or more access sites to improve the
ability of disabled persons to access the water.
*Policy 9.3.A.2: Signage: The Town shall improve the signage of existing public access
sites located along the sound. These include most street ends with the exception of Meir
Street and the parks located at Wynn Plaza, Island Drive, and South Channel.
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BeachTomi of Wrightsville
*Recommended Action 9.3.A.2.a: The Town shall identify suitable sites for
. marking with state designated signs that say "water access". In identifying sites,
• Town staff will survey each site and its suitability for various uses and make this
information available on its website. The Town will also consider whether public
safety or environmental concerns make the site appropriate for marking. Once the
inventory is completed, the Town shall request that DENR's Division of Coastal
• Management provide marked and numbered signs that can be installed by the
Town's Public Works Department.
*Policy 9.3.A.3: Dune Protection: Public pedestrian access is limited to designated dune
• crossover areas in order to minimize damage to dunes and vegetation. Walking on dunes
or acting in any manner that causes damage to dunes and vegetation is against state and
local ordinances. The Town, through its CAMA minor permit program, may allow the
construction of private over the dune structures for access to the beach at private access
• points.
*Policy 9.3.A.4: Beach Access Paths: Beach access paths, that is, natural paths through
the dunes at designated, unimproved public access sites, shall not exceed 36 inches in
•
width. In the event that these public access paths are unable to accommodate the volume
•
of users at these designated public access sites, the Town should consider constructing
dune walkover structures to minimize damage to dune vegetation and aid in preventing
dune blowouts during storm events.
•
Policy 9.3.A.5: Protecting Visual Access from Roadways: Development activity that
completely obstructs the view from the road to public trust waters shall be discouraged.
Where possible, development and redevelopment activity should allow some visual
access to public trust waters from the roadway.
Recommended Action 9.3.A.5.a: Town staff shall review ordinances to determine if
stricter standards are needed to protect visual access to public trust waters from
roadways.
•
Policy 9.3.A.6: Protecting Visual Access from Town Land: The Town should avoid
installing structures or vegetation that obstructs the view of public trust waters from
Town land.
•
Policy 9.3.A.7: Off Road Vehicles: Off road vehicles (with the exception of Town or
Emergency vehicles) are not allowed outside public rights of way and private drives at
Wrightsville Beach.
•
*Policy 9.3.A.8: Supporting Federal and State Programs to Expand Access: The
Town is committed to county, state, and federal programs that maximize public access to
the beaches and public trust waters of the Town of Wrightsville Beach. These programs
include but are not limited to the Coastal Area Management Act, the North Carolina
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To1V/t of Wrightsville Beach Section 9: Plan for the Futttre
Public Beach Access Program, Federal channel maintenance and inlet projects and beach
renourishment projects.
*Policy 9.3.A.9: Local Room Tax Revenue Distribution: The Town Supports the
application and designation of the local room tax to provide funds for beach
renourishment from the 60/40 split of the first 3% of the room occupancy tax and
additional amounts as they become necessary from the second 3% of the room occupancy
tax. The Town further supports its continued participation in the Wrightsville Beach
Tourism Development Committee in coalition with members of the business community
in their role as delineated in North Carolina General Assembly Session Law 2002-138,
House Bill 1707.
*Policy 9.3.A.10: County Support for Tourism Related Expenses: The Town supports
new revenue sourcing to assist in the recovery of administrative costs associated with the
use of the Town's beach and tourism related facilities by non-residents. Historically,
given the high number of residents of New Hanover County using the Town's facilities,
costs such as life guard services and maintenance of facilities to access the beach and
public trust waters were shared by reimbursement from the New Hanover County Budget.
In the absence of such county funding, new revenue sources must be developed from
county, state, or federal sources to supplement the cost -reimbursements available
pursuant to the room occupancy tax. The Town believes that the following are costs
incurred as a result of the influx of non-residents for which new revenue sources are
needed to offset the increased burden on Wrightsville Beach taxpayers:
■ Police costs associated with Visitors to Wrightsville Beach and large special
events. This includes reimbursement for a percentage of police salaries
determined by percent of work related to visitors, overtime generated by tourism
and special events, and administrative costs associated with visitors to
Wrightsville Beach.
■ Lifeguard costs
■ Maintenance and repair of public access facilities
■ Maintenance of public restrooms and access related facilities
■ Improvement of public access facilities, public restrooms and related tourism
facilities
■ Park Ranger costs.
Objective 9.3.B: Reduce User Conflicts: Reduce user conflicts in the public trust waters of
Wrightsville Beach.
Policy 9.3.B.1: Safe Boating: The Town shall seek to increase public awareness of safe
boating rules.
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BeachToivn of Wrightsville iPlanfor the Future',
Recommended Action 9.3.B.l.a: To increase the public awareness of safe boating
.
rules, the Town shall undertake the following actions:
■ Post Wrightsville Beach Safe Boating Rules at the public boat ramp and at
five strategic locations along specific, well -traveled navigation channels.
■ In conjunction with area merchants, print and distribute safe boating rules on
•
Tide Tables.
■ Sponsor through a nonprofit organization, the preparation of a locally
produced video, combining and overview of the area's scenic and recreational
water resources, with a summary of the most important boater precautions
and safe boating tips.
Policy 9.3.B.2: Operation of Jet Skis and Personal Watercraft: The Town shall seek
to ensure the responsible use of Jet Ski's and other similar personal watercraft in the
•
public trust waters of Wrightsville Beach.
*Recommended Action 9.3.13.2.b: In order to promote the proper operation of Jet
Skis and other types of personal watercraft, the Town shall undertake the following
actions:
•
Request the County post small unobtrusive signs around the perimeter of the
marsh at the north and south ends of Wrightsville Beach notifying jet skiers
of the County ordinance concerning the use of jet skis in marsh areas.
•
Policy 9.3.B.3: No Wake Zones: The Town shall seek to improve existing no wake zone
signage and enforcement.
Recommended Action 9.3.13.3.a: In order to improve the signage and enforcement of
•
no wake zones, the Town shall undertake the following actions:
■ The Town shall work with federal, state, and County officials to find ways to
improve the enforcement of existing no wake zones
■ The Town shall request that New Hanover County, working in conjunction with
•
the US Coast Guard, the US Army Corps of Engineers, and the NC Wildlife
a
Resources Commission, make all official no wake zone signs consistent
throughout the area.
■ The Town shall request the State prohibit private individuals and organizations
•
from posting unauthorized, but official looking, regulatory type signage on or
.
near public waters. Courtesy signs, however, using unofficial color and non -legal
wording could still be permitted.
■ The Town shall request that New Hanover County restore full funding to New
Hanover County Sheriff's Marine Patrol.
•
■ The Town shall seek to establish a seasonal no wake zone in Banks Channel for
the areas contiguous to the Island to improve the safety of boaters, personal
•
watercraft users, and kayakers.
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Town of Wrightsville Beach Section: 9: Plan for the Future
Policy9.3.B.4: Surf Zones: The Town shall revise and update its ordinances pertaining to
the location and enforcement of its surf zones.
Recommended Action 9.3.B.4.a: The Town shall continue its ongoing efforts to
revise and update the ordinance pertaining to the surf zones. When revising the
ordinance, the Town shall consult with appropriate user groups in order to balance
competing interests.
Objective 9.3.C: Maintaining Navigational Channels: Prevent uses that would directly or
indirectly impair or block existing navigational channels.
Policy 9.3.C.1: Blocking or Impairing Navigational Channels: Projects that would
directly or indirectly block or impair existing navigational channels shall be prohibited.
This includes but is not limited to projects that deposit spoils below mean high water,
extend piers beyond the established pier head line or any projects determined to be
detrimental to navigation of the public trust waters.
Policy 9.3.C.2: Enforcing the Pierhead Line: The Town shall continue to strictly
enforce its pierhead line, as well as applicable development standards for docks and piers,
whichever are stricter.
*Policy 9.3.C.3: Limiting Mooring and Anchorage Areas: The Town shall not approve
the establishment or expansion of any additional mooring buoys/spaces or anchorage
areas within the Town's jurisdiction.
*Recommended Action 9.3.C.3.a: The Town shall investigate whether
modifications to its ordinances are necessary to prohibit additional mooring facilities
and anchorage areas.
*Policy 9.3.C.4: Prohibiting Floating Homes: The Town shall continue to prohibit the
permanent consumption of public trust waters by floating homes.
*Policy 9.3.C.5: Limiting New or Expanded Marinas: The Town shall not permit the
expansion or intensification of existing marinas and the development of additional
marinas, including upland marinas in excavated basins. Intensification is defined as
adding dry stack or wet slip storage to existing marinas.
*Recommended Action 9.3.C.5.a: The Town shall review current zoning ordinance
to determine if stricter standards for the expansion or intensification of existing
marinas or the development of new marinas is warranted. When conducting the
review, Town staff will determine whether existing state codes and regulations are
adequate to ensure that the Towns concerns will be addressed.
*Policy 9.3.C.6: Prohibiting New or Expanded Dry Stack Storage by Homeowners:
The Town shall prohibit the expansion and development of additional dry stack storage
facilities by individual homeowners.
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Beach
•
*Policy 9.3.C.7: Locating Vessels for hire and Charter Boats/Cruise Ships: 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.
•
*Policy 9.3.C.S: Limiting New Dockage for Commercial Fishing Vessels: The Town
shall discourage the expansion and development of additional commercial fisheries vessel
dockage where such expansion is inconsistent or incompatible with existing or projected
uses. Commercial fisheries vessel dockage at currently used commercial facilities along
•
the soundside waterfront is acceptable.
*Policy 9.3.C.9: Increasing Accessibility of State Wildlife Boat Ramp: The Town
shall encourage the State wildlife officials to find ways to increase accessibility to the
•
state wildlife boat ramp and reduce problems associated with congestion and parking
problems.
*Recommended Action 9.3.C.9.a: The Town shall investigate whether there are
•
actions it can take to alleviate parking problems and congestion adjacent to the state
•
wildlife boat ramp and parking facility. The Town will also investigate ways to
address the problems associated with illegal parking of cars and boat trailers on
Pelican Street.
•
Objective 9.3.D: Provide a quality recreation experience to both residents and visitors alike.
Policy 9.3.D.1: Parks and Recreational Facilities: The Town supports the development,
maintenance, and enhancement of its parks and recreational facilities for the benefit of
•
residents and visitors alike.
Recommended Action 9.3.D.l.a: In order to maintain and enhance its parks and
recreational facilities, the Town shall consider the following improvements to
•
recreational facilities:
■ Additions to the Frances L Russ Recreation center to increase space for
programming;
■ An additional soccer field;
•
■ Addition of lights to the tennis courts, softball fields, or soccer fields to
increase recreational programming;
■ The construction of an additional picnic shelter to expand the availability of
this heavily used facility; or,
• ■ Consider developing a safe area for skateboarding within the recreational area.
0 *Policy 9.3.D.2: Kayak Trail: The Town shall seek to increase the public's awareness of
its newly installed Kayak Trail and other recreational facilities.
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Town of Wi iglitsville Beach Section 9: Plan for the Future
9.4 Water Quality and Natural Environment
Goal 9.4: Water Quality and Natural Environment: Maintain and where possible improve
the natural environment and water quality within and adjacent to Wrightsville Beach.
Objective 9.4.A: Protect the Natural Environment of Wrightsville Beach: The Town
shall take actions designed to protect and where possible enhance and restore the sensitive
natural resources located in and adjacent to the Town of Wrightsville Beach.
*Policy 9.4.A.1 Resource Production and Management: The Town shall undertake no
activity nor approve any activity that is deleterious to the long-term viability and
productivity of its ecosystem.
*Policy 9.4.A.2: Marsh Damage from Bulkhead Installation: The Town shall not
allow wetlands or oceanfront beach areas to be damaged by the installation of new
bulkheads, groins or seawalls.
Policy 9.4.A.3: Beach Hardening: The Town adheres to CAMA policies and regulations
concerning beach erosion control. Structures including but not limited to bulkheads,
riprap, groins or other similar features, which act to harden the shoreline along the beach,
shall not be permitted. Beach renourishment, relocating structures, or other "non
hardening" measures shall be encouraged.
*Policy 9.4.A.4: Beach Renourishment: The Town will continue to work towards
maintaining or improving the current cost share formula for federal/state/local
governments for beach renourishment projects.
Policy 9.4.A.5: Bulkhead and Seawall Maintenance: The Town shall require proper
maintenance of existing bulkheads and seawalls for health, safety, and aesthetic reasons.
Policy 9.4.A.6: Bulkhead Construction and Maintenance: The Town shall require
appropriate construction and maintenance of estuarine bulkheads within the context of
CAMA regulations.
Policy 9.4.A.7: Turtle Nesting Areas: The Town shall avoid undertaking any activity or
approving any activity that destroys habitat for loggerhead turtle nesting.
Policy 9.4.A.8: Maritime Forest 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 all new development or redevelopment activities.
Policy 9.4.A.9: Beach Clean-ups: The Town supports the "Big Sweep" beach cleanup
program and all other similar efforts to enhance the cleanliness of the natural
environment.
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Policy 9.4.A.10: Solid Waste Disposal & Recycling: The Town supports measures to
recycle and reduce the amount of solid waste generated by residents, visitors, and
businesses.
Recommended Action 9.4.A.10.a: The Public Works Department will develop a
program to reduce the problems associated with wet garbage that results in leaking
dumpsters and garbage trucks. Activities to be considered include:
■ Public education to reduce the liquid content in garbage cans and dumpsters
■ Create incentives for businesses to use compactors
■ Locating dumpster facilities away from places where they are visible to the
public or near public access points
■ Improving maintenance and operation of garbage trucks
■ Avoid placing dumpsters over or in close proximity to storm drains
■ Reviewing the zoning code to find ways to improve dumpster location
*Policy 9.4.A.11: Preserve Masonboro Island: The Town supports all efforts to
preserve Masonboro Island.
Policy 9.4.A.12: Wetland Preservation: 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 designation and preservation of all remaining coastal
wetlands in accordance with CAMA requirements.
Policy 9.4.A.13: Mason's Inlet and the North End: The Town supports maintaining
Mason's Inlet and the resulting Bird Sanctuary at the North End that resulted from the
project completed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in March 2002.
Objective 9.4.11: Improving Water Quality: Reduce pollutant loadings in stormwater
generated within the Town of Wrightsville Beach and conform to the National Pollutant
Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Phase II Stormwater Management requirements.
*Policy 9.4.13.1: Stormwater Public Education and Outreach: The Town will inform
and educate the public about the importance of stormwater management and the water
quality and environmental problems associated with nonpoint sources of pollution.
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Town of Wrightsville Beach Section 9: Plan for the Futrrre
*Recommended Action 9.4.B.l.a: The Town shall adopt a stormwater education and
outreach program with the following components:
■ Create a regional stormwater educational cooperative
■ Locate and distribute stormwater educational materials
■ Create and run stormwater public service announcements
■ Develop and present a stormwater educational curriculum
■ Determine if there is need for a stormwater hotline, implement a hotline if it is
found to be necessary
■ Add an additional stormwater information link to the Town website
■ Create or partner with an existing green business program
■ Create or partner with an existing "green yard" program
■ Create a stormwater construction site stormwater education program
■ Target trash, car washing, disposal of household chemicals and used oil,
application of lawn care products and pet waste through the stormwater
education and outreach program
■ Target varied audiences through the stormwater education and outreach
program
Further details on the contents of the recommended stormwater education and
outreach program can be found in Appendix D.
*Policy 9.4.B.2: Public Participation and Involvement in Stormwater Management:
The Town shall involve the public in the development of its stormwater program in order
to increase awareness, develop a feeling of ownership, and build future coalitions
between stakeholder groups.
*Recommended Action 9.4.B.2.a: The Town shall implement the provisions of its
NPDES Phase II Stormwater Permit application pertaining to public participation and
involvement. This includes taking the following actions:
■ Create a volunteer education team;
■ Create a volunteer monitoring team;
■ Implement a storm drain stenciling program;
■ Create a water clean up program;
■ Review the Ocean Front Development Standards and determine whether
vegetation installation and restoration is encouraged;
■ Target varied audiences in order to encourage public involvement and
participation in stormwater management;
■ Identify, organize and recruit volunteers for various programs including water
clean ups and storm drain stenciling;
■ Coordinate and conduct workshops with lawn care, garden stores,
construction and landscape services, municipal employees, area residents, and
the NC Cooperative Extension Service (CES);
■ Conduct public hearings to inform and engage the public throughout the
development and implementation of the stormwater program
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Further details on the contents of the recommended stormwater education and
outreach program can be found in Appendix D.
*Policy 9.4.B.3: Illicit Stormwater Discharges: The Town shall continue its efforts to
identify and eliminate illicit discharges and implement the provisions of its NPDES Phase
II Stormwater Permit application that pertain to illicit discharge elimination.
*Recommended Action 9.4.11.3.a: The staff of the Public Works Department shall
expand its efforts to identify and eliminate illicit discharges and take the following
actions:
■ Adopt an illicit discharge detection ordinance;
■ Adopt an illegal dumping ordinance;
■ Create an illicit discharge detection program and assess the program's
progress on a yearly basis to determine if modifications are needed;
■ Create illicit discharge detection teams;
■ Complete the mapping and conduct initial surveys of stormwater drainage
system;
■ Prioritize areas for further inspection;
■ Implement a regular shoreline inspection program to update maps and check
on priority areas;
■ Establish illegal dumping enforcement program;
■ Distribute educational materials regarding illicit discharge elimination;
■ Create a pollution prevention/good house -keeping program that focuses on
training and proper best management practices (BMPs) for fleet maintenance,
construction, and other municipal activities.
Further details on the contents of the recommended actions for eliminating illicit
discharges can be found in Appendix D.
.M

*Policy 9.4.B.4: Stormwater Control For New Development and Redevelopment:
The Town shall implement the provisions of its NPDES Phase II Stormwater Permit
application pertaining to post construction stormwater management for new development
and redevelopment activities and implement stormwater control measures that, among
other things:
■ Control and treat the difference in stormwater runoff volume leaving a project
site between the pre and post development conditions for the 1 year 24 hour
storm event. Runoff volume draw down time shall be a minimum of 24 hours,
but not more than 120 hours;
■ All structural stormwater treatment systems used to meet the requirements shall
be designed to have 85% average annual removal for total suspended solids
(TSS);
■ General engineering design criteria for all projects shall be in accordance with
15A NCAC 2H.1008 (c);
■ All built upon areas (BUA) shall be at a minimum of 30 feet landward of all
perennial and intermittent surface waters;
■ Ensures appropriate operation and maintenance of structural and nonstructural
BMPs;
Require recorded deed restrictions and protective covenants to ensue that
development activities maintain the development consistent with the approved
project plans.
Further details on appropriate design, operation, and maintenance of structural and
nonstructural BMPs can be found in Appendix D.
*Policy 9.4.B.5: Reducing Fecal Coliform Loadings: The Town of Wrightsville Beach
shall develop a program and work with City and County officials to reduce, to the
maximum extent practicable, sources of fecal coliform to its estuarine and ocean waters
with the goal of opening up all of Wrightsville Beach's waters to shellfishing.
*Recommended Action 9.4.B.5.a: The staff of the Public Works Department shall
work with City of Wilmington and New Hanover County to identify ways to reduce
fecal coliform loadings from nonpoint sources to coastal waters adjacent to
Wrightsville Beach.
*Recommended Action 9.4.B.5.b: The Town shall encourage the City of
Wilmington and New Hanover County to take steps to improve water quality in
Bradley Creek as well as other waters that impact water quality in and adjacent to
Wrightsville Beach.
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*Policy 9.4.B.6: New Direct Stormwater Discharges: The Town shall not allow new
direct discharges of stormwater into SA waters or expand existing discharge points to any
constructed stormwater conveyance system or constructed system of conveyances that
discharge into SA waters. Expansion is defined as an increase in drainage area resulting
in a net increase in peak flow from the I year 24 hour storm. Overland sheet flow of
stormwater or stormwater discharge to a wetland vegetated buffer or other natural area
capable of providing treatment or absorption will not be considered a direct discharge of
stormwater. For further details on these requirements see the Town's Phase II NPDES
Stormwater Permit application and the discussion contained in Appendix D.
*Policy 9.4.B.7: Reduction of Existing Stormwater Discharges: The Town shall
utilize structural and non-structural BMPs designed to reduce the quantity and increase
the quality of existing stormwater discharges.
*Recommended Action 9.4.B.7.a: The Public Works Department shall undertake
the following nonstructural BMPs in order to reduce the quantity or increase the
quality of stormwater discharges:
■ Develop a comprehensive post -construction stormwater strategy;
■ Implement a stormwater inspection program;
■ Conduct a needs assessment for stormwater utility fees;
■ Develop an impervious surface management plan;
■ Adopt a local landscaping ordinance;
■ Adopt a local stormwater management ordinance;
For further details on this recommendation see the Town's Phase II NPDES
Stormwater Permit application and the discussion contained in Appendix D.
*Recommended Action 9.4.B.7.b: When state roads are repaired or resurfaced, the
Town shall require the Department of Transportation (DOT) to use infiltration
systems and other structural or nonstructural BMPs necessary to treat stormwater
generated from road surfaces. When Town roads are repaired or resurfaced, the
Town shall seek state funding to assist with its efforts to treat stormwater generated
by road surfaces using infiltration devices and other structural and nonstructural
BMPs.
Policy 9.4.B.8: Protecting Wetlands: The Town shall preserve and where possible
enhance all existing wetland areas to improve water quality and provide a buffer for
flooding.
Recommended Action 9.4.B.8.a: The Planning and Parks Department shall map the
Town's existing wetland areas within the jurisdiction of its NPDES Phase II
Stormwater Permit application and develop changes to its ordinances that preserve
wetland areas.
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*Policy 9.4.B.9: Stormwater Retrofits for Existing Development: Where appropriate,
the Town shall use economic incentives to encourage existing development to retrofit
properties and install structural or nonstructural BMPs that reduce stormwater runoff. For
further details on this policy see the Town's Phase II NPDES Stormwater Permit
application and the discussion contained in Appendix D.
*Policy 9.4.B.10: Stormwater Discharges From Municipal Sources: Where
practicable, the Town shall eliminate stormwater discharges resulting from municipal
activities. Where elimination is not possible, the Town shall mitigate the sources of
stormwater discharges to the maximum extent practicable.
*Recommended Action 9.4.B.10.a: The staff of the Public Works Department shall
expand its efforts to identify and eliminate stormwater discharges resulting from the
Town's municipal activities. Actions that should be taken include:
■ Develop pollution prevention plan;
■ Hold workshops on pollution prevention for municipal employees;
■ Implement and enforce stormwater control maintenance and hazardous
materials storage requirements;
■ Adopt pollution prevention ordinance;
■ Create a pollution prevention/good house -keeping program that focuses on
training and proper best management practices (BMPs) for fleet maintenance,
construction, and other municipal activities.
Further details on the contents of the recommended actions for pollution prevention
and good house -keeping for municipal operations are contained in the Town's
NPDES Phase II Stormwater Permit Application and in Appendix D.
9.5 Hazard Mitigation
Goal 9.5: Hazard Mitigation: Protect public health and safety from the damaging effects of
storm surges, wave action, flooding, high winds, and erosion associated with hurricanes,
severe weather, and other hazards.
Objective 9.5.A: Protect Against Damage From Hurricanes, Severe Weather, or Other
Hazards: The Town will be proactive in its efforts to minimize damage and threats to public
health and safety associated with hurricanes, severe weather, and other hazards.
*Policy 9.5.A.1: Public Education: Ensure that the public is aware of the risks of
different types of natural hazards in order to reduce their personal exposure to natural
hazards.
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Beach Section
*Recommended Action 9.5.A.l.a: The Department of Planning and Parks shall
implement a public education program designed to help inform the public about their
exposure to natural hazards and actions they can take to mitigate potential damage to
•
public health, safety, and property from natural disasters. This includes, but is not
limited to:
■ Ensure the local library maintains documents about flood insurance, flood
protection, floodplain management, and natural and beneficial functions of
floodplains. Many documents are available free of charge from the Federal
Emergency Management Agency (FEMA);
r
■ Encourage builders, developers and architects to become familiar with the
NFIP's land use and building standards by attending annual workshops
•
presented by the NC Division of Emergency Management (DEM);
■ Provide local real estate agents with handouts advising potential buyers to
investigate potential flood hazards for the property they are considering
purchasing;
•
■ Advertise the availability of flood insurance on an annual basis;
■ Post hazard related information on the Town's website and distribute
appropriate educational materials;
*Policy 9.5.A.2: Redevelopment and Relocation of Threatened Structures: The Town
•
supports relocating all structures landward when endangered by the damaging effects of
storm surges, wave action, flooding, high winds, and erosion associated with hurricanes
and other severe weather. Redevelopment of damaged or destroyed structures will only
be permitted in accordance with the Town's ordinances provided that current building
• standards and CAMA requirements are met.
Policy 9.5.A.3: Development in Areas Susceptible to Sea Level Rise: The Town
supports continued research on sea level rise and recognizes its potential impact on
coastal areas. In response to these concerns, the Town shall review its policies regarding
•
development in areas below an elevation of 5 feet, support regular beach renourishment,
and recommends relocating structures potentially threatened by sea level rise.
*Policy 9.5.A.4: Land Acquisition: The Town supports the acquisition of property that
i
is unsuitable for development due to coastal hazards when such acquisition serves a
useful public purpose such as access to the beach or sound. Acquisition of appropriate
properties is also encouraged by federal and state agencies. To provide a proactive
approach, priority areas for acquisition shall be identified.
*Recommendation 9.5.A.4.a: The staff of the Department of Planning and Parks
shall identify priority areas for land acquisition after severe storm events in order to
mitigate damage from future storms.
*Policy 9.5.A.5: Funding for Land Acquisition: The Town shall investigate outside
funding sources for land acquisition and shall encourage gifts and donations for tax
credits as a mitigation measure for future storm events.
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Town of Wrightsville Beach Section 9: Plan for the Future
*Policy 9.5.A.6: Flood Insurance: The Town shall take actions necessary to reduce the
cost of flood insurance to property owners by maintaining or improving the Community
Rating System Status (CRS)
*Policy 9.5.A.7: Standards for Construction in Flood Prone Areas: The Town shall
require all new and substantially improved structures to meet federal, state and local
standards for construction in flood prone areas.
*Policy 9.5.A.8: Flood Plain Ordinance: The Town will only grant variances to its
Flood Plain Ordinance on rare occasions provided that the individual property meets the
findings set forth under FEMA guidelines. The Town will continue to exceed the FEMA
Criteria for minimum structure elevation in both the "A" and "V" zones and allow less
enclosed storage space of the first floor than is allowable under the National Flood
Insurance Program in order to help maintain the Town's Community Rating System
Status (CRS).
*Policy 9.5.A.9: F000dplain Open Space: Preserve open space in floodplain areas to
minimize potential storm damage.
*Recommended Action 9.5.A.9.a: The Department of Planning and Parks shall
update the Town of Wrightsville Beach's Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance after
the North Carolina Emergency Management (NCEM) mapping revisions are
completed.
*Policy 9.5.A.10: Beach Renourishment: To help mitigate the effect of storm related
hazards, the Town shall work with federal, state, and local governments to undertake
regular beach renourishment projects.
*Recommended Action 9.5.A.10.a: The Town in cooperation with the County
should develop a strategy for the Town to become financially self sufficient so that
regular beach renourishment projects can still be funded in the event that federal and
state funding for beach renourishment projects is reduced.
*Policy 9.5.A.11: Discouraging Development in Hazardous Areas: The Town shall
use a variety of methods, including CAMA setback requirements and local zoning
setbacks, to discourage development in areas that potentially threatens public health and
safety as a result of hurricanes and other severe storm events.
*Policy 9.5.A.12: Minimize Potential Fire Damage: Reduce the risk of damage from
urban fires as a result of future development.
*Recommended Action 9.5.A.12.a: The Public Works Department, in conjunction
with the Fire Department, shall consider increasing the size of water lines and water
mains on the south end of the island and installing water mains at all dead end streets.
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Beach
*Policy 9.5.A.13: Hurricane Management Plan: The Town shall update its Hurricane
Management Plan yearly in concert with county and state emergency management
officials, and with input from Town residents. The plan shall encompass pre -storm and
•
immediate post -storm activities and policies of the Town. Issues addressed in the
Hurricane Management Plan include:
■ Criteria for issuing building permits in a post storm setting
■ Orderly issuance of building permits in a post -storm setting
•
■ Sequence of restoration for public utilities and services
■ Public infrastructure repair and replacement
■ Beach re-entry
■ Debris pick-up
■ Damage assessment
■ Evacuation procedures
■ Recovery Task Force membership and duties
■ Public health and safety issues
*Policy 9.5.A.14: Evacuation Shelters: Ensure that all evacuation shelters are well -
publicized, accessible, and meet national standards for public safety and supplies.
*Policy 9.5.A.15: Evacuations: Provide effective evacuation prior to natural hazard
events.
Objective 9.5.B: Post -Storm Recovery: In the period following a hurricane, severe weather
event, or other disaster, the Town will work as quickly as possible to restore essential
•
services related to public health, safety and welfare.
Policy 9.5.B.1: Mutual Aid: The Town shall maintain established mutual aid agreements
and where necessary develop new agreements to assist with post -storm event clean-up,
•
damage assessment, and reconstruction activities.
Policy 9.5.B.2: Staging Schedule for Reconstruction and Repair: The staging schedule
for the re-establishment of essential services and the reconstruction and repair of
•
properties damaged in a storm event depends on the severity of the storm and the damage
inflicted. The Town will work to restore essential services related to public health, safety
and welfare first. Properties suffering minor damage will be issued permits as
expeditiously as possible. Properties suffering major damage will generally be allowed to
implement temporary protective measures designed to protect their property from further
•
damage or to correct public safety problems.
Policy 9.5.B.3: Building Permits: The Town shall issue building permits as
expeditiously as possible to property owners who have received minor damage after
storm events. If a structure is damaged more than 50% of the value of the structure, the
property owner will have to rebuild or modify the structure to meet current ordinances
•
and building standards.
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Policy 9.5.B.4: Public Infrastructure Repair and Replacement: The Town shall
maintain assessments of current infrastructure usage and need for expansion, repair, or
replacement. Following major storm events, the Town will assess damage to public
infrastructure at the earliest possible time. Damage which affects public health and safety
will be corrected as soon as practicable. Damage to existing infrastructure will also be
evaluated for potential opportunities for repair or expansion consistent with existing
capital improvement and repair needs. Long term repair or replacement of infrastructure
will be prioritized based on resources available, impact on the integrity of the
infrastructure, mitigation of future hazard situations, and the Town's capital improvement
program.
Policy 9.5.B.5: Electrical Outages: Reduce the frequency of electrical outages and
length of time such outages last after hurricanes and severe storm events.
Recommended Action 9.5.B.5.a: The Department of Public Works shall convene a
working group with electrical service providers within the county and provide a
report with specific recommendations and detailed implementation timelines, that
addresses the issues of 1) disaster preparedness and 2) communication with County
officials during and immediately after a natural hazard event that results in loss of
electrical power.
*Policy 9.5.B.6: Property Loss: Reduce property loss due to flooding as a result of
storm events.
*Recommended Action 9.5.B.6.a: In the event that the President declares
Wrightsville Beach a disaster area, the Department of Planning and Parks shall apply
for funding from the federal Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) for one of
the top priorities listed in Section II of the Town's Hazard Mitigation Plan.
*Policy 9.5.B.7: Post -Storm Hazard Mitigation: Develop specific and timely
recommendations for implementing hazard mitigation measures following a state or
federally declared natural disaster.
*Recommended Action 9.5.B.7.a: In the event that the President declares
Wrightsville Beach a disaster area, the Department of Planning and Parks shall apply
for funding from the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) for one of the top
priorities listed in Section II of the Town's Hazard Mitigation Plan.
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Section 10
Tools for Managing Development
10.0 Introduction
This section of the land use plan describes Wrightsville Beach's strategy and action plan for
implementing the policies and recommendations contained in Section 9's Plan for the Future.
This section has four major parts that describe the:
■ Role of the land use plan in local decisions: the role of the plan and the status of
its goals, objectives, policies, and recommended actions in Wrightsville Beach's
land use and development decisions;
■ Existing development management program: Wrightsville Beach's existing
policies, ordinances, codes, and regulations and how they will be coordinated and
employed to implement the plan's policies and recommended actions;
■ Additional tools: the other tools such as new or amended ordinances, capital
improvement programs, land acquisition, or other projects recommended to
implement the plan; and,
■ Action plan and implementation schedule: the priority policies and
recommended actions that will be taken to implement the plan with a general
schedule to accomplish these actions.
Collectively, these sections describe how Wrightsville Beach's CAMA Land Use Plan will
manage future land use and development.
10.1 Role of the Land Use Plan in Local Decisions
Wrightsville Beach's CAMA Land Use Plan serves a variety of functions and the plan for the
future contains a broad range of.
Goals: desired ends toward which policies and programs of the Land Use Plan
are directed. Many of the goals reflect requirements set forth in the Division of
Coastal Management's (DCM's) Coastal Resource Commission (CRC)
guidelines;
Objectives: more specific and measurable than the general goals and in some
cases a goal has multiple objectives;
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Policies: A consistent set of principles or guidelines for making a variety of local
decisions designed to accomplish the goals and objectives. These policies guide
decisions by the Board of Aldermen, its appointed boards, and staff.
Recommended Actions: specific actions that can be taken to implement and
advance the plan's policies. Many of these recommended actions are
nonregulatory in nature and will be addressed through the Town's capital
improvement program (CIP) or through subsequent planning efforts.
Collectively, the goals, objectives, policies, and recommended actions provide a long range
planning function but they also help guide day-to-day operations. The daily functions relate
primarily to the decisions of actions of elected and appointed officials and the Town's
administrative staff.
For the Board of Aldermen and Board of Adjustment, the CAMA Land Use Plan contains
Town policies and provides a guide when making decisions regarding future land use and
development, public access, protecting the environment, mitigating natural and manmade
hazards, and ensuring that the Town's infrastructure and services are adequate to serve its
year round population and the influx of seasonal visitors. While the CAMA Land Use Plan's
policies do not have the same status as a local zoning ordinance, except in matters related to
development or land uses within Areas of Environmental Concern (AECs), the policies and
recommended actions and the future land use map contained in Appendix E help guide
decisions on future ordinances and zoning decisions. Moreover, the Board of Aldermen will
use the CAMA Land Use Plan's policies and recommended actions when making decisions
on the Town's capital improvement program (CIP) and its annual operating budget. The
Board of Aldermen will also review the implementation strategy and make periodic
adjustments based on budgetary considerations, emerging issues, problems or community
needs, or to coordinate with future planning efforts and ongoing projects. All changes to the
CAMA Land Use Plan's policies and recommended actions and this implementation strategy
will be forwarded to the DENR's Division of Coastal Management (DCM) for its subsequent
approval.
Other Town boards and committees will also use the CAMA Land Use Plan. The Town's
Planning Board will use the plan and its policies to determine the consistency of project plans
and development proposals with community goals and objectives. Its policies and
recommendations will also guide decisions on whether to grant or deny requests for such
things as ordinance amendments, conditional use permits, variance requests, or the approval
of project plans. The plan will also be a useful guide to Town's Recreation Advisory
Committee (RAC) and the Historic Landmark Commission (HLC).
The Town's administrative staff will also use the plan's policies and recommendations in a
variety of ways. Staff in the Department of Planning and Parks will use the policies and
recommendations when reviewing site plans and development proposals. Various Town
departments will use the policies and recommended actions to guide proposals for
development projects and plans for public facilities. Many of the plan's policies and
recommended actions also guide ongoing operations and programs within other Town
departments, particularly the Public Works Department and its efforts to manage the Town's

infrastructure and address problems associated with stormwater runoff. Accordingly, Town
staff will use the implementation strategy to guide budget preparation, the development of
the CIP, and make reference to the plan when applying for various sources of federal, state,
• and county grant funds.
The Town's CAMA Land Use Plan will also be used by other federal and state officials, in
particular DENR's DCM. An important use of Wrightsville Beach's CAMA Land Use Plan
•
is for consistency determinations by the DCM for major permits issued pursuant to CAMA
•
regulations. Other state and federal agencies will also use the plan to determine the
consistency of their projects and programs with the policies contained in this plan.
The CAMA Land Use Plan will also be of use to a variety of community members. The plan
•
is a useful tool for developers and property owners because it provides guidance on the types
of land use and development that are desired within the community. The plan's policies and
recommendations will also help developers to craft proposals that are consistent with the
Town's goals and objectives, thereby increasing the likelihood that these projects will be
approved. Furthermore, the plan provides information that will help owners and developers
to better understand the capabilities and limitations of their property. The plan also provides
community members with information to reference when supporting or opposing projects
within the community.
10.2 Existing Development Management Program
All land development in Wrightsville Beach is subject to a wide range of state and local
•
permits pursuant to a comprehensive set of state regulations and local ordinances. The
County also enforces some provisions of the state building code. The following sections
summarize Wrightsville Beach's major ordinances and the regulatory provisions of the
Town's development management program [Table 10.1].
r
10.2.A Wrightsville Beach's Land Development 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 the general welfare of its
citizens. Local plans and policies are enforced through ordinances adopted by the Board of
Aldermen, which is granted this authority 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. These provisions are also
•
applicable to the satellite annexation areas in the Wrightsville Sound area.
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Table 10.1: Wrightsville Beach's Development Management Program
Land Use &
Infrastructure
Public
Ordinances
Development
Zoning
Creates zoning
Development is
P-1 zone limits
ordinance
districts that
required to tie
development to
regulate such things
into public water
piers only. S-1
as minimum lot
and sewers.
zone prohibits
size, set backs, uses,
Limits density to
development
height, FAR, and
ensure that
activity
parking
adequate sewer
and water supply.
Subdivision
Regulates
Development is
Ordinance
subdivision and
required to tie
development of
into public water
larger parcels
and sewers.
Minimum
Standards for a
Standards for a
Housing
building to be fit for
building to be
Ordinance
human habitation
fit for human
habitation
Building
NC Building Code
NC Building
Code
enforced
Code enforced
Pierhead
Limits
Line
how far
Ordinance
piers can
extend
Flood Plain
Requirements to
All new or
Post -development
Ordinance
mitigate potential
substantially
runoff is limited to
flood losses that
upgraded
pre -development
meet or exceed
structures have
levels. Stormwater
FEMA requirements
to comply with
detention or
ordinance
retention shall be
designed for a 10-
year storm or
eater
Oceanfront
Limits
Dune
Develop-
access to
protection and
ment
designated
limits access to
Ordinance
dune
designated
walkovers. I
dune walkovers
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Town of TVrightsville Beach Section 10: Tools•for Managing Development
Table 10.1: Wrightsville Beach's Development Management Program (Cont.)
ongoing
Land Use &
Infrastructure
Water
Plans/Policies
Development
Capacity
2002 Surface
Contains
Water Use Plan
policies and
actions to
manage uses of
surface water
and minimize
user conflicts
NPDES
Contains policies
Contains
Phase II
and actions to
policies and
Stormwater
address various
actions to
Permit
sources of
address
Application
nonpoint source
various
pollution
sources of
nonpoint
source
pollution
Hazard
Contains
Mitigation Plan
policies and
actions to
mitigate
dangers from
natural and
manmade
hazards
Revitalization
Planning process
Planning
Planning
Chanette
recommended
process
process
options for
recommended
recommended
revitalizing
infrastructure
improvements
commercial areas
improvements
to expand
in the Town
in the Town
opportunities
for public
access
Surf Zone
Committee
Committee
reviewed the
current
ordinance that
establishes surf
zones and
recommended
changes that
address user
conflicts
1939 Building
Committee
Committee
Line Committee
reviewed issues
reviewed
associated with
issues
the 1939 building
associated with
line and
the 1939
oceanfront
building line
setbacks
and oceanfront
setbacks
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To1vn of Wrightsville Beach Section 10: Tools./or Managing Development
Table 10.2: Dimensional Table of Conforming Uses
ZoningLot
R-11
Lot Area
8,000'
Width
70'
Lot
Depth
Front
Setbacks
15,
Rear
Setbacks
15'
Side
Setbacks
15'
Corner
Setbacks
15'
40'
R-I Non. Res.
24,000'
200'
15,
15'
15'
15'
40'
R-2
8,000'
70'
15'
15'
15'
15'
40'
R-2 Cond.
8,000'
100'
15,
15'
15' 2
15,
40'
C-1 3
0'
0'
0'
40'
C-1 Addtl. Cond.
10,000'
100'
100,
0'
0'
o,4
40'
C-2
50'
15'
7.5'
7.5'
7.5'
40'
C-2 Cond.
10,000'
50'
15,
7.5'
7.5'
7.5'
40'
C-3 3
50'
15,
7.5'
7.5'
40'
C-3 Addtl. Cond.
10,000'
100,
30'
20'
20
40'
C-4
100'
1 30'
20'
20'
96'
C-4 Cond.', 6
10,000'
100,
100'
30'
20'
20'
96'
C-5
10,000'
100,
30'
20'
10,8
40'
P-C
24,000'
150'
15'
7.5'
7.5'
40'
G-1
5,000'
50'
7.5'
7.5'
7.5'
40'
P-1 Conserv.
S-I Shore Zone
''Minimum lot area for single family and duplex units is 8,000'.
"'Side yard setback shall increase by 15' for each additional 50' of property frontage. Where residential units
have rear exits into side yards, the yards shall be increased in width 2' for each unit having such exits."
Maximum density for hotels, motels and motor courts is 48 units per gross acre."
4iIn cases where a side yard is provided, it shall be at least 7.5' in width, except a side yard that borders on a
public thoroughfare."
"'A parking lot, as a conditional use, shall not be subject to this dimension standard."
"'Density for hotels, motels and motor courts shall be 48 units per acre."
'"Maximum density for hotels and motels shall be 48 units per acre."
"'Where property adjoins a residential district, the side yard shall be 20'."
"'Building height shall be measured as the average elevation of the proposed finished grade at the front of the
structure to the highest point of the coping of a flat roof; to the ridge line of a mansard roof; or to the ridge of
a gable, hip or gambrel roof."
10.2.A.1 Wrightsville Beach Zoning Code: 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 regulates location and height of buildings,
establishes minimum building lot sizes, and establishes districts in which uses related to
residential, commercial, and institutional uses are either allowed or prohibited [Table 10.2].
Currently, the town has 11 zoning districts:
■ Two residential (R-1, and R-2);
■ A private club district;
■ Five commercial districts (C 1 through C 5);
■ A public and semi-public district;
■ A shore zone district for the beach front area; and,
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Table 10.3: Dimensional Table of Non Conforming Uses
'"Minimum lot area for a duplex shall be 4,000 square feet."
■ A conservation district that 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 basis. These zoning districts are displayed graphically on Zoning Map
• contained in Appendix A. Further information on setbacks, and minimum lot size within
each district is summarized in Tables 10.2 and 10.3.
10.2.A.2 Subdivision Regulations: Wrightsville Beach's 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, sewer service, and
drainage facilities. Given the limited amount of undeveloped land remaining in Wrightsville
Beach, subdivision regulations have limited applicability.
10.2.A.3 Minimum Housing Standards: This ordinance lays out standards that must be met
for buildings to be fit for human habitation. It determines if a house is habitable by
determining if a situation is dangerous and injurious to the health, safety, and welfare of the
•
people in the Town. Conditions considered include: general, dilapidation; defects increasing
•
the hazards of fire, accidents or other calamities; lack of ventilation, light or sanitary
facilities; and other conditions rendering such dwellings unsafe, unsanitary, dangerous, or
detrimental to the welfare of the residents of the Town. Due to Wrightsville Beach's
•
proximity to the ocean, the ordinance also sets forth erection, alteration, and repair
•
procedures that are more stringent than in other areas not subject to these hazards.
10.2.A.4 Pierhead Line Ordinance: This set of regulations defines how far a pier can extend
out into the water. If a conflict exists between the NC Code and the Wrightsville Beach
•
Town Code, the more restrictive regulation prevails. The NC Administrative Code (NCAC)
T15: 7H.1205 (g) states "The line of division of areas 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."
10.2.A.5 Building Code: The Town of Wrightsville Beach has an active building inspections
program and enforces the NC State Building Code along with additional provisions found in
Chapter 151 of the Town Code of Ordinances. Volume No. 5 of the Fire Prevention Code is
•
enforced by the Town's Fire Department. In order to ensure that all structures comply with
the aforementioned code, the building inspection program performs a series of inspections
prior to development, during construction, and periodically after development has occurred.
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10.2.A.6 Flood Plain and Damage Prevention Ordinance: This ordinance provides
development and construction criteria designed to mitigate potential flood losses. Provisions
of this ordinance meet and exceed FEMA requirements. The ordinance also requires that
post -development stormwater runoff is no greater than predevelopment levels.
10.2.A.7 Additional New Hanover County Regulations Affecting the Wrightsville Sound
Area: In the Wrightsville Sound Area, New Hanover County and Wilmington Zoning
Ordinances, including those pertaining to subdivisions and sedimentation and erosion
control, also apply.
10.2.B CAMA Requirements
The Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA) requires permits for development in Areas of
Environmental Concern (AEC). Major permits are necessary for activities that require other
state or federal permits, for projects that cover more than 20 acres, or for construction
covering more than 60,000 square feet. Ten state and four federal agencies review
applications for major permits before a decision is made. General permits are used for
routine projects that usually pose little or no threat to the environment. Minor permits are
required for projects, such as single-family houses, that don't require major permits or
general permits. The local permit officer (LPO) has the power to issue minor CAMA
permits, and approve permit exemptions. Under CAMA regulations, a minor permit is to be
issued within 25 days once a complete application is in hand. If the project is simple, the
review process often is much shorter.
A CAMA permit I needed for your project if it meets all of the following conditions:
■ It is in one of the 20 counties covered by CAMA.
■ It is considered "development" under CAMA.
■ It is in, or it affects, an AEC established by the CRC.
■ It doesn't qualify for an exemption.
CAMA defines development as: "any activity in a duly designated area of environmental
concern ... involving, requiring or consisting of the construction or enlargement of a
structure; excavation; dredging; filling; dumping; removal of clay, silt, sand, gravel or
minerals; bulkheading; driving of pilings; clearing or alteration of land as an adjunct of
construction; alteration or removal of sand dunes; alteration of the shore, bank or bottom of
the Atlantic Ocean or any sound, bay, river, creek, stream, lake or canal (NCGS 113A-
103(5)(a))."
As general guidance, a project is probably in an AEC if it is:
■ In, or on the shore of, navigable waters within the 20 CAMA counties;
■ On a marsh or wetland;
■ Within 75 feet of the normal high water line along an estuarine shoreline;
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■ Near the ocean beach;
■ Within an ocean high hazard flood area;
■ Near an inlet;
■ Within 30 feet of the normal high water level of areas designated as inland
fishing waters by the NC Marine Fisheries Commission and the NC Wildlife
Resources Commission;
■ Near a public water supply;
■ Within 575 feet of an ORW defined by the Environmental Management
Commission.
However, Section 103(5)(b) of CAMA exempts the following activities from permit
requirements:
■ Road maintenance within a public right-of-way;
■ Utility maintenance on projects that already have CAMA permits;
■ Energy facilities covered by other laws or NC Utilities Commission rules;
■ Agricultural or forestry production that doesn't involve the excavation or filling
of estuarine or navigable waters or coastal wetlands (Note: these activities are not
exempt from permitting requirements under the state's Dredge and Fill Law.);
■ Emergency maintenance and repairs when life and property are in danger; and,
■ The construction of an accessory building usually found with an existing
structure, if no filling of estuarine or navigable waters or coastal wetlands is
involved.
In addition, the CRC defines certain types of minor maintenance and improvement work that
do not require a CAMA permit. However, you must receive an exemption certificate before
you perform this work (15A NCAC 7K). The following categories of work may qualify for
an exemption:
■ Additions and modifications to simple structures;
■ Shoreline stabilization;
■ Maintenance and expansion of existing projects;
■ Emergency maintenance and repairs;
■ Single-family residences;
■ Accessory uses;
■ Structural maintenance and repair;
From 2000 to 2003 it is estimated that Wrightsville Beach's LPO issued 154 minor permits,
120 exemptions, and identified 16 CAMA violations.
IKIZ'2

Tomi of Wrightsville Beach Section 10: Tools for Managing Development
10.2.0 Permitting Process
If construction will result in a significant modification of a structure, increase the size of the
structure, or if new development occurs the following permits may be required:
■ Zoning Permit: Site plan and description of work to be done shall accompany a
Zoning Compliance Application;
■ CAMA Permit: If the property is located within the 420' Ocean Hazard AEC or
the 75' Estuarine AEC then a CAMA permit shall be required; and,
■ Building Permit: For all construction activities.
If the proposed project will result in no expansion in the size of an existing structure, then
only a building permit is required. New construction and expansions in the size of a structure
require a zoning permit in addition to a building permit. Construction of fences, driveways,
signs and businesses also require zoning permits. A CAMA permit will also be required if
the activity is located in an AEC.
After an individual applies for the requisite permits, the Development Code Administrator
determines whether the project is permitted by the Zoning Ordinance and complies with
existing regulations contained in local ordinances for such things as setbacks, floor area
ratios (FAR), height, parking, flood zones, stormwater runoff, and other applicable
requirements. The CAMA land use plan's policies and recommendations are also reviewed
for their consistency with the proposed project. When a proposed project is located within an
AEC, the local permit officer (LPO) reviews the project to assure that it is consistent with
CAMA regulations as well as the CAMA land use plan's policies. Of particular concern are
CAMA's requirements for buffer zones and erosion setbacks for small and large structures.
After the CAMA review, the building code enforcement officer reviews plans for compliance
with building code and floodplain regulations for residential structures. If a commercial
project is reviewed, building plan review includes building, flood plain, electrical, plumbing,
HVAC and accessibility review to assure that all NC Building Code Regulations are met. A
permit is issued only if it meets the aforementioned requirements. A majority of the time,
there are meetings with the contractor, owners and architects before a permit is issued.
Different fees are charged for building, plumbing, zoning, impact fees, pilings, water, and
sewer. The building permit fee is based on cost of work material and labor. The other fees
are a set amount.
The Development Code Administrator/LPO performs a series of inspections prior to work
commencing and after completion of exterior work or work taking place in or near AEC.
The inspections performed by zoning code administrator/LPO include:
■ Zoning for driveways, fences, buildings, and violations. Inspections are
performed prior to work and after completion;
■ CAMA inspections are performed before and after applications are submitted and
again at the completion of the project; and,
- 107 -

Tojvn of Wrightsville Beach Section 10: ToolsforMaiii-t,-iii,-Developiiieii;,
■ The Development Code Administrator assists the building inspector on various
inspections.
• The Building Code Administrator also performs a series of inspections. After a building
permit is issued, the first inspection is the foundation or piling inspection. At this inspection,
Piling length and height of first finished floor are reviewed during this inspection to assure
that flood requirements and setbacks are met. A survey is needed at this inspection. The
• second inspection is a sheeting inspection, which is followed by a framing inspection. The
latter is done when the other trades (plumbing, electrical, etc) have passed their inspections.
The next inspection is the insulation inspection. The last inspection is the final inspection.
When the all trades have successfully passed inspection and final inspection has been
• performed to assure that all building regulations have been met, a certificate of occupancy is
• issued. There can be other types of inspections as well (e.g., rafter tie, decks, steps)
• Many zoning and CAMA violations are identified via citizen complaints. Others are
identified staff. Once a violation is reported, a site visit is performed to locate the violation
• and take pictures. A letter is then sent informing the property owner of the violation and the
means of correcting the violation. When building code violation is identified, a stop work
order is posted until a permit is issued. If a violation is found during construction, corrective
actions must be taken for work to proceed.
10.2.D Nonregulatory Efforts to Implement CAMA Policies and
Recommendations
In addition to using existing ordinances, there are a number of ongoing efforts designed to
implement policies and recommendations contained in the CAMA Land Use Plan. Given its
geographic location, Wrightsville Beach maintains an aggressive hazard mitigation program
that includes a combination of local ordinances (e.g., flood plain ordinance, set backs, etc.),
public education, and hazard mitigation planning. The Town routinely updates its hurricane
management plan and coordinates pre- and post -storm responses with county and state
emergency management officials. These efforts have been very effective as evidenced by the
Town receiving a FEMA community rating system (CRS) rating of 5, the best in North
Carolina.
Wrightsville Beach also has an aggressive program to promote public access to its beaches,
recreational amenities (e.g., parks, loop, etc.), and provides a wide range of recreational
activities (e.g., sports leagues, yoga, etc.) that serve residents and visitors alike. These
recreational amenities attract visitors to Wrightsville Beach on a year round basis, but the
influx of visitors is most pronounced during summer months.
The Town maintains 44 marked oceanfront public access sites, which equates to more than
10 marked sites per mile of oceanfront beach, the second most in North Carolina (Sunset
Beach has the most sites per mile). The Town also maintains 605 parking spaces in public
parking lots located adjacent to marked access sites, the most public spaces per mile of beach
in the state. Additional roadside parking spaces further increase the accessibility of the
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Town's beaches. Of the 44 marked access sites, nine are accessible to handicapped
individuals to the dune crest, six are accessible to a deck or gazebo, and six are accessible to
the beach. There are also 20 handicapped accessible parking spaces. The Town provides
amenities such as lifeguard stations, trash barrels, bike racks (3), showers (3), and restrooms
(3). The Town also surveyed its beachgoers in 2002 and 2003 to learn more about the
behavior of beachgoers and to measure public perceptions of the services provided to
beachgoers. In addition to these efforts, the policies and recommendations contained in the
plan for the future detail additional activities designed to enhance and expand ongoing efforts
to promote public access and recreational opportunities in the community.
However, excessive use of the beaches can present potential environmental problems.
Accordingly, the Town tries to balance use of its beaches with the need to protect its dunes
and sensitive habitat areas. Examples include limiting pedestrian access to designated dune
crossover areas, limiting the width of beach access paths, prohibiting off road vehicles,
protecting turtle nesting areas, promoting beach cleanups, and maintaining the bird sanctuary
at Mason's Inlet on the north end of the island. The land use plan's policies and
recommendations are designed to further these ongoing efforts.
The Town also promotes uses of its tidal waters and undertakes various efforts to manage
user conflicts. For example, it recently installed a kayak trail in the waters adjacent to
Wrightsville Beach. A pierhead ordinance was developed to ensure that construction of piers
does not interfere with navigation in tidal waters. The Town also developed a Surface Water
Use Plan in 2002 to address problems associated with user conflicts. Many of the plan's
recommended actions are being implemented. For example, the Town continues to promote
safe boating, is trying to improve existing no wake zone signage and enforcement, and
requested that the County amend its ordinance governing personal watercraft to increase the
setback from marshes from 25 to 50 feet. In order to address user conflicts on its oceanfront
beaches the Town created an ad hoc surf zone committee that recommended revisions to
ordinances pertaining to the location and enforcement of surf zones. The land use plan's
policies and recommendations build upon and expand these ongoing efforts to manage user
conflicts and promote safe boating.
Finally, the Town of Wrightsville Beach has been aggressive in its efforts to protect its
natural resources and address water quality problems associated with nonpoint source (NPS)
pollution. For example, the previous land use plans have policies prohibiting the installation
of new bulkheads, groins, or seawalls in coastal wetlands or on oceanfront beach areas. The
Town supports efforts to recycle and reduce the amount of solid waste generated by
residents, visitors, and businesses. The Town has also taken steps to reduce NPS pollution in
coastal waters. For example, the Town implements a pet waste disposal ordinance that is a
model for many communities. The Town has an ongoing program to identify and eliminate
illicit discharges when detected. New construction and redevelopment projects are required
to treat stormwater generated from development projects. The Town also submitted a
NPDES Phase II Stormwater Management Permit Application that recommends a variety of
strategies to further expand the Town's efforts to address water quality problems associated
with NPS pollution. The policies and recommended actions contained in this plan, build
upon those proposed in its NPDES Phase II Permit Application.
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Tojvn of Wrightsville Beach Section 10: Toolsfor NIanaqing Development
10.3 Additional Tools
Full implementation of the policies and recommendations contained in Wrightsville Beach's
• CAMA Land Use Plan will also require the expansion of the existing development
• management program and several new planning efforts, projects, and expenditures. The plan
recommends reviewing and, where necessary, modifying several local ordinances.
Recommended activities include:
•
■ Developing an ordinance to require sprinklers or other fire protection measures
for new development necessary to ensure the Town retains its North Carolina
Response Rating of 4 (Recommendation 9.2.A.9.a);
■ Reviewing the dune walkover ordinance for consistency with Policies 9.3.A.3
•
and 9.3.A.4;
■ Reviewing ordinances to determine if stricter standards are needed to protect
visual access to public trust waters from roadways (Recommendation 9.3.A.5.a);
■ Updating the Town's Surf Zone Ordinance (Recommendation 9.3.B.4.a);
•
■ Investigating whether changes to local ordinances can further restrict or prohibit
additional mooring, anchorage areas, or floating homes (Recommendation
9.3.C.3.a);
■ Investigating whether changes to local zoning ordinances to restrict the expansion
•
or intensification of existing marinas or new marina development is warranted
•
(Recommendation 9.3.C.5.a);
■ Mapping the Town's existing wetland areas and make appropriate changes to
local ordinances to ensure that these wetland areas are preserved
(Recommendation 9.4.B.8.a); and,
•
■ Updating the Town's Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance after North Carolina
Emergency Management mapping revisions are completed (Recommendation
9.5.A.9.a).
•
The plan also recommends several new planning efforts or projects to be implemented by
Town departments. Examples include:
■ Using a charrette process to develop a plan to revitalize commercial areas on the
•
island and then make appropriate revisions to the Town's CAMA Land Use Plan
and local ordinances (Recommendation 9.1.A.6.a - c);
■ Researching ways to encourage commercial business and prevent rezoning from
commercial to residential uses (Recommendation 9.1.A.5.a);
•
■ Conducting a planning process to designate and mark appropriate water access
sites on the sound side of the island and request DCM to provide marked and
numbered signs to be installed by the Town (Recommendation 9.3.A.2.a);
■ Develop, inventory and map of all nonconforming uses in the community
•
(Recommendation 9. LA. La);
•
■ Investigating whether there are actions that can be taken to alleviate congestion
adjacent to the state wildlife boat ramp and parking facility and illegal parking of
cars and trailers on Pelican Drive (Recommendation 9.3.C.9.a);
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■ Developing a program to reduce the problems associated with wet garbage that
results in leaking dumpsters and garbage trucks (Recommendation 9A.A.I O.a);
■ Working with City and County officials to reduce fecal coliform loadings in
waters adjacent to Wrightsville Beach (Recommendation 9.4.B.5.a);
■ Working with City and County officials to improve water quality in Bradley
Creek (Recommendation 9.4.B.5.b);
■ Identifying priority areas for land acquisition after severe storm events in order to
mitigate damage from future storms (Recommendation 9.5.A.4.a); and,
■ Updating the Town's Hurricane Management Plan on an annual basis (Policy
9.5.A.13).
It also recommends a variety expenditures and capital improvements. Some of the
recommended actions include:
■ Phasing in implementation of the Bike Path Plan, placing signage on current
paths, and installing bike racks throughout the community (Recommendation
9.2.A.5.a);
■ Investigating the feasibility of putting utilities underground (Policy 9.2.A.2,
Recommended Action 9.2.A.2.a);
■ Improving existing public access sites (Recommendation 9.3.A. La);
■ Improving the Town's recreational facilities (Recommendation 9.3.D. La);
■ Requiring DOT to use infiltration and other best management practices (BMPs)
to treat stormwater generated from roads and other surfaces (Recommendation
9.4.B.7.b); and,
■ Potentially increasing the size of water lines and water mains on the south end of
the Island and installing water mains at all dead end streets (Recommendation
9.5.A.12.a).
In addition to these activities, the CAMA Land Use Plan incorporates a variety of policies
and recommended actions from several recent planning efforts. Accordingly, full
implementation of the plan will also require the full implementation of the policies and
actions contained in the:
2002 Surface Water Use Plan;
2003 NPDES Phase II Stormwater Management Application; and,
2004 Hazard Mitigation Plan.
Implementing these additional tools will have varying fiscal consequences. Some actions are
relatively inexpensive and can be implemented using existing resources. Others have
significant fiscal consequences and would have to be funded through mechanisms such as the
Town's capital improvement program (CIP) or rely on the availability of federal, state, or
county grant funds. Accordingly, the plan recommends several actions to help finance or
offset the costs associated with selected implementation efforts. These include:
■ Supporting the application and designation of local room tax revenues to beach
renourishment and other local expenses (Policy 9.3.A.9);
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■ Asking New Hanover County to reimburse the Town for various tourism related
expenses (Policy 9.3.A.10);
■ Conducting a needs assessment to determine whether a stormwater utility fee
should be adopted to help fund the implementation of the actions needed to
comply with the Town's NPDES Phase II Stormwater Permit Application
(Recommendation 9.4.B.7.a);
■ Developing, in conjunction with County officials, a strategy for the Town to
continue funding regular beach renourishment projects in the event that federal
and state funding for these projects is reduced (Recommendation 9.5.A.10.a);
and,
■ Applying for funding pursuant to the federal Hazard Mitigation Grant Program
for priorities listed in the Town's Hazard Mitigation Plan if the President declares
Wrightsville Beach a disaster area (Recommendation 9.5.B.6.a, 9.5.B.7.a)
In addition, there are a variety of federal, state, and county funding sources that could be
used to fund the implementation of the CAMA Land Use Plan's policies and recommended
actions.
10.4 Action Plan and Implementation Schedule
In order to prioritize the implementation of these additional tools, a Public Workshop was
held on December 4, 2004 to have the public review the draft policies and recommendations.
The public then ranked priority actions. The Land Use Plan Steering Committee (LUPSC)
used these rankings as the starting point to develop an action plan and implementation
schedule for the proposed regulatory changes, recommended planning efforts, projects, and
other nonregulatory actions. Other factors considered in the priority ranking were public
input at the November 2003 Public Workshop and LUPSC meetings throughout the planning
process as well as the deadlines established pursuant to the 2003 NPDES Phase II
Stormwater Permit Application and the 2004 Hazard Mitigation Plan. The action plan is
contained in Appendix F. It lists the each policy and recommended action, the responsible
authority, and the management topic(s) addressed. It also lists its priority status as either
ongoing or as a high priority action (years 1 — 3), medium priority (years 3 — 6 or as
opportunity or resources permit), or low priority (as opportunity or resources permit). Given
resource and time constraints, most local governments will have trouble implementing more
than 7 to 9 actions over a five year period. Accordingly, the high priority actions are limited
to those actions of highest importance.
The action plan is important because it will be used as the basis for preparing the
implementation status report required by CAMA land use planning grant rules (15A NCAC
7L.0511). The current rules require the submission of an Implementation Status Report
every two years for as long as the plan remains in effect. Since resources and priorities
change, the work plan will be adjusted on an annual basis. This assessment will include
several factors including funding availability, shifting priorities, information, and conditions
that may dictate rescheduling, adding, or dropping recommended policies and actions, and
necessary modifications to completion schedules.
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Tomi of Wrightsville Beach Section 11: Required Policy Analysis
Section 11
Required Policy Analysis
11.0 Introduction
The Division of Coastal Management's (DCM's) Technical Manual for Land Use Planning
requires local governments to analyze the CAMA Land Use Plan's policies and
recommended actions and the future land use map. Specifically, DCM requires local
governments to:
■ Examine the consistency of the plan with the management topics;
■ Examine the consistency between the future land use map and the land use plan's
requirements; and,
■ Analyze the impact of the policies and recommended actions on the management
topics specified in the guidance manual.
This analysis is contained in the following sections and in Appendix G.
11.1 Consistency of the Policies with Management Topics
The first analysis is designed to ensure that the plan's goals and policies are consistent with
the DCM's required management topics. Management topics are the categories of local land
use and development policies determined by the Coastal Resources Commission (CRC) to be
essential for proper use, development, and protection of natural and manmade resources in
coastal areas. The DCM guidelines identify six management topics:
■ Land Use Compatibility: Management of land use and development in a way that
minimizes its primary and secondary impacts on natural and man-made
resources;
■ Infrastructure Carrying Capacity: Strategies to ensure that infrastructure is
available to support anticipated and planned development and that it is managed
to protect AECs and other fragile areas;
■ Public Access: Strategies for maximizing community access to beaches and
public trust areas;
■ Water Quality: Land use and development policies and strategies to protect
quality waters and restore quality in waters that are non -supporting;
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Natural Hazard Areas: Policies to reduce the communities vulnerability to
natural hazards; and,
Local Areas of Concern: Specific policies and strategies to address local
planning and development goals.
In Wrightsville Beach, the local areas of concern have been incorporated into the other five
management topics. The following sections describe the consistency of Wrightsville Beach's
CAMA Land Use Plan's goals and policies with the DCM's required management topics.
11.1.A Land Use Compatibility
The CAMA Land Use Plan's goal is to adopt and apply local policies that balance
protection of the natural resources and fragile areas with economic development (9.1). One
objective is associated with this management topic: "Maintain the small town, family
friendly atmosphere at Wrightsville Beach by encouraging architecture in keeping with the
Town's traditions, traditional family homes, neighborhood and locally oriented businesses,
parks and natural areas (9.1.A)." To accomplish this goal and objective, the plan contains a
series of policies and recommended actions that provide a strategy for mitigating the impacts
of land development on natural resources and fragile areas. However, since the Town is
nearly built out with only approximately 100 vacant lots, the potential for new development
to significantly impact natural resources and fragile areas is somewhat limited.
The primary strategy for mitigating impacts on natural resources and fragile areas is a
development management program with local ordinances that limit density and mitigate
impacts for redevelopment and new development by setting minimum lot sizes, setbacks,
parking requirements, height restrictions, and floor area ratios (FAR). The Town's zoning
ordinance also contains conservation and shore zones that restrict development and its impact
on natural resources and fragile areas. The Town's Flood Plain Ordinance also ensures that
post -development runoff is limited to pre -development levels and that stormwater detention
or retention is designed for a 10-year storm or greater. Moreover, all new development and
redevelopment is required to tie in to existing public water and sewer infrastructure to help
limit impacts on natural resources. Accordingly, the CAMA Land Use Plan's policies and
recommended actions are consistent with this management topic.
11.1.B Infrastructure Carrying Capacity
The CAMA Land Use Plan's goal for infrastructure carrying capacity is to ensure that public
infrastructure systems are appropriately sized, located and managed so the quality and
productivity of the AEC's and other fragile areas are protected and restored (9.2). The one
objective associated with this management topic is to ensure that the location and capacity of
public infrastructure is consistent with the Town's growth and development goals (9.2.A).
Since the Town is nearly built out with only about 100 vacant lots, there is adequate public
water and wastewater capacity to serve the current and projected populations. The island's
transportation system and its one connection to the mainland (i.e., the Heide Trask Bridge)
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are also adequate to serve current and projected populations in the event that an evacuation is
ordered. Therefore, the CAMA Land Use Plan's policies and recommended actions focus
primarily on addressing potential problems identified during the planning process and
ensuring that the infrastructure systems are properly managed.
To that end, the CAMA Land Use Plan recommends monitoring the capability and
maintenance of wastewater facilities and to make necessary improvements. It recommends
monitoring the aquifers that provide the Town's waters to determine if they are threatened.
Both actions are designed to ensure that there is efficient and uninterrupted operation of
water and wastewater facilities in order to minimize adverse impacts on AECs or other
fragile areas. All new development and redevelopment is also required to tie into existing
public water and wastewater services to minimize adverse environmental impacts.
The CAMA Land Use Plan also contains policies and recommendations pertaining to its
transportation system. The Town supports federal and state road and bridge improvement
programs. The plan also recommends treating stormwater using infiltration and other
structural and nonstructural BMPs to ensure that future road improvements reduce nonpoint
source (NPS) pollution. Other policies and recommendations are designed to further reduce
NPS runoff from existing infrastructure. The plan also recommends phasing in the
implementation of the Bike Path Plan, marking existing bike paths, and installing bike racks
to try and reduce traffic congestion on the Island. The Town will also consider proposals
from private entities for establishing public transportation to the mainland to reduce
automobile traffic. The charrette process will also recommend various options for
transportation and infrastructure improvements that could improve traffic flow on the Island.
Accordingly, the CAMA Land Use Plan's policies and recommended actions are consistent
with this management topic.
1 LLC Public Access & Recreation
The CAMA Land Use Plan's goal for public access is to maximize public access to the
beaches and public trust waters of the Town of Wrightsville Beach and maximize
recreational opportunities for residents and visitors (9.3). Four objectives are associated
with meeting this management topic:
■ Implement policies and recommendations that assure satisfactory access to all
segments of the community including persons with disabilities (9.3.A);
■ Reduce user conflicts in the public trust waters of Wrightsville Beach (9.3.B);
■ Prevent uses that would directly or indirectly impair or block existing
navigational channels (9.3.C); and,
■ Provide a quality recreation experience to both residents and visitors alike
(9.4.D).
To accomplish this goal and the corresponding objectives, the plan contains a series of
policies and recommended actions that provide a strategy for ensuring that there is access to
all segments of the community. There are already 44 marked public access sites along the
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ocean front, the second most marked sites per mile among NC barrier beach communities
according to a recent Sea Grant study. The Town also has the most public parking lot spaces
per mile among barrier beach communities according to the same study. As a result, there is
already more public access than virtually any barrier beach community in North Carolina and
the public has access to all renourished areas. Accordingly, rather than focus on developing
new regional public access facilities, the CAMA Land Use Plan focuses on furthering this
management topic using several strategies.
One of the main strategies focuses on improving existing access sites by adding more shower
and changing facilities, fixing dune walkover structures at sites 4 and 5 that have become
buried, adding bike racks, and installing mats or other devises at one or more access sites to
improve the ability of the disabled to access the water. Additionally, the plan also proposes a
planning process to mark appropriate sound -side public access points. The plan also
recommends several policies designed to ensure that future development and redevelopment
does not block visual access to public trust waters. Finally, the plan recommends
improvements to other Town recreational facilities that serve residents and visitors alike.
As a result of all of the access to the ocean shoreline, sound, and public trust waters, another
strategy focuses on taking steps to minimize user conflicts. In terms of the ocean shoreline,
one of the big user conflicts is between surfers and swimmers. Accordingly, the plan
recommends a planning process and subsequent changes to its surf zone ordinance to balance
competing uses. The Town also developed a Surface Water Use Plan in 2002 to address user
conflicts in tidal waters. The CAMA Land Use Plan incorporates and builds upon the
policies and actions recommended in this plan to minimize conflicts among competing uses
of tidal waters.
The third strategy focuses on limiting shoreline uses that would cause user conflicts or create
potential environmental problems. For example, while access to oceanfront beaches is
encouraged, the plan also tries to protect dunes by minimizing the creation of new paths and
minimizing the width of unimproved paths. The plan also recommends protecting turtle
nesting sites and the newly created bird sanctuary at the northern end of the Island. The plan
also recommends maintaining existing water dependent uses such as commercial fishing
dockage and marinas but prevents their expansion or the construction of new facilities. The
Town's pierhead ordinance also prevents the construction of piers that block access to tidal
waters.
The plan's final strategy focuses on ways to fund improvements to access facilities as well as
the services provided to the influx of seasonal visitors such as life guards, trash collection,
and public safety. For example, the plan recommends using tourism tax revenue to fund
improvements. The plan also recommends requesting greater cost -sharing from the County.
Other federal and state grant funds could also be used to pay for many of the access
improvements.
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ILLD Water Quality & Natural Environment
The CAMA Land Use Plan's goal for water quality and the natural environment management
topic is to maintain and where possible improve the natural environment and water quality
within and adjacent to Wrightsville Beach (9.4). The two objectives are associated with this
management topic:
The Town shall take actions designed to protect and where possible enhance and
restore the sensitive natural resources located in and adjacent to the Town of
Wrightsville Beach (9.4.A); and,
Reduce pollutant loadings in stormwater generated within the Town of
Wrightsville Beach and conform to the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination
System (NPDES) Phase II Stormwater Management requirements (9.4.13).
To accomplish this goal and the corresponding objectives, the plan contains a series of
policies and recommended actions that provide a strategy for protecting and restoring the
quality of local waters and addressing nonpoint sources of pollution. Since the community is
nearly built out with most new construction occurring on in -fill lots, the strategy embodied in
the CAMA Land Use Plan focuses on actions that can be taken to restore water quality rather
than on tighter regulation of new development. These strategies are clearly consistent with
the requirements of this management topic.
One of the main strategies is the stormwater management requirements contained in the
Town's Flood Plain Damage and Prevention Ordinance. This ordinance ensures that post -
development runoff is limited to pre -development levels and that stormwater detention or
retention is designed for a 10-year storm or greater. As a result, redevelopment provides
some modest potential for water quality improvements over time. The implementation of the
Town's pet waste ordinance has also been successful and serves as a model for other barrier
island beach communities. The plan also recommends using infiltration and other structural
and nonstructural BMPs to reduce stormwater runoff from roads and other infrastructure.
The CAMA Land Use Plan also incorporates the policies and actions recommended in the
Town's Phase II NPDES Stormwater Permit Application. As a result, it recommends a broad
range of additional public education and public involvement efforts that focus on reducing
NPS pollution. It also recommends a variety of ordinance changes and additional actions
that can be taken to detect illicit stormwater discharges and improve the regulation of
stormwater discharges from new development and redevelopment. Additionally, it prohibits
new direct stormwater discharges and recommends using structural and nonstructural BMPs
to improve the quality and reducing the quantity of NPS runoff from existing stormwater
discharges, including those emanating from Town property.
There are also a number of areas closed to shellfishing in the waters adjacent to Wrightsville
Beach. While many of the aforementioned efforts will reduce bacterial loadings, one of the
main sources of fecal coliform loadings is from City and County land on the other side of the
ICW. Accordingly, the plan recommends that the Town work with City and County officials
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Town of Wrightsville Beach SectionRequired Policy
to develop a program designed to reduce fecal coliform loadings to coastal waters to the
maximum extent practicable in order to improve water quality in the short run and reopen
closed shellfishing areas in the long run. One of the significant sources of fecal coliform
•
loadings appears to be Bradley Creek so the plan recommends that the City and County take
appropriate steps to improve water quality in this tributary to the waters adjacent to
Wrightsville Beach.
11.1.E Natural & Manmade Hazards
The CAMA Land Use Plan's goal for the hazards management topic is protect public health
and safetyfrom the damaging effects of storm surges, wave action, flooding, high winds, and
•
erosion associated with hurricanes, severe weather, and other hazards (9.5). Two objectives
are associated with this management topic:
■ The Town will be proactive in its efforts to minimize damage and threats to
•
public health and safety associated with hurricanes, severe weather, and other
hazards (9.5.A); and,
■ In the period following a hurricane, severe weather event, or other disaster, the
Town will work as quickly as possible to restore essential services related to
0 public health, safety and welfare (9.53).
To accomplish this goal and the corresponding objectives, the plan contains a series of
policies and recommended actions that provide a strategy for conserving the storm protection
•
functions of beaches, dunes, flood plains, wetlands, and other natural features. The Town's
•
existing development management program preserves storm protection functions in several
ways. The P-1 and S-1 zones prohibit development activity on beaches, dunes, wetlands, and
other important natural features. The Zoning Ordinance provides setbacks that when applied
to many oceanfront lots exceed the CAMA setbacks. The Oceanfront Development
•
Standards Ordinance provides important protections to maintain the ability of dunes to serve
as a storm buffer. The Town also supports regular beach renourishment efforts to maintain
the ability of beaches and dunes to provide an important buffer to mitigate potential storm
damage. The Town enforces the state's building code and has a minimum housing ordinance
•
designed to ensure that buildings will be fit for human habitation. The Town's Flood Plain
Damage and Prevention Ordinance contains additional building requirements that meet or
•
exceed FEMA requirements. The ordinance's stormwater management requirements also
help eliminate flooding of adjacent properties. Moreover, many of the actions recommended
•
to reduce stormwater from existing infrastructure should also help minimize future flooding.
•
The Town regularly updates its hurricane management plan and also engages in various
public efforts to educate the public about the dangers posed by these natural hazards. These
efforts have been very effective as evidenced by the fact that the Town's CRS rating of 5 is
the best in the state.
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11.1.F Local Areas of Concern
As noted above, the plan contains no specific goals or objectives related to local areas of
concern. Instead, local concerns have been incorporated into the other five management
topics. For example, policies and recommended actions designed to preserve the Town's
downtown area and maintain a viable commercial center have been incorporated into the
section on land use and development. Policies and actions to maintain the Town's North
Carolina Response Rating and improve fire protection have been incorporated into the
sections on infrastructure carrying capacity and natural and manmade hazards. The section
on public access and recreation includes policies and recommended actions that address a
variety of local concerns pertaining to user conflicts, the impacts of shoreline uses on public
access, and the provision of recreational facilities to residents and visitors alike. The
incorporation of policies and recommended actions from other planning documents such as
the 2002 Surface Water Use Plan, 2003 NPDES Phase II Stormwater Permit Application, and
2004 Hazard Mitigation Plan into the corresponding sections of this plan is another example
of how this management topic was addressed by the CAMA Land Use Plan's policies and
recommended actions.
11.2 Consistency Between the Land Use Plan's Policies and the Future
Land Use Map
The DCM's guidelines also require analyzing the consistency between the CAMA Land Use
Plan's policies and the future land use map. Specifically, DCM requires local governments
to:
■ Summarize the residential density and development intensity encouraged by each
of the land classifications or designations on the map;
■ Identify any material differences between the development patterns shown on the
future land use map and the development constraints shown on the environmental
composite and LSA maps;
■ Describe any material differences between the spatial patterns of land
classifications that depend on water and sewer and planned development;
■ Describe development planned for natural hazard areas, how uses are consistent
with associated risks, and the capacity of the evacuation infrastructure; and,
■ Describe how land classifications and spatial patterns on the map will protect
open shellfish waters and restore closed or conditionally closed shellfish waters.
Since the plan recommends no zoning changes and the Town is nearly built out, the future
land use map contained in Appendix E displays development patterns that mirror the existing
land use and zoning maps contained in Appendix A.
The future land use classification and the correlating existing zoning districts are summarized
below:
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■ Shore zone = S-1
■ Single family residential = R=1
■ Government, church and school = G-1
■ Single family and duplex development = R-2
■ Conservation = P-1
■ Hotel and motel = C-4
■ Retail, restaurant, marina and appropriately scaled mixed -use development = C-3
■ Commercial, tourist, short term residential and appropriately scaled mixed use
development = C-2
■ Private club = PC
■ Light to medium commercial = C-5
■ Central Business District including appropriately scaled mixed use development
= C-1
11.2.A Residential Density
Since the Town is approaching build out and the plan recommends no zoning changes in the
types of uses or the densities within these zones, the development densities depicted on the
Future Land Use Map in Appendix E are similar to those contained on the Existing Land Use
and Zoning Maps contained in Appendix A. The density requirements within the zoning
categories can be found in Table 10.2 in Section 10: Tools for Managing Development.
Minimum lot sizes for residential lots (single and duplex units) are 8,000 feet. Minimum lot
sizes for commercial properties are 10,000 square feet. These densities are consistent with
historical development patterns on the Island. They are also consistent with the capabilities
of the Town's natural systems since all residential and commercial development is served by
public water and wastewater systems.
11.2.B Comparison of the Environmental Composite and LSA Maps with the
Future Land Use Map
A comparison of the Environmental Composite Map [Appendix C] and Future Land Use
Map [Appendix E] indicates that there are no material differences between the two maps.
Nearly all of the vacant parcels are located in Class II lands on the Environmental Composite
Map. Class II lands are also where nearly all of the development within Wrightsville Beach
is located, although there are some Class I lands located on the western side of the ICW.
Accordingly, most current and future development is located primarily on Class II lands that
contain development hazards and limitations that are addressed through zoning requirements
that restrict density and uses while services such as public water and wastewater treatment
are provided.
The comparison between the Land Suitability Analysis (LSA) Map [Appendix C] and the
Future Land Use Map [Appendix E] is less useful. First, the LSA is most useful in
examining large tracks of undeveloped land rather than a limited number of small lots
adjacent to existing structures. Accordingly, even if the LSA indicated that the land is
unsuitable for development, it would still be permitted through current zoning. There would
also be significant legal barriers associated with trying to restrict development of these
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parcels. The LSA methodology also has problems when applied to long, narrow barrier
beaches such as Wrightsville Beach due to the scale and dynamic nature of the data
employed by the model. Accordingly, the LSA indicates that only a very small portion of the
Town east of the ICW is categorized as land with a high suitability for development. Instead,
the northern and southern portions of the Island are categorized as low suitability while the
central portion of the Island is primarily considered to have a medium suitability for
development. The lower suitability for development is due to the land's proximity to flood
zones and location in storm surge areas. Future planned development will be located in both
areas because that is where vacant parcels are located and redevelopment activity is
occurring. However, this is not considered to be problematic because the Town is taking
steps to mitigate the risk of development in these hazard areas as evidenced by the Town's
CRS rating of 5.
11.2.0 Availability of Water and Sewers to Future Development
The entire Island is now served by public water and wastewater systems. The Town is also
nearing build out and the plan does not recommend any changes that would significantly
increase the density. As a result, there is adequate capacity within both systems to serve
current and projected population growth as well as the seasonal influx of visitors.
Accordingly, there are no material differences between the spatial patterns of land
classifications that depend on water and sewer and planned development depicted on the
Future Land Use Map contained in Appendix E.
11.2.D Natural Hazards
Given the Town's geographic location and configuration, nearly the entire community is
located in a natural hazard area as indicated graphically by the Special Flood Hazard Zones,
Flood Zone, and Hurricane Storm Surge Inundation Maps contained in Appendix A. Since
the Town is nearly built out, nearly all future development indicated on the future Land Use
Map [Appendix E] will be located in hazard zones. However, the uses are consistent with
risks faced by current homeowners since planned future development is limited to
approximately 100 vacant lots, most of which are in -fill lots and redevelopment of existing
parcels. Moreover, current risks are being effectively mitigated as evidenced by the Town's
CRS rating of 5. There is also sufficient capacity on the Heide Trask Bridge to evacuate
current and projected population increases.
11.2.E Protecting Shellfish Waters
Since the Future Land Use Map depicted in Appendix E mirrors the Existing Land Use and
Zoning Maps contained in Appendix A, the spatial patterns depicted on these maps are
unlikely to have a discernable impact, positively or negatively. The limited number of vacant
parcels and the fact that all new development and redevelopment is required to have post -
construction stormwater runoff limited to predevelopment levels means that there is unlikely
to be much impact on open shellfish waters. Conversely, planned future development
activity is unlikely to restore closed or conditionally closed shellfish waters, although it may
-121-

produce some modest water quality improvements. Given that the Town is nearly built out,
restoring closed or conditionally closed shellfish waters will require other actions such as:
■ Continued enforcement of the Town's pet waste ordinance;
■ Public involvement and education;
■ Voluntary implementation of BMPs by current homeowners; and,
■ Installation of structural and nonstructural BMPs to treat stormwater from
existing roads, parking lots, and other impervious surfaces.
It will also require actions by the City and County to reduce fecal coliform loadings in
tributaries such as Bradley Creek that drain to the ICW and other waters adjacent to
Wrightsville Beach.
11.3 Impact of the Policies on the Management Topics
The final required policy analysis focuses on determining the impact of the CAMA Land Use
Plan's policies and recommendations on the management topics. The analysis must describe
both the positive and negative impacts. If there are negative impacts, then there must be
policies or recommendations designed to mitigate the negative impacts.
This analysis was completed by developing the matrix contained in Appendix G. The matrix
lists the management topics along one axis and all of the policies and recommended actions
along the other axis. Table G.1 then compares each policy and recommended action to each
management topic and its benchmarks. While local governments are free to develop there
own benchmarks that reflect local planning circumstances, this analysis focuses on the
benchmarks proposed by DCM.
The analysis then identifies whether the implementation of the policy or recommended action
will be beneficial, neutral, or detrimental. For each policy whose impact is determined to be
beneficial or detrimental, a brief summary that led to that conclusion is provided. For those
policies and recommendations with a negative impact on a management topic, policies,
methods, programs, and processes to mitigate these impacts must be provided. The
completed analysis is contained in Appendix G.
- 122 -

N
W

Town of Wrightsville Beach Append&AI
Appendix A
Supporting GIS Maps
■ AEC Coastal Wetland and Estuarine Waters Map
■ AEC and Fragile Areas Map
■ Closed Shellfishing Areas Map
■ DWQ High Quality and Outstanding Resource Waters Map
■ Fish Nursery Areas Map
■ Special Flood Hazard Zones Map
■ Flood Zone Map
■ Hurricane Storm Surge Inundation Map
■ NC CREWS Exceptional, Substantial, and Beneficial Map
■ Significant Natural Heritage Areas Map
■ Existing Land Use Map
■ Zoning Map
■ Public Access and Recreation Map
■ Infrastructure Map
■ Transportation System Map
-Al-

••••••••�••••••••••••••�••••••••�••a•�••�••
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�ID
vio
r r` Gs.•s..
s
sic
a. a,,.110 11-1
Town of Wrightsville Beach
North Carolina
2005 CAMA Land Use plan
AEC Coastal Wetlands and Estuarine Waters
3•' Legend
1 Earrucrat
orW Janadittion - SA ORW
f J torpors[, Lmit. _ Sa
AECCoaatai Wcd.& .SH#
Estuary Waters sc
=san scx
-SAHQW -SCHQWN
c S.
77,
w.ia.diww.s
y Lh 1., LA, 1.—. F
^nrrRr,RaM .erw� Tbc preparation of this map was financed in part through
agrmt provided by the North CarohaaCoastal Management
I hc6 e9uak 1,958 (ett cy. r:„c..,onidca�,�,�,.. N, m.r-.•a+ewr�m,u,�,,,�....R..
�2 Program,nt Eundaprof 1972, as amen by the Coastal Zone
o arw Dart oa ors a t•a N.re.��nc nani .imn.a.�,wdw„ay,,,,�„n„ Mythco cco(Occao and samendReamawhich isanatu feted
,mum,,.�.�..haw..�,,..t by[he offiao(Ocean and Coastal Rraaurccs Management,
National Otranic and Atmospheric Administration.

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
To of Wrightsville Beach
North Carolina
2005 CAMA Land Use Plan
Legend
._. i n�raa.taaa.
. F�vumaafilluXdlnNn
® Claud ShaishfngArea
as
a+mrvmrcuM- snrThe preparaWnofthis map was Nuanced in part through
�2 I hc,ualsl,458Iret aa.L'a wm++�v a grant provided by the North CarolimCcasral Management
y.rac uaeo��®ev. M.m,r..,. program,through fundsproNded by the Coaual Zone
Nal Xu6u.Mrc Mrtrrtunta...nfl�xn a, Il+nlrvhM In
o ara as oa n+a wa.np..rcmai as. iaw..,..Ya+wwew.n..m. My theoffice
ceofnt Ocean
anof 1972, Coastal ed. which Resources administered
"' .mm. amuew�..mnRkawnnrtt by the ttofic and andCoastalAdmicea Management,
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Admitda[radon.

The Narrh Cudhu Drportrncer of En.upnment and
NaturalReto ormtMwwondWuerQualeyinro,,oration
wahetcNCCentaforGwgmphbInfra mnandArulysb.
dmLopedthe GIS dau ser. High Quairy Warn and()unrindingno,ant.,Iy,jciv,dovdsidord
F.41
aReaing.1
h,t in a relir ,(h,ghmdy
J,.
J u haingeallrnr thiGh) xata qw ILLy nr JevpurNas
...ou,
an rn,num,hng rcumrcc.
ORW (rMwMNg Rena, Wom) 6—mloren,J
daNfin,lm Inradal to Mutt unique and.padd warm
har ng ro, tvM aate er narrnal a,ntMal or "o,wal
slgnlf4'arce. — _ —
�G Iioeh eglXals 1,459 fee
o nta oa nn; X
r
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Soda warm that at w,J I -or usta,ve
nitre i,gpurpoxaMillSCmodSRa—
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$ro,mwLer [m[mla art a gUlrtd aMr, CAhIk
Y^' WJ,mc,Im dlncFa,Rc. at peonsum dtosewarm
W sm wa M1 ss kau n uangmr I,mmb^ ,egwammn
` aHQw,mwthminaaamnWnaduhe HQwbY
{ degwdm. The><wxenirclude thmedWHMU WSW
if p¢Ia.vs lL•+mnapply watmb,dm).
Town of Wrightsville Beach
North Carolina
2005 CAMA Land Use Plan
Division of Water Quality [sigh Quality
Legend
' • EetmterritmialJurisdittbn
L_ Corporere Limits
hJra moinvotphy
HQW/ORW Watershed
CLASS
- ORV16A
SA
h4pl.nh uxd F. a, zalabiw,m,1 Theprepantbnafthis map wasfimrcedinpartthrough
wdea�a p„Y,u n.m im`mm,waw,`ae, a grant provided bythe North CaroWaCoted Management
urolbaa.amw program, through fundsprmided by the Coastal Zone
wJmmpax Hc± I j x,w ,a,p,��jy„„`,` Ewa Management Act of 19R. as amended which is administered
row ,ahXuuwaJ by the office of Duren and Coastal Resources Management.
Natha d Oceanic and Atmospheric AdmWstration.

Fishcnes Nursery Areas: '� .''fI V."" 7q �-` 7
�. 3R'a1�.at Town of Wri�htsville Beach
Established bythe NC DEHNR�Div of Marine FmIac iesand .a ,,S y f q 'Zl North Carolina
representsamaswhere the initial you -larval mdjuvende I p
ciccrlopmenr ofynung finfish and crustaceans occurs
tl'a, a
2005 CAMA Land Use Plan
r � �� � � + t, �'"' '•1 ' � � � �)r ... � "' ^• . � 'tkF Fish Nursery Areas Ma
e s
y �I:t t � 4? j , ~�{ � t .•��it_ �y � �3 Legend
� a 7
.1:' 4 y •,' �' ii ♦ a 9) Corporate Limits
Extraterritorlaijurisdiction
f j •' w + � l L� V'r, "s A Fish Nursery Type
'_l I F ' 4F S . � n � Secondary
a
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sa ass as on
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1
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..anr®r.muimc,mer�em
wn.ao°tivc vun
m. pDlavcrd�rWdowa.uu
_:L`n
Jammmmmha�
The preparation of this map was Fm anced in part duough
a grant provided by the Noah CamlhuCoastal Management
Program through fundsprovidcd by the Coastal Zane
Management Act of 1972, as amended, width is administered
by the office of Ocean and Coastal Restorers Management,
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Admumar uon.

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
w.n.. ay.on r..a w., o+,.. i s. W z
ne VE
m VE'a lIlmd Mmmnpl as zone conemaM¢
.,cine l OPYea9ar maslel Ibodplams Mat haveom adNmlI ft
zords W In glad wim al, m wave¢. BFE¢ denied Irom
he n Vale z ne. W is aneyma as sho.unenc at mheme o u nals
nho
within Vale zone. MenNlory hood ituurence W rthaae reyuiramenle
WnH
i
]Inch equals 1.458 fret
o sins oa m am Iw
.� Y+`�I • Ftay ."4xt y r J Town of Wrightsville Beach
. ,• " North Carolina
i* 2005 CAMA Land Use Plan
x • + y
�,,,a,� ��' .x�' r �� S•. �;1 .bj Special Flood Hazard Zones Ma;
Y�eer
ek6 r r/ Legend
�ilL.. • ' y' , i._._I C.T hate 1Jmite
'�"��,. ; :r Lir, `, :',, aR .... • E•tvateczltnrlalJurladktlon
Q3 FEMA SFHA
100 Yr ZONE
AE
VE
Zone AEaoI
Zones AE ale At Ain are Me hand Imurence rate zones Mel
zomm" M to Me I OO.,ear Ilwdoleirs that are detetminod In
that Flood Inauarte Sluoy W delaled methods. In most finances.
Bess Flocal Eleve W ns derived Iran Me detailed thydrauh. analyses
are ahemn BI needed ellen ale wMIM Iks zone Wneabry Ibed
Inmraroe ourcM1ase moulmments apply.
"�Ireh M "upaml:m�Inp..nitnlmm,r4wil The preparationof this map was financed in part through
r.vF=u ca.uac..m,,,m,. rvm•••+h sl.e.,l da, e.d�•s.n.... agrantprovidedbythe North CamhnaCoastal Management
usu„Ie,.lwt. u`°"v^.•w� mlt�,. m.wa.,,.aar program through fundspmvfded by the Coastal Zone
„I .v,,,..e ,.,.wow, n , s.,d row m
WIImmIMe, nc ravel d,R ln,ndmwm,."<.
Management Act of which is administered bythe o(ts ofOcean and CoostalRrsoome Management,,
. In..s

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
Wrightsville Beach
North Carolina
CAMA Land Use Plan
Flood Zone Map
The preparation of this map was financed in part
through a grant provided by the North Carolina
Coastal Zone Managment Act of 1972, as
amended, which is administered by the office
of Ocean and Coastal Resources Managment,
National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration.
V.
Adandc Ocean
aR
Legend
Roads
Wrightsville Beach
FLOODZONE
AE
_ VE

" � � ' � Carpul Fna Nw4vc
y�I \\.J. B9�r<r nm ns yours[ Imrmrls wwamaur
q',. 9,<.nrA,e Bn,brc Ic I* �mnJ
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Pv9M1 x<rcmnrkterM vmarvrt LllummamillnWwn Blwb., ..v .M1wcLrc may Fc nµ�nd
Im..,mlall almum blmvn Jmvn Camrlm Jeurvmrm nlimbh .i 1
M1mnv.f rcmnvJmaMC I.. J....anJ xuvinw. Imr IYMMcvq. 1
m.YlxmrM1Y mm0.xan 15hwnhbevmrJMch rm¢r � :,
•I 4 M1xrmax nbµrcYmvgm WvrllmrtJ unaaum rcvah vMrt.
i
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raaw.n mm Hm.rr,..
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y]Irq']4g5 rryN g<.gP 4fIWraBI Jem0pe to WNirys
rvc gnnJlY9. L`LaMv<mmW Burc.rricmN
pe]layebwntlwe]m[alb fcnee. Song Wmeye la
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pmrlyeormblrcfnl elpnlha. some mesW lleeMaanJ
mNmnvmmll laJvn.. nampc m.Ambhery
pr'erWmep.
wl Irn. v~rA INIvy W..xn.Vl rrte W Lqua<. FLnn
+m \IMkAvw W P`<IymmurcW vpr vrt
.�minl l✓n' Ilvgc.calcmunart cu Fy nsrrg
�I
f Mun Mert,rthalnl lM.mterrJnc� Fwmanc.
4 whnN wr rk nuu hssmyiwulln u nuum x'1rA
m J,mrpd by hrr rcnR (nm IbneN h W
JllrvxrrlunlhaMvmcan ssa Ind maY
I�Il.arvkJ nlaeJPmtln (114mlmmm' haurtlmrl Lnvlylry
I ueh egluls t.45g far
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r gxyramub,k.z
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®saamamHe Bm eM.<mmml4mc mrl�na
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CmJJnMcJ,maW mnbwNmy W rvcn xnM1 vnm
rave Nu..n d,xn (mwkv,Nr J,mv0..rx lmMk Mlrci
IamlYmnvricrtJ.�tvN Iran Ca,vY UN Ara Ilrnq
mP<nurnhW l,Mun M.v .ILAcM1m
rm .Seillcd In mpmac Jmdw�gn Erz,k �x+�na.
W/ 0-
arfi.r S —_
Town of Wrightsville Beach
North Carolina
2005 CAMA Land Use Platt
Hurricane Storm Surge Inundation I
Legend
L._.� Corparrte umlts 11 _
' FimtessimNvlJuridktlon
Storm Surge Inundation (Fast)
Hurricane Category
Iznd] 0
[
- 4.d5
sbnrRrvnJ m
The preparation of this map was Marked in part theaugh
s:mtl,sal
c�r<,.�mumcrc<r�mn
A4pNmhlydMf�mYdbmWkeJ
Pr,w�,yY spufJdmmNmammx
agrmtprovuied by the North CaroMaCcatal Management
NW HeMcvlMrc
wnml.apnn Nt:ewl
ly,ron:pmwt®drp..na.am
� ,P,,,,y �NJ n]°�<mbnW
Pnlgtam,through fundspnnided by the Coastal Zorx
t of 1972, samended, tsanagm[cred
='�
Nar®,um<c.rn<MI}wraorml
bytheo officent
Oremaid Rcawhich
by the office of Ocean and Coaeml Resourtts Managemrn[,
ra,
National Omnk and Atmospheric Admlydsvatioa

The North Caroline Coastal Region Evaluation of Welland Significance,
or NCCREWS. Is a walsomel-bee el wetland functional assessment
model that uses geographic inlomlmlml system (GIS) answers and
data to seems the level of water quality, wildlife hatelte4 and hydrologic
functions of IMMdual wetlands. The primary objective of the
NC -CREWS wetland functional assessment is to provide users with
informatlun shout she relative ecological Importance of wetlands for use
in planning am the overall management
anaget of wetlands.
NC -CREWS produces 3 possible overall wetland rating scores:
Exceptional Significance, Substantial Significance, or Beneficial
Sign'dkaneo.
A,1{�
t..
'-tiff t1 < �.• y 11•.�^ ,.
• F i
ENueMa Scrub Srvw d �� ., \ t
� ohwncrnils
Town of Wrightsville Beach
North Carolina
2005 CAMA land Use Plan
NC CREWS Exceptional, Substantial
Legend
L� JruPna[etbu
. sxmmn�rc allunWia ran
NCC MS 6a pomnl and Sub rc ntial Wedands
We[Wd Tn'e
Eu—shwhxnh
rLNxM FLU
1" fLt
-Wd P-1-1
Moll H Wwausw.mp
Q\ cai's&x lwn6M
ANN",
r
� a\
{
�,mrr�u«se. �a u 1 _
ie.�,-,r•'`"a' h'l w.uu��x ern t�atp.;jl0f y''i' I -1
i
Ihrchequala 4456ftt[
am rc
Estuarine Scrub Sh ,
•r.rr„w�.�i, .apam��..drnsmlmlaerruw The preparation ofdits map was Financed in par[ through
canton puxorc.mtr, mWnamev agrant provided by the North CarolmCossW Management
thmu fu vided the Coastal Zone
Rinx.,n.wom< .N rcs...m.�Nln,nn.narpwwln Manage Act n�Pm hY
v xc roar oa a�QaNwvra.,a�<w My theo office
of OcflgR,ssoastal ewfece isadndtdsered
by the office of Ocean end Coastal Resources Management,
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
The North Carolina Department of Environment anal Natural Resources,
Division of Palls and Recreation, Natural Heritage, Program in
cooperation with the NC Center for Geographic Information g Analyst,
developed the Significant Natural Heritage Areas t igdaf data to
determine the areas containing ecologically significant natural
communitles or rare apecles.The Natural Heritage Program Is the state'a
nest comprehensive source of Information on rare and endangered
animals and pant, and exemplary natural commurc6el k n
mlfecWely as 'elements of natural diwrslfy.'
. J. [sf► yj
Masonbom Island Marsh'f
and Estaury System
vr,f`<
1 inch equals 1,667 fcc[l
Town of Wrightsville Beach
North Carolina
2005 CAMA Land Use Plan
W-_ qy+ ,91 Legend
au.aaron.lawwelen
alyullnM NeW21 HerMsq Mass
Howe Creek
S % Figtue Eight Island Marsh
lain ..
The prepandonmf this mapwas Rmnced in part through
xhelRwad l+l
xlprmtr�NalNa�dtw®Ns,ml
a grant provided by the North CarollnaCantal Management
s arttaaa
cp. N..c ml�rc �u�N
-Z,
",-P—uJ.wlmmvt'—
Program, through fundsprovided by the Coastal Zone
Management Act of1972, as amended. which is administered
Wllmlepon NC YMry
news
by the office afOceam and Coastal Resources Management.
National Dorset and Atmospheric Administration.

The preei iaum W Mia map was finance J in earl
Mmugh a grant providW by the North Carolina
Coastal Management Program, thmugh furies
pmNdae by the Coastal Zane Management
Act of 1972, as ameneee, which Is administered
by the office of Ocean east Coastal Resoumas
Management, National Oceank and Almoapherlc
Adminislretbn.
wpwwa•mw
bn W GW Jr
T.cf s,htn1k m
as, m w�gnmw. Bea
W6 caa�.'ar om.
IWOUGF9atli. N.C.'.
tvtom
,=
Wrightsville Beach
North Carolina
CAMA Land Use Plan

liochetryals l685 felt
a ats oa as os t2
ar
Town of Wrightsville Beach
' North Carolina
2005 CAMA Land Use Plan
Transportation Systems Map
r JI Legend
7 ❑ 2 Lane Bridge
i` 0 4lmieffridge
Municipal limits
—U.S. Highway
Secondary Roads
' • • r'' K= City Streets
WX y ,t y`..—Prfvate Street
1 .! - Extraterritorial Jurisdiction
Corponre L6dts
111AV3eu
h /''Army
a11�dyr ai The preparation of this mapwasimanced in part thn,ugh
sm wad ageant provided by the Noah CarclinaCcasod Management
xox.em dea,emmi' w`m,r.-..au"*N it m.s+w•�.,a� Program through futdsprovlHded by the Coastal Zone
.m ....wn». s.n
Management Act of 1971. as amended. which ¢administered
•.r�.Mw�n�Ra by theoffim of Ocean and Coastal Resources; Management,
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Adminiscratfon.

Appendix B
Analysis of the Implementation of the
1996 CANIA Land Use Plan
B.0 Introduction
This appendix analyzes the progress made during the last five years in implementing the
policies and recommendations contained in Wrightsville Beach's 1996 Land Use Plan. It
examines each policy and its corresponding recommended actions and evaluates the status of
its implementation. It also looks at constraints or obstacles to implementation that exist.
This analysis reveals that considerable progress has been made in the last five years. The
following sections summarize some of the major findings from the policy analysis. The
complete analysis is contained in Table B.1.
B.1 Public Access
The 1996 Land Use Plan contains several policies and recommendation designed to protect
and enhance public access to the shoreline and protect public trust areas. Implementation of
these policies and recommendations has been excellent. Notable examples of
accomplishments in this area include the development of the 2002 Surface Water Use Plan.
This planning process identified a variety of recommended actions that will be incorporated
into the land use plan update. The Oceanfront Development Standards Ordinance adopted in
2003 and other Town ordinances continue to protect public access to and along the ocean
shoreline. Other ordinances have been adopted to protect direct and indirect access to the
ICW and sound. One area where more progress could have been made is through additional
improvements to dune access points with additional facilities such as showers and bathroom
facilities. However, these improvements have been limited due to financial constraints.
B.2 Land Development
Many of the policies and recommendations in the 1996 Land Use Plan focused on issues
related to land development and progress has been made in many areas. Policies discourage
large increases in development and the population, neither of which occurred. Most
development has been limited to residential and duplex structures. The Town has not
Imm

increased its 40-foot building height limitation. Density maximums have been established
along with minimum lot sizes, floor area ratios, and parking requirements that limit the size
and density of new structures. Scenic vistas and views were, for the most part, protected by
applying the front, back, side yard, and oceanfront setbacks. Eight houses were designated as
historic landmarks to preserve older structures on the Island. The Town continues to enforce
its zoning ordinances and undertake actions designed to mitigate storm damage. Wrightsville
Beach's current CRS rating of 5 is evidence of these successful efforts.
There were several areas where additional progress could be made in addressing policies and
recommendations. The 1996 plan recommended that the town consider adopting a mixed -
use ordinance. While there is mixed -use development on the Island, the ordinances do not
specifically allow or facilitate this type of development or redevelopment. It continues to be
an issue as evidenced by comments at the November 15, 2003 public workshop. The plan
also recommended that the Town encourage and assist downtown property owners in the
development of architectural design guidelines. While zoning, signage, and lighting
ordinances provide guidance to business owners, no architectural guidelines were
established. The plan also recommended that the Town undertake a program of
neighborhood -based meetings on a rotating basis. While the Better Beach Task Force was
created, neighborhood meetings have not occurred as recommended in the plan. Moreover,
no neighborhood plans were established, although zoning ordinances do reflect some of the
different neighborhood characteristics.
B.3 Infrastructure
The 1996 Land Use Plan contains several policies and recommendations focused on
infrastructure related issues. One of the policies was to initiate a traffic management
program designed to achieve a balance between bicycle, pedestrian, and vehicular movement.
While no formal program was created, planning for a bike path has been initiated and
additional lighting was added to the 2.5-mile loop to improve public safety and encourage
additional pedestrian use during evening hours. The Town has also talked with the
Wilmington Transit Authority (WTA) about establishing a bus route. The Town reviewed
various options for improving traffic flow at the Keel Street intersection but funding remains
a constraint. Steps were taken to improve public parking and the management of the
program was privatized resulting in enhanced revenues and improved enforcement. Zoning
ordinances also require new development to have adequate parking.
BA Natural Systems
The 1996 Land Use Plan contains a variety of policies and recommendations to address the
issues raised in Section IV discussing the natural systems found in and adjacent to the Town
of Wrightsville Beach. Considerable progress has been made in addressing many of the
policies and recommendations. Two of the major accomplishments since the adoption of the
1996 Land Use Plan was the adoption of the 2002 Surface Water Use Plan and the 2003
National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Phase H Comprehensive

Toivy of Beach Appendix-1
Stormwater Management Program Report that address various policies and
recommendations pertaining to water use and water quality, respectively. Both documents
extend many of the policies and recommendations contained in the 1996 Land Use Plan and
• will be incorporated into the land use plan update. The Town also continues its efforts to
preserve tree cover and improve other natural areas. While no permanent turtle nesting areas
were designated, the non-profit organization Turtle Watch marks off and monitors nesting
sites. The north end of the beach has also been designated as a bird sanctuary as a result of
the project to relocate Mason's Inlet. The Town continues to limit marina expansion and the
• placement of permanent moorings.
The 1996 Land Use Plan also contains several policies and recommendations targeted at
mitigating storm damage and other hazards. Considerable progress has been made in this
area. The Emergency Management and Operations Plan is updated annually and contains
"building
plans for a permit triage" program, Recovery Task Force, and a planned sequence
for the restoration of public utilities and services to respond in post -storm situations.
B.5 Areas of Local Concern
There are also a variety of policies and recommendations best described as local areas of
concern. Progress has been made in these areas as well. The Town regularly announces and
•
promotes the "Big Sweep Clean Up". It continues to support measures to recycle and reduce
the amount of solid waste generated annually. Further expansion of the ETJ has not occurred
and Wilmington has now annexed all of the ETJ except for the 14 satellite commercial
properties. The Town continues to support beach renourishment. A visitor's center is being
.
developed and a new welcome sign has been installed. However, while the Town continues
to support its parks and recreational facilities, there was no significant investment in new
park and recreational facilities other than the creation of a new Kayak Trail.
MOM

Table B.1: Analysis of the Implementation of the 1996 CAMA Land Use Plan
Public Access
Current Policies -Public Access
Recommended Actions
Status/Constraints
Policy 8.1.2 C. Public Trust Areas
Recommended Actions:
Status:
(1) Any use, which significantly
• The Town shall develop a
Surface Water Use Plan: Addresses the
interferes with the public right of
water use and harbor
concerns of boaters and residents of
navigation or other public trust
management plan to
Wrightsville Beach about the use of Public
rights, shall be strongly
address the competing
Trust Waters. No ordinances resulted.
discouraged. Projects which
interests for the public trust
However, 2002 Surface Water Use Plan
would directly or indirectly block
waters at Wrightsville
Recommendations will be incorporated into
or impair existing navigational
Beach.
the LUP Update.
channels, increase shoreline
■ The Town shall continue to
No Harbor Management Plan was
erosion, deposit spoils below
participate on the special
developed, however, the 2002 Surface Water
mean high water, cause adverse
government committee to
Use Plan, and the 2003 Phase I1 NPDES
water circulation patterns, violate
address the management
Stormwater Plan address many of these
water quality standards, or cause
and proper regulation of jet
issues.
degradation of shellfish waters
skis and similar personal
Ordinance 1267 1996, boats cannot be
shall be prohibited.
watercraft.
anchored past Pierhead line for more than 30
(2) The Town shall seek to ensure the
The Town shall extend the
days in any 180 consecutive day period.
responsible use of jet skis and
Pierhead line to the north
The pierhead line extends to Parmele, but it
other similar "personal"
end of Wrightsville Beach.
was not extended further north.
watercraft within the public trust
waters of Wrightsville Beach.
Constraints: Funding; NPDES is federally
Responsible use shall mean
required.
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 8.3.7 Commitment to State
Recommended Actions:
Status:
and Federal Programs
■ No Actions Listed in 1996
■ The Town through, the zoning code
The Town supports the State Coastal
LUP
enforcement officer enforces the policies of
Area Management Act, the State's
CAMA.
beach access program, State and
■ The Town through the building code
Federal channel maintenance and
enforcement officer enforces the NC State
inlet projects, beach renourishment,
Building Code and the Minimum Housing
and bridge and road improvement
Standards
programs.
■ February 27, 2003 150.07 requiring BOA
approval for dredging repealed due to heavy
regulation by COE and NC DENR.
Constraints: Not Applicable

Current '1licies: Public Access
Recommended Actions
Status/Constraints
Policy 8.3.11 A. Beach and
Recommended Actions:
Status:
Waterfront Access
■ The Town shall review the
■ Ocean Front Development Standards
(1) Public pedestrian access is
integrity of the existing dune
adopted in 2003.
limited to designated dune
system to determine
■ Ordinance 155.029 requires that Public
crossover access areas. The
necessity of dune
access shall be provided in accordance with
Town, through its CAMA minor
walkovers/crossovers in
the recommendations of the town's land use
permit program, may also allow
preventing ocean water
plan and access plan or the present amount
the construction of individual
washovers
of public access and public parking as exists
over -the -dune structures for
within the town now. If any
access to the beach at private
recommendations are found to conflict, the
access points. The intent of this
system requiring the greatest quantity and
policy is to prevent destruction of
quality of public access, including parking
the berm.
shall govern.
(2) The Town shall continue to
Improved Access Number 2 at North End
maintain and improve its existing
post 1996
public beach access facilities.
(3) The Town will seek County and
Constraints: Many unimproved dune accesses
State funding assistance for
already provided. Only 4 improved dune
waterfront and beach access
accesses (shower and bathroom facilities)
projects and facilities.
currently exist. Funding is available through
(4) To relieve congestion at the
DENR for beach access; however, the Town
Wrightsville Beach boat ramp,
has turned down two grants due to the
the Town shall encourage City
requirement of matching funds.
and County efforts to provide for
boat ramp facilities on the
mainland side of the Intracoastal
Waterway.
Policy 8.3.11 B. Soundside
Recommended Actions:
Status:
Waterfront Access
The Town shall review its
■ CAMA LPO uses the 1996 LUP as a guide
The Town shall seek to protect the
development regulations
to recommend actions to the Planning Board
remaining lineal shoreline of public
to discourage
and Board of Aldermen respectively.
and commercial properties providing
development forms,
■ Signs identifying each Public Access were
for direct and indirect public access to
which would act to wall
placed at the end of each Street.
the soundside and ICW of
off views of the water.
■ The FAR (Ordinance 1300-1998) limits the
Wrightsville Beach. Further exclusive
The Town shall develop
amount of land on a lot, which can be
residential development, which would
and implement an action
developed.
further wall off the balance of the
plan to identify and
■ Ordinance 1261 1995. "Provide Visual
Town's residents and visitors from the
protect public street ends
Buffering to enhance town Beautification"
water, shall be discouraged.
for public access to the
■ Ordinance 155.029 requires that Public
water. Such a plan may
Access shall be provided in accordance with
include, for example, the
the recommendations of the town's land use
placement of tasteful
plan and access plan or the present amount
signage at each street end
of public access and public parking as exists
noting that the street end
within the town now. If any
is a public right of way
recommendations are found to conflict, the
for access to the water
system requiring the greatest quantity and
(whether such access is
quality of public access, including parking
improved or not)
shall govern.
■ Wynn Plaza, public mooring and access
located soundside has been developed since
1996.
Constraints: Not Applicable
omm

Land Development
Current Policies: Land
Recommended Actions
Status/Constraints
Development
Policy 8.1.9 Industrial Impacts On
Recommended Actions: No
Status:
Fragile Areas
actions listed in 1996 LUP
The zoning ordinance does not designate
Industrial development of any kind is
industry as a permitted use.
incompatible with the overall land use
pattern, economy, and quality of life
Constraints: Not Applicable
at Wrightsville Beach. Therefore, no
impact on fragile areas is expected nor
will it be allowed.
Policy 8.1.10 Development Of
Recommended Actions:
Status:
Sound And Estuarine System
No actions listed in 1996
The zoning ordinance (Chapter 155) reflects
Islands
LUP
this zoning.
All estuarine sound islands and spoil
islands are subject to the conservation
Constraints: Not Applicable
(P-1) provisions of the Town's zoning
ordinance. The Town also supports all
County and State efforts to preserve
Masonboro Island.
Policy 8.1.11 Development Within
Recommended Actions:
Status:
Areas That Might Be Susceptible To
No actions listed in 1996
Ordinance 1300-1998 defines base flood
Sea Level Rise
LUP
elevation as an elevation that is determined
The Town will encourage appropriate
to be the highest level of flooding that, on
agencies of the State and Federal
average, is likely to occur once every
government to monitor research on
hundred years. The elevation is shown of
sea level rise and its effect on coastal
Federal Flood Insurance Rate Maps.
areas. The Town will consider any
State and Federal policies formulated
Constraints: Not Applicable
prior to amending its 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 the
need to renourish the beach or relocate
structures as necessary.
Policy 8.1.12 Upland Excavation
Recommended Actions:
Status:
For Marina Basins
As part of its water use and
The CAMA LPO uses the 1996 Land Use
The Town will discourage the
harbor management plan, the
Plan to evaluate proposed development and
expansion of existing marinas and the
Town shall address the issue
recommend action to the Planning Board
development of additional marinas,
of upland excavation for
and Board of Aldermen respectively.
including upland marinas in excavated
marina basins. Such
basins.
development shall also be
Constraints: Not Applicable
subject to zoning and site
plan review in keeping with
the intent of these policies.
Policy 8.1.13 Marsh Damage From
Recommended Actions:
Status:
Bulkhead Installation
No Actions Listed in 1996
■ New State Law Prohibits new Hard
The Town urges proper maintenance
LUP
Stabilization
of existing bulkheads and seawalls for
health, safety and aesthetic reasons.
Constraints: Not Applicable
The Town shall not allow marshes or
beach areas to be damaged by the
installation of new bulkheads, groins
or seawalls.
M

Current 'o
Recommended ActionsStatus/Constraints
Development
Policy 8.2.0 Basic Policy Statement
Recommended Actions:
Status:
Regarding Resource Production
No actions listed in 1996
■ Zoning ordinances, building standards, the
and Management
LUP
flood plain ordinances and the ocean front
Wrightsville Beach is located in the
development standard reflect this policy.
midst of one of the most biologically
■ Within the conservation zone, designated as
productive ecosystems on earth—
P-1 on the official zoning map, no lot or
estuarine waters and marshes. The
parcel of land may be developed for any
Town shall undertake no activity nor
purpose except commercial piers (where the
approve of any activity, which would
P-I zone adjoins a zone permitting a marina)
seriously harm the long-term viability
and for private piers (where the P-I zone
and productivity of this ecosystem.
adjoins a residential zone). ('72 Code, § 21-
30A) (Ord., passed 5-15-72)
Constraints: Not Applicable
Policy 8.2.3 Mineral Production
Recommended Actions: No
Status:
Areas —Existing and Potential
actions listed in 1996 LUP
Zoning ordinances (Chapter 155) — Non -
Mineral production and extraction
Permitted Use.
activities of any kind shall not be
permitted within the planning
Constraints: Not Applicable
jurisdiction of Wrightsville Beach.
8.2.6 Development Impacts
Recommended Actions:
Status:
New development and redevelopment
The Town shall conduct a
■ No formal review of development standards
activities shall not be permitted which
review of its development
occurred
would act to degrade the quality of
standards to identify and
■ Within the conservation zone, designated as
natural and scenic resources at
prevent potential adverse
P-1 on the official zoning map, no lot or
Wrightsville Beach.
impacts on natural and scenic
parcel of land may be developed for any
resources at Wrightsville
purpose except commercial piers (where the
Beach.
P-1 zone adjoins a zone permitting a marina)
and for private piers (where the P-1 zone
adjoins a residential zone). ('72 Code, § 21-
30A) (Ord., passed 5-15-72).
Constraints: Not Applicable
Policy 8.3.0 Basic Policy Statement
Recommended Actions:
Status:
Regarding Economic & Community
No actions listed in 1996
■ Zoning ordinances (Chapter 155) generally
Growth & Development
LUP
do not prevent larger more intensive uses.
Wrightsville Beach shall measure
■ The CAMA LPO uses the 1996 LUP to
"progress" in terms of a continual
make recommendations on variances, re -
refinement and enhancement of
zoning and conditional uses to the Planning
existing development forms and
Board and Board of Aldermen Respectively.
services. This shall be viewed in
contrast with the undesirable
Constraints: Not Applicable
wholesale displacement of existing
development by larger, more intensive
developments.

Town of Wrightsville Beach Appendix B
Current Policies:Recommended
Development
Policy 8.3.14 B. Scenic Vistas and
Recommended Actions:
Status:
Views
The Town shall review its
Front, back and side yard setbacks, the
In recognition and appreciation of the
development regulations to
requirements for buffer areas and the FAR,
scenic vistas and views of coastal
discourage development
all found in Chapter 155 of the Wrightsville
waters, the Town shall discourage
forms, which would act to
Beach Code of Ordinances, help prevent the
development forms (i.e. Wall to wall:
wall off views of the water.
walling off of the water.
or lengthy, continuous buildings and
privacy walls) along estuarine and
Constraints: Not Applicable
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 8.3.0 B. Population Increases
Recommended Actions:
Status:
The Town shall discourage large
No Actions Listed in 1996
■ Zoning ordinances (Chapter 155) limit the
incremental amounts of growth and
LUP
type of new development and redevelopment
development and large increases in
on Wrightsville Beach.
population.
■ Population had declined
Constraints: Not Applicable
Policy 8.3.0 C. Types of
Recommended Actions:
Status:
Development to be Encouraged
No actions listed in 1996
■ Zoning ordinances Chapter 155 limit the
The Town will encourage single
LUP
types of development and redevelopment
family and duplex residences,
that can occur.
appropriate neighborhood -oriented
■ Most development (1996-2001) was of a
and local businesses, and parks and
residential nature. No multiplexes were
natural areas.
built.
■ Zoning only allows duplexes and single
family homes in residential areas.
Constraints: Not Applicable
Policy 8.3.0 D. Density of
Recommended Actions:
Status:
Development
The Town shall conduct an
Zoning ordinance ( Chapter 155) establishes
The Town will consider reducing the
examination of its zoning
the following:
maximum density limits of its zoning
ordinance to identify
■ Maximum height established (4011),
ordinance for future development and
acceptable density and
■ Density maximums established
redevelopment. The Town will also
building sizes in each of the
■ Minimum lot sizes for new development.
consider maximum size limitations for
various zoning districts
■ FAR: the maximum amount of land
multifamily and commercial
developable on any given lot.
structures.
Constraints: Not Applicable
Policy 8.3.0 F. Building Height
Recommended Actions:
Status:
The Town will not increase the
The Town shall undertake
■ Zoning ordinances Chapter 155 a maximum
Town's present building height
ordinance revisions to clarify
building height of 40 ft remains unchanged.
limitation of, "not to exceed 40 feet."
building height
This maximum height may be reduced
measurements and standards.
Constraints: Not Applicable
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
Imm

Current Policies: Land
Development
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.
Recommended Actions
Recommended Actions:
No actions listed in 1996
LUP
Status/Constraints
Status:
Zoning ordinances Chapter 155 - Not an
allowed use.
Constraints: Not Applicable
Policy 8.3.4 Types of Residential
Recommended Actions:
Status:
Development Desired
The Town shall not approve
The zoning code enforcement officer uses
The Town will not allow additional
rezoning, which would allow
this policy to make recommendations on re -
multi -family complexes and high-rise
for additional multi -family
zoning requests to the Board of Aldermen.
structures. Multi -unit complexes shall
complexes, high-rise
It is at the Board's discretion to follow the
be limited to sites where they are
structures, and motels at
policy.
presently located. New or expanded
Wrightsville Beach. As part
single family and duplex homes that
of the Town's neighborhood
Constraints: Not Applicable
are out of scale with other structures
planning, the zoning
in their vicinity shall be discouraged.
ordinance shall be examined
for possible amendments to
encourage appropriate,
compatible building forms.
Policy 8.3.5 Types of Commercial
Recommended Actions:
Status:
Development Desired
The Town shall amend
Zoning Ordinance ( Chapter 155) establishes
(1) The Town will encourage
the zoning ordinance to
the following:
commercial establishments providing
establish building size,
■ Maximum height (40 ft),
basic goods and services to year round
height, mass, and setback
■ Density maximums
residents and visitors. Examples
standards, which support
■ Minimum lot sizes for new development.
include appropriately scaled and
the existing development
■ FAR: the maximum amount of land
designed grocery stores, drug stores,
character of nearby
developable on any given lot.
sit down restaurants, etc.
properties.
(2) Architectural character and
The Town shall not issue
■ The zoning code enforcement officer and the
signage, which is not in keeping with
permits for project, which
building code enforcement officer, enforce
a small town atmosphere, shall be
would allow for
the Code of Ordinances, CAMA regulations
strongly discouraged.
additional multi -family
and the NC State Building Code.
(3) To preserve the economic viability
complexes, high-rise
of the community's
structures, and motels at
There is pre-existing mixed use, however the
commercial/retail/service base, the
Wrightsville Beach. Such
ordinances do not currently allow mixed -use
Town shall consider mixed -use
development forms shall
development at Wrightsville Beach.
ground floor commercial with upper
be permitted only on sites
floor residential on commercially
where they are presently
Constraints: Not Applicable
zoned properties.
located.
■ The Town shall explore
the desirability and
feasibility of amending it
zoning standards to allow
for appropriate mixed use
developments in keeping
with the intent of policy
8.3.5 3

Current Policies: 1
Recommended Actions
Status/Constraints
Development
Policy 8.3.6 Redevelopment,
Recommended Actions
Status:
Including Relocation of Threatened
No actions listed in 1996
The building and zoning code enforcement
Structures
LUP
officers enforce this policy.
Relocation of structures endangered or
damaged by wave action and/or
Constraints: Not Applicable
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 8.3.8 C. Beach Hardening
Recommended Actions:
Status:
The Town adheres to current CAMA
No actions listed in 1996
The CAMA LPO assures that all projects
policies and regulations concerning
LUP
meet current CAMA regulations.
beach erosion control. Structures,
including but not limited to bulkheads,
Constraints: Not Applicable
riprap, 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.D. Soundside Bulkheads
Recommended Actions: No
Status:
The Town will encourage the
actions listed in 1996 LUP
The CAMA LPO assures that all projects
appropriate construction and
meet current CAMA regulations.
maintenance of estuarine bulkheads as
necessary within the context of the
Constraints: Not Applicable
CAMA regulations.
Policy 8.3.9 Energy Facility Sighting
Recommended Actions:
Status and Constraints: Not Applicable
and Development
No actions listed in 1996
The Town is opposed to offshore
LUP
continental shelf drilling for oil and
gas. The location of shore side 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 8.3.13 Downtown Area
Recommended Actions:
Status:
The Town supports the continuation
The Town shall encourage
■ No architectural design guidelines have been
of a commercial downtown area, to
and assist downtown property
established
encourage a "village type" atmosphere
owners in the development of
■ Sign ordinances and zoning ordinances, and
with appropriate local community
architectural design
lighting ordinances are used to assure
businesses.
guidelines for the traditional
appropriate development.
downtown area of
Wrightsville Beach.
Constraints: Not Applicable

Town of Wrightsville Beach Appendix B
Policies:Current
Recommended
Development
Policy 8.3.14 A. Neighborhood
Recommended Actions:
Status:
Character and Preservation
The Town shall undertake a
No neighborhood meetings have occurred.
The Town encourages the
program of neighborhood
However, a series of committees including
improvement, preservation and
based meetings on a rotating
the Better Beach Committee, 1939 Building
enhancement of the Town's areas of
basis
Line Committee, Land Use Plan Steering
unique character and neighborhoods.
Committee, etc have been formed in order
for resident to share their concerns.
■ Zoning Ordinances (Chapter 155) are not
established by neighborhood. However
allowed uses in zones generally conform to
neighborhood character.
■ The Historic Landmark Commission,
however, has designated approximately 8
houses over the last 8 years.
Constraints: Not Applicable
Policy 8.3.14 C. Historic
Recommended Actions:
Status:
Preservation
The Town shall continue to
8 Houses designated as historic landmarks
The Town shall encourage the regular
work with the Historic
from 1996 to 2003.
maintenance and preservation of older
Landmark Commission in its
historic structures where desired.
efforts to preserve historic
Constraints: Not Applicable
structures at Wrightsville
Beach
Policy 8.5.1 C. Advanced Planning
Recommended Actions:
Status:
For Land Acquisition
No actions listed in 1996
No evidence of activities related to land
(I)The Town supports advanced
LUP
acquisition or advanced planning for land
planning for acquisition of properties
acquisition.
that are not suitable for development,
where such acquisition serves a useful
Constraints: Not Applicable
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 mitigate
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.
-B11-

Current P1
Recommended 1Status/Constraints
Development
Policy 8.5.1 A. Storm Effect
Recommended Actions:
Status:
Mitigation
Recognizing the critical role
■ The building code enforcement officer
(1) Standards For Construction In
of the NFIP in protecting the
enforces the NC State Building Code, the
Flood Prone Areas.
lives and property at
Base Flood Elevation Ordinance, and the
The Town shall require all new and
Wrightsville Beach, the
Flood Plain Ordinance.
substantially improved structures to
Town shall continue to
- There are currently 2,598 Federal Flood
meet Federal, State and local
strictly enforce ordinance
insurance policies in force in Wrightsville
standards for construction in flood
provisions, which bring
Beach.
prone areas.
structures into compliance
■ Wrightsville Beach has a CRS rating as of
(2) Flood Plain Ordinance
with the Town's flood plain
October 2003 was a 5.
The Town will only grant variances to
protection standards.
the Flood Plain ordinance on rare
Constraints: Not Applicable
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
Recommended Actions:
Status:
Hazardous Development
See 8.5.1 A
■ The zoning code enforcement officer, and
The Town shall use a variety of
the building code enforcement officer
methods, including particularly,
enforce CAMA regulations,
CAMA setback requirements and
■ They also enforce the Town's side and front
zoning, to discourage the development
yard setbacks, the base flood elevation, etc.
of property that can reasonably be
foreseen as potentially hazardous.
Constraints: Not Applicable
Policy 8.3.0 E. Building Standards,
Recommended Actions:
Status:
Generally
As part of the Town's
■ Zoning Ordinances (Chapter 155) are not
The Town shall support refinements
neighborhood planning effort,
established by neighborhood. However
in building standards throughout
the Town shall conduct a
allowed uses in zones generally conform to
the community to reflect the unique
survey and inventory of
neighborhood character.
characteristics of different areas of
prevailing building heights,
■ No neighborhood planning occurred,
Wrightsville Beach, including but
setbacks, lot coverage and
however a height maximum (40') was
not limited to: height, setbacks, lot
other factors for the particular
established for the entire island.
coverage, and floor area ratios
neighborhood under study.
The purpose of this survey
Constraints: Not applicable
shall be to measure
appropriate change in the
neighborhood.
-B 12-

Town of Wrightsville Beach Appendix B
Infrastructure
Current Policies: Infrastructure
Implementation
Status/Constraints
Actions
Policy 8.3.14 D. Undergrounding of
Recommended Actions:
Status:
Utilities
The Town shall budget
No evidence has been found of this action.
As opportunities and budgeting
funds to match
constraints allow, the Town will work
neighborhood efforts to
Constraints: Funding
with neighborhoods to put utilities
place overhead utilities
underground.
underground.
Policy 8.3.15 A. Transportation
Recommended Actions:
Status:
Planning
The Town shall continue
■ Planning for a bike path is currently under
The Town shall undertake a traffic
to work with NCDOT on
discussion, lighting has also been added to the
management program, which seeks to
a program to achieve a
2.5-mile loop to encourage pedestrian traffic
achieve a balance between pedestrian,
better balance between
at night
bicycle and vehicular movement and
vehicular and non -
safety.
vehicular movement at
Constraints: Lack of developable land,
Wrightsville Beach.
funding.
Policy 8.3.15 B. Public Transportation
Recommended Actions:
Status:
The Town will consider proposals from
No actions listed in 1996
■ The Town has talked with WTA about
private entities for establishing public
LUP
establishing a bus route.
transportation from Wrightsville Beach
to the adjacent mainland areas.
Constraints: Not Applicable
Policy 8.3.15 C. High Rise Bridge
Recommended Actions:
Status:
The Town does not support the
No actions listed in 1996
■ The Town has maintained the ICW Bridge in
construction of a high-rise and/or second
LUP
its current condition. Maintenance on the
bridge to the island.
Bridge occurred in February 2004.
Constraints: Not Applicable
Policy 8.3.15 E. Keel Street
Recommended Actions:
Status:
Intersection
The Town shall continue
The Town has reviewed various options for
Ongoing efforts to correct operational
to work with NCDOT
improving the Keel Street Intersection.
deficiencies at the Keel Street
and the NC Wildlife
intersection shall be supported.
Commission on
Constraints: Funding
improvements to traffic
flows at the Keel Street
Intersection.
Policy 8.3.15 F. Parking
Recommended Actions:
Status:
(1) The Town recognizes that on street
No actions listed in 1996
■ More spaces have been metered since 1996.
parking is one of the most efficient
LUP
■ More ordinances have been passed limiting
forms of parking available at
on street parking at various times since 1996.
Wrightsville Beach. The Town shall
■ There are 1,792 marked parking spaces on
avoid actions, which would further
Wrightsville Beach
eliminate on -street parking, unless
■ New development -redevelopment according
necessary for public safety purposes.
to ordinance 155.060 is required to have
(2) Large off street parking areas or
parking on lot.
structures are viewed as an exceptionally
inefficient use of limited land resources.
Constraints: Not Applicable
Where such uses are created, however,
they shall be in keeping with the small
town character, scale and design of
Wrightsville Beach.

Policies:Current
Actions
Policy 8.3.16 The Wrightsville Sound
Recommended Actions:
Status:
Area
The Town shall reinitiate
■ City of Wilmington has annexed the entire
The Town shall seek to establish and
a dialogue with New
Wrightsville Sound Area except for
maintain an on -going joint planning
Hanover County and/or
commercial satellites previously annexed by
effort with New Hanover County (or the
the City of Wilmington
Wrightsville beach.
City of Wilmington, upon annexation)
regarding the future
for the Wrightsville Sound Area
development of the
Constraints:
emphasizing input from the Town on
Wrightsville Sound and
The City of Wilmington is in the process of
issues of land use, community
development standards
removing the planning overlay so that they
appearance, open space and traffic
for the Wrightsville
can control development in the Wrightsville
management for areas outside the
Avenue and Eastwood
Sound Area
Town's corporate limits.
Road travel corridors.
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 AECs
are met, and that the proposed use is
consistent with policies set forth in this
Plan.
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 AEC's. Acceptable uses within
the individual AEC's of the estuarine
system shall be those, which require
water, access and or cannot function
elsewhere. Such uses shall be in accord
with the general use standards for coastal
wetlands, estuarine waters, and public
trust areas as stated in 15A NCAC
Subchapter 7H.
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.
Natural Systems
Recommended Actions:
As part of the water use and harbor
management plan (8.1.2 cl) The
Town shall address the issues of
marina development, and
expansion. Development along the
estuarine shorelines shall be subject
to zoning and site plan approval in
accordance with the intent of these
policies.
Recommended Actions:
The Town shall continue to
administer the CAMA minor
permit program in accordance with
CAMA standards for Areas of
Environmental Concern
Recommended Actions:
The Town shall explore the
feasibility of having one or more
appropriate areas of the Town
designated as a turtle nesting
sanctuary.
Status:
■ No harbor management plan has
been developed; however, the zoning
ordinances address permitted uses in
a variety of zones.
■ No marina ordinance has been
specifically adopted
Constraints: Federal law requires
NPDES Phase II.
Status:
■ Zoning ordinances and the CAMA
LPO enforce this policy.
Constraints: Not Applicable
Status
■ No ordinances 1996-2003
specifically address this issue.
■ A nonprofit organization -Turtle
Watch marks off and monitors the
turtle nests at Wrightsville Beach.
There is a fine for disturbing the
turtle nests.
Constraints: Nesting locations change
from year to year.
-B 14-

Current Policies: Natural Systems
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 NOT permitted include restaurants,
businesses, residences, apartments,
motels, hotels, parking lots, private roads,
and highways.
Recommended Actions
Recommended Actions:
No actions listed in 1996 LUP
Status/Constraints
Status
Within the conservation zone,
designated as P-1 on the official
zoning map, no lot or parcel of land
may be developed for any purpose
except commercial piers (where the
P-1 zone adjoins a zone permitting a
marina) and for private piers (where
the P-1 zone adjoins a residential
zone). ('72 Code, § 21-30A) (Ord.,
passed 5-15-72)
Constraints: Not Applicable
Policy 8.1.2 B. Estuarine Waters
Recommended Actions:
Status:
(1) Appropriate uses within estuarine
No actions listed in 1996 LUP
■ The CAMA LPO/zoning code
waters may include simple access
administrator enforces this policy.
channels, structures that prevent erosion,
■ No marina development policy has
navigational channels, and private boat
been specifically adopted.
docks, piers, and mooring pilings.
■ The Phase II NPDES Report
Expansion or construction of new marinas
established method to reduce water
is discouraged. Piers and docks for non-
pollution and stormwater run off.
water dependent commercial uses are also
discouraged.
Constraints: Not Applicable
(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 8.1.4 B. Maritime Forest and
Recommended Actions:
Status:
Tree Cover
The Town shall work with the
Parks maintenance has continuously
Tree cover at Wrightsville Beach,
New Hanover County
updated and improved the natural
whether maritime or otherwise, is a highly
Agricultural Extension service
areas on Wrightsville Beach.
valued asset. The Town encourages
and utility companies to reduce
efforts to preserve existing tree cover in
tree -trimming damage.
Constraints: Not Applicable
new development and redevelopment
The Town shall investigate
participation in the Tree City
USA program.
-B15-

Current P1licies: Natural Systems
Recommended ActionsStatus/Constraints
Policy 8.1.2 E. Ocean Hazard Areas of
Recommended Actions:
Status:
Environmental Concern
No actions listed in 1996 LUP
■ LPO enforces CAMA regulations,
(1) The Town supports State policies for
■ The flood plain ordinance
ocean hazard areas as set forth in
established building standards,
Chapter 15A, Subchapter 7H of the
■ The zoning ordinance established
State CAMA regulations. Suitable
permitted uses by zone.
land uses in ocean hazard areas
include ocean shoreline erosion
Constraints: Not Applicable
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.
Policy 8.5.1 D. Evacuation
Recommended Actions:
Status:
The Town's evacuation policies under a
No actions listed in 1996 LUP
The emergency operations plan is
number of emergency situations shall be
updated annually.
specified in the emergency operations
plan of the Town. The plan shall be
Constraints: Not Applicable
examined for possible revision or
improvements on at least an annual basis.
Policy 8.5.2 A. Emergency
Recommended Actions:
Status:
Management Plan
No actions listed in 1996 LUP
The emergency operations plan is
The Town shall annually update its
updated annually.
Emergency Management and Operations
Plan, in concert with County and State
Constraints: Not Applicable
emergency management officials, and
with input from Town residents. The plan
shall encompass pre -storm and immediate
post storm activities and policies of the
Town, including policies on evacuation
and reentry, debris pick up, and public
health and safety issues.
•

Current P1licies-Natural Systems
Recommended ActionsStatus/Constraints
Policy 8.5.2 D. Post Storm Recovery
Recommended Actions:
Status:
(1) To deal with the large number of
No actions listed in 1996 LUP
This information is found in the
requests for permits after a major
emergency operations plan
storm, the Town shall employ a
"building permit triage" for orderly
Constraints: Not Applicable
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
Recommended Actions:
Status:
Repairs and Replacement
No actions listed in 1996 LUP
This has occurred with all hurricane
The Town of Wrightsville Beach will
post 1996.
assess any damage to public infrastructure
at the earliest time after the event.
Constraints: Not Applicable
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.
Policy 8.5.2.B. Building Permits
Recommended Actions:
Status:
The Town shall issue building permits as
No actions listed in 1996 LUP
Building permit triage was
expeditiously as possible to property
established after Hurricanes post
owners whose structures have received
1996.
minor damage by the event. If a structure
has been damaged by more than 50
Constraints: Not Applicable
percent, the property owner will have to
rebuild or modify the structure to meet
current development ordinances.
Policy 8.5.2 C. Recovery Task Force
Recommended Actions:
Status:
Depending upon the degree of damage
No actions listed in 1996 LUP
The Town implements its
following a major storm event, the Town
emergency operations plan.
shall have on call a variety of public
officials to serve as a Recovery Task
Constraints: Not Applicable
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.
-B 17-

Policies:Current
Policy 8.1.4 C. Outstanding Resource
Recommended Actions:
Status
Water Areas
No actions listed in 1996 LUP
The NPDES Phase II Report
The Town supports and encourages the
recommends various actions to
designation and preservation of
reduce stormwater runoff and
Outstanding Resource Waters. The Town
prevent water pollution, some of
promotes surface water quality through its
which have been implemented in
storm drainage and stormwater runoff
new development.
policies.
Stormwater Ordinance: All post -
development runoff shall be limited
to pre -development levels. In the
alternative, stormwater
detention/retention shall be designed
for a storm greater than a ten-year
storm. Hydrology calculations
prepared by a licensed engineer are
required indicating compliance with
the requirements set forth herein
prior to the issuance of a building
permit. The standard used may be
peak flow, volume or a combination
of the two.
Constraints: Not Applicable
Policy 8.1.4 D. Shellfishing Waters
Recommended Actions:
Status
The Town supports and encourages the
No actions listed in 1996 LUP
The NPDES Phase II Report
activities of the State's Shellfish
recommends various actions to
Management Program. The Town
reduce stormwater runoff and
promotes estuarine water quality through
prevent water pollution, some of
its storm drainage planning and
which have been implemented in
stormwater runoff policies.
new development.
■ Stormwater Ordinance: All post -
development runoff shall be limited
to pre -development levels. In the
alternative, stormwater
detention/retention shall be designed
for a storm greater than a ten-year
storm. Hydrology calculations
prepared by a licensed engineer are
required indicating compliance with
the requirements set forth herein
prior to the issuance of a building
permit. The standard used may be
peak flow, volume or a combination
of the two.
Constraints: Not Applicable
Policy 8.1.4 E. Water Supply Areas and
Recommended Actions:
Status and Constraints: Not
Other Waters with Special Values
No actions listed in 1996 LUP
Applicable
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.
-B 18-

Town of Wrightsville Beach Appendix B
Policies:Current Systems
Recommended
Policy 8.1.14 Water Quality Problems
Recommended Actions:
Status
and Management Measures Designed
No actions listed in 1996 LUP
NPDES Phase II includes
to Address Them
implementation actions which will
The Town shall continue to seek
help eliminate stormwater
improved marina management,
discharge and educate the
stormwater runoff and other
populace of Wrightsville Beach on
development standards that will protect
current water quality
and enhance the water quality of the
The Town adopted the most recent
estuarine system.
Phase II Stormwater requirements.
Constraints: Not Applicable
Policy 8.1.5 Protection of Potable
Recommended Actions
Status:
Water Supply
No actions listed in 1996 LUP
NPDES Phase II and the Public
The Town's groundwater resources shall
Works' Annual Water Report
be conserved for longevity through
encourage water conservation and
proper management of its system of
report on the State of Wrightsville
wells, and by the encouragement of
Beach's Water Supply.
water conservation practices, including
measures that can be taken in
Constraints: Not Applicable
construction of all new structures.
Policy 8.1.6 Package Sewage
Recommended Actions:
Status:
Treatment Plants
No actions listed in 1996 LUP
No variances have been permitted.
All new developments are required to
connect to the Town's central sewer
Constraints: Not Applicable
system. Package sewage treatment
plants and septic systems are not
allowed.
Policy 8.1.7 Stormwater Runoff
Recommended Actions:
Status:
The Town encourages the use of "best
The Town shall study the issue of
The Stormwater Ordinance and
management practices" to minimize the
impervious surfaces related to new
NPDES Phase II address the
release of pollutants to coastal waters
construction and redevelopment with
problems with stormwater runoff.
through Stormwater runoff. Examples
an eye toward minimizing paved
include using pervious or semi -pervious
surfaces, which would increase
Constraints: Not Applicable
materials, such as turfstone or gravel for
runoff onto adjacent properties, or
driveways and walks, retaining natural
into estuarine waters.
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.
Policy 8.1.8 A. Marinas, Wet slips
Recommended Actions:
Status:
The Town will discourage the expansion
As part of the water use and harbor
■ No harbor management plan
and/or intensification of existing
management plan (8.1.2 c (1)), the
adopted
marinas and the development of
Town shall address the location and
■ Phase II or Surface Water Plan do
additional marinas, including upland
operation of wet slip marinas.
not specifically address issue
marinas in excavated basins.
■ Wet slip marinas are discouraged
by zoning ordinance
Constraints: NPDES Phase II
required.
AZ

Town of Wrightsville Beach Appendix B
Current Policies: Natural Systems
Recommended Actions
Status/Constraints
Policy 8.1.8 B. Floating Home
Recommended Actions:
Status:
Development
As part of it water use and harbor
Mooring in one spot for greater
Due to the limited amount of public trust
management plan (8.1.2 c (1)) The
than 30 days is prohibited.
waters surrounding Wrightsville Beach
Town shall continue current policies
and the heavy use of those waters by the
which prohibit floating homes from
Constraints: Not Applicable
public, the Town shall not allow the
occupying limited public trust
effective "permanent consumption" of
surface water areas.
public trust waters by floating homes.
Policy 8.1.8 C. Moorings and Mooring
Recommended Actions:
Status:
Fields
As part of its water use and harbor
■ Wynn Plaza is the only public
Additional freestanding moorings of any
management plan (8.1.2 c (1)), The
mooring,
kind shall not be allowed within the
Town shall address location and
■ Other public moorings are
public trust waters of Wrightsville
design of moorings and mooring
discouraged by zoning and Surface
Beach.
fields.
Water use plan
Constraints: No harbor management
plan developed, however Surface
Water Use Plan addresses some of
these issues.
Policy 8.1.8 D. Dry Stack Storage
Recommended Actions:
Status:
While dry storage of boats by individual
As part of its water use and harbor
■ Dry stack and wet slip facilities
owners is preferred over wet slip
Management plan (8.1.2 c (1)) the
discouraged by zoning ordinances
storage, the Town shall discourage the
Town shall address the location and
and surface water use plan.
expansion and development of
operation of dry stack storage
■ No harbor management plan
additional dry stack storage facilities.
facilities.
developed, however Surface Water
Use Plan addresses some of these
issues.
Constraints: None
Policy 8.1.8 E. Commercial Fishing
Recommended Actions:
Status:
Dockage
As part of its water use and harbor
■ Not addressed in Phase II or
Commercial fisheries vessel dockage at
management plan the Town shall
Surface Water Use
currently used commercial facilities
address the size, location, and
■ Discouraged via zoning and lack
along the soundside waterfront is
operation of vessels for hire, charter
of adequate facilities
acceptable.
boats, and cruise ship dockage.
■ No harbor management plan
developed, however Surface Water
Use Plan addresses some of these
issues.
Constraints: None
Policy 8.3.8 A. Assistance to Channel
Recommended Actions:
Status:
Maintenance, Including Interstate
No Actions Listed in 1996 LUP
On February 27, 2003, due to
Waterways
heavy regulation by the U.S. Army
The Town supports State and Federal
Corps of Engineers (COE) and
channel and inlet maintenance projects.
DENR, ordinance 150.07 requiring
All dredging and stabilization operations
BOA approval for dredging was
must be performed so as to minimize
repealed.
any damage to fish and wildlife habitat
Constraints: Not Applicable
1

To wit of Wrightsville Beach Appendix B
Policies:Current Systems
Recommended Actions
Policy 8.1.8 IF. Vessels for Hire,
Recommended Actions:
Status:
Charter Boats and Cruise Ship
As part of it water use and harbor
■ Not addressed in phase I1 or
Dockage
management plan the Town shall
surface water use,
Vessels for hire and charter boats/cruise
address the size, location, and
■ Discouraged via zoning and lack
ships shall only be allowed in
operation of vessels for hire, charter
of adequate facilities
conjunction with existing marinas and
boats, and cruise ship dockage.
shall not cause an expansion in the
Constraints: No Harbor
amount of surface water consumed or
Management Plan developed
parking demand generated. Smaller
charter and cruise ships shall be
referred over larger.
Policy 8.2.4 Fisheries Resources
Recommended Actions:
Status
(Commercial and Recreational)
The Town shall through
No evidence of coastal habitat
(1) The Town supports projects, which
proclamation and pubic awareness,
protection plan program support,
increase productivity of coastal and
assist in promoting the annual Big
oyster reseeding or artificial reef
estuarine waters. Projects such as oyster
Sweep clean up.
development.
reseeding programs and properly
constructed artificial reef construction
Constraints: Not Applicable
will be supported in the future.
(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 8.3.2 B. Wastewater Treatment
Recommended Actions:
Status:
and Disposal
No actions listed in 1996 LUP
This has been enforced
All new developments are required to
connect to the Town's central sewer
Constraints: Not Applicable
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 A. Potable Water Supply
Recommended Actions:
Status:
The Town requires all new development
The Town shall continue to enhance
This has been enforced.
to tie into its system for potable water
the existing water supply system,
supply and prohibits individual wells for
and shall explore alternatives for
Constraints: Not Applicable
potable use. The Town shall continue to
supplementing the existing system.
take measures to ensure that the water
supply system is adequate to meet the
needs of Town residents and businesses.
-B21-

Policies:Current
Policy 8.3.2 Provision of Services to
Recommended Actions:
Status:
Development, Generally
No actions listed in 1996 LUP
This has been enforced
The Town will make all municipal
facilities available to existing and future
Constraints: Funding
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.
Local Areas of Concern
Policies:Current
Policy 8.2.4 Fisheries Resources
Recommended Actions:
Status:
(Commercial and Recreational)
The Town shall through
The Town announces Big sweep
The Town supports the "Big Sweep" beach
proclamation and public
each year.
cleanup program and all other similar efforts to
awareness, assist in promoting
enhance the cleanliness of the natural
the annual Big Sweep clean
Constraints: Not Applicable
environment.
up.
Policy 8.2.5 Off Road Vehicles
Recommended Actions:
Status:
Off -road vehicles (with the exception of
No actions listed in 1996 LUP
■ Prohibited by ordinance
emergency vehicles) are not allowed outside
public rights of way and private drives at
Constraints: Not Applicable
Wrightsville Beach.
Policy 8.3.0 A. Growth of Town's
Recommended Actions:
Status:
Jurisdiction
No actions listed in 1996 LUP
■ Wilmington has annexed all the
Expansion of the Town's ETJ/or corporate
ETJ except for the 14 satellite
limits on the mainland/Wrightsville Sound
commercial properties of
area shall not be supported.
Wrightsville Beach.
Constraints: Not Applicable
Policy 8.3.2 C. Solid Waste Disposal
Recommended Actions:
Status:
The Town supports measures to recycle and
The Town shall continue to
The Town maintains the recycling
reduce the amount of solid waste generated by
monitor the recycling market
complex located adjacent to the
all permanent residents and businesses, as well
to identify additional items for
police and fire departments.
as visitors to the Beach.
recycling.
Recycled materials include plastic,
cardboard, glass, aluminum and
newspaper.
Constraints: Not Applicable
-B22-

Town of Wrightsville Beach Appendix B
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, to provide a
trust fund for beach renourishment projects.
The Town does not support the use of the
room tax to support tourism promotion and
marketing efforts, given the fact that New
Hanover County, its beaches and other
attractions are well established as a tourism
destination, and are generally thriving.
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 8.3.12 Parks and Recreation
The Town supports the development,
maintenance and enhancement of its parks and
recreational facilities for the benefit of Town
residents.
Policy 8.4.3 Neighborhood Planning
The Town shall encourage a high level of
involvement by citizens and property owners
in planning decisions through neighborhood
planning. The Town shall institute an on -going
neighborhood planning program, within which
different parts of the Town will be addressed,
on a rotating basis.
Recommended Actions:
■ The Town shall, as part of
its capital improvement
planning process, budget
appropriate funds necessary
to support on -going beach
renourishment at
Wrightsville Beach.
■ The Town shall support the
reinstitution of the original
80/20 apportionment of
room tax revenues with
priority for beach
renourishment.
Recommended Actions:
The Town shall continue to
work in partnership with the
Wrightsville Beach Chamber
of Commerce to promote
quality tourism.
Recommended Actions:
No actions listed in 1996 LUP
Recommended Actions:
The Town shall undertake a
program of neighborhood -
based meetings on a rotating
basis.
Status:
■ Wrightsville Beach has requested
money from the Tourism
Development Authority to support
lifeguard services, beach strand
survey costs, and a variety of other
tourism related expenditures.
Constraints: Not Applicable
Status:
■ A visitor's center is being
developed.
■ A new welcome sign will soon be
installed
Constraints: Not Applicable
Status:
■ A Kayak Trail has recently been
established at Wrightsville Beach.
■ There has been no significant
investment in parks and recreation
facilities since 1996
■ Central Parking now uses Fire
Station Number 2, which was once
used for indoor recreation
programs.
Constraints: Not Applicable
Status:
■ Although no neighborhood
planning has occurred a series of
ad hoc committees including the
1939 Building Line and the Better
Beach Committees have been
established to hear resident
concerns.
Constraints: Not
-B23-

4
N

Appendix C
Maps for the
Land Suitability Analysis (LSA)
Environmental Composite
-C1-

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•
•Tojvn of ppe
•
•
•
• Appendix D
•
•
• Activities Identified in the Town's NPDES
•
Phase II Stormwater Permit Application
•
•
•
w D.0 Introduction
• In 2003, Wrightsville Beach's Stormwater Task Force submitted its Phase II National
• Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit application to the Department of
Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). The permit application proposes a number of
• management measures and recommended actions designed to satisfy the state's stormwater
management requirements for Phase II communities. The Town's land use plan includes the
• NPDES permit application's key policies and recommended actions. This Appendix
• provides additional background information on these policies and recommended actions.
DA Public Education/Outreach Measures
In May 2003 Wrightsville Beach's Stormwater Task Force devised a public
education/outreach strategy to comply with the state's NPDES Phase II stormwater
management requirements. The target audiences for these efforts are residents and visitors to
Wrightsville Beach as well as adjacent residents in Wilmington and New Hanover County.
The emphasis of these outreach efforts will be on reducing the following sources of nonpoint
source (NPS) pollution:
Trash: Trash and litter are obvious problems in Wrightsville Beach's waterways.
Plastic, glass bottles, fast food wrappers, and cigarette butts are the most notable
items collected during stream clean-up events. In addition to aesthetic impacts,
trash and debris clog the storm drainage systems, which can result in street and
property flooding. Trash and debris are also a threat to local wildlife when it
mistakes trash for food.
Car Washing: Washing vehicles on driveways and other impervious surfaces is a
common practice in Wrightsville Beach that sends soaps, toxins, and grime down
storm drains into local waterways. Toxins in car washing soaps, such as
phosphates, contribute to algal blooms that deplete oxygen in the water and kill
fish and other aquatic life. Ongoing outreach and education efforts are needed to
encourage citizens to wash vehicles on grass or frequent commercial car washes
outside Town limits.
-Dl-

Disposal of Household Chemicals and Used Motor Oil: Dumping household
hazardous chemicals, cleaners, grease, and automobile fluids into storm drains or
ditches are activities that sometimes occur in Wrightsville Beach. These materials
contain high levels of pollutants including heavy metals, toxins, oil, grease,
solvents, and nutrients. Elevated pollutant levels seriously degrade water quality
and threaten aquatic life, wildlife, and human health. Outreach efforts should
focus on educating the public about the proper disposal of hazardous materials
and the impacts of dumping them into storm drains, ditches or waterways.
Application of Lawn Care Products: The application of fertilizers and pesticides
is a common practice, particularly by lawn care companies and single-family
households. Outreach efforts should focus on educating the public that fertilizers
contain nutrients that, in excess, wash into waterways and cause lower dissolved
oxygen levels, excessive weed and algae growth, and impair aquatic habitat.
Education efforts should encourage the use of soil testing kits to determine
specific lawn nutrient needs and save consumers money avoiding unnecessary
fertilization or lawns.
Pet Waste: Pathogens in uncollected pet waste are a threat to human health,
aquatic life, and water quality. Certain bacteria, parasites, and viruses found in
pet waste can be transmitted to other animals and people, especially children.
Pathogens in pet waste contribute to closures of shellfish beds, degrade water
quality for recreational uses, and create human health risks. Pet waste also
contains nutrients that encourage weed and algae growth. The Town shall
continue to enforce its Pet Waste Ordinance and educate pet owners on the
importance of picking up after their pets.
Specifically, the Town's Phase II National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES)
permit application recommends the following management measures to promote outreach
and education:
■ Develop a regional education cooperative to establish educational partnerships
that develop and disseminate information about water quality and its importance;
■ Locate and distribute stormwater educational materials;
■ Coordinate with area media, including radio and television, to develop a
campaign of public service announcements (PSAs) to educate the public about
clean water practices;
■ Develop and present a stormwater education curriculum to local community
groups to increase awareness of stormwater pollution and promote partnering with
these groups;
■ Coordinate with area schools to target younger citizens through visual
presentations and "hands-on" activities demonstrating the importance of good
water quality and sources of pollutants;
■ Provide a stormwater hotline and internet link to help citizens access information
and communicate questions and concerns; and,
■ Administer programs including the "green" yard program and an illicit discharge
education program.
-132-

Table D.1: Public Education and Outreach Management Measures
Project
.. Responsible
Goal
Regional
Public Works Dept.
■ Develop plan to set up regional cooperative
I
Education
or establish educational partnerships
Public Works Dept.
■ Establish regional cooperative or education
2
Cooperative
artnershi s
Education
Public Works Dept.
■ Develop or locate preexisting brochures and
2
Materials
NC Cooperative Extension
materials
Service
■ Determine if any additional materials should
NH County Soil & Water District
be created
WB Public Utilities Fleet
Management
Public Works Dept.
■ Distribute materials
2-5
Public Works Dept.
■ Create informational website and keep
2-5
updated.
Public Service
Public Works Dept.
- Develop and/or submit PSAs
3
Announcements
Local television/radio stations
(PSA)
GTV
Local television/radio stations
- Run PSAs in 3 different media at least 4X a
3-5
GTV
year
Educational
Public Works Dept.
■ Identify locations to place signs
3
Signs
Public Works Dept.
■ Install 50% of signs
4
Public Works Dept.
■ Install remainder of signs
5
Education
Public Works Dept.
■ Develop or identify education curriculum.
3
Curriculum
Public Works Dept.
■ Hold teacher workshops
4-5
Public Works Dept.
■ 50% of workshop participants using
5
curriculum
Public Works Dept.
■ Have education team give 2
4-5
Volunteers/Recruits
presentations/yr, reaching 400 students and
4 additional community presentations
Green Business
Public Works Dept.
- Create a Green Business Program or partner
3
Program
Program Volunteers
with existing program
Public Works Dept.
■ Hold 3 info seminars
4
Program Volunteers
Public Works Dept.
■ Have 50% of seminar participants complete
5
Program Volunteers
the program in 3 years
Green Yard
Public Works Dept.
■ Create Green Yard Program or partner with
2
Program
Local Program Chapter
existing program; advertise at garden
centers, public places and in newspapers.
Public Works Dept.
■ Hold 4 informational sessions about
3
program.
Program participants
■ Have 50% of session participants complete
5
the program in 3 yrs.
Illicit Discharge
Public Works Dept.
■ Develop/obtain education materials for
1
Education
munici al workshops.
Public Works Dept.
■ Hold 2 workshops/yr for municipal
2-5
Program
em to ees in differentjob categories
Construction
Public Works Dept.
- Hold 2 workshops/yr for construction site
3-5
Site Stormwater
Program participants
stormwater control with 25 participants
Education
Public Works Dept.
■ Distribute newsletter to professionals in the
3-5
Program
I
construction field twice per year
- D 3 -

These measures are summarized in Table D.1 and are described in greater detail in the
Town's NPDES Phase II stormwater permit application.
D.2 Public Involvement and Participation Measures
Public involvement and participation increases feelings of ownership in the Town's
stormwater management program. It can also increase compliance by fostering coalitions
between stakeholder groups. The Town's public involvement and participation program
targets the following stakeholders:
■ Airlie Gardens: Airlie Gardens includes 67 acres of landscaped gardens and 10
acres of freshwater lakes that border Bradley Creek immediately west of
Wrightsville Beach and the Intracoastal Waterway. Each year, hundreds of
school age children attend environmental education programs there about the
importance of water quality.
■ Amigos InternationaUCentro Latino: This local non-profit organization is
devoted to Latino issues
■ Small Business Owners: This group can impact on water quality as a result of
their waste handling and other actions and provide a means of disseminating
information to the public.
■ Chamber of Commerce: The Chamber, through its economic development and
promotional campaigns, help to shape the image and agenda of Wrightsville
Beach and the surrounding community.
■ City of WilmingtonlNew Hanover County Residents: The shared interests and
benefits of improved water quality make municipal and private cooperation
essential.
■ Community Action Group: This Wilmington based group focuses on African
American issues in the community.
■ Community Organizations: Meetings with groups such as Harbor Island Garden
Club, Wrightsville Beach Association, Kiwanis, Lions Club and the Rotary Club
are excellent forums to reach active community members.
■ Construction Companies: Because of the rapid pace of coastal development it is
important to involve builders in stormwater management efforts.
■ Property Owners: The cooperation of private and commercial property owners in
the implementation of new stormwater regulations are key to their success.
■ Real Estate/Rental Companies: These companies act as intermediaries between
potential buyers and renters.
■ Churches: Meeting with church congregations is an excellent way to reach the
year-round residents of the community as well as tourists.
■ Schools: It is important to educate students at Wrightsville Beach Elementary
about the importance of good water quality and the impacts of stormwater runoff.
■ Surfrider: Through its local chapters, Surfrider promotes water quality issues and
the conservation of coastal ecosystems through environmental education.
- D 4 -

;, I
■ Town Boards: The Planning Board as well as the Parks and Recreation Advisory
Board can play a vital role in generating public awareness of problems associated
with NPS pollution.
Specifically, the Town's Phase II National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES)
permit application recommends the following management measures:
•
■ Recruit citizens to serve on the stormwater representation panel
■ Conduct public hearings to inform and engage the public throughout the
development and implementation of the stormwater program
■ Coordinate and conduct workshops with various local entities.
•
■ Administer a green yard program to educate the public on environmentally
•
friendly methods of lawn care, vegetation and maintenance.
■ Organize and recruit volunteers for Clean Up the Beach and Storm Drain
Stenciling
•
The Town's Phase II NPDES stormwater permit application recommends a wide range of
management measures designed to promote public involvement and participation. These
measures are summarized in Table D.2 and are described in greater detail in the Town's
NPDES Phase II stormwater permit application.
D.3 Illicit Discharge Elimination Measures
Illicit discharge detection and elimination is necessary to preserve high water quality
standards for shell fishing and recreation. Illicit discharges remain a significant contributor
to stormwater pollution. The Illicit Discharge detection and elimination program will target
the following sources of pollutants:
■ Pet Waste Control: Pathogens in uncollected pet waste are a threat to human
health, aquatic life, and water quality. Certain bacteria, parasites, and viruses
found in pet waste can be transmitted to other animals and people, especially
children. Pathogens in pet waste contribute to shellfish area closings, degrade
•
water quality for recreational resources, and create human health risks. Pet waste
•
also contains nutrients that encourage weed and algae growth. The Town shall
continue to enforce its Pet Waste Ordinance and educate pet owners on the
importance of picking up after their pets.
.
Illegal Dumping: Trash and litter are obvious problems in Wrightsville Beach's
waterways and necessitate constant public outreach and education. Plastic, glass
bottles, fast food wrappers, and cigarette butts are the most notable items
collected during stream clean-up events. In addition to aesthetic impacts, trash
and debris can clog the storm drainage system and flood streets and property. It
•
can also be a serious threat to local wildlife.
•
-D5-

Table D.2: Public Involvement and Participation Management Measures
P•
Project
Responsible
Volunteer
Public Works Dept.
■ Regional education cooperative that recruits and
3
Education Team
Recruits/volunteers
trains volunteers
Public Works Dept.
■ Volunteers give 30 educational lessons/yr in school
4-5
Volunteers
classrooms reaching - 600 students;
■ 20 other community presentations/yr.
Volunteer
Public Works Dept.
■ Identify partners
1
Monitoring Team
Public Works Dept.
■ Recruit and train volunteers.
2
Public Works Dept.
■ Have teams survey waterways
3-5
Volunteer teams
Public Works Dept.
■ Analyze data annually to determine problem areas to
3-5
receive additional attention
Public Works Dept.
■ Develop educational brochures and distribute to pet
2-5
Animal Control
shops, vets, parks, and beaches, Humane Society &
NH County Animal Control Dept.
Public Works Dept.
■ Train police and other enforcement entities that
2-5
WB Police Dept.
patrol the beach to enforce ordinance and issue
citations
Stormwater
Public Works Dept.
■ Conduct needs assessment
1
Hotline
Public Works Dept.
■ Implement and advertise hotline
2-5
Water
Public Works Dept.
■ Identify groups to partner with and identify clean up
1
Clean Ups
sites
Public Works Dept.
■ Hold 2 clean ups annually
1-5
Program volunteers
Public Works Dept.
• Involve 30 volunteers and remove 75 bags of
3
Program volunteers
trash/clean u
Public Works Dept.
■ Involve 75 volunteers and remove 150 bags of
5
Program volunteers
trash/clean u
Storm Drain
Public Works Dept.
■ Obtain map of all storm drains in MS4
1
Stenciling
Public Works Dept.
■ Identify volunteer groups that would like to
1
Program
Planning Dept.
participate in the program
Public Works Dept.
■ Stencil 25% of MS4's storm drains/yr.
2-5
Ocean Front
Public Works Dept.
■ Sand fences shall be required for the trapping of
2
Development
sand and, by nature of construction and vegetation is
Standards
encouraged in Shore Line Development Boundary
vegetation installation and restoration
Public Works Dept.
■ Work with NC State Cooperative Extinction in the
3
harvesting and planting of natural vegetation
I J
�

Table D.3: Illicit Discharge and Elimination Management Measures
Project
Person(s)
Responsible
Illicit Discharge
Public Works Dept.
■ Adopt Illicit Discharge Detection Ordinance
1
Public Works Dept.
■ Complete map and conduct initial shoreline
1-2
Detection
Program
surveys of stormwater drainage system
Public Works Dept.
■ Prioritize areas for further inspection
2
Public Works Dept.
■ Conduct detailed inspection and repair illicit
3-5
discharges 2 priority areas/ r
Public Works Dept.
■ Conduct annual assessment of program
1-5
Public Works Dept.
■ Implement regular shoreline survey program to
2-5
Coastal Federation
update maps and check up on priority areas
Illegal Dumping
Public Works
■ Adopt illegal dumping ordinance
1
Program
Public Works Dept.
■ Establish illegal dumping enforcement program
2
Public Works Dept.
■ 75% reduction in illegal dumping
5
Illicit Stormwater Outfalls: Illicit discharges can remain a significant contributor
to stormwater pollution even after all other aspects of stormwater management
have been successfully implemented.
■ Petroleum Contamination: Petroleum is a toxin that can harm the health of
aquatic life and/or human beings. Petroleum is very resistant to break down and
•
tend to be passed up the food chain. Oil, grease and gasoline from road ways are
•
major sources of toxic contaminants. The oil can form a slick that poisons fish
and the aquatic organisms they depend on for food. Oil films on the surface of
water prevent oxygen from diffusing into the water from the air, impair
photosynthesis and block sunlight.
Specifically, the Town's Phase II National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES)
permit application recommends the following management measures:
•
■ Adopt an Illicit Discharge Detection Ordinance in order to give illicit discharge
detection teams legal authority to access private property to conduct site
inspections;
■ Adopt an Illicit Dumping Ordinance to make it illegal for any group, individual or
•
business to dispose of wastes at unauthorized locations;
■ Inspect sanitary sewer force mains to verify line condition; and,
■ Sample bacterial levels at the boat ramp area of the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW),
Hwy 74 at the old Pizza Hut location, Wynn Plaza municipal boat docks, the
•
Coast Guard Station and Johnnie Mercer's pier to establish background water
•
quality conditions and identify areas of need.
These measures are summarized in Table D.3 and are described in greater detail in the
Town's NPDES Phase II stormwater permit application.
-D7-

DA Post Construction Stormwater Management Measures for New
Development and Redevelopment
The post construction management program for new development and redevelopment is
designed to address projects that disturb areas greater than or equal to one acre or areas less
than one acre that are part of a larger common development or sale. Although Wrightsville
Beach does not currently have buildable lots that exceed one acre, events such as hurricane,
fire or large buyouts could result in redevelopment that meets program requirements. Due to
the immediate proximity of all potential development sites to important water resources and
lack of available area to construct large structural measures such as retention ponds, the
Town's policies are designed to reduce sources of stormwater discharges and mitigate
stormwater discharges that cannot be eliminated through impervious surface reduction and
other management practices. The program will address post construction stormwater
management from new development and redevelopment and focus on minimizing the
following sources of pollutants:
Fecal Coliform: The presence of fecal coliform bacteria in aquatic environments
indicates that the water has been contaminated with the fecal material of man or
other animals. As a result, it may be contaminated by pathogens or disease
producing bacteria or viruses that exist in fecal material. The presence of fecal
contamination is an indicator that a potential health risk exists for individuals
exposed to this water.
Point Source Stormwater Discharges: Point source discharges are traceable to a
single, identifiable source.
Sediment and Nutrient Loading: Sediments such as sand dirt and gravel eroded
by runoff can alter the water flow and decrease availability of healthy aquatic
habitat. Nutrients are compounds that stimulate plant growth and under normal
conditions are beneficial. However, in high concentrations can lead to algal
blooms and low levels of dissolved oxygen creating an unhealthy aquatic habitat.
Impervious Surfaces: Impervious surfaces prevent water from being absorbed
into the ground increasing the amount of nutrients, chemicals, bacteria and
pathogens washed into water sources and decreasing water quality.
Specifically, the Town's Phase II National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES)
permit application recommends the following management measures:
Investigate the feasibility of a stormwater utility fee to finance the Phase II
stormwater program.
Develop a fecal coliform control program. This program shall, at a minimum,
include development and implementation of an oversight program to ensure
proper operation and maintenance of on -site wastewater treatment systems for
domestic wastewater.
The Town of Wrightsville Beach shall not allow new direct points of stormwater
discharge into SA waters or expand existing points of discharge to any
constructed stormwater conveyance system, or constructed system of
conveyances that discharge to SA waters.
- D 8 -

Town of Wrightsville Beach Append& D
Develop a comprehensive post -construction stormwater strategy. The plan shall
recommend strategies to maintain designated water uses and to protect shellfish
beds, primary nursery areas, and other areas of environmental concern by
reducing bacteria, sediment and nutrient loading, minimizing stormwater impacts
on wetlands, and preventing excessive flooding from 10-year storm events.
Develop a stormwater inspection program with the goal of inspecting 50% of
stormwater permit sites per year after implementation.
Develop a pervious surface management plan. The plan will shall maximize the
amount of "high quality" pervious surfaces while limiting the areas that must be
irrigated and/or treated with fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides. A landscape
ordinance that limits the amount of turf cover and states when irrigation is
permitted, shall be implemented to enforce the pervious surface management
plan.
Develop a wetland preservation ordinance.
Identify and prioritize intact riparian buffers. Locate potential funding sources for
future acquisition.
Adopt a stormwater management ordinance to give legal backing to the
stormwater watershed management strategy.
These measures are summarized in Table DA and are described in greater detail in the
Town's NPDES Phase II stormwater permit application.
D.5 Pollution Prevention/Good Housekeeping for Municipal Operations
Measures
The pollution prevention/good housekeeping for municipal operations measures focus on
training, maintenance, inspection, and review of vehicular operations, waste disposal, flood
management projects, and existing ordinances. It also focuses on helping municipal
employees recognize the connection between individual actions and water quality while
mitigating to the maximum extent practicable the municipal government's impact on water
quality. The pollution prevention/good housekeeping program for municipal operations
measures will target the following municipal activities:
Drainage Entry Points: proper maintenance of drainage entries points help
eliminate stormwater pollution.
Vehicular Operations: consists of vehicle washing and maintenance.
Waste Disposal: the 3 primary types of waste are sanitary sewer wastes, storm
drain wastes, and petroleum contaminated materials.
FORM,

Table DA: Post Construction Stormwater Management Measures for New
Development and Redevelopment
Project
.. ,
Responsible
Goal
Year
Post -Construction
Public Works Dept.
Create strate y
1
Stormwater
Public Works Dept.
Pass post -construction stormwater ordinance
1
Watershed
Begin implementation of plan
2
Management Strategy
Land Use Plan
Public Works Dept.
■ Calculate current and projected future
1
impervious surface coverage within each 6 h
order sub watershed
Public Works Dept.
■ Update CAMA Land Use Plan
2-3
Public Works Dept.
■ Change relevant master plans and zoning
2-3
regulations to achieve targeted impervious
surface goals
Public Works Dept.
■ Set boundaries for infrastructure development
3
Public Works Dept.
■ Updated Land Use Plan becomes effective
4-5
Stormwater System
Public Works Dept.
■ Develop inspection program for public and
2
Maintenance
private systems
Program
Public Works Dept.
■ Inspect 50% of stormwater permit sites/yr
3
5
Stormwater Utility
Public Works Dept.
■ Conduct a needs assessment for a stormwater
I
utility
Pervious Surface
Public Works Dept.
■ Develop pervious surface management plan
2
Management Plan
4
Public Works Dept.
■ Adopt local landscaping ordinance
5
Preserve/ Enhance
Public Works Dept.
■ Obtain map of existing wetlands within MS4
2
Wetlands
jurisdiction
Public Works Dept.
■ Adopt wetlands preservation ordinance
3
■ Flood Management Projects: The Town of Wrightsville Beach is a coastal
barrier island with a very low elevation. The primary flood events for this area
are not rainfall events, but larger storms such as hurricanes. Therefore, the main
flood control project for the town is the berm and dune structure located on the
eastern side of the main island and extending from the south end to the 1800
block of N. Lumina. This structure of jointly maintained by the Town of
Wrightsville Beach, New Hanover County, the State of North Carolina and the
US Army corps of Engineers with federal funding.
Specifically, the Town's Phase II National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES)
permit application recommends the following management measures:
■ Training for water and sewer employees on vacuum operations, pipeline
inspection, hydraulic line cleaning, and spill control and containment.
■ Training for fleet maintenance and spill control and containment.
■ Facilities maintenance participation in ITRE Roads Scholar Program.
-D 10-

Table: D.5: Pollution Prevention/Good Housekeeping for Municipal Operations
Management Measures
Project
.. ,
Responsible
Goal
Year
Pollution
Public Works Dept.
Develop Pollution Prevention Plan.
1
Public Works Dept.
Hold 4 training workshops/yr on pollution prevention for
2-5
Prevention
Plan
municipal employees.
Public Works Dept.
Implement and enforce stormwater control maintenance and
2-5
hazardous materials storage requirements.
Public Works Dept.
Procedures in place for catch basin cleaning and regular
2
street and parking lot sweeping.
Public Works Dept.
30% reduction in pesticide and fertilizer use.
5
Public Works Dept.
80% compliance rate with BMP maintenance schedules.
5
Pollution
Public Works Dept.
Adopt Pollution Prevention Ordinance.
2
Prevention
Ordinance
These measures are summarized in Table D.5 and are described in greater detail in the
Town's NPDES Phase II stormwater permit application.
-D11-

••••••••••••••••�•••••••••••�••••s•••••••••
N_
A

Town of Wrightsville Beach Appendix E
Appendix E
Future Land Use Map
- E 1 -

N
W

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
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•
•Tojvn qf Wrightsville Beach
•
•
•
• Appendix F
•
• Action Plan & Implementation Schedule
•
•
•
• Key for Table F.1
•
• Management Topic:
• LU: Land Use & Development
ICC: Infrastructure Carrying Capacity
• PA: Public Access and Recreation
• WQ: Water Quality and Environment
• Haz: Hazards
•
Responsible Party:
•
BoA: Board of Aldermen
•
DPP: Department of Planning and Parks
DPW: Department of Public Works
•
FD: Fire Department
•
HLC: Historic Landmark Commission
PB: Planning Board
•
PD: Police Department
RAC: Recreation Advisory Committee
•
NHC: New Hanover County
•
Wilm: City of Wilmington
•
COE: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
DENR: Department of Environment and Natural Resources
•
DCM: Division of Coastal Management
•
DOT: North Carolina Department of Transportation
• Schedule:
• Ongoing: Currently implemented by local ordinances or activities of Town's staff
Ongoing*: Currently implemented by local ordinances or activities of Town's staff and
• ranked as an issue of high importance by the public
High: High priority action (years 1— 3)
• High*: High priority action after major storm event
• Med: Medium priority (years 3 — 6 or as opportunity or resources permit)
• Med*: Medium priority action after major storm event
• Low: Low priority (as opportunity or resources permit).
•
• -F1-
•

Town of Wrightsville Beach Appendix
Table F.1: Action Plan & Implementation Schedule 2005 - 2011
Policies
Land Use & Development
Goal 9.1: Adopt and apply local policies that balance protection of the natural resources and fragile areas
with economic development.
Objective 9.I.A: Maintain the small town, family friendly atmosphere at Wrightsville Beach by encouraging
architecture in keeping with the Town's traditions, traditional family homes, neighborhood and locally
oriented businesses, parks and natural areas.
Policy 9.LA. 1: Types of development encouraged
DPP, PB, BoA
LU
Ongoing
Recommended Action 9.1.A.La
DPP
LU
Med.
Policy 9. LA.2: High rise and multi family
structures
DPP, PB, BoA
LU
Ongoing*
Policy 9.1.A.3: Residential development
DPP, PB, BoA
LU
Ongoing*
Policy 9.1.A.4: Downtown Area
DPP, PB, BoA
LU
Ongoing
Policy 9.1.A.5: Commercial Development
DPP, PB, BoA
LU
Ongoing*
Recommended Action 9.1.A.5.a
DPP
LU
Ongoing*
Policy 9. LA.6: Revitalization and Mixed Use
BoA
LU
Ongoing*
Recommended Action 9.1.A.6.a
DPP
LU
Ongoing*
Recommended Action 9.1.A.6.b
DPP, BoA
LU
Ongoing*
Recommended Action 9.1.A.6.c
DPP, BoA
LU
Ongoing*
Policy 9.I.A.7: Building Standards, Generally
DPP
LU
Ongoing
Policy 9.1.A.8: Density of Development
DPP, PB, BoA
LU, ICC, WQ
Ongoing
Policy 9.I.A.9: Development of Sound and
Estuarine Areas
DPP, BoA, DCM
LU, WQ
Ongoing
Policy 9.1.A.10: Mineral Production -existing and
Potential
DPP, BoA, DCM
LU, WQ
Ongoing
Policy 9.1.A.11: Development Impacts
DPP, PB, BoA
LU, WQ, PA
Ongoing
Policy 9.1.A.12: Energy Facilities
DPP, BoA, DCM
LU, WQ
Ongoing
Policy 9.1.A.13: Neighborhood Preservation
DPP, PB, BoA,
LU
Ongoing
Policy 9.1.A.14: Historic Preservation
HLC, DPP, BoA,
LU
Ongoing
Policy 9.1.A.15: Estuarine Shorelines
DPP, BoA, DCM
LU, WQ
Ongoing
Policy 9.1.A.16: Areas of Environmental Concern
DPP, BoA, DCM
LU, WQ
Ongoing
Policy 9.1.A.17: Coastal Wetlands
DPP, BoA, DCM
LU, WQ
Ongoing
Policy 9.1.A.18: Ocean Hazard Areas
DPP, BoA, DCM
LU, WQ
Ongoing
Policy 9.1.A.19: Piers
DPP, BoA, DCM,
COE
LU, PA
Ongoing
Policy 9.1.A.20: Town Facilities
DPP, DPW
LU, ICC, WQ
Ongoing
Infrastructure Carrying Capacity
Goal 9.2: To ensure that public infrastructure systems are appropriately sized, located and managed so the
quality andproductivity of the AEC's and other ra ile areas are protected and restored
Objective 9.2.A: Ensure that the location and capacity of public infrastructure is consistent with the Town's
growth and development goals.
Policy 9.2.A.1: Bridge & Road Improvements
BoA, DOT
Policy 9.2.A.2: Underground Utilities
DPW, BoA
Ongoing
Recommended Action 9.2.A.2.a
DPW, BoA
Med*
Policy 9.2.A.3: On -Street Parking
DPW, BoA
Ongoing
Poliev 9.2.A.4: Joint Planning Relationships
DPP, DPW, BoA
ICC
Med
Policy 9.2.A.5: Bicycles
DPP, DPW, BoA
ICC
High
Recommended Action 9.2.A.5.a
DPP, DPW, RAC,
BoA
ICC
High
- F 2 -

Policy 9.2.A.6: Public Transportation
BoA
ICC
Low
Policy 9.2.A.7: Maintenance of Central Sewer
System
DPW, BoA
ICC, WQ
Ongoing
Policy 9.2.A.8: Operation of Water and Wastewater
Facilities
DPW, BoA
ICC, WQ
Ongoing
Recommended Action 9.2.A.8.a
DPW
ICC, WQ
Ongoing
Recommended Action 9.2.A.8.b
DPW
ICC, WQ
Ongoing
Policy 9.2.A.9: Maintaining Adequate Fire
Protection
FD, BoA
ICC
Ongoing
Recommended Action 9.2.A.9.a
FD, BoA
ICC
Low
Policy 9.2.10: Maintaining Adequate Infrastructure
Carrying Capacity
DPP, DPW, BoA
ICC
Ongoing
Public Access & Recreation
Goal 9.3: Public Access and Recreation: Maximize public access to the beaches and public trust waters of
the Town of Wrightsville Beach and maximize recreational opportunitiesfor residents and visitors.
Objective 9.3.A: Access forAll Segments of the Community: Develop policies and recommendations that
assure satisfactory access to all segments of the co unity including ersons with disabilities.
Policy 9.3.A.1: Existing Access Facilities
DPP, RAC, BoA
PA
Ongoing
Recommended Action 9.3.A.l.a
DPP, RAC, BoA,
DCM
PA
High
Policy 9.3.A.2: Signage
DPP, RAC, DCM
PA
Med
Recommended Action 9.3.A.2.a
DPP, RAC, DCM
PA
Med
Policy 9.3.A.3: Dune Protection
DPP
PA, Haz
Ongoing
Policy 9.3.A.4: Beach Access Paths
DPP, BoA
PA
Ongoing
Policy 9.3.A.5: Protecting Visual Access from
Roadways
DPP, PB, BoA
PA
Med
Recommended Action 9.3.A.5.a
DPP, PB, BoA
PA
Med
Policy 9.3.A.6: Protecting Visual Access from
Town Land
DPP, DPW, BoA
PA
Ongoing
Policy 9.3.A.7: Off Road Vehicles
PD
PA
Ongoing
Policy 9.3.A.8: Supporting Federal and State
Programs to Expand Access
BoA, DCM
PA
Ongoing
Policy 9.3.A.9: Local Room Tax Revenue
Distribution
BoA, NHC
PA, ICC
Med
Policy 9.3.A.10: County Support for Tourism
Related Expenses
BoA, NHC
PA, ICC
High
Objective 9.3.B: Reduce User Conflicts: Reduce user conflicts in the public trust waters of Wrightsville
Beach.
Policy 9.3.B.1: Safe Boating
DPP, RAC
PA
Med
Recommended Action 9.3.B.I.a
DPP, RAC
PA
Med
Policy 9.3.B.2: Operation of Jet Skis and Personal
Watercraft
DPP, RAC, NHC
PA
Med
Recommended Action 9.3.B.2.b
DPP, RAC, NHC
PA
Med
Policy 9.3.B.3: No Wake Zones
DPP, RAC, NHC
PA
Med
Recommended Action 9.3.B.3.a
DPP, RAC, NHC
PA
Med
Polio 9.3.B.4: Surf Zones
FD, BoA
PA
On oin
Recommended Action 9.3.B.4.a
FD
PA
Ongoing
Objective 9.3.C. Maintaining Navigational Channels: Prevent uses that would directly or indirectly impair or
block existing navigational channels.
Policy 9.3.C.1: Blocking or Impairing Navigational
Channels
DPP, PB, BoA, DCM
PA
Ongoing
Policy 9.3.C.2: Enforcing the Pierhead Line
DPP, PB, BoA, DCM
PA
Ongoing
- F 3 -

Policy 9.3.C.3: Limiting Mooring and Anchorage
Areas
DPP, PB, BoA, DCM
PA
Ongoing
Recommended Action 9.3.C.3.a
DPP, BoA
PA
Low
Policy 9.3.C.4: Prohibiting Floating Homes
DPP, PB, BoA, DCM
PA
Ongoing
Policy 9.3.C.5: Limiting New or Expanded Marinas
DPP, PB, BoA, DCM
LU, PA, ICC
Ongoing
Recommended Action 9.3.C.5.a
DPP
LU, PA
Low
Policy 9.3.C.6: Prohibiting New or Expanded Dry
Stack Storage by Homeowners
DPP, PB, BoA, DCM
LU, PA
Ongoing
Policy 9.3.C.7: Locating Vessels for hire and
Charter Boats/Cruise Ships
DPP, PB, BoA, DCM
LU, PA, ICC
Ongoing
Policy 9.3.C.8: Limiting New Dockage for
Commercial Fishing Vessels
DPP, PB, BoA, DCM
LU, PA, ICC
Ongoing
Policy 9.3.C.9: Increasing Accessibility of State
Wildlife Boat Ramp I
DPP, DENR
PA
Med
Recommended Action 9.3.C.9.a
DPP, DENR
PA
Low
Objective 9.3.1): Provide a quality recreation experience to both residents and
visitors alike.
Policy 9.3.D.1: Parks and Recreational Facilities
DPP, RAC, BoA
PA, ICC
Ongoing
Recommended Action 9.3.D.La
DPP, RAC, BoA
PA, ICC
Med
Policy 9.3.D.2: Kayak Trail
DPP, RAC
PA
Med
Water Quality & Natural Environment
Goal 9.4: Water Quality and Natural Environment. Maintain and where possible improve the natural
environment and water quality within and adjacent to Wrightsville Beach.
Objective 9.4.A: Protect the Natural Environment of Wrightsville Beach: The Town shall take actions
designed to protect and where possible enhance and restore the sensitive natural resources located in and
adjacent to the Town of Wrightsville Beach.
Policy 9.4.A.1 Resource Production and
Management
DPP, PB, BoA, DCM
WQ
Ongoing
Policy 9.4.A.2: Marsh Damage from Bulkhead
Installation
DPP, PB, BoA, DCM
WQ
Ongoing
Policy 9.4.A.3: Beach Hardening
DPP, PB, BoA, DCM
WQ, Haz
Ongoing
Policy 9.4.A.4: Beach Renourishment
BoA
WQ, Haz
High
Policy 9A.A.5: Bulkhead and Seawall Maintenance
DPP, PB, BoA, DCM
WQ, Haz
Ongoing
Policy 9.4.A.6: Bulkhead Construction and
Maintenance
DPP, PB, BoA, DCM
WQ, Haz
Ongoing
Policy 9.4.A.7: Turtle Nesting Areas
DPP, PB, BoA, DCM
WQ
Ongoing
Policy 9.4.A.8: Maritime Forest and Tree Cover
DPP, PB, BoA
WQ
Ongoing
Policy 9.4.A.9: Beach Clean-ups
DPP, BoA, Nonprofits
WQ
Ongoing
Policy 9.4.A.10: Solid Waste Disposal & Recycling
DPW, DPP
WQ
Ongoing
Recommended Action 9.4.A.I O.a
DPW, DPP
WQ
Med
Policy 9.4.A.11: Preserve Masonboro Island
BoA
WQ
Ongoing
Policy 9.4.A.12: Wetland Preservation
DPP, PB, BoA, DCM
WQ
Ongoing
Policy 9.4.A.13: Mason's Inlet and the North End
BoA, COE
I WQ
Ongoing
Objective 9.4.B: Improving Water Quality: Reducepollutant loadings in stormwater generated within the
Town of Wrightsville Beach and conform to the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES)
Phase II Stormwater Management requirements.
Policy 9.4.B.1: Stormwater Public Education and
Outreach
DPW
WQ, LU
High — Med
Recommended Action 9.4.B.1.a
DPW, Wilm, NHC
WQ
High - Med
Policy 9.4.B.2: Public Participation and
Involvement in Stormwater Management
DPW
WQ
High — Med
Recommended Action 9.4.B.2.a
DPW, Wihn, NHC
WQ
Hi — Med
Policy 9.4.B.3: Illicit Stormwater Discharges
DPW
WQ, ICC
High — Med
-F4-

Town of Wrightsville Beach Appendix
Recommended Action 9.4.B.3.a
DPW, BoA
WQ' ICC
Hi h — Med
Policy 9.4.B.4: Stormwater Control For New
Development and Redevelopment
DPW, BoA
WQ, LU, ICC
High — Med
Policy 9.4.B.5: Reducing Fecal Coliform Loadings
DPW, Wilm, NHC
WQ
Med — Low
Recommended Action 9.4.B.5.a
DPW, Wilm, NHC
WQ
Med — Low
Recommended Action 9.4.B.5.b
DPW, Wilm, NHC
WQ
Med — Low
Policy 9.4.B.6: New Direct Stormwater Discharges
DPW, BoA
WQ LU, ICC
Hi — Med
Policy 9.4.B.7: Reduction of Existing Stormwater
Discharges
DPW, PB, BoA
WQ, LU, ICC
High — Med
Recommended Action 9.4.B.7.a
DPW
WQ, LU, ICC
High — Med
Recommended Action 9.4.B.7.b
DPW, DOT
WQ, LU, ICC
High — Med
Policy 9.4.B.8: Protecting Wetlands
DPP, PB, BoA
WQ, LU
High
Recommended Action 9.4.B.8.a
DPP
WQ, LU
Med
Policy 9.4.13.9: Stormwater Retrofits for Existing
Development
DPW, BoA
WQ, LU, ICC
Med — Low
Policy 9.4.B.10: Stormwater Discharges From
Municipal Sources
DPW
WQ, ICC
High — Med
Recommended Action 9.4.13.10.a
DPW
WQ, ICC
Hi — Med
Hazard Mitigation
Goal 9.5: Hazard Mitigation: Protect public health and safetyfrom the damaging effects of storm surges,
wave action, flooding, high winds, and erosion associated with hurricanes, severe weather, and other
hazards.
Objective 9.5.A: Protect Against Damage From Hurricanes, Severe Weather, or Other Hazards: The Town
will be proactive in its efforts to minimize damage and threats to public health and safety associated with
hurricanes, severe weather, and other hazards.
Policy 9.5.A.1: Public Education
DPP
Haz
Recommended Action 9.5.A.l.a
DPP
Haz
Policy 9.5.A.2: Redevelopment and Relocation of
Threatened Structures
DPP, PB, BoA
Haz, LU
Ongoing
Policy 9.5.A.3: Development in Areas Susceptible
to Sea Level Rise
BoA
Haz, LU
Low
Policy 9.5.A.4: Land Acquisition
DPP, BoA
Haz, PA, LU,
WQ
Low
Recommendation 9.5.A.4.a
DPP
Haz, PA, LU,
W
Low
Policy 9.5.A.5: Funding for Land Acquisition
DPP
Haz, PA, LU,
WQ
Low
Policy 9.5.A.6: Flood Insurance
DPP, BoA
Haz, LU, ICC
Ongoing
Policy 9.5.A.7: Standards for Construction in Flood
Prone Areas
DPP, PB, BoA
Haz, LU, ICC
Ongoing
Policy 9.5.A.8: Flood Plain Ordinance
DPP, PB, BoA
Haz, LU, ICC
Ongoing
Policy 9.5.A.9: Flood lain Open Space
DPP, PB, BoA
Haz, LU, ICC
Ongoing
Recommended Action 9.5.A.9.a
DPP
Haz, LU, ICC
High
Policy 9.5.A.10: Beach Renourishment
BoA, Wilm, NHC
Haz, LU, PA
High
Recommended Action 9.5.A.1 O.a
DPP, BoA
Haz, LU, PA
Med
Policy 9.5.A.11: Discouraging Development in
Hazardous Areas
DPP, PB, BoA
Haz, LU
Ongoing
Policy 9.5:A.12: Minimize Potential Fire Damage
DPP, FD, PB, BoA
Haz, LU
Ongoing
Recommended Action 9.5.A.12.a
Haz, LU
Low
Policy 9.5.A.13: Hurricane Management Plan
DPP, PD, FD, BoA,
NHC
Haz
Ongoing
Policy 9.5.A.14: Evacuation Shelters
DPP, PD, BoA, NHC
Haz
Ongoing
Policy 9.5.A.15: Evacuations
DPP, PD, BoA, NHC
I Haz
Ongoing
-F5-

Objective 9.5.B: Post -Storm Recovery: In the period following a hurricane, severe weather event, or other
disaster, the Town will work as quickly as possible to restore essential services related to public health, safety
and welfare.
Policy 9.5.13.1: Mutual Aid
BoA, Wilm, NHC
Haz
Ongoing
Policy 9.5.13.2: Staging Schedule for Reconstruction
and Repair
DPP, DPW, BoA
Haz, LU, ICC
High*
Policy 9.5.13.3: Building Permits
DPP, BoA
Haz, LU
High*
Policy 9.5.B.4: Public Infrastructure Repair and
Replacement
DPW, BoA
Haz, ICC
High*
Policy 9.5.B.5: Electrical Outages
DPW, BoA, Utilities
Haz, ICC
High*
Recommended Action 9.5.B.5.a
DPW, Utilities
Haz, ICC
Med
Policy 9.5.B.6: Property Loss
DPP, PB, BoA
Haz, LU, ICC
Ongoing
Recommended Action 9.5.B.6.a
DPP
Haz, LU
High*
Policy 9.5.13.7: Post -Storm Hazard Mitigation
DPP, PWD
Haz, ICC
Med
Recommended Action 9.5.B.7.a
DPP
Haz
High*
- F 6 -

Town of Wrightsville Beach Append& G
Appendix G
Impact of Policies on Management Topics
-G1-

(Town of Wrightsville Beach Appenif& G.
Table G1: Impact of Policies on Management Topics
An asterisk* indicates that the t)olicv or recommended action exceeds State Reauirements.
Reduction in Infrastructure More planned Land use Reducp
habitat loss due with the access regulations and vulnerability to
to development capacity to locations measures to hazards
support minimize water
Reduction of planned Upgrades to quality impacts Land use
water resource development existing considers the
and water access capacity of
' quality locations evacuation
' I degradation I infrastructure
Land Use & Development
Goal 9.1: Adopt and apply local policies that balance protection of the natural resources and fragile areas
with economic development.
Objective 9.I.A: Maintain the small town, family friendly atmosphere at Wrightsville Beach by encouraging
architecture in keeping with the Town's traditions, traditional family homes, neighborhood and locally
oriented businesses, parks and natural areas.
Policy 9.1.A.1: Types
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
of development
encouraged
Recommended
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Action 9.1.A.La
Policy 9.1.A.2: High
Neutral
Beneficial:
Neutral
Neutral
Beneficial:
rise and multi family
reduces
reduces
structures
increased
vulnerability to
demand on
hazards from
road system
high rise
and other
development
infrastructure
Policy 9.1.A.3:
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Residential
development
Policy 9.I.A.4:
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Downtown Area
Policy 9.1.A.5:
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Commercial
Development
Recommended
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Action 9.1.A.5.a
Policy 9.1.A.6:
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Revitalization and
Mixed Use
Recommended
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Action 9.1.A.6.a
Recommended
Neutral
Beneficial.
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Action 9.1.A.6.b
May produce
actions that
upgrade
infrastructure
-G2-

Recommended
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Action 9.1.A.6.c
Policy 9.1.A.7:
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Beneficial:
Building Standards,
reduces
Generally
vulnerability to
hazards
Policy 9.1.A.8:
Beneficial:
Beneficial:
Neutral
Beneficial:
Beneficial:
Density of
density
ensures there is
density
reduces
Development
restrictions
adequate
restrictions
vulnerability to
help limit water
infrastructure
help limit
hazards and
quality impacts
capacity to
water quality
capacity of
support future
impacts
evacuation
develo ment
infrastructure
Policy 9.1.A.9:
*Beneficial:
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial:
*Beneficial:
Development of
prevents habitat
Prevents
Prevents
Sound and Estuarine
loss
development
development in
Areas
that impacts
hazard areas
water quality
Policy 9.1.A.10:
Beneficial:
Neutral
Neutral
Beneficial:
Neutral
Mineral Production-
prevents water
prevents water
existing and Potential
quality impacts
quality impacts
from these
from these
activities
activities
Policy 9.1.A.11:
*Beneficial:
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Neutral
Neutral
Development Impacts
reduces
Protects
impacts to
visual access
natural
resources
Policy 9.1 A.12:
*Beneficial:
*Beneficial:
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Neutral
Energy Facilities
prevents
prevents strains
prevents
potential
on town's
potential water
impacts that
infrastructure
quality impacts
would cause
from energy
water quality
facilities
impacts
Policy 9.1.A.13:
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neighborhood
Preservation
Policy 9.1.A.14:
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Historic Preservation
Policy 9.1.A.15:
Beneficial:
Neutral
Neutral
Beneficial:
Beneficial:
Estuarine Shorelines
prevents
prevents
prevents
potential
potential
development in
impacts that
impacts that
hazard areas
would cause
would cause
water quality
water quality
and habitat
impacts
impacts
-G3-

Policy 9.I.A.16:
Beneficial:
Neutral
Neutral
Beneficial:
Beneficial:
Areas of
prevents
prevents
prevents
Environmental
potential
potential
development in
Concern
impacts that
impacts that
hazard areas
would cause
would cause
water quality
water quality
and habitat
impacts
impacts
Policy 9.I.A.17:
*Beneficial:
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial:
*Beneficial:
Coastal Wetlands
prevents
prevents
prevents
potential
potential
development in
impacts that
impacts that
hazard areas
would cause
would cause
water quality
water quality
and habitat
impacts
impacts
Policy 9.1.A.18:
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Beneficial:
Ocean Hazard Areas
prevents
development in
hazard areas
Policy 9.1.A.19: Piers
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Policy 9.1.A.20:
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Town Facilities
Infrastructure Carrying Capacity
Goal 9.2: To ensure that public infrastructure systems are appropriately sized, located and managed so the
quality andproductivity of theAEC's and other ra ile areas are protected and restored.
Objective 9.2.A: Ensure that the location and capacity ofpublic infrastructure is consistent with the Town's
growth and develo ment goals.
Policy 9.2.A.1:
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Bridge & Road
Improvements
Policy 9.2.A.2:
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Underground Utilities
helps reduce
future hazards
Recommended
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Action 9.2.A.2.a
helps reduce
future hazards
Policy 9.2.A.3: On-
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Street Parkin
Policy 9.2.A.4: Joint
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Planning
Relationships
Policy 9.2.A.5:
Neutral
*Beneficial:
*Beneficial:
Neutral
Neutral
Bicycles
reduces
increases
demands on
accessibility
infrastructure
of access
sites to
bic clers
Recommended
Neutral
*Beneficial:
*Beneficial:
Neutral
Neutral
Action 9.2.A.5.a
reduces
increases
demands on
accessibility
infrastructure
of access
sites to
bic clers
-G4-

Town of Wrightsville Beach Append& GI
Policy 9.2.A.6:
Neutral
*Beneficial:
*Beneficial:
Neutral
Neutral
Public Transportation
reduces
Would
demands on
increase
infrastructure
accessibility
of access
sites
Policy 9.2.A.7:
Beneficial:
Beneficial:
Neutral
Beneficial:
Neutral
Maintenance of
minimizes
ensures
minimizes
Central Sewer
water quality
infrastructure
water quality
System
impacts from
supports
impacts
development
planned growth
Policy 9.2.A.8:
Beneficial:
Beneficial:
Neutral
Beneficial:
Neutral
Operation of Water
minimizes
ensures
minimizes
and Wastewater
water resource
infrastructure
water resource
Facilities
degradation
supports
degradation
and water
planned growth
and water
quality impacts
quality impacts
Recommended
Beneficial:
Beneficial:
Neutral
Beneficial:
Neutral
Action 9.2.A.8.a
minimizes
ensures
minimizes
water quality
infrastructure
water quality
impacts
supports
impacts
Tanned rowth
Recommended
Beneficial:
Beneficial:
Neutral
Beneficial:
Neutral
Action 9.2.A.8.b
minimizes
ensures
minimizes
water resource
infrastructure
water resource
degradation
supports
degradation
Tanned growth
Policy 9.2.A.9:
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Maintaining
ensures
helps prevent
Adequate Fire
infrastructure
dangers from
Protection
supports
urban fires
Tanned growth
Recommended
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Action 9.2.A.9.a
ensures
helps prevent
infrastructure
dangers from
supports
urban fires
Tanned growth
Policy 9.2.10:
Neutral
Beneficial.
Beneficial:
Maintaining
ensures
helps prevent
Adequate
infrastructure
danger from
Infrastructure
supports
growth not
Carrying Capacity
planned growth
supported by
infrastructure
Public Access & Recreation
Goal 9.3: Public Access and Recreation: Maximize public access to the beaches and public trust waters of the
Town of Wrightsville Beach and maximize recreational opportunitiesfor residents and visitors.
Objective 9.3.A: Access for All Segments of the Community: Develop policies and recommendations that
assure satisfactory access to all se ments of the communi including ersons with disabilities.
Policy 9.3.A.1:
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Neutral
Neutral
Existing Access
focuses on
Facilities
upgrading
access sites
-G5-

Recommended
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Neutral
Neutral
Action 9.3.A. La
focuses on
upgrading
access sites
Policy 9.3.A.2:
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Neutral
Neutral
Signage
Focuses on
marking new
access sites
Recommended
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Neutral
Neutral
Action 9.3.A.2.a
Focuses on
marking new
access sites
Policy 9.3.A.3: Dune
*Beneficial:
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Protection
helps protect
protects ability
these natural
of dunes to
habitat areas
provide a storm
buffer
Policy 9.3.A.4: Beach
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Access Paths
protects ability
of dunes to
provide a storm
buffer
Policy 9.3.A.5:
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Protecting Visual
Access from
Roadways
Recommended
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Action 9.3.A.5.a
Policy 9.3.A.6:
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Protecting Visual
Access from Town
Land
Policy 9.3.A.7: Off
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Road Vehicles
Policy 9.3.A.8:
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Neutral
Neutral
Supporting Federal
provides a
and State Programs to
strategy to
Expand Access
fund access
development
Policy 9.3.A.9: Local
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Room Tax Revenue
provides a
provides a
Distribution
strategy to
strategy to fund
fund access
beach
and services
renourishment
Policy 9.3.A.10:
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Neutral
Neutral
County Support for
provides a
Tourism Related
strategy to
Expenses
fund access
and services
Objective 9.3.B: Reduce User Conflicts: Reduce user conflicts in the public trust waters of Wrightsville
Beach.
Policy 9.3.B.1: Safe
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Boating
Recommended
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Action 9.3.B.l.a
-G6-

Policy 9.3.B.2:
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Operation of Jet Skis
and Personal
Watercraft
Recommended
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Neutral
Action 9.3.B.2.b
protects
submerged
aquatic habitat
Policy 9.3.B.3: No
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Wake Zones
Recommended
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Action 9.3.B.3.a
Policy9.3.B.4: Surf
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Zones
Recommended
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Action 9.3.B.4.a
Objective 9.3.C. Maintaining Navigational Channels: Prevent uses that would directly or indirectly impair or
block existing navi ational channels.
Policy 9.3.C.1:
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Blocking or
Impairing
Navigational
Channels
Policy 9.3.C.2:
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Enforcing the
Pierhead Line
Policy 9.3.C.3:
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Neutral
Limiting Mooring
Minimizes
and Anchorage Areas
impacts to
water quality
& submerged
habitat
Recommended
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Neutral
Action 9.3.C.3.a
Minimizes
impacts to
water quality
& submerged
habitat
Policy 9.3.C.4:
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Neutral
Prohibiting Floating
Minimizes
Homes
impacts to
water quality
& submerged
habitat
Policy 9.3.C.5:
Beneficial:
Beneficial:
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Neutral
Limiting New or
Minimizes
reduces
Minimizes
Expanded Marinas
impacts to
increased
impacts to
water quality &
demand on
water quality
submerged
road system
& submerged
habitat
habitat
-G7-

Recommended
Beneficial:
Neutral
Neutral
Beneficial:
Neutral
Action 9.3.C.5.a
Minimizes
Minimizes
impacts to
impacts to
water quality &
water quality
submerged
& submerged
habitat
habitat
Policy 9.3.C.6:
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Prohibiting New or
helps eliminate
Expanded Dry Stack
a potential
Storage by
storm hazard
Homeowners
Policy 9.3.C.7:
*Beneficial:
*Beneficial:
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Neutral
Locating Vessels for
Minimizes
reduces
Minimizes
hire and Charter
impacts to
increased
impacts to
Boats/Cruise Ships
water quality &
demand on
water quality
submerged
road system
& submerged
habitat
habitat
Policy 9.3.C.8:
*Beneficial:
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Neutral
Limiting New
Minimizes
Minimizes
Dockage for
impacts to
impacts to
Commercial Fishing
water quality &
water quality
Vessels
submerged
& submerged
habitat
habitat
Policy 9.3.C.9:
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Neutral
Neutral
Increasing
upgrades
Accessibility of State
existing
Wildlife Boat Ramp
access
location
Recommended
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Neutral
Neutral
Action 9.3.C.9.a
upgrades
existing
access
location
Objective 9.3.D: Provide a quafit&yy recreation experience to both residents and visitors alike.
Policy 9.3.D.1: Parks
Neutral
Beneficial:
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
and Recreational
helps ensure
Facilities
there is
adequate
capacity to
serve future
o ulations
Recommended
Neutral
Beneficial:
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Action 9.3.D.l.a
helps ensure
there is
adequate
capacity to
serve future
populations
Policy 9.3.D.2:
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Neutral
Neutral
Kayak Trail
upgrades an
existing
access site
-G8-

Water Quality & Natural Environment
Goal 9.4. Water Quality and Natural Environment: Maintain and where possible improve the natural
environment and water quality within and adjacent to Wrightsville Beach.
Objective 9.4.4: Protect the Natural Environment of Wrightsville Beach: The Town shall take actions
designed to protect and where possible enhance and restore the sensitive natural resources located in and
adjacent to the Town of Wrightsville Beach.
Policy 9.4.A.1
*Beneficial:
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Neutral
Resource Production
helps limit
helps limit
and Management
habitat and
habitat and
water quality
water quality
impacts from
impacts from
development
development
Policy 9.4.A.2:
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial:
*Beneficial:
Marsh Damage from
prevents
helps preserve
Bulkhead Installation
damage to
ability of these
these natural
areas to
systems
mitigate
hazards
Policy 9.4.A.3: Beach
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Beneficial:
Hardening
helps preserve
ability of these
areas to
mitigate
hazards
Policy 9.4.A.4: Beach
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Renourishment
helps preserve
ability of
beaches to
mitigate
hazards
Policy 9.4.A.5:
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Beneficial.
Bulkhead and
helps ensure
Seawall Maintenance
these structures
provide the
protection they
were originally
designed to
provide
Policy 9.4.A.6:
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Beneficial:
Bulkhead
helps ensure
Construction and
these structures
Maintenance
provide the
protection they
were originally
designed to
provide
Policy 9.4.A.7: Turtle
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Beneficial:
Neutral
Nesting Areas
helps protect
habitat areas
-G9-

Policy 9.4.A.8:
Beneficial:
Neutral
Neutral
Beneficial:
Neutral
Maritime Forest and
helps protect
helps protect
Tree Cover
habitat and
habitat and
preserve buffer
preserve buffer
areas
areas
Policy 9.4.A.9: Beach
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Beneficial:
Neutral
Clean-ups
helps prevent
NPS pollutants
Policy 9.4.A.10:
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Solid Waste Disposal
& Recycling
Recommended
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Beneficial:
Neutral
Action 9.4.A.IO.a
helps prevent
NPS pollutants
Policy 9.4.A.11:
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Neutral
Preserve Masonboro
helps protect
Island
habitat
Policy 9.4.A.12:
Beneficial:
Neutral
Neutral
Beneficial:
Beneficial:
Wetland Preservation
helps protect
helps protect
helps protect
habitat and
habitat and
areas that
buffer areas
buffer areas
provide storm
protection
Policy 9.4.A.13:
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Beneficial:
Neutral
Mason's Inlet and the
helps protect
North End
habitat
Objective 9.4.B: Improving Water Quality: Reducepollutant loadings in stormwater generated within the
Town of Wrightsville Beach and conform to the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDE.S)
Phase II Stormwater Mana ement re uirements.
Policy 9.4.B.I:
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Neutral
Stormwater Public
helps reduce
Education and
water quality
Outreach
impacts
Recommended
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Neutral
Action 9.4.B.l.a
helps reduce
water quality
impacts
Policy 9.4.B.2: Public
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Neutral
Participation and
helps reduce
Involvement in
water quality
Stormwater
impacts
Management
Recommended
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Neutral
Action 9.4.B.2.a
helps reduce
water quality
impacts
Policy 9.4.B.3: Illicit
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Neutral
Stormwater
helps improve
Discharges
water quality
Recommended
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Neutral
Action 9.4.B.3.a
helps improve
water quality
-G 10-

Town of Wrightsville Beach Append& G�
Policy 9.4.13.4:
Beneficial:
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial:
*Beneficial:
Stormwater Control
helps minimize
helps minimize
helps reduce
For New
water quality
water quality
potential
Development and
impacts from
impacts from
flooding due to
Redevelopment
development
development
development
Policy 9.4.13.5:
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Neutral
Reducing Fecal
helps improve
Coliform Loadings
water quality
& shellfish
habitat
Recommended
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Neutral
Action 9.4.13.5.a
helps improve
water quality
& shellfish
habitat
Recommended
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Neutral
Action 9.4.13.5.b
helps improve
water quality
& shellfish
habitat
Policy 9.4.13.6: New
Beneficial:
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial.
Neutral
Direct Stormwater
helps minimize
helps minimize
Discharges
water quality
water quality
impacts from
impacts from
development
development
Policy 9.4.13.7:
Beneficial:
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial:
*Beneficial:
Reduction of Existing
helps minimize
helps improve
reduces
Stormwater
water quality
water quality
potential
Discharges
impacts from
flooding
development
Recommended
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial:
*Beneficial:
Action 9.4.B.7.a
helps improve
reduces
water quality
potential
flooding
Recommended
Neutral
Beneficial:
Neutral
*Beneficial:
*Beneficial:
Action 9.4.13.7.b
helps improve
helps improve
reduces
water quality
water quality
potential
when
flooding
upgrading
transportation
infrastructure
Policy 9.4.B.8:
Beneficial:
Neutral
Neutral
Beneficial:
Beneficial:
Protecting Wetlands
helps minimize
helps improve
helps provide a
water quality
water quality
buffer to reduce
impacts from
and protects
flooding
development
habitat
and protects
habitat
Recommended
Beneficial:
Neutral
Neutral
Beneficial:
Beneficial:
Action 9.4.13.8.a
helps minimize
helps improve
helps provide a
water quality
water quality
buffer to reduce
impacts from
and protects
flooding
development
habitat
and protects
habitat
-G11-

Town of Wrightsville Beach Append& G
Policy 9.4.13.9:
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial:
*Beneficial:
Stormwater Retrofits
helps improve
reduces
for Existing
water quality
potential
Development
flooding
Policy 9.4.13.10:
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Neutral
Stormwater
helps improve
Discharges From
water quality
Municipal Sources
Recommended
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Neutral
Action 9.4.13.10.a
helps improve
water quality
Hazard Mitigation
Goal 9.5: Hazard Mitigation: Protect public health and safetyfrom the damaging effects of storm surges,
wave action, flooding, high winds, and erosion associated with hurricanes, severe weather, and other hazards.
Objective 9.5.A: Protect Against Damage From Hurricanes, Severe Weather, or Other Hazards: The Town
will be proactive in its efforts to minimize damage and threats to public health and safety associated with
hurricanes, severe weather, and other hazards.
Policy 9.5.A.1:
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Public Education
reduces
vulnerability to
hazards
Recommended
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Action 9.5.A.l.a
reduces
vulnerability to
hazards
Policy 9.5.A.2:
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Redevelopment and
reduces
Relocation of
vulnerability to
Threatened Structures
hazards
Policy 9.5.A.3:
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Beneficial:
Development in
reduces
Areas Susceptible to
vulnerability to
Sea Level Rise
hazards
Policy 9.5.A.4: Land
Neutral
Neutral
Beneficial:
Beneficial:
*Beneficial:
Acquisition
might lead to
might lead to
reduces
land for new
land protected
vulnerability to
access sites
for habitat and
hazards
water quality
benefits
Recommendation
Neutral
Neutral
Beneficial:
Beneficial:
*Beneficial:
9.5.A.4.a
might lead to
might lead to
reduces
land for new
protected
vulnerability to
access sites
habitat and
hazards
water quality
benefits
Policy 9.5.A.5:
Neutral
Neutral
Beneficial:
Beneficial:
*Beneficial:
Funding for Land
might lead to
might lead to
reduces
Acquisition
land for new
protected
vulnerability to
access sites
habitat and
hazards
water quality
benefits
-G 12-

Town of Wrightsville Beach Append& G',
Policy 9.5.A.6: Flood
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Insurance
reduces
vulnerability to
hazards
Policy 9.5.A.7:
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Standards for
reduces
Construction in Flood
vulnerability to
Prone Areas
hazards
Policy 9.5.A.8: Flood
Beneficial:
Neutral
Neutral
Beneficial:
*Beneficial:
Plain Ordinance
includes
includes
reduces
requirements
requirements
vulnerability to
for treating
for treating
hazards
stormwater
stormwater
onsite
onsite
Policy 9.5.A.9:
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Beneficial:
*Beneficial:
Floodplain Open
might lead to
reduces
Space
protected
vulnerability to
habitat and
hazards
water quality
benefits
Recommended
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Beneficial:
*Beneficial:
Action 9.5.A.9.a
might lead to
reduces
protected
vulnerability to
habitat and
hazards
water quality
benefits
Policy 9.5.A.10:
Neutral
Neutral
Beneficial:
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Beach
helps
reduces
Renourishment
maintain
vulnerability to
existing
hazards
access sites
Recommended
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Action 9.5.A.10.a
reduces
vulnerability to
hazards
Policy 9.5.A.11:
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Beneficial:
Discouraging
reduces
Development in
vulnerability to
Hazardous Areas
hazards
Policy 9.5.A.12:
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Minimize Potential
reduces
Fire Damage
vulnerability to
hazards
Recommended
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Action 9.5.A.12.a
reduces
vulnerability to
hazards
Policy 9.5.A.13:
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Hurricane
reduces
Management Plan
vulnerability to
hazards
Policy 9.5.A.14:
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Evacuation Shelters
reduces
vulnerability to
hazards
-G13-

Towtt of Wrightsville Beach Appendix G
Policy 9.5.A.15:
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Evacuations
reduces
vulnerability to
hazards
Objective 9.5.B: Post -Storm Recovery: In the period following a hurricane, severe weather event, or other
disaster, the Town will work as quickly as possible to restore essential services related to public health, safety
and welfare.
Policy 9.5.13.1:
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Mutual Aid
Policy 9.5.13.2:
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Staging Schedule for
Reconstruction and
Repair
Policy 9.5.13.3:
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Building Permits
Policy 9.5.13.4: Public
Neutral
Beneficial:
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Infrastructure Repair
helps ensure
and Replacement
long term
infrastructure
capacity
Policy 9.5.13.5:
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Electrical Outages
Recommended
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Action 9.5.13.5.a
Policy 9.5.13.6:
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Property Loss
reduces
vulnerability to
hazards
Recommended
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Action 9.5.13.6.a
reduces future
vulnerability to
hazards
Policy 9.5.13.7: Post-
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Storm Hazard
reduces
Mitigation
vulnerability to
hazards
Recommended
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
Neutral
*Beneficial:
Action 9.5.13.7.a
reduces future
vulnerability to
hazards
-G 14-

Appendix H
Adjacent Jurisdiction Comments
The planning directors of the adjacent jurisdictions were notified by e-mail that the Town of
Wrightsville Beach 2005 CAMA Land Use Plan draft was available on-line for review and
comment. No comments were received within the forty-five day review period.
-H1-

N
C7