Core Land Use Plan 2007

The preparation of this report was financed in part through a grant provided by the North Carolina
Coastal Management Program, through funds provided by the Coastal Zone Management Act of
1972, as amended, which is administered by the Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management,
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
Town of M or e he a d C ity
Core Land Use Plan
Adopted by the Morehead City Town
Council: August 14, 2007
Certified by the Coastal Resources
Commission: September 28, 2007
Amended by the Morehead City Town
Council: April 10, 2018, June 11, 2019, and
May 19, 2021
Amended by the Coastal Resource
Commission: May 21, 2018, July 19, 2019,
and August 3, 2021
Prepared by:
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Table of Contents
September 28, 2007
TABLE OF CONTENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS..................................................................................................2
SECTION 1 INTRODUCTION AND EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ......................................7
1.1 Acknowledgement.........................................................................................7
1.2 General Project Description...........................................................................7
1.3 Executive Summary.......................................................................................9
1.3.1 Summary of Planning Issues...................................................................... 9
1.3.2 Summary of Data Collection and Analysis.................................................11
1.3.3 Summary of Policy Statements.................................................................17
1.3.4 Summary of Future Land Use Projections .................................................18
1.3.5 Summary of Implementation Strategies.....................................................21
SECTION 2 COMMUNITY CONCERNS AND ASPIRATIONS....................................23
2.1 Key Planning Issues....................................................................................23
2.1.1 Land Use Compatibility ............................................................................23
2.1.2 Water Quality...........................................................................................24
2.1.3 Public Water Access................................................................................24
2.1.4 Infrastructure Carrying Capacity...............................................................25
2.1.5 Natural Hazards.......................................................................................25
2.1.6 Other Local Issues...................................................................................25
2.2 Additional Planning Issues...........................................................................26
2.3 Community Vision Statement ......................................................................27
SECTION 3 ANALYSIS OF EXISTING & EMERGING CONDITIONS........................29
3.1 Population, Housing, and Economy.............................................................29
3.1.1 Population Growth Trends........................................................................30
3.1.2 Population Age Characteristics ................................................................32
3.1.3 Racial Composition..................................................................................33
3.1.4 Population Projections .............................................................................34
A. Permanent Population Projections....................................................34
B. Seasonal and Peak Population Projections.......................................35
3.1.5 Housing Characteristics ...........................................................................35
3.1.6 Building Permits.......................................................................................36
3.1.7 Economy..................................................................................................37
3.1.8 Employment.............................................................................................38
3.1.9 Tourism Impact ........................................................................................40
3.1.10 Commercial Seafood Impact..................................................................42
3.1.11 Port of Morehead City ............................................................................42
3.2 Natural System Analysis..............................................................................43
3.2.1 Natural Features Inventory.......................................................................43
A. Areas of Environmental Concern (AECs) ..........................................43
A-1. Estuarine and Ocean System AECs...............................................44
A-2. AECs in Morehead City..................................................................45
B. Soil Characteristics ...........................................................................46
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C. Water Quality Classifications ............................................................46
D. Primary Nursery Areas......................................................................48
E. Flood Hazards and Storm Surge Areas.............................................48
F. Non-coastal Wetlands .......................................................................49
G. Environmentally Fragile Areas..........................................................49
G-1. Natural Heritage Areas..................................................................49
3.2.2 Environmental Composite Map ................................................................50
3.2.3 Summary Environmental Conditions ........................................................52
A. Water Quality....................................................................................52
B. Natural Resources ............................................................................54
3.3 Existing Land Use and Development...........................................................54
3.3.1 Development Trends................................................................................54
3.3.2 Existing Land Use....................................................................................56
A. Neighborhood 1 ................................................................................56
B. Neighborhood 2 ................................................................................59
C. Neighborhood 3................................................................................60
D. Neighborhood 4................................................................................61
E. Neighborhood 5 ................................................................................62
F. Neighborhood 6.................................................................................64
G. Neighborhood 7................................................................................65
H. Neighborhood 8................................................................................66
I. Neighborhood 9..................................................................................67
J. Neighborhood 10...............................................................................67
3.3.3 Watershed Development..........................................................................71
3.3.4 Land Use and Land / Water Conflicts.......................................................72
3.3.5 Land Needs Forecast...............................................................................73
3.4 Community Facilities Analysis .....................................................................75
3.4.1 Water.......................................................................................................75
3.4.2 Sewer.......................................................................................................76
3.4.3 Transportation..........................................................................................77
3.4.4 Stormwater...............................................................................................79
3.5 Land Suitability Analysis..............................................................................81
3.6 Review of Existing Policies..........................................................................85
3.6.1 Resource Protection Issues .....................................................................85
3.6.2 Economic and Community Development Policies.....................................86
3.6.3 Neighborhood Policies .............................................................................87
SECTION 4 PLAN FOR THE FUTURE .......................................................................90
4.1 Land Use and Development Goals..............................................................91
4.2 Land Use and Development Policies...........................................................92
4.2.1 Public Access to Public Trust Waters.......................................................92
4.2.2 Land Use Compatibility ............................................................................93
4.2.3 Infrastructure Carrying Capacity...............................................................93
4.2.4 Natural Hazard Areas...............................................................................93
4.2.5 Water Quality...........................................................................................94
4.2.6 Areas of Environmental Concern..............................................................94
4.2.7 Areas of Local Concern............................................................................95
4.3 Analysis of the Impact of Policies on Management Topics........................100
4.4 Statement of Local Support Regarding Areas of Environmental Concern.102
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4.5 Future Land Use Map ................................................................................102
A. Residential Classification ................................................................103
B. General Commercial Classification .................................................106
D. Public and Institutional ....................................................................107
E. General Industrial ............................................................................107
F. Port Mixed Use Classification ..........................................................108
4.6 Cost Estimates for Planned Community Facility Improvements ................110
4.7 Consistency W ith Natural Systems and Land Suitability Analyses ............110
4.8 Comparison of Future Land Use Allocations and Projected Land Needs ..112
4.9 Use of the Future Land Use Plan to Guide Development ..........................114
SECTION 5 TOOLS FOR MANAGING DEVELOPMENT .........................................117
5.1 Guide for Land Use Decision-making ........................................................117
5.2 Existing Land Use and Development Management Program ....................117
5.3 Additional Implementation Tools................................................................118
5.3.1 Amendments or Adjustments to Existing Land Development Ordinances
........................................................................................................................118
5.3.2 Capital Improvements ............................................................................118
5.4 Implementation Plan and Schedule ...........................................................119
5.4.1 Public W ater Access Implementation Actions.........................................119
5.4.2 Land Use Compatibility Implementation Actions .....................................119
5.4.3 Infrastructure Carrying Capacity Implementation Actions .......................119
5.4.4 Natural Hazard Areas Implementation Actions .......................................120
5.4.5 W ater Quality Implementation Actions....................................................120
5.4.6 Areas of Environmental Concern Implementation Actions:.....................120
5.4.7 Areas of Local Concern Implementation Actions:...................................121
5.5 Description of Public Participation Activities to Assist in Monitoring Plan
Implementation .................................................................................................121
APPENDICES .............................................................................................................123
Appendix A ..................................................................................................................124
Citizen Participation Plan .............................................................................................124
Appendix B ..................................................................................................................128
Census Explanation.....................................................................................................128
Appendix C..................................................................................................................130
Natural Features Maps ................................................................................................130
Appendix D..................................................................................................................136
Community Facilities Maps ..........................................................................................136
Appendix E ..................................................................................................................140
References ..................................................................................................................140
Appendix F ..................................................................................................................142
Summary of CRC Land Use Plan Management Topic Goals and Objectives.................142
Appendix G .................................................................................................................143
Impact of Morehead City Policies on CRC Land Use Plan Management Topics ............143
Appendix H..................................................................................................................148
Maps and Land Use Plan Data Available at the Morehead City Planning Department .148
Appendix I ...................................................................................................................149
Population Projections..................................................................................................149
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Appendix J ..................................................................................................................150
Summary of Land Use Issues, Goals, and Objectives ...................................................150
Identified in the 1999 Morehead City Land Use Plan .....................................................150
Appendix K ..................................................................................................................154
Glossary ......................................................................................................................154
Appendix L ..................................................................................................................160
Hazard Mitigation Plan Matrix .......................................................................................160

LIST OF TABLES
Table 3.1 Total Population and Percent Change of Selected Coastal Communities ................30
Table 3.2 Total Population and Percent Change of Selected Municipalities in the Region ......31
Table 3.3 Total Population and Percent Change of Morehead City and Carteret County ........32
Table 3.4 Estimated 2002 Seasonal Population ......................................................................32
Table 3.5 Town of Morehead City Population by Age Group ...................................................33
Table 3.6 2000 Population By Race ........................................................................................34
Table 3.7 1970 - 2000 Percentage of Population By Race ......................................................34
Table 3.8 Permanent Population Projections ..........................................................................34
Table 3.9 Seasonal and Peak Population Projections .............................................................35
Table 3.10 Morehead City Housing Characteristics .................................................................36
Table 3.11 Types of Occupied Housing Units in Morehead City ..............................................36
Table 3.12 Building Permits Issued in Morehead City .............................................................37
Table 3.13 Morehead City Retail Sales ($0000)......................................................................37
Table 3.14 Morehead City Key Economic Indicators ...............................................................38
Table 3.15 Family Income Distribution for Morehead City .......................................................38
Table 3.16 Employment by Major Industry in Morehead City...................................................39
Table 3.17 Largest Manufacturing and Non-manufacturing Employers ...................................40
Table 3.18 2000 Seasonal Housing Units ...............................................................................41
Table 3.19 Tourism Impact in Carteret County ........................................................................42
Table 3.20 Coastal Wetland Plant Species .............................................................................45
Table 3.21 Water Quality Classifications .................................................................................47
Table 3.22 Primary Nursery Areas ..........................................................................................48
Table 3.23 DEH Shellfish Sanitation Growing Area Classifications .........................................53
Table 3.24 Morehead City Subdivisions ..................................................................................54
Table 3.25 Building Permits Issued by Year ............................................................................56
Table 3.26 Morehead City Existing Land Use by Neighborhood (in acres)..............................69
Table 3.27 Watershed Development in Morehead City (in acres)............................................71
Table 3.28 Land Needs Projections .........................................................................................74
Table 3.29 Traffic Volumes in Morehead City ..........................................................................78
Table 3.30 Morehead City Land Suitability Analysis Weights ..................................................82
Table 4.0 Land Use Issues and Management Topics ..............................................................91
Table 4.1 Morehead City Land Use and Development Goals ..................................................92
Table 4.2 Morehead City Land Use and Development Policies ...............................................92
Table 4.3 Impact of Local Policies on CRC Land Use Plan Management Topics ..................100
Table 4.4 Future Land Use Map Calculations........................................................................110
Table 4.5 Distribution of Land Suitability Ratings Morehead City Planning Jurisdiction .........111
Table 4.6 Comparison of Future Land Allocation with Projected Needs ................................113
Table 4.7 Projected Utility Demand at Buildout .....................................................................114

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LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1: Environmental Composite Map .................................................................................51
Figure 2: Annexations 1998 to Present ....................................................................................55
Figure 3: Morehead City Neighborhood Planning Areas...........................................................57
Figure 4: Existing Land Use .....................................................................................................70
Figure 5: Land Suitability Map ..................................................................................................84
Figure 6: Areas of Environmental Concern (AEC)..................................................................131
Figure 7: Soil Suitability for Septic Systems ...........................................................................132
Figure 8: W ater Quality Classes .............................................................................................133
Figure 9: Fragile Areas...........................................................................................................134
Figure 10: Flood Hazard Areas ..............................................................................................135
Figure 11: Water and Sewer Systems ....................................................................................137
Figure 12: Transportations Systems.......................................................................................138
Figure 13: Stormwater Drainage ............................................................................................139
Figure 14: Future Land Use Map ...........................................................................................104

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Section I: Introduction and Executive Summary
September 28, 2007
SECTION 1 INTRODUCTION AND EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

1.1 Acknowledgement

The preparation of this document was financed, in part, through a grant provided by the North
Carolina Coastal Management Program, through funds provided by the Coastal Zone
Management Act of 1972, as amended, which is administered by the Office of Ocean and
Coastal Resource Management, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

1.2 General Project Description

The 2005 Town of Morehead City Land Use Plan Update represents an update to the 1999
Town of Morehead City Land Use Plan, which was prepared with assistance from The W ooten
Company of Raleigh, North Carolina. The 1999 plan was locally adopted by the Morehead City
Council on May 25, 1999, and was certified by the Coastal Resources Commission on May 28,
1999.

The 2005 Town of Morehead City Land Use Plan Update is prepared in accordance with the
requirements contained in the North Carolina Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA), the North
Carolina Coastal Resources Commission (CRC) Land Use Planning Requirements [15A
NCAC7B] and the relevant planning process requirements of Local Planning and Management
Grants [15A NCAC 7L]. The Land Use Plan Update also utilizes the methodology and data
sources suggested by the Technical Manual for Coastal Land Use Planning, prepared by the
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources (NCDENR).

In November 2001, the CRC adopted revisions to the 1996 Land Use Planning Requirements.
The new guidelines are designed to be less complicated than the past guidelines, better tailored
to the needs of local governments and more in line with the goals of CAMA. The revised
guidelines became effective in August 2002, and are the basis for this planning effort.

The CAMA legislation requires that each of the twenty coastal counties prepare and adopt a
land use plan. Municipalities within these counties have the option of adopting individual plans,
or the option of falling under the authority of the county plan. Morehead City has chosen to
prepare and adopt a separate plan from Carteret County.

A land use plan is intended to provide a framework that will guide local government officials and
private citizens as they make day-to-day and long-term decisions affecting development. This
Land Use Plan Update serves as an overall “blueprint” for the development of Morehead City
that when implemented results in the most suitable and appropriate use of the land and
protection of the town’s natural resources. In addition to serving as a guide to the overall
development of Morehead City, the Land Use Plan will be used by local, state and federal
agencies in CAMA permitting decisions, project funding and project consistency determinations.
The effective period for the 2005 Land Use Plan Update is for the ten-year period following
adoption of the plan.

The Coastal Resources Commission places great emphasis on involving citizens and property
owners in the development and implementation of the Land Use Plan. The goal is to involve as
many citizens as possible in the development of the plan, and thereby enhance the likelihood
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Section I: Introduction and Executive Summary
September 28, 2007
that the plan will be implemented. Accordingly, on October 7, 2003, the Morehead City Council
adopted a Citizen Participation Plan (Appendix A) which designated the Land Use Plan Advisory
Committee (LUPAC) as the lead group responsible for preparation of the Land Use Plan. The
LUPAC is composed of citizens that represent a broad cross-section of the population of
Morehead City, as well as members of the City Council and Planning Board. The purpose of the
Citizen Participation Plan is to ensure that all interested citizens have an opportunity to
participate in the development of the plan. The Citizen Participation Plan describes the public
participation tools that are to be used to inform the public of planning progress and to solicit
public participation. The Citizen Participation Plan also provides a general outline of the meeting
schedule of the Planning Commission for discussion and development of the Land Use Plan.

In accordance with the Citizen Participation Plan, the LUPAC held an Initial Public Information
Meeting on December 2, 2003 and a Neighborhood Forum on January 6, 2004. The meetings
were held to receive public input from citizens on issues, concerns and opportunities available
to the Town and its neighborhoods. In addition, all LUPAC meetings provided time on the
agenda for public comment. Regular planning updates to the Morehead City website allowed
non-resident property owners to follow the planning process and participate by directing
questions and comments to the Morehead City Planning Director.

The Community Concerns and Aspirations section of this report is a description of the major
land use assets and problems identified by the LUPAC after reviewing technical information on
existing and emerging conditions. This information, key planning issues and public comments
from the initial public information meeting and neighborhood forum were used by the LUPAC to
develop the Community Vision. The Community Vision serves as the foundation for the
objectives and policies contained in the Land Use Plan.

The planning process included an analysis of existing and emerging conditions that affect
Morehead City and Carteret County, such as current and projected population trends, housing
characteristics and economic conditions. Natural systems and environmental hazards were
analyzed and compiled into an environmental composite map. This map depicts environmentally
sensitive areas where development may already be limited or limited in the future due to public
safety issues or protection of the environment. Other factors that were analyzed and considered
in the planning process included existing land use and development patterns, projected land
use needs and community facilities and utilities.

A land suitability analysis was conducted to determine the relative suitability for development of
land in the Morehead City planning jurisdiction. Considerations included proximity to important
natural features, existing and planned community services, existing developed areas, and
existing local, state and federal regulations affecting growth and development.

A Plan for the Future was developed and includes land use and development goals and policies
for Morehead City. This section of the Land Use Plan addressed the CRC’s management topics,
which include the following: Public Access, Land Use Compatibility, Infrastructure Carrying
Capacity, Natural Hazard Areas, W ater Quality and Local Areas of Concern. A Future Land Use
Map was developed to show areas designated for conservation / open space as well as areas
that are expected to see future growth and development.

An implementation strategy or Tools for Managing Development was developed to describe
Morehead City’s implementation strategies for the updated Land Use Plan. This includes a
description of existing ordinances, policies, codes and regulations and how they will be
coordinated and employed to implement land use and development policies. This section also
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Section I: Introduction and Executive Summary
September 28, 2007
describes additional tools, such as new or amended ordinances, capital improvements, property
acquisitions or other specific projects selected by the Town to implement the updated Land Use
Plan.

1.3 Executive Summary

1.3.1 Summary of Planning Issues
Key planning issues identified by participants at a neighborhood forum included the
following (listed in priority order with the number of votes received on each issue):

Land Use Compatibility
4 - Municipal tax district
3 - Review zoning ordinance to control development
3 - Limit building in wetlands
2 - More support of downtown revitalization
2 - Study high-rise residential buildings to see what future impact will be
1 - Need for more residential building lots
1 - Commercial development along Hwy 70 should be done properly (i.e.
connecting parking lots, traffic patterns)
1 - Balancing property owner rights with the good of the city
1 - People who don't want development in community should buy undeveloped
lands
1 - Revise Morehead City's Land Use Plan to reflect the county's prohibition of
hazardous industry

W ater Quality
8 - Study and improve stormwater runoff (city wide)
8 - Sewer plant run-over, improve and clean Calico Creek
2 - Possibility of more retention ponds
2 - Silting of Calico Creek and Newport River
1 - Better maintenance of present retention ponds
1 - Stress vegetated as opposed to hard bulkheads

Public W ater Access
2 - Need more parking at boat ramps
2 - Make all street ends cleared and designated like South 16th Street
1 - Better access to Calico Creek for boaters and pedestrians
1 - More parking at water accesses
1 - Remove beachfront debris at South 10th Street and others areas

Infrastructure Carrying Capacity
6 - Too many traffic lights on Arendell Street
4 - Further extension of Bridges Street
3 - Lack of potential sewer capacity
2 - Extend sewer on Highway 24 and Business Drive
2 - Natural gas service extension
1 - Maintenance of streets and sidewalks
1 - Improve infrastructure to entice clean industries
1 - Trash collection is good
1 - Relocate main post office
1 - Control sprawl; establish firm geographical boundaries of the city's growth
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Section I: Introduction and Executive Summary
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Natural Hazards
10 - Stormwater runoff problems
5 - Bridges Street extended / Havelock Bypass

Other Local Issues
8 - Road System in to and out of Morehead City
3 - Creation of municipal docks downtown
2 - Downtown parking needs to be increased
1 - Promote development of theme park
1 - Aggressive enforcement of building codes and formal monitoring of permit
compliance

Other major planning issues identified by the Land Use Plan Advisory Committee and the
Morehead City Planning Department staff include the following:

Radio Island Development
• Character of future development: industrial vs. residential vs. recreational
• Town now manages the Newport River Beach Access and plans to make
improvements
• County leases a portion of Port property for recreation area on east side
of island

Water/Sewer Service
• Waste treatment plant improvements
• Sewer line moratorium - Town is working towards getting it lifted by
developing design plans and specifications to upgrade sewer plant.

Transportation
• Connection between 24 and 70 in vicinity of Little Nine Drive, would
provide a direct link between the Crystal Coast Business Park and
Highway 24.
• Proliferation of traffic lights on Highway 70
• Preserving the functionality of Highway 70 while balancing the right of
property owners to develop and redevelop property.
• Alternative Transportation Modes (MATS) (New sidewalk along Bridges
Street Extension)
• Sidewalks

Land Use Issues
• Impervious cover limits
• Building heights
• Use separation
• Landscaping

Stormwater Issues
• Flooding (impervious coverage/system maintenance)
• Point and non-point source pollution
• Water quality preservation

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Section I: Introduction and Executive Summary
September 28, 2007
Community Cooperation
• Attach water line with Newport in case of emergency in either town.
• Agreement with Beaufort on Radio Island/Pivers Island, water/sewer
service, zoning boundaries, etc.
• Carteret County - various issues require cooperation

Concerns Related to Population Increases
• Traffic
• Evacuation Routes
• Density issues
• Housing

Neighborhood Preservation
• Redevelopment of developed lots, both residential and commercial
• Density
• Commercial encroachment

Enforcement (Building/Zoning)

Industrial Development
• Type of growth
• Where
• How much
• Preservation of industrial zoning districts

Water Access
• Improvements to street ends
• Public boat ramps (where)

1.3.2 Summary of Data Collection and Analysis
The data analyzed in Section 3 were collected from a wide variety of sources (see
Appendices B and E) including published documents, governmental and private
organizations, and individuals. Printed and digital map data were utilized in the
preparation of this section of the plan. The major conclusions resulting from the data
collection and analysis include:

Population
• The estimated 2002 population of the Morehead City corporate area is
7,726 and approximately 14,000 for the Morehead City planning
jurisdiction.
• In 2002, the municipal population of Morehead City, one of eleven
incorporated municipalities within Carteret County, comprised
approximately 13 percent of the total county population.
• Population in Morehead City has increased steadily since 1910 with the
exception of a dip in population between 1960 and 1980, from 5,583 in
1960 to 4,359 in 1980. The population recovered from 1980 to 1990 with
a 38.7% growth rate. Part of this can be attributed to annexations. The
growth rate has declined slightly to 27.2% in the past decade (1990-
2000).
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Section I: Introduction and Executive Summary
September 28, 2007
• Morehead City’s population growth is lower than many of the
municipalities in the immediate region. Six other municipalities in the
region had a higher growth rate from 1990-2000
• The estimated 2002 seasonal population of Morehead City is 3,146. The
2002 peak population, which is the sum of the permanent population and
the seasonal population, is estimated to be 10,872.
• One of the most notable population trends between 1990 and 2000 in
Morehead City is an increase in the average age of the population from
36.5 to 41.1 years.
• The age group with the highest growth rate is 50-59 at 87.7%. Other age
groups with high growth rates are the 40-49 age group at 62.1% and the
70+ group at 39.1%. The growth of these age groups is largely attributed
to the County’s popularity as a retirement location and the resulting in-
migration of older adults.
• In general, age groups over 50 are projected to grow faster than the
county as a whole through 2030, especially the 70 and up age group.
• Beaufort’s age distribution is similar to that of Carteret County but differs
from the statewide averages in that the town contains a higher proportion
of the 65 and older population.
• Morehead City’s population is more diverse than the county’s but is less
diverse than North Carolina’s.
• Projections indicate that the peak population (total of the permanent and
seasonal population) for the Morehead City planning jurisdiction will
increase to 22,480 in 2010 and 24,510 in 2020. Complete population
projections are provided in Section 3.1.4.

Housing
• Rental units have increased faster than owner units and make up 44.5%
of the 2000 housing stock. Owner units account for 77% of the housing
stock in Carteret County whereas they account for only 55.5% in
Morehead City. The increase in rental units coincides with the explosion
of the number of seasonal units since 1980 with more than a 700%
growth rate.
• Building permit data since 2000 indicate that Morehead City has
averaged about 197 new residential dwellings per year—approximately
59 percent of those were single-family dwellings.
• In 2000, approximately 8% of all housing in Morehead City was
considered to be for seasonal or recreational use.

Economy
• The largest employment sector in the Town of Morehead City is
educational, health and social services. Other major sectors are the arts
entertainment, recreation, accommodation and food services industry,
retail trade and the construction industry. Although retail trade is the third
largest employment industry in Morehead City, the number of employees
actually dropped 43.3% from 1990 to 2000.
• The employed labor force has also seen growth in the past twenty year.
The increase was greater from 1980 to 1990 than it was from 1990 to
2000. This is consistent with the slowed population growth from 1990-
2000.
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Section I: Introduction and Executive Summary
September 28, 2007
• Paralleling this economic growth, income has increased significantly and
families in poverty have decreased steadily since 1980.
• In 2000, the per capita income in Morehead City was $19,138 compared
to $21,260 for Carteret County and $20,307 for the State of North
Carolina. Although the Town’s per capita income is below that of the
state and Carteret County it increased at a greater rate than both of them
from 1980 to 2000.
• Much of the local economic activity in the Town of Morehead City and
Carteret County is based on tourism. Restaurants, accommodations,
fishing, retail trade, services, construction, and the real estate and finance
industries benefit directly from the impact of tourism.
• According to the NC Department of Commerce, Division of Tourism, the
Carteret County tourism industry generated $206.87 million dollars in
revenue and was ranked twelfth in the state in travel impact in 2002.
• Over 3,170 jobs were created due to tourism. These jobs generate an
annual payroll of $47.03 million.
• According to the NC Division of Marine Fisheries, Carteret County
consistently leads North Carolina in commercial seafood landings. A 1994
Marine Fisheries study found that commercial fishing in Carteret County
generated an estimated $46 million in sales of goods and services, and
an additional $24 million in value added.
• Recreational saltwater fishing adds an additional $130 million in sales of
goods and services and employs over 600 people with an annual payroll
exceeding $12 million.
• According to Carteret County Economic Development Council there are
71 full time employees, 81 tenant employees and 150 part time
employees at the state port.

Natural Constraints for Development
• The Estuarine and Ocean System Area of Environmental Concern
category is the only AEC category present in the Morehead City planning
jurisdiction. Within this category, the following AECs are present: Public
Trust Areas, Estuarine Waters, Coastal Shorelines, and Coastal
Wetlands.
• Fragile areas that are not AECs but are sensitive areas that could be
damaged easily by inappropriate or poorly planned development include
non-coastal wetlands and significant natural heritage areas.
• In general, the soils in the planning jurisdiction have limitations for many
uses due to wetness, flooding, and high sand content. Soils with slight to
moderate limitations for septic systems are limited in the planning
jurisdiction. They account for 8.9% and 2.6% respectively of land area
and are generally located in the central portion of the planning area. The
majority of soils, 88.5%, are classified as having severe limitations for
septic systems.
• The waters in the Morehead City area contain a wide range of primary
and supplemental classifications. These include SA HQW, SB, C, SC
and SC HQW. The majority of the waters in the planning jurisdiction are
designated as SA HQW.
• Primary nursery areas within the Morehead City planning jurisdiction are
located in Calico Creek, Crab Point Bay, and portions of the Newport River.
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Section I: Introduction and Executive Summary
September 28, 2007
• Major flood hazard areas are located within the northeastern and
northwestern portions of the town’s planning jurisdiction.
• Extensive areas of the Morehead City planning jurisdiction are vulnerable
to storm surge hazards associated with hurricanes. Depending upon the
severity and speed of the storm, much of the area could be impacted by
storm surge.
• Based upon the environmental conditions assigned to each land class as
delineated in the Environmental Conditions Composite Map, the majority
(58.6%) of the land area in the Morehead City planning jurisdiction falls
into Class II lands (moderate hazards and limitations). Class III, serious
hazards and limitations, account for approximately 30.6 percent of the
Town’s land area, and Class I (minimal hazards and limitations) lands
comprise 10.8 percent.
• All surface waters in the Morehead City planning jurisdiction classified for
the fish consumption use support category are partially supporting. Other
waters are impaired for commercial shellfish harvesting.
• In 2002, approximately 25% of the waters in Morehead City were closed
to shellfishing. Prohibited or restricted areas include all of Spooners
Creek, all of Peletier Creek, and the Newport River restricted area around
the Morehead City Harbor.
• The Morehead City municipal wastewater treatment plant (WWTP)
discharges into Calico Creek and affects water quality. The WWTP is a
major point source discharge with a capacity of 1.7 MGD. The only other
point discharge source in the town is Morehead City Terminals, which is
classified as a minor source and discharges into the Newport River
• According to the White Oak River Basinwide Water Quality Management
Plan prepared by the NC Division of W ater Quality, W ater Quality Section
in September, 2001, the activities that contribute to the closure of shellfish
harvesting areas include, but are not limited to, construction, urban
stormwater runoff, failing septic systems, and agricultural activities.

Existing Land Use and Development
• Since the 1999 Land Use Plan Update, Morehead City has pursued an
active annexation and development policy annexing approximately 2,160
acres into the Morehead City limits.
• Records maintained by the Morehead City Planning and Inspections
Department show 26 new subdivisions between 1999 and 2003. These
subdivisions total approximately 266 acres and include 314 in-city
lots/units and 163 out-of-city lots/units.
• The predominant land use in Morehead City is residential, accounting for
approximately 30 percent of the total land area of the town’s planning
jurisdiction and almost 71 percent of the total used acreage.
• Approximately 50% of the town’s planning jurisdiction contains
undeveloped land.
• Commercial uses represent approximately 5% of the total area; industrial
uses comprise approximately 3% and institutional uses represent 4.
• Agriculture/open space (which includes farming operations, parks,
recreation areas and golf courses) represents approximately 9% of the
total land area.
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• To provide a meaningful analysis of existing land use conditions in
Morehead City and the extraterritorial planning jurisdiction (ETJ), the
planning area was subdivided into ten neighborhood planning areas. The
ten neighborhoods represent distinct areas of the planning area that have
different land use patterns, constraints for development, potential for
growth and land development concerns.
• Since 1998, Morehead City has grown eastward to include portions of
Radio Island, northward to include Blair Farms Subdivision and westward
to include the Crystal Coast Business Park. This expansion has affected
the boundaries of Neighborhoods 1, 7 and 8.
• Neighborhood 10 is a new neighborhood added since the 1999 Land Use
Plan. It was created by dividing the existing Neighborhood 8 along the
Norfolk-Southern railroad tracks to reflect new development patterns.
Neighborhood 8 is now located north of the railroad tracks, with
Neighborhood 10 to the south. In addition, the Town has annexed a
minimum width of 500 feet of waters along its entire shoreline.
• Since the 1999 update, the percentage of developed land used for
residential purposes has decreased slightly from approximately 68% to
about 60%, while all other uses have shown an increase. In general,
there is potential for growth in all of the neighborhoods.
• In Neighborhood 1, further development of Radio Island is expected to
occur, with a mix of industrial, residential and recreational uses. The
downtown business area is expected to experience continued restoration
and redevelopment.
• Given the attractiveness of Morehead City as a retirement/second home
destination and the rising monetary value of waterfront property, the
established waterfront residential areas along the Bogue Sound and
Calico Creek waterfronts in Neighborhoods 1, 2 and 3 are expected to
experience redevelopment pressures.
• Neighborhood 4 has large amounts of undeveloped property, existing
infrastructure, including improved roads and varied zoning, that will allow
for mixed uses.
• The potential for low-density residential uses is strong in Neighborhood 5.
Also in Neighborhood 5, the potential for light industrial and intense
commercial uses are good along Bridges Street Extension.
• Neighborhood 7, particularly along the Country Club Road corridor, has
good growth potential for low-density residential uses, provided that
constraints to development can be overcome.
• Given the existence of numerous large undeveloped tracts, as well as the
Crystal Coast Business Park, the potential for residential and industrial
development is good in Neighborhood 8 in areas where adequate support
utilities can be extended.
• The greatest potential for growth in Neighborhood 9 is continued low-
density residential development.
• The potential for retail and commercial growth in Neighborhood 10 is high
in areas where adequate utilities can be extended, particularly along the
US 70 and NC 24 corridors. Industrial development is expected along
Little Nine Road and the railroad right-of-way.
• Projections indicate that some 2,366 acres of additional residential land will
be needed to accommodate the anticipated growth through 2025.
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• The Land Suitability Map (Figure 5) classifies land as High Suitability,
Medium Suitability, Low Suitability, and Least Suitable. In general, over
52% of the Morehead City planning jurisdiction is within the higher
suitability ratings (High and Medium Suitability).
• In general, the higher suitability areas are located along the Bogue Sound
and Calico Creek waterfront areas, along major roads and areas served
by water and sewer. According to the land suitability analysis, 15% of the
undeveloped land in Morehead City is highly suitable for development. In
addition, 13% is classified as medium suitability, and 13% is classified as
low suitability. Over 58% of the undeveloped land in Morehead City is
classified as least suitable for development.
• Existing and potential land uses that have negative impacts on water
quality include development in wetlands areas, discharges from the
town’s wastewater treatment facility, road-related stormwater impacts,
and septic system failures.

Community Facilities
• The Town of Morehead City’s water system is operated as a division of
the Public Utilities Department. Five wells located throughout the Town of
Morehead City and its extra territorial jurisdiction (ETJ) provide raw water
supply for the system.
• The town has approximately 4,944 metered connections. Of these
connections, 82.3% are residential, 16.6% are commercial, 1.0% are
institutional, and 0.1% are industrial.
• The system has approximately 2.55 million gallons per day (MGD) of
available supply. Average daily use, according to the 2002 Town of
Morehead City W ater Supply Plan, is 1.179 MGD or 46.2% of the current
available supply.
• The Public Utilities Department estimates the average daily demand will
grow to 1.512 MGD in 2020 or 59.3% of the current available supply. The
future demand is below 80% of available supply, which is the maximum
allowed without adding additional supply.
• Future system plans include adding a sixth well providing an additional
0.576 MGD of supply to the system in 2010. The location of this new well
is currently undetermined.
• The Town of Morehead City’s Wastewater Treatment Plant is a permitted
1.7 million gallon per day (MGD) treatment plant which consists of
primary clarifiers, trickling filters, secondary clarifiers and chlorination.
The discharge receiving stream is Calico Creek in the White Oak River
Basin.
• The wastewater treatment facility was previously under a sewer line
moratorium that was imposed in April 1999 by the NC Division of W ater
Quality (NCDW Q 2004). Under this moratorium, limits set for particular
parameters under the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System
(NPDES) Permit could be relaxed for a time determined to be reasonable
for making necessary improvements to the facility. The purpose of the
moratorium was to facilitate a $3,000,000 sewer rehabilitation project.
This project began in June 2003 and includes replacement of
approximately 250 manholes and five miles of sewer line to help reduce
the inflow/infiltration of rainwater that enters the sewer collection system.
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September 28, 2007
• Future plans for the wastewater treatment plant through 2010 include
expansion of the facility infrastructure to treat 2.5 MGD.
• The NCDOT Transportation Improvement Program for 2004-2010 does
not include any projects for Morehead City. The Carteret County
Transportation Committee presented transportation priorities for the
county to NCDOT in November of 2003 to be considered for inclusion in
the 2006-2012 TIP. The Committee report identified six priorities for the
2006-2012 Transportation Improvement Program. Five of these pertain
to the US 70 corridor. Although only one priority would actually take
place within the Town of Morehead City’s planning jurisdiction, all of the
projects will affect the municipality. The highest priority recommended by
the Carteret County Transportation Committee is the replacement of the
Gallants Channel Bridge.
• Major street improvements recommended in the 1992 Morehead
City/Beaufort Thoroughfare Plan include the following:
A new east-west road in the Crab Point area.
An extension of Bridges Street westward past the US 70 / NC 24
intersection.
A new street tying Country Club Road to Arendell Street west of
the Swinson Park area.
An interchange at the intersection of US 70 and NC 24.
• Additional transportation improvement goals and issues identified by
Morehead City officials for the planning period include the following:
Developing a connector road between US 70 and NC 24 in the
vicinity of Little Nine Drive to provide a link between the Crystal
Coast Business Park and NC 24.
Straightening of the curve in the Mayberry Loop Road.
Decreasing the number of traffic lights on US 70.
Balancing the functionality of US 70 with rights of property
owners to develop and redevelop property.
Promoting of the Morehead City waterfront as a destination of
traveling boaters along the Atlantic Intracoastal W aterway.
Installing additional sidewalks along area streets / Morehead
Alternative Transportation System (MATS).
• The existing stormwater drainage facilities within the Town of Morehead
City consist of a system of piping, catch basins, drainage ditches, and
swales. Approximately two-thirds of the 22.8 miles of stormwater piping
consists of concrete pipes; the remainder is composed of vitrified clay,
corrugated metal, PVC, and steel pipes.
• The Town of Morehead City has agreed to the implementation of
voluntary mitigation measure to address the impacts of increased
stormwater resulting from increased development associated with the
expanded wastewater treatment plant capacity.

1.3.3 Summary of Policy Statements
The formulation of land use and development policies is based upon a review and
analysis of policy statements contained in the 1999 Morehead City CAMA Land Use
Plan (see Section 3.6) for a summary review of the policies from this former plan); an
evaluation of identified concerns and aspirations (Section 2.0) and the needs and
opportunities identified in the analysis of existing and emerging conditions (Section 3.0);
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September 28, 2007
input from the Land Use Plan Advisory Committee, local planning board, and elected
officials; and input obtained through citizen participation efforts including public
informational meetings, public forums, and Land Use Plan Advisory Committee
meetings.

Updated policy statements (Section 4.2) have been formulated which address the
following topics:
• Public access to public trust waters
• Land use compatibility
• Infrastructure carrying capacity
• Natural hazard areas
• Water quality
• Areas of environmental concern
• Areas of local concern (which also includes neighborhood-specific policies)

The Town of Morehead City supports state and federal law regarding land use and
development in Areas of Environmental Concern (AECs). Specific policy statements have
been developed that support the general use standards of the North Carolina
Administrative Code (15 NCAC 7H) for development within the estuarine system (see
Section 4.2.6). No policy statements have been developed which exceed the
requirements of CAMA regarding land use and development within AECs.

1.3.4 Summary of Future Land Use Projections
The Future Land Use Map for the Morehead City planning jurisdiction encompasses the
Morehead City corporate limits and the Town’s extraterritorial planning and zoning
jurisdiction. The Town’s Future Land Use Map classifications include the following
categories and subcategories:

• Residential
Low Density Residential
Medium Density Residential
High Density Residential
• General Commercial
• Downtown Mixed Use
• Public and Institutional
• General Industrial
• Port Mixed Use
• Conservation/Open Space

The Low Density Residential classification encompasses about 38 percent of the total
planning jurisdiction. The majority of the lands classified as Low Density Residential are
located primarily in the northern one-half of the Town’s planning jurisdiction and include
the majority of Neighborhoods 5, 7, and 8. The Low Density Residential classification is
intended to delineate lands where the predominant land use is low density detached
residences. The residential density within this classification is generally 2 to 2.5 dwelling
units per acre.

The Medium Density Residential classification encompasses approximately 15 percent
of the total planning jurisdiction. The majority of the properties classified as Medium
Density Residential are generally located in the southwestern portion of the Town’s
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September 28, 2007
planning jurisdiction between Bogue Sound and US Highway 70 and include
Neighborhoods 6 and 9. The Medium Density Residential classification is intended to
delineate lands where the predominant land use is higher density single-family
residential developments, two-family developments, and multifamily developments. The
residential density within this classification is generally 3 to 8 dwelling units per acre.

The High Density Residential classification encompasses about 5 percent of the total
planning jurisdiction. The properties classified as High Density Residential are generally
located west of the downtown in Neighborhoods 2, 3, and 4. The High Density
Residential classification is intended to delineate lands where the predominant land use
is higher density single-family residential developments, multifamily developments, and
planned mixed use developments. The residential density within this classification is
generally 8 to 16 dwelling units per acre. Much higher densities, approaching 30-70
dwellings per acre are possible in Planned Development and Downtown Commercial
zoning districts.

The General Commercial classification encompasses approximately 9 percent of the
planning jurisdiction. The properties classified as General Commercial are located along
the Town’s major road corridors--US Highway 70 and NC Highway 24. The majority of
Neighborhood 10 and the northern portion of Neighborhood 6 are classified as General
Commercial. The General Commercial classification is intended to delineate lands that
can accommodate a wide range of retail, wholesale, office, business services, and
personal services. Areas classified as General Commercial may also include some
heavy commercial uses as well as intensive public and institutional land uses.

The Downtown Mixed Use classification encompasses about 1 percent of the total Town
planning jurisdiction. The properties classified as Downtown Mixed Use are located in
and immediately surrounding the Morehead City Central Business District and the
downtown waterfront area. The Downtown Mixed Use area is generally located in the
westernmost portion of Neighborhood 1. The Downtown Mixed Use classification is
intended to delineate properties that can accommodate a variety of retail, office,
business services, and personal services. Areas classified as Downtown Mixed Use
may also include medium and high density residences and public and institutional land
uses, particularly government buildings and facilities. The Downtown Mixed Use
classification also specifically includes waterfront tourist-oriented land uses.

The Public and Institutional classification encompasses approximately 8 percent of the
total planning jurisdictional area. The majority of the properties classified as Public and
Institutional are located in the south central portion of the Town’s planning jurisdiction in
the southwestern section of Neighborhood 4. Sugarloaf Island, located in Neighborhood
1, is also designated as Public and Institutional. West Carteret High School, Morehead
Primary School and Swinson Park, which are located in Neighborhood 5, are also
included in the Public and Institutional classification. The largest individual properties
within the Public and Institutional classification include the Carteret General Hospital, the
Carteret Community College, NC Divisions of Marine Fisheries complex, and the
Carteret County Civic Center. The Public and Institutional classification is intended to
delineate large land areas that are used for intensive public and educational purposes.
Land uses within this classification include primarily government buildings and service
facilities, public recreational facilities, and public educational facilities. Some private
office and institutional facilities may also be included within this classification.

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The General Industrial classification encompasses about 7 percent of the planning
jurisdiction. The properties classified as General Industrial are located in the west
central section of the town’s planning jurisdiction in the southern portion of
Neighborhood 8. The General Industrial classification is intended to delineate lands that
can accommodate industrial and manufacturing establishments. Some heavy
commercial uses as well as services and businesses which support industrial land uses
are also appropriate land uses within the General Industrial classification.

The Port Mixed Use classification encompasses approximately 4 percent of the total
land area. The properties classified as Port Mixed Use include the NC Port Authority
facility and Radio Island. Port Mixed Use-classified properties include all of the eastern
section of Neighborhood 1. Port Mixed Use-classified areas include the existing state
port facilities as well as surrounding properties that are suitable for multiple land uses
including industrial, commercial, and high density residential. Portions of the area
identified as Port Mixed Use are potential growth areas that may develop primarily as
one use type or may evolve into multi-use areas. Industrial uses with this classification
include marine port facilities, warehousing, and related uses. Commercial uses include
a variety of support retail, office, business services, personal services, and marine-
related uses. The anticipated residential density within this classification includes
primarily high density developments. Multifamily densities are consistent with the
current requirements of the Town’s zoning ordinance which allows a density range of up
to 36 dwellings per acre for planned developments. Residential building types
encouraged within this classification include single-family attached dwellings,
condominiums, and multifamily dwellings.

Conservation/Open Space areas are scattered throughout the Morehead jurisdiction and
include coastal wetlands, estuarine waters, estuarine shoreline, public trust areas, and
‘404’ wetlands. Due to the small size of such areas, they are not individually identified
on the Future Land Use Map. Generally, the precise location of such areas must be
determined by field investigation. Conservation/Open Space areas that are delineated
on the Future Land Use Map include the NC Coastal Land Trust tract located in the
north central portion of the planning jurisdiction (in Neighborhood 5) and the Newport
River Marshes and Phillips Island (in Neighborhood 7). These Conservation/Open
Space-designated areas encompass approximately 13 percent of the planning
jurisdictional area. The Conservation/Open Space classification is intended to delineate
areas where traditional land uses are not desirable or expected to develop. Land
development may, however, include public building and facilities necessary to support
existing land uses within the areas classified as Conservation/Open Space.

Generally, growth and land development is anticipated to occur in all future land use
categories except for the Conservation/Open Space classification. The type and
intensity of projected development varies within each future land use map classification.
Future Land Use projections are delineated in Figure 14, Future Land Use Map.

The northern and eastern portions of the Town’s planning jurisdiction contain the
greatest concentrations of natural constraints, primarily floodplains and wetlands. Major
undeveloped areas with significant natural constraints and low suitability ratings within
the Morehead City jurisdiction are designated as Conservation/Open Space on the
Future Land Use Map. The majority of developed areas with significant natural
constraints and low suitability ratings are designated on the Future Land Use Map for
conservation/open space use.
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Section I: Introduction and Executive Summary
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The general land use patterns depicted on the Future Land Use Map are consistent with
the analysis of natural systems and the analysis of land suitability. The projected land
needs through 2025 can be met with the estimated amount of available developable
acreage in the current Morehead City jurisdiction.

1.3.5 Summary of Implementation Strategies
The Land Use Plan, as adopted by the elected officials of the Town of Morehead City
and as may be amended from time to time, will serve as the primary guide upon which to
make land use policy decisions. Every land use policy decision, such as a rezoning
request or approval of a conditional or special use permit, will be measured for
consistency with the goals, policies, and recommendations of the Plan. The elected
officials, Planning Board, Zoning Board of Adjustment, and Town staff should utilize the
Land Use Plan as the basic policy guide in the administration of the Unified
Development Ordinance and other land development regulatory tools. Persons involved
in the land development business as well as the general public can also utilize the Land
Use Plan to guide private decisions regarding land use and land development.

The policy statements and recommendations of the Land Use Plan can also be of
assistance to the elected officials in making long-range decisions regarding such matters
as the provision of municipal services, thoroughfare planning, stormwater planning and
management, implementation of economic development strategies, recreational facility
planning, and preparation of capital and operating budgets. It should be noted, however,
that the Land Use Plan is one of a variety of guides in making a public policy decision.
The Plan should be viewed as a tool to aid in decision making and not as the final
decision.

Morehead will continue to administer and enforce its land use regulatory tools. The town
will review the current regulatory tools to eliminate inconsistencies which may exist
between the tools and the policies outlined in this plan. In order to assist with the
implementation of the updated Land Use Plan, amendments to the existing Unified
Development Ordinance are anticipated including the following:

• Amendment regarding building heights and residential densities.
• Amendment regarding retaining existing vegetation, buffers, and tree
preservation.
• Amendment regarding design guidelines for commercial development.
• Amendment regarding sign standards and requirements.

Proposed water and wastewater systems capital improvements that will assist with the
implementation of the updated Land Use Plan include the following:

• Addition of a 6th well: $300,000.
• Wastewater collection, treatment, and disposal systems improvements:
$10 million.
• Water and sewer system improvements to Causeway Area and Radio
Island: $200,000.
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September 28, 2007
• Water and sewer system improvements along Little Nine Drive:
$100,000.
In addition, proposed public water access and recreation facilities improvements include:

• Newport River Park W ater Access: $300,000.
• Morehead City W ater Access at 7th Street: $250,000.
• Continued implementation of the W aterfront Access Plan: $250,000.

The town will ensure a continuous planning process by conducting periodic reviews of
the Land Use Plan's policies and implementation strategies. This review will be the
responsibility of the Morehead City Planning Director and the Planning Board who will
coordinate such reviews with the Town Council.

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Section II: Community Concerns and Aspirations
September28, 2007
SECTION 2 COMMUNITY CONCERNS AND ASPIRATIONS

This section of the Plan is organized in accordance with the requirements of Subchapter 7B
.0702(b). The purpose of the Community Concerns and Aspirations section of the Morehead
City Land Use Plan is to provide overall guidance and direction for the development of the plan.
The Land Use Plan Advisory Committee used the following three-part process to describe
dominant growth-related conditions that influence land use and development patterns in
Morehead City, describe key planning issues and develop a community vision:

1. Review of technical information related to existing and emerging
conditions;
2. Identification of major community assets and problems related to land use
and development;
3. Development of the Community Vision statement to serve as the
foundation for more specific objectives and policies stated elsewhere in
the Land Use Plan.

2.1 Key Planning Issues

On January 6, 2004 the Land Use Plan Advisory Committee held a Neighborhood Forum to
identify and summarize the planning conditions and concerns that are important to the future of
Morehead City. Committee members and citizens who participated in the Forum were asked to
identify issues and concerns that are related to the CAMA Land Use Plan management topics.
The management topics include land use compatibility, water quality, public water access,
infrastructure carrying capacity, natural hazards, and any other local areas of concern. The
Neighborhood Forum participants were asked to vote on the most important issues. The
following is a prioritized listing of the issues identified and the number of votes each issue
received:

2.1.1 Land Use Compatibility
4 - Municipal tax district
3 - Review zoning ordinance to control development
3 - Limit building in wetlands
2 - More support of downtown revitalization
2 - Study high-rise residential buildings to see what future impact will be
1 - Need for more residential building lots
1 - Commercial development along Hwy 70 should be done properly (i.e. connecting
parking lots, traffic patterns)
1 - Balancing property owner rights with the good of the city
1 - People who don't want development in community should buy undeveloped lands
1 - Revise Morehead City's Land Use Plan to reflect the county's prohibition of
hazardous industry

Additional Comments:
• To what extent do we allow in-fill development
• Like small town feel of downtown commercial area and neighboring
residential areas
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• Enough high ground to build, look at limiting building footprint (impervious
coverage)
• Need for more affordable lots
• Mixed-Use development
• Study of traffic patterns
• Would like to see high density zoning around community college
• Consider impact of huge shopping centers
• More commercial/industrial areas as relates to scarcity of jobs

2.1.2 Water Quality
8 - Study and improve stormwater runoff (city wide)
8 - Sewer plant run-over, improve and clean Calico Creek
2 - Possibility of more retention ponds
2 - Silting of Calico Creek and Newport River
1 - Better maintenance of present retention ponds
1 - Stress vegetated as opposed to hard bulkheads

Additional Comments:
• Town should not be more restrictive than the State
• Run-off on Bridges Street
• Drinking water, Castle Hayne aquifer is being depleted, study alternative
sources
• Improved sewer plant, understanding its correlation with water quality
• City built new well to serve citizens
• Reducing treatment plant effluent by 300,000 gpd because of slip-lining
project
• Regulate and monitor landscapers and others to eliminate debris from
entering storm drain system

2.1.3 Public Water Access
2 - Need more parking at boat ramps
2 - Make all street ends cleared and designated like South 16th Street
1 - Better access to Calico Creek for boaters and pedestrians
1 - More parking at water accesses
1 - Remove beachfront debris at South 10th Street and other areas

Additional Comments:
• Like 10th Street Access, good for canoes
• Need to acquire property for accesses
• Tax payers should raise money for access vs. developers having to
provide
• Concerned that accesses can hurt character of neighborhoods, be
sensitive to residential areas
• Like new walkways at Calico Creek
• Like that there are more accesses available in recent years
• Remove rocks, etc. immediately east of the State's launching ramp for
safe beaching of boats,
• kayaks and canoes.

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Section II: Community Concerns and Aspirations
September28, 2007
2.1.4 Infrastructure Carrying Capacity
6 - Too many traffic lights on Arendell Street
4 - Further extension of Bridges Street
3 - Lack of potential sewer capacity
2 - Extend sewer on Highway 24 and Business Drive
2 - Natural gas service extension
1 - Maintenance of streets and sidewalks
1 - Improve infrastructure to entice clean industries
1 - Trash collection is good
1 - Relocate main post office
1 - Control sprawl; establish firm geographical boundaries of the city's growth

Additional Comments:
• Water lines moved out of streets
• Nature walks
• Development of parks
• Upgrade streets, sewer
• Lack of Aesthetics Ordinance
• Make sure development occurs where infrastructure is adequate
• Continue to provide sewer service to outlying areas
• Waste pickup excellent
• Severe drainage problems
• Pleased with services
• Better wastewater treatment
• Eliminate Calico Creek discharge or treat prior to discharge
• Consider pervious paving materials
• Look at vehicle access to State Port

2.1.5 Natural Hazards
10 - Stormwater runoff problems
5 - Bridges Street extended / Havelock Bypass

Additional Comments:
• More underground utilities
• Waste disposal during/after hurricanes
• Limit tidal flooding into storm drains
• Continue to address terrorist activities
• Improved evacuation routes
• Pleased with new pump truck and fire boat
• City addressing fire hazards throughout the town

2.1.6 Other Local Issues
8 - Road System in to and out of Morehead City
3 - Creation of municipal docks downtown
2 - Downtown parking needs to be increased
1 - Promote development of theme park
1 - Aggressive enforcement of building codes and formal monitoring of permit
compliance

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Section II: Community Concerns and Aspirations
September28, 2007
Additional Comments:
• Consider use of one-way streets
• Consider other uses of Radio Island property
• Review and study location of dumpsters in downtown area
• Mandate improvement of recycling in business community
• Continue upgrading Arendell Street (sidewalks, street lights, etc.)
• Overdevelopment
• More development to share tax rate so improvements to streets, parks
and water access can continue
• Concerned about the demolition of smaller houses
• Would like to see South Calico Creek developed
• Overpass at intersection of Highways 24 and 70
• Improve downtown area north of Bridges Street. Buildings and grounds
upgrades through grants, loans and volunteer aid. Possibly through
affiliations of community, government, business, bank, church and other
non-profit agencies

2.2 Additional Planning Issues

Additional planning issues identified by Morehead City planning staff, in conjunction with the
Land Use Plan Advisory Committee include the following:

Radio Island Development
• Character of future development: industrial vs. residential vs. recreational
• Town now manages the Newport River Beach Access and plans to make
improvements
• County leases a portion of Port property for recreation area on east side
of island

Water/Sewer Service
• Waste treatment plant improvements
• Sewer line moratorium - Town is working towards getting it lifted by
developing design plans and specifications to upgrade sewer plant.

Transportation
• Connection between 24 and 70 in vicinity of Little Nine Drive, would
provide a direct link between the Crystal Coast Business Park and
Highway 24.
• Proliferation of traffic lights on Highway 70
• Preserving the functionality of Highway 70 while balancing the right of
property owners to develop and redevelop property.
• Alternative Transportation Modes (MATS) (New sidewalk along Bridges
Street Extension)
• Sidewalks

Land Use Issues
• Impervious cover limits
• Building heights
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September28, 2007
• Use separation
• Landscaping

Stormwater Issues
• Flooding (impervious coverage/system maintenance)
• Point and non-point source pollution
• Water quality preservation

Community Cooperation
• Attach water line with Newport in case of emergency in either town.
• Agreement with Beaufort on Radio Island/Pivers Island, water/sewer
service, zoning boundaries, etc.
• Carteret County - various issues require cooperation

Concerns Related to Population Increases
• Traffic
• Evacuation Routes
• Density issues
• Housing

Neighborhood Preservation
• Redevelopment of developed lots, both residential and commercial
• Density
• Commercial encroachment

Enforcement (Building/Zoning)

Industrial Development
• Type of growth
• Where
• How much
• Preservation of industrial zoning districts

Water Access
• Improvements to street ends
• Public boat ramps (where)

2.3 Community Vision Statement

Morehead City favors growth provided it is environmentally sound, appropriately designed,
appropriately located, retains Morehead City’s identity, and preserves the quality of life.
Improvements to infrastructure, including City services and facilities, are expected to meet
current and projected demands. The provision of such improvements shall be based upon its
compatibility with the City’s development plan, the City’s financial capacity and the economic
feasibility of providing the municipal service.

The Morehead City Land Use Plan Advisory Committee adopted this Community Vision
Statement at the beginning of the planning process. The purpose of the Community Vision
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Section II: Community Concerns and Aspirations
September28, 2007
Statement is to provide the foundation for setting priorities, defining goals and developing land
use policies to achieve local government goals.
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September 28, 2007
SECTION 3 ANALYSIS OF EXISTING & EMERGING CONDITIONS

This section of the Plan is organized in accordance with the requirements of Subchapter 7B
.0702(c). Section 3 of the Land Use Plan provides information needed to assist in the
development of policies to guide the future development of the Morehead City planning
jurisdiction. This part of the plan includes the following elements:

• Population, Housing and Economy
• Natural Systems Analysis
• Existing Land Use and Development
• Community Facilities Analysis
• Land Suitability Analysis
• Review of Current Plans and Policies

Included in this section are the following maps:

• Figure 1, Environmental Composite
• Figure 2, Morehead City Annexations 1993 to Present
• Figure 3, Morehead City Neighborhoods
• Figure 4, Existing Land Use
• Figure 5, Land Suitability Analysis

The following maps were prepared to assist in the analysis of existing and emerging conditions
and are contained in Appendices C and D:

Appendix C, Natural Features Maps
• Figure 6, Areas of Environmental Concern
• Figure 7, Soil Suitability for Septic Systems
• Figure 8, Water Quality Classes and Subbasins
• Figure 9, Fragile Areas
• Figure 10, Flood Hazard Areas

Appendix D, Community Facilities Maps
• Figure 11, W ater and Sewer Systems
• Figure 12, Transportation Systems
• Figure 13, Stormwater Drainage

3.1 Population, Housing, and Economy

Information on the Town of Morehead City’s permanent and seasonal population and the
degree to which it will change during the planning period is an important component of the land
use planning process. Population analysis can help identify growth areas, as well as the amount
of land that should be allocated for future uses. Population trend analysis provides information
on expected impacts to the area’s natural resources and future infrastructure needs. Population
age and income characteristics help estimate demands for different types of housing and
related land use, as well as special needs of the community. Appendix B provides an
explanation of demographic and population statistics and how they are compiled.

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3.1.1 Population Growth Trends
Population in Morehead City has increased steadily since 1910 with the exception of a
dip in population between 1960 and 1980, from 5,583 in 1960 to 4,359 in 1980. The
population recovered from 1980 to 1990 with a 38.7% growth rate. Part of this can be
attributed to annexations. The growth rate has declined slightly to 27.2% in the past
decade (1990-2000). Compared to nine other selected coastal communities, Morehead
City had the fourth highest growth rate since 1970 (Table 3.1).

Table 3.1
Total Population and Percent Change of Selected Coastal Communities
Year Percent Change

Municipality

County 1970 1980 1990 2000 2002
(estimate)
1970-
1980
1980-
1990
1990-
2000
1970-
2002
Morehead City Carteret 5,233 4,359 6,046 7,691 7,726 -16.7% 38.7% 27.2% 47.6%
Jacksonville Onslow 16,289 18,259 30,398 66,715 68,356 12.1% 66.5% 119.5% 319.6%
Wilmington New Hanover 46,169 44,000 55,530 75,838 91,458 -4.7% 26.2% 36.6% 98.1%
New Bern Craven 14,660 14,557 17,363 23,111 23,415 -0.7% 19.3% 33.1% 59.7%
Elizabeth City Pasquotank 14,381 14,007 14,292 17,243 17,490 -2.6% 2.0% 20.6% 21.6%
Southport Brunswick 2,220 2,824 2,369 2,351 2,534 27.2% -16.1% -0.8% 14.1%
Beaufort Carteret 3,368 3,826 3,808 3,771 3,787 13.6% -0.5% -1.0% 12.4%
Washington Beaufort 8,961 8,418 9,160 9,619 9,730 -6.1% 8.8% 5.0% 8.6%
Hertford Perquimans 2,023 1,941 2,244 2,070 2,080 -4.1% 15.6% -7.8% 2.8%
Edenton Chowan 4,956 5,357 5,268 5,058 5,008 8.1% -1.7% -4.0% 1.0%
Source: 2002 estimate - NC State Agency Data: Office of the Governor, obtained April 2004
Source: 1970-2000 - NC State Agency Data: Office of the Governor, obtained April 2004

Morehead City population growth is lower than many of the municipalities in the
immediate region. Six other municipalities in the region had a higher growth rate from
1990-2000 (Table 3.2)
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Table 3.2
Total Population and Percent Change of Selected Municipalities in the Region
Year Percent Change
Municipality

County 1970 1980 1990 2000 2002
(estimate)
1970-
1980
1980-
1990
1990-
2000
1970-
2002
Morehead City Carteret 5,233 4,359 6,046 7,691 7,726 -16.7% 38.7% 27.2% 47.6%
Alliance Pamlico 577 616 681 785 798 6.8% 10.6% 15.3% 38.3%
Atlantic Beach Carteret 300 941 1938 1781 1780 213.7% 106.0% -8.1% 493.3%
Bayboro Pamlico 665 759 733 741 743 14.1% -3.4% 1.1% 11.7%
Beaufort Carteret 3,368 3,826 3,808 3,771 3,787 13.6% -0.5% -1.0% 12.4%
Cape Carteret Carteret 616 944 1,013 1,214 1,243 53.2% 7.3% 19.8% 101.8%
Cedar Point Carteret NA 479 628 929 950 NA 31.1% 47.9% NA
Emerald Isle Carteret 122 865 2,434 3,488 3,564 609.0% 181.4% 43.3% 2821.3%
Havelock Craven 3,012 17,718 20,300 22,442 22,463 488.2% 14.6% 10.6% 645.8%
Indian Beach Onslow 48 54 153 95 93 12.5% 183.3% -37.9% 93.8%
Jacksonville Onslow 16,289 18,259 30,398 66,715 68,356 12.1% 66.5% 119.5% 319.6%
Maysville Jones 912 877 892 1,002 993 -3.8% 1.7% 12.3% 8.9%
New Bern Craven 14,660 14,557 17,363 23,111 23,415 -0.7% 19.3% 33.1% 59.7%
Newport Carteret 1,735 1,883 2,516 3,349 3,428 8.5% 33.6% 33.1% 97.6%
Oriental Pamlico 445 536 786 875 870 20.4% 46.6% 11.3% 95.5%
Pine Knoll Shores Carteret 62 646 1,360 1,524 1,534 941.9% 110.5% 12.1% 2374.2%
Richlands Onslow 935 825 996 928 909 -11.8% 20.7% -6.8% -2.8%
Swansboro Onslow 1,207 976 1,165 1,459 1,457 -19.1% 19.4% 25.2% 20.7%
Trenton Jones 53 294 230 206 240 454.7% -21.8% -10.4% 352.8%
Source: 2002 estimate - NC State Agency Data: Office of the Governor, obtained April 2004
Source: 1970-2000 - NC State Agency Data: Office of the Governor, obtained April 2004

Population growth in Carteret County has dramatically increased since 1970 (Table 3.3).
The permanent population increased more than 90% from 1970 to 2002, making it the
sixth fastest growing North Carolina coastal county. Some of the reasons for the growth
increase are the national trends of population movement toward the coast and the area’s
increasing popularity as a retirement/resort area. Another important reason is the
expansion of nearby military facilities.

Population statistics from 2000 to 2003 reflect a slowing of the growth rate in Carteret
County. For this three-year period, Carteret County population grew from 59,383 to an
estimated 60,712. On average, between 1990 and 2000 the population of Carteret
County grew 1.3% per year compared to the estimated average yearly growth rate
between 2000-2001 of 1.1%. Population growth projections anticipate an annual growth
rate of 0.82% for the 2000-2005 period. Reasons for this projected slowing of the growth
rate compared to the 1990-2000 period are attributed to the Carteret beaches being
largely developed by 2000, lack of adequate jobs to attract younger residents and
transportation deficiencies which may result in Carteret County being less accessible
than other coastal areas.
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Table 3.3
Total Population and Percent Change of Morehead City and Carteret County
Year Percent Change

Place 1970 1980 1990 2000 2002
(estimate)
1970-
1980
1980-
1990
1990-
2000
1970-
2002
Morehead City 5,233 4,359 6,046 7,691 7,726 -16.7% 38.7% 27.2% 47.6%
Morehead City
ETJ Area*
NA NA 10,560 14,098 NA NA NA 33.5% NA
Carteret
County
31,603 41,092 52,553 59,383 60,064 30.0% 27.9% 13.0% 90.0%
Source: 2002 estimate - NC State Agency Data: Office of the Governor, obtained April 2004
Source: 1970-2000 - NC State Agency Data: Office of the Governor, obtained April 2004
*Source: U.S. Census Bureau data -1990 Census Block Group data (estimate), 2000 Census Block data
(estimate), obtained August 2004

Seasonal population is an important part of the overall population of Carteret County.
The impact to Morehead City's transportation system is thought to be significant, since
much of the seasonal population on the Bogue Banks beaches travel through Morehead
City. There is also a significant economic impact in terms of the Town's restaurants,
sports fishing industry and other businesses which cater to travelers and tourists.

Seasonal population estimates are usually based on the number of seasonal housing
units and motel/hotel rooms. According to the US Census (2000) there were 345
seasonal housing units within the Morehead City limits. The Crystal Coast Tourism
Authority reports 554 hotels, motels and Bed and Breakfast facilities. Average
occupancy of the seasonal units is estimated to be 3.5 persons. Table 3.4 shows the
seasonal population calculation and the total population (permanent plus seasonal).

Table 3.4
Estimated 2002 Seasonal Population

Type of Unit
Number of
Units
Persons per
Unit
Estimated Seasonal
Population
Seasonal housing units 345 3.5 1,207
Hotel/motel/B&B units 554 3.5 1,939
Total seasonal 899 3,146
Total Permanent & Seasonal Population 10,872
Source: Blue Land Water Infrastructure

3.1.2 Population Age Characteristics
An analysis of population broken down by age provides insight into population trends
that affect the Town of Morehead City. This provides valuable information for use in
projecting infrastructure, service, housing and other special needs of the Town. Table
3.5 shows Morehead City’s population broken down into age groups for 1990 and 2000.

One of the most notable trends in Morehead City is an increase in the average age of
the population from 36.5 to 41.1 years. Median age in Carteret County is 42.3 years. The
age group with the highest growth rate is 50-59 at 87.7%. Other age groups with high
growth rates are the 40-49 age group at 62.1% and the 70+ group at 39.1%. This is
similar to Carteret County where the population in age groups over 40 is increasing. The
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September 28, 2007
growth of these age groups is largely attributed to the County’s popularity as a retirement
location and the resulting in-migration of older adults. Other reasons for the growth
include non-migratory demographic factors such as birth rates, death rates and aging of
the existing population. In general, age groups over 50 are projected to grow faster than
the county as a whole through 2030, especially the 70 and up age group. This trend has
significant implications for housing, transportation, medical care and other personal and
professional services as well as future land needs.

Population is increasing in all age groups with the largest growth in the 40-plus age
groups. The 0-4 age group increased by 16.9%. The 20-29 and 30-39 age groups had
an increase of less than 10% each. In Carteret County almost all of the age groups
under 40 saw a decrease in population except for the 5-19 group.

Despite the low growth rate of younger persons and dramatic increases in the growth
rate of the older population, the Town of Morehead City’s proportion of people in each of
the age groups is equalizing. Long-term demographic projections indicate that the share
of the population under the age of 18 years will decrease slightly, the school age and
working-age population will decrease more rapidly, and the elderly population will
experience the largest growth rate. The anticipated aging of the population will have
long-term implications for health care services and for the housing industry. A greater
demand for medical care, in-home services, institutional care, and housing tailored for
the elderly can be expected in future years.

Table 3.5
Town of Morehead City Population by Age Group

Age

1990

2000
Percent Change
1990-2000
70 & up 915 1,273 39.1%
60-69 643 709 10.3%
50-59 489 918 87.7%
40-49 663 1,075 62.1%
30-39 937 1,008 7.6%
20-29 926 1,007 8.7%
5-19 1,088 1,251 15.0%
0-4 385 450 16.9%
Total 6,046 7,691 27.2%
Median Age 36.5 41.1 12.6%
Source: 1970-2000 Population by Age - U.S. Census Bureau data, obtained March 2004

3.1.3 Racial Composition
The 2000 census indicates that the Town of Morehead City is 81.7% white, 14.0% black,
and 4.3% all other races (Table 3.6). Since 1970, the percentage of the white population
compared to all other races has stayed relatively constant. The percentage of white
population in Carteret County has also remained relatively constant. Morehead City is
more diverse than the county by almost 10% but about 10% less diverse than North
Carolina (Table 3.7).
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Table 3.6
2000 Population By Race
Population Percent Jurisdiction
White Black Other Total White Black Other Total
Morehead City 6,284 1,075 332 7,691 81.7% 14.0% 4.3% 100.0%
Carteret County 53,611 4,151 1,621 59,383 90.3% 7.0% 2.7% 100.0%
North Carolina 5,804,656 1,737,545 507,112 8,049,313 72.1% 21.6% 6.3% 100.0%
Source: 2000 Population by Race - NC State Agency Data: Office of the Governor, obtained April 2004

Table 3.7
1970 - 2000 Percentage of Population By Race
1970 1980 1990 2000 Jurisdiction
White Other White Other White Other White Other
Morehead City 79.7% 20.3% 81.7% 17.3% 81.7% 17.3% 81.7% 17.3%
Carteret County 88.6% 11.4% 89.7% 10.3% 90.3% 9.7% 90.3% 9.7%
North Carolina 76.8% 23.2% 76.6% 23.4% 75.5% 24.5% 72.1% 27.9%
Source: 2000 Population by Race - NC State Agency Data: Office of the Governor, obtained April 2004

3.1.4 Population Projections
A. Permanent Population Projections
Projections provided by the NC State Data Center indicate that the Carteret County
population will continue to increase through the next several decades but at a slower
rate. This projected trend of decreased growth rates also holds true for the
neighboring counties as well as the entire state. The following table provides
projected population figures for the County, the Town of Morehead City and the
Morehead City planning jurisdiction.

Table 3.8
Permanent Population Projections
Projections US
Census
2000
Certified
Estimate
July
2002 2005 2010 2015 2020 2025 2030
Carteret County 59,383 60,064 62,760 65,939 68,235 70,353 71,894 73,084
Morehead City
Corporate Area
7,691 7,726 8,112 8,523 8,819 9,093 9,292 9,446
Morehead City
Planning Jurisdiction
14,098* na 14,869 15,622 16,166 16,668 17,033 17,315
*Planning Jurisdiction Estimates by the Town of Morehead City.

Sources: US Census, 1970-2000. 2002 Certified Population Estimates, NC State Data Center, October 2003. County
Population Growth 2000-2030, NC State Data Center, June 2006.

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Permanent population projections for Morehead City are based upon the average
rate of growth and the ratio of the town’s population to Carteret County’s population
for the 1970-2000 period. Appendix I provides more detailed information regarding
population projections.

B. Seasonal and Peak Population Projections
The estimated 2002 seasonal population of Morehead City is 3,146. The 2002 peak
population, which is the sum of the permanent population and the seasonal
population, is estimated to be 10,872.

Based upon the estimated 2002 seasonal and peak population as delineated above
and the assumption that the ratio of seasonal population to permanent population will
remain constant, the following projections have been prepared for the Morehead City
corporate area and for the Morehead City planning jurisdiction.

Table 3.9
Seasonal and Peak Population Projections
2005 2010 2015 2020 2025 2030
Morehead City Corporate Area
Permanent Population 8,112 8,523 8,819 9,093 9,292 9,446
Seasonal Population 3,561 3,741 3,872 3,992 4,079 4,147
Peak Population 11,673 12,264 12,691 13,085 13,372 13,593

Morehead City Planning Jurisdiction
Permanent Population 14,869 15,622 16,166 16,668 17,033 17,315
Seasonal Population 6,527 6,858 7,097 7,317 7,477 7,601
Peak Population 21,396 22,480 23,263 23,985 24,510 24,916
Source: The Wooten Company, October 2006

3.1.5 Housing Characteristics
The number of housing units has increased steadily in Morehead City since 1980,
although the housing boom in the 1980’s relaxed in the 1990’s. Vacant units comprise
about 16% of the total housing units, and that proportion has stayed constant since 1990
despite the 192% growth rate between 1980 and 2000.

Rental units have increased faster than owner units and make up 44.5% of the 2000
housing stock. Owner units account for 77% of the housing stock in Carteret County
whereas they account for only 55.5% in Morehead City. The increase in rental units
coincides with the explosion of the number of seasonal units since 1980 with more than
a 700% growth rate. Morehead City’s increase in seasonal housing units is consistent
with Carteret County, which also experienced a 567% increase in seasonal housing
units from 1980 to 2000. This indicates that a large influx of seasonal population impacts
Morehead City and is likely to continue in the future. This will have a large effect on the
Town’s infrastructure and transportation systems.

Household size has decreased steadily from 1980 to 2000. Although this is a national
trend that will likely continue in the future, the decrease in household size in Morehead
City has been more dramatic than in either Carteret County or North Carolina. The
average household size for Morehead City was 2.06 compared to 2.31 in Carteret
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September 28, 2007
County and 2.49 for North Carolina. The continued trend of fewer persons per household
will have an impact on the future types and sizes of dwelling units (Table 3.10).

Table 3.10
Morehead City Housing Characteristics
Percent Change
1980 1990 2000 1980-1990 1990-2000 1980-2000
Total housing units 1,979 3,206 4,296 62.0% 34.0% 117.1%
Permanent housing
units
1,937 2,934 3,830 51.5% 30.5% 97.7%
Occupied units 1,740 2,675 3,597 53.7% 34.5% 106.7%
Vacant units 239 531 699 122.2% 31.6% 192.5%
Seasonal units 42 272 345 547.6% 26.8% 721.4%
Owner units 1,107 1,479 1,997 33.6% 35.0% 80.4%
Renter units 591 1,196 1,600 102.4% 33.8% 170.7%
Average household
size (persons)
2.45 2.13 2.06 -13.1% -3.3% -15.9%
Source: 1980-2000 - NC State Agency Data: Office of the Governor, obtained March 2004

Occupied housing types have remained consistent from 1990 to 2000. Single-family
detached homes comprised the majority, almost 60%, of the occupied housing in 2000.
Duplexes and multifamily units make up 29.1% and mobile homes account for 6.4%
(Table 3.11).

Table 3.11
Types of Occupied Housing Units in Morehead City
Occupied Units in Structure 1990 % in 1990 2000 % in 2000
Single-family detached 1,430 51.2% 2,137 59.1%
1 unit attached 138 4.9% 193 5.3%
2 units 184 6.6% 271 7.5%
3 or 4 units 192 6.9% 381 10.5%
5 to 9 units 185 6.6% 178 4.9%
10 to 19 units 102 3.7% 43 1.2%
More than 20 units 126 4.5% 180 5.0%
Mobile homes 318 11.4% 233 6.4%
Other 118 4.2% 0 0.0%
*Total Occupied Housing Units 2,793 100% 3,616 100%
Source: 1990 H022 Tenure by Units in Structure - U.S. Census Bureau
data, obtained April 2004
Source: 2000 DP-4 Profile of Selected Housing Characteristics - U.S. Census Bureau
data, obtained April 2004
* There is a known discrepancy in the 2000 U.S. Census total housing figure

3.1.6 Building Permits
Table 3.12 provides information on the number and type of residential building permits
issued by The Town of Morehead City for 2001-2003. Annual building permit activity has
remained steady with slight annual increases.
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Table 3.12
Building Permits Issued in Morehead City
Building Permits 2001 2002 2003
Single Family Residential 85 105 159
Residential Alterations and Additions 177 162 157
Duplexes 0 0 2
Apartment Units 17 60 69
Mobile Homes 40 31 23
Commercial 83 57 66
Total Building Permits 402 415 476
Source: 2001-2003 - Town of Morehead City, obtained 2004

3.1.7 Economy
The Town of Morehead City’s economy is strong and has been growing consistently
over the last twenty years. Retail sales are on an upward trend with a 119.1% increase
from 1987 to 1997. This increase in retail sales surpassed that of Carteret County where
there was an 83.6% increase in the same time period. In 1997 retail sales for Morehead
City totaled $319,719,000. This is 45.1% of retail sales receipts for the whole county
(Table 3.13). The employed labor force has also seen growth in the past twenty year.
The increase was greater from 1980 to 1990 than it was from 1990 to 2000. This is
consistent with the slowed population growth during from 1990-2000. Paralleling this
economic growth, income has increased significantly and families in poverty have
decreased steadily since 1980.

Table 3.13
Morehead City Retail Sales ($0000)
Year Percent Change

Jurisdiction
1987

1992

1997
1987-
1992
1992-
1997
1987-
1997
Morehead City $145,897 $214,794 $319,719 47.2% 48.8% 119.1%
Carteret County $386,584 $479,076 $709,586 23.9% 48.1% 83.6%
Source: Federal Agency Data: U.S. Census Bureau, obtained from LINC April 2004

The insurgence of economic activity has raised the cost of housing. The median
housing value in The Town of Morehead City has increased significantly but is still below
the Carteret County average. For the year 2000 Morehead City median occupied
housing value was 14.1% lower than the Carteret County average of $123,900,
additionally, the median gross rent was 0.7% below the North Carolina State average of
$511.

In 2000, the per capita income in Morehead City was $19,138 compared to $21,260 for
Carteret County and $20,307 for the State of North Carolina. Although the Town’s per
capita income is below that of the state and Carteret County it increased at a greater rate
than both of them from 1980 to 2000. An increase in per capita income is expected for
Morehead City in the future, however it is likely that it will remain below that of Carteret
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September 28, 2007
County and North Carolina. Table 3.14 provides key economic indicators for Morehead
City.

Table 3.14
Morehead City Key Economic Indicators
Year Percent Change

Economic Indicators
1980

1990

2000
1980-
1990
1990-
2000
1980-
2000
*Per capita income
Morehead City $5,457.00 $11,410.0
0
$19,138.0
0
109.1% 67.7% 250.7%
Carteret County $6,146 $13,227 $21,260 115.2% 60.7% 245.9%
North Carolina $6,133 $12,885 $20,307 110.1% 57.6% 231.1%
Median family income $14,945 $26,637 $39,290 78.2% 47.5% 162.9%
Median occupied housing
value
$30,400 $53,900 $106,400 77.3% 97.4% 250.0%
Median gross rent** $197 $376 $507 90.9% 34.8% 157.4%
Total employed persons age
16 and up
1,787 2,550 3,394 42.7% 33.1% 89.9%
Total unemployed persons
age 16 and up
93 174 288 87.1% 65.5% 209.7%
Families in poverty 17.5% 15.5% 12.3% -11.7% -20.4% -29.7%
Source: Federal Agency Data: Bureau of the Census - Census of Population
and Housing, obtained from LINC April 2004
*Per capita income is total money income per resident of the area, including young children, elderly, and others who
may not be earning money
**Median gross rent is monthly contract rent plus the estimated average monthly cost of utilities

The number of families with income over $15,000 has increased steadily since 1970.
Families with an income less than $14,999 have declined since 1970. Table 3.15 shows
family income distribution for Morehead City.

Table 3.15
Family Income Distribution for Morehead City
Number of Families
Income 1970 1980 1990 2000
Less than $5,000 415 159 60 NA
$5,000 - $9,999 526 225 193 NA
$10,000 - $14,999 273 190 143 144
$15,000 - $24,999 93 372 335 236
$25,000 - $49,999 28 175 642 684
$50,000 or more 15 22 199 757
Source: 1970-2000 - NC State Agency Data: Office of the Governor, obtained April 2004

3.1.8 Employment
The largest employment sector in the Town of Morehead City is educational, health and
social services. Other major sectors are the arts entertainment, recreation,
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accommodation and food services industry, retail trade and the construction industry.
Although retail trade is the third largest employment industry in Morehead City, the
number of employees actually dropped 43.3% from 1990 to 2000. Other sectors where
the number of employed decreased are the transportation and warehousing, and utilities
industry, the agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting and mining industry and the public
administration industry. Table 3.16 provides information on the number of jobs in
Morehead City by major industry type.

Table 3.16
Employment by Major Industry in Morehead City
Percent Change

Employment Industry Category

1990

2000
1990-
2000
Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting, and mining 84 37 -56.0%
Construction 183 394 115.3%
Manufacturing 226 252 11.5%
Wholesale trade 67 51 NA
Retail trade 730 414 -43.3%
Transportation and warehousing, and utilities 146 70 -52.1%
Information - 79 NA
Finance, insurance, real estate, and rental and leasing 190 272 43.2%
Professional, scientific, management, administrative, and waste
management services
154 312 102.6%
Educational, health and social services 455 686 50.8%
Arts, entertainment, recreation, accommodation and food services 32 474 1381.3
%
Other services (except public administration) 86 179 108.1%
Public administration 197 174 -11.7%
Total Employment 2,550 3,394
Source: 2000 - DP-3 Profile of Selected Economic Characteristics - U.S. Census Bureau data, obtained
April 2004
Source: 1990 - DP-3: Labor Force Status and Employment Characteristics - U.S. Census Bureau data,
obtained April 2004
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Table 3.17 shows the largest manufacturing and non-manufacturing employers in
Carteret County.

Table 3.17
Largest Manufacturing and Non-manufacturing Employers
Manufacturing Employers Non-manufacturing Employers
Name Employees Name Employees
Atlantic Veneer 327 Carteret County Public School
System
1442
Bally Refrigerated Boxes 178 Carteret General Hospital 788
SPX Air Treatment 178 Walmart 527
Parker Marine Enterprises 147 Carteret County Government 345
Creative Outlet 139 Carteret Community College 317
Jarrett Bay Boatworks 138 Food Lion 243
Veneer Technologies 115 Henry's Tackle and Sporting
Goods
221
Beaufort Fisheries 55 U.S. Coast Guard 201
Sea Striker 50 NC D.O.T. 149
NCCOAST Communications 49 Lowes Foods 134
Franklin Baking Company 37 Town of Morehead City 132
Source: Carteret County Economic Development Council, obtained March 2004

3.1.9 Tourism Impact
Much of the local economic activity in the Town of Morehead City and Carteret County is
based on tourism. Restaurants, accommodations, fishing, retail trade, services,
construction, and the real estate and finance industries benefit directly from the impact of
tourism. In 2000, approximately 8% of all housing in Morehead City was considered to
be for seasonal or recreational use. This ranked Morehead City seventh in a list of
selected regional and coastal Municipalities. Table 3.18 lists regional and coastal
communities near Morehead City and their seasonal housing units in 2000.
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Table 3.18
2000 Seasonal Housing Units
Rank Municipality Seasonal Housing Units
1 Emerald Isle 4,140
2 Atlantic Beach 3,456
3 Pine Knoll Shores 1,256
4 Indian Beach 1,145
5 Wilmington 505
6 Cedar Point 415
7 Morehead City 345
8 Beaufort 241
9 Cape Carteret 136
10 Southport 73
11 Oriental 68
12 Elizabeth City 66
13 Swansboro 64
14 New Bern 50
15 Jacksonville 37
16 Edenton 30
17 Washington 26
18 Havelock 14
19 Hertford 10
20 Newport 8
21 Maysville 6
22 Bayboro 4
23 Richlands 2
24 Trenton 0
25 Alliance 0
Source: 2000 NC State Agency Data: Office of the Governor, obtained March 2004

According to the NC Department of Commerce, Division of Tourism, the Carteret County
tourism industry generated $206.87 million dollars in revenue and was ranked twelfth in
the state in travel impact in 2002. Over 3,170 jobs were created due to tourism. These
jobs generate an annual payroll of $47.03 million. A total net occupancy tax of 5%
generated $2,831,114 from 2001 to 2002. This was divided between the county,
municipalities, and the Tourism Development Authority. State and local tax revenues
from travel to Carteret County amounted to $10.13 million and $13.69 million
respectively, and represent a $396 tax savings to each county resident. Table 3.19
shows the economic impact tourism has on Carteret County. (Carteret County EDC-B).
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Table 3.19
Tourism Impact in Carteret County

Payroll
($Millions)

Employment
(Thousands)
State Tax
Receipts
($Millions)
Local Tax
Receipts
($Millions)
2002 47.03 3.17 10.13 13.69
2001 48.3 3.25 10.18 13.63
2000 48.1 3.29 10.34 13.94
1999 45.03 3.27 9.93 13.98
1998 48.99 3.64 9.42 10.63
1997 44.81 3.73 9.13 10.52
1996 38.44 3.42 8.28 9.84
1995 37.82 3.45 8.01 9.58
1994 36.74 3.39 7.48 9.22
1993 34.83 3.25 7.42 9.01
1992 32.99 3.16 6.81 8.46
1991 30.54 3.24 5.53 7.02
1990 29.07 3.11 4.83 6.95
Source: NC Department of Commerce Tourism - County by County Statistics
obtained March 2004

3.1.10 Commercial Seafood Impact
According to the NC Division of Marine Fisheries, Carteret County consistently leads
North Carolina in commercial seafood landings. A 1994 Marine Fisheries study found
that commercial fishing in Carteret County generated an estimated $46 million in sales of
goods and services, and an additional $24 million in value added. Approximately $14
million in employee compensation was paid to nearly 5,000 part or full-time workers
employed in the commercial seafood industry in 1994. Recreational saltwater fishing
adds an additional $130 million in sales of goods and services and employs over 600
people with an annual payroll exceeding $12 million (Carteret County EDC-C).

3.1.11 Port of Morehead City
According to Carteret County Economic Development Council there are 71 full time
employees, 81 tenant employees and 150 part time employees at the state port. The
port facility, located four miles from the open sea, has over 5,500 feet of continuous
wharf and a shipping channel depth of 45 feet. Over 90 acres are still available for
development on Radio Island. The major commodities handled at the port are wood
chips, phosphate, rubber, forest products and fertilizer products. In 2003, 180,000 tons
of raw rubber came through the port. The dry bulk facility with a 250,000-ton capacity
warehouse is used mainly for phosphate. A wood chips handling facility can outload
1,000 tons per hour with a two million-ton annual capacity.

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3.2 Natural System Analysis

This section of the Land Use Plan provides a description of the natural features and
environmental conditions within the planning jurisdiction of Morehead City and an analysis of the
suitability or limitation of these features for development. In accordance with the requirements of
the Coastal Resources Commission’s Land Use Planning Guidelines [15A NCAC 7B], this
section of the Land Use Plan addresses the following components:

• A summary of the inventory of the major natural features and an
interpretation of the capabilities or limitations that these features have for
development
• A composite map that shows the extent and overlap of environmental
features in Carteret County and the compatibility of these features for
development
• An assessment of environmental conditions and trends with an emphasis
on water quality, natural hazards and natural resources

3.2.1 Natural Features Inventory
The inventory of natural systems addresses the following features and conditions:

• Areas of Environmental Concern (AECs)
• Soil characteristics
• Water quality classifications
• Primary Nursery Areas
• Flood and other natural hazard areas
• Storm surge areas
• Non-coastal wetlands
• Environmentally fragile areas

A. Areas of Environmental Concern (AECs)
Areas of Environmental Concern (AECs) are the foundation of the Coastal
Resources Commission’s (CRC) permitting program for coastal development. AECs
are areas of natural importance and are classified by the CRC. The purpose of the
AEC classification is to protect these areas from uncontrolled development, which
may cause irreversible damage to property, public health or the environment.
Development within the designated Areas of Environmental Concern is limited by
CAMA regulations and minimum use standards. The CRC establishes minimum use
standards to regulate development in AECs. Local governments, through the CAMA
Land Use Plan, can establish development standards for AECs that are more
stringent than state standards.

The CRC has established four categories of AECs:

• Estuarine and Ocean System
• Ocean Hazard System
• Public W ater Supplies
• Natural and Cultural Resource Areas

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The Estuarine and Ocean System AEC class is the only category present in the
Morehead City planning jurisdiction. Within this class, the following AECs are
present: Public Trust Areas, Estuarine W aters, Coastal Shorelines and Coastal
Wetlands. These AECs are described below.

A-1. Estuarine and Ocean System AECs
Public Trust Areas are all waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the lands underneath,
from the normal high water mark on shore to the state’s official boundary three miles
offshore; all navigable natural water bodies and the lands underneath, to the normal
high watermark on shore (a body of water is considered navigable if you can float a
canoe in it), not including privately owned lakes where the public doesn’t 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. Public trust areas often
overlap with estuarine waters.

Estuarine Waters are the ocean, sounds, tidal rivers and their tributaries that stretch
across coastal North Carolina and link to other parts of the estuarine system: public
trust areas, coastal wetlands and coastal shorelines. For regulatory purposes, the
inland / upstream, boundary of estuarine waters is the same line used to separate
the jurisdictions of the NC Division of Marine Fisheries and the NC W ildlife
Resources Commission.

Coastal Shorelines include all lands within 75 feet of the normal high water level of
estuarine waters. This definition also includes lands within 30 feet of the normal high
water level of public trust waters located inland of the dividing line between coastal
fishing waters and inland fishing waters. Along Outstanding Resource Waters
(ORWs), this definition includes lands within 575 feet of the normal high water level.
Development in coastal shorelines influences the quality of estuarine and ocean life
and is subject to the damaging effects of shorefront erosion and flooding. The
coastal shorelines and the wetlands contained within them serve as barriers against
flood damage and control erosion between the estuary and uplands. Some important
features of the coastal shoreline include wetlands, flood plains, bluff shorelines, mud
and sand flats, forested shorelines and other important habitat areas for fish and
wildlife.

Coastal Wetlands are any marsh in the 20 coastal counties that regularly or
occasionally floods by lunar or wind tides and that includes one or more of 10 plant
species (Table 3.20). Freshwater swamps and inland, non-tidal wetlands are not in
the CAMA permit jurisdiction unless the CRC specifically designates them as AECs.
However, these wetlands are protected by the federal Clean W ater Act. An Army
Corps of Engineers Section 404 permit may be required for projects taking place in
these wetlands.
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Table 3.20
Coastal Wetland Plant Species
Scientific Name Common Name
Spartina alterniflora Salt Marsh (Smooth) Cord Grass
Juncus roemerianus Black Needlerush
Salicornia spp. Glasswort
Distichlis spicat Salt (or Spike Grass)
Limonium spp. Sea Lavender
Scirpus spp: Bulrush
Cladium jamaicense Saw Grass
Typha spp: Cattail
Spartina patens Salt Meadow Grass
Spartina cynosuroides Salt Red or Giant Cord Grass

A-2. AECs in Morehead City
In the Morehead City planning jurisdiction, AECs include the waters and tributaries of
Calico Creek, the Newport River, Spooner Creek, Peletier Creek, Crab Point Bay,
Bogue Sound, and the shorelines of these waterbodies. Coastal wetland AECs are
located throughout the planning jurisdiction and must be identified on-site by the
permitting staff of the Division of Coastal Management. Locations of extensive
coastal wetland areas within the Morehead City planning jurisdiction include areas
along the Newport River, Calico Creek and Crab Point Bay as well as Phillips Island,
Annex Island, parts of Sugarloaf Island and the Newport Marshes in the eastern
portion of the jurisdiction.

While the CRC’s use standards give priority to the conservation of coastal wetlands,
estuarine waters and public trust areas, certain water-dependent uses are allowed.
Generally, those uses which require water access and which cannot function
elsewhere, such as simple access channels, structures to prevent erosion,
navigation channels, boat docks, marinas, piers, wharfs and mooring pilings are
allowed provided construction occurs in compliance with state standards.

The CRC’s guidelines for development within the coastal shoreline AEC are found in
15A NCAC 7H. Key guidelines include the following:

• Not weaken or eliminate natural barriers to erosion
• Limit impervious surfaces such as buildings, paved parking lots and roads
to the amount necessary to support the use and generally not exceed
30% of the AEC area of the lot, except along the shoreline of an
Outstanding Resource Water (ORW) where the built-upon limit is 25% of
the AEC area
• Maintain a buffer zone for a distance of 30 feet landward of the normal
water level, except along shorelines where the Environmental
Management Commission has adopted its own buffer standards

Due to map scale and size, the exact locations of AECs within the planning
jurisdiction are difficult to map, particularly coastal wetlands and coastal shorelines
AECs. However, for planning purposes, a general depiction of the location of AECs
in Morehead City’s planning jurisdiction is found on the Areas of Environmental
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Concern Map (see Figure 6 in Appendix C). It is stressed that this map is for
informational purposes only. The exact location of AECs must be identified on-site
by permitting staff of the NC Division of Coastal Management (DCM).

B. Soil Characteristics
A soil survey was completed in 1987 in Carteret County by the United States
Department of Agriculture (USDA) Soil Conservation Service, now known as the
Natural Resources Conservation Service (USDA-NRCS). According to the survey,
there are 30 different soil types in Morehead City. Most of the soils in Morehead City
have severe limitations for conventional on-site waste treatment systems (septic
systems). Only five of these soil types are considered to have slight or moderate
limitations for septic tanks. All soil types in Morehead City have slight erosion hazard
ratings.

The USDA-NRCS soil survey is for planning purposes and is not completed at the
detailed scale needed for permit decisions. Based on the soil survey, the Soil
Suitability for Septic Systems Map (Appendix C) provides a general soils map of the
Morehead City planning jurisdiction. As noted above, this information is for general
planning purposes only. All determinations of septic suitability must be made by
onsite investigation by a licensed soil scientist or county environmental systems
health specialist.

In general, the soils in the planning jurisdiction have limitations for many uses due to
wetness, flooding and high sand content. Soils with slight to moderate limitations for
septic systems are limited in the planning jurisdiction. They account for 8.9% and
2.6% respectively of land area and are generally located in the central portion of the
planning area (see Figure 7, Soil Suitability Map in Appendix C). The majority of
soils, 88.5%, are classified as having severe limitations for septic systems.

The extent of soils suitable for development is important due to the continuing
development of the area and the absence of centralized sewer systems in some
areas of the ETJ. Planned development densities in areas without central sewer
service must consider soil suitability for septic systems or alternative systems must
be developed. Consideration of soil conditions in areas expected to experience
growth should influence decisions regarding expansion of the sewer system. Many
of the areas containing soils with severe limitations for septic systems are currently
not served by central sewer service.

C. W ater Quality Classifications
All surface waters in North Carolina are assigned a primary classification by the NC
Division of Water Quality (DWQ). The Marine Fisheries Commission defines primary
Nursery Areas. The Water Quality Classes and Subbasins Map (Figure 8 in
Appendix C) provides the use classifications for waters in Morehead City and its
planning jurisdiction. As shown on the map, a wide range of primary and
supplemental classifications are present. These include SA HQW , SB, C, SC and
SC HQW . These classifications are described in Table 3.21. Further discussion of
surface waters is provided under the Environmental Assessment discussion found
later in this section.
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Table 3.21
Water Quality Classifications
DWQ PRIMARY CLASSIFICATIONS
Class C Waters protected for secondary recreation, fishing, wildlife, fish and aquatic life
propagation and survival, agriculture and other uses suitable for Class C. Secondary
recreation includes wading, boating, and other uses involving body contact with water
where such activities take place in an infrequent, unorganized or incidental manner.
There are no restrictions on watershed development or types of discharges.
Class SC All tidal salt waters protected for secondary recreation such as fishing, boating and other
activities involving minimal skin contact; aquatic life propagation and survival; and
wildlife. Stormwater controls are required under CAMA and there are no categorical
restrictions on discharges.
Class SB Surface waters that are used for primary recreation, including frequent or organized
swimming and all SC uses. Stormwater controls are required under CAMA and there are
no categorical restrictions on discharges.
Class SA Surface waters that are used for commercial shellfishing or marketing purposes and all
SC and SB uses. All SA waters are also HQW by definition. Stormwater controls are
required under CAMA. No domestic discharges are permitted in these waters.
DWQ SUPPLEMENTAL CLASSIFICATIONS
High Quality
Waters
(HQW)
Supplemental classification intended to protect waters with quality higher than state
water quality standards. In general, there are two means by which a water body may be
classified as HQW . They may be HQW by definition or they may qualify for HQW and
then be supplementally classified as HQW through the rule-making process. The
following are HQW by definition:
• SA (shellfishing)
• ORW
• Waters designated as Primary Nursery Areas or other functional nursery areas
by the Marine Fisheries Commission
Nutrient
Sensitive
Waters (NSW)
Supplemental classification intended for waters needing additional nutrient management
due to their being subject to excessive growth of microscopic or macroscopic vegetation.
In general, management strategies for point and nonpoint source pollution control require
control of nutrients (nitrogen and/or phosphorus usually) such that excessive growths of
vegetation are reduced or prevented and there is no increase in nutrients over target
levels. Management strategies are site-specific.

Outstanding
Resource
Waters
(ORW)

Supplemental classification intended to protect unique and special waters having
excellent water quality and being of exceptional state or national ecological or
recreational significance. To qualify, waters must be rated Excellent by DW Q and have
one of the following outstanding resource values:
• Outstanding fish habitat or fisheries
• Unusually high level of water based recreation
• A special designation such as NC or National Wild / Scenic / Natural /
Recreational River, National W ildlife Refuge, etc.
• Important component of state or national park or forest
• Special ecological or scientific significance (rare or endangered species habitat,
research or educational areas)
No new or expanded wastewater discharges are allowed although there are no
restrictions on the types of discharges to these waters. There are associated
development controls enforced by DW Q. ORW areas are HQW by definition.
ADDITIONAL CLASSIFICATIONS BY OTHER AGENCIES
Primary
Nursery
Areas (PNA)
Primary Nursery Areas, as defined by the Marine Fisheries Commission, are those areas
in the estuarine system where initial post-larval development takes place. These areas
are usually located in the uppermost sections of a system where populations are
uniformly very early juveniles. The Division of Marine Fisheries is responsible for
preserving, protecting and developing Primary Nursery Areas for commercially important
finfish and shellfish.
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D. Primary Nursery Areas
Table 3.21 on the preceding page also describes Primary Nursery Areas. Primary
nursery areas are generally located in the upper reaches of creeks and bays. These
areas are usually shallow with soft muddy bottoms and are surrounded by marshes
and wetlands. Table 3.22 shows the locations of largest Primary Nursery Areas (over
100 acres) in the Morehead City planning jurisdiction. The Fragile Areas Map (see
Figure 9 in Appendix C) provides the locations of Primary Nursery Areas.

Table 3.22
Primary Nursery Areas
Primary Nursery Area Acres
Calico Creek (entire area) 140
Crab Point Bay (entire area) 148
Newport River * 215

*Note: These areas are along the northern edge of the ETJ from about Crab Point Village
and west. This area is shown as a Primary Nursery Area, although some maps show this
area as land. The United States Geologic Survey (USGS) and NCDENR-Division of
Environmental Health, Shellfish Sanitation Section (DENR-DEH, SSS) show this area as
water.

E. Flood Hazards and Storm Surge Areas
Flood hazard areas are usually defined by the 100-year floodplain. In the Morehead
City planning jurisdiction, the floodplain includes the following:

• A zones – one percent chance of flooding in any year
• V zones – one percent chance of flooding in any year that includes wave
action.
• X shaded zones – 0.2 percent annual chance of flooding and areas with a
one percent chance of flood with average depths of less than one foot or
with drainage areas less than one square mile
• X zones – areas determined to be outside of 0.2 percent annual chance
of flooding

A general depiction of the 100-year floodplain is shown on the Flood Hazard Areas
Map (Appendix C). More detailed flood maps prepared by the Federal Emergency
Management Agency (FEMA) are available for review at the Morehead City Planning
and Inspections Department.

Storm surge is the relatively rapid rise in sea level caused by water being pushed
towards shore by the force of the winds associated with a hurricane or other intense
storm. As the water comes ashore with the storm, it causes flooding that is often a
hurricane’s most dangerous and damaging characteristic. Extensive areas of the
Morehead City planning jurisdiction are vulnerable to storm surge hazards
associated with hurricanes. Depending upon the severity and speed of the storm,
much of the area could be impacted by storm surge. According to the storm surge
models prepared by FEMA, slow-moving Category 1–3 storms (forward velocities
less than 15 miles per hour) would impact greater areas than fast moving Category
1–3 storms. Likewise, fast-moving Category 4–5 storms (forward velocities greater
than 15 miles per hour) would produce a more intense impact than slow-moving
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Category 4–5 storms. The Flood Hazard Areas Map (see Figure 10 in Appendix C)
depicts the areas subject to storm surge based on the most intense storm intensity
and speed.

Morehead City is a participant in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). The
NFIP is a federal program that enables property owners in participating communities
to purchase insurance protection against losses by flooding. Communities that
participate in the NFIP agree to adopt and enforce floodplain management
ordinances to reduce future flood damage in flood hazard areas.

F. Non-coastal Wetlands
According to the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), wetlands are, “areas that
are periodically or permanently inundated by surface or groundwater and support
vegetation adapted for life in saturated soil.” Wetlands include swamps, marshes,
bogs and similar areas. Wetlands serve important functions relating to fish and
wildlife; food chain production; habitat; nesting; spawning; rearing and resting sites
for aquatic and land species; protection of other areas from wave action and erosion;
storage areas for storm and flood waters; natural recharge areas where ground and
surface water are interconnected; and natural water filtration and purification
functions.

While individual alterations of wetlands may constitute a minor change, the
cumulative effect of numerous changes often results in major damage to wetland
resources. The USACE regulates development in wetlands under Section 404 of the
Clean Water Act, which determines which areas qualify for protection as wetlands.
The Fragile Areas Map (see Figure 9 in Appendix C) shows areas that may be
classified as non-coastal wetlands. While this map does not provide a lot-by-lot
identification of wetlands, it does provide information as to the general areas that
may contain non-coastal wetlands. These areas are extensive in the Morehead City
planning jurisdiction and must be determined by onsite investigation.

G. Environmentally Fragile Areas
Fragile areas are not AECs, but are sensitive areas that could be damaged easily by
inappropriate or poorly planned development. In the Morehead City jurisdiction,
these areas include non-coastal wetlands and significant natural heritage areas.
These areas are depicted on the Fragile Areas Map (see Figure 9 in Appendix C).

G-1. Natural Heritage Areas
The Fragile Areas Map also shows general locations of areas classified as
Significant Natural Heritage Areas by the NC Natural Heritage Program. There are
three Significant Natural Heritage Areas in the Morehead City planning area. Two
are located in wetlands on the eastern edge of the planning area and the third is on
Radio Island.

The NC Natural Heritage Program inventories, catalogues and facilitates protection
of the rarest and the most outstanding elements of the natural diversity of our state.
These elements of natural diversity include those plants and animals that are so
rare, or the natural communities that are so significant that they merit special
attention as land use decisions are made. The Natural Heritage Program is not a
regulatory program. Some of these sites may be protected or regulated by other
state or federal agencies, although many are unprotected.
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3.2.2 Environmental Composite Map
The Morehead City Environmental Composite Map (Figure 1) shows the extent and
overlap of natural features described in this section. Land was divided into three
categories based on the analysis of the features and the determination of the capabilities
and limitations of these areas for development. The land classes shown on the
Environmental Composite Map, the description of the classes, and the natural features
contained in each class are shown below:

Class I
Class I is land containing only minimal hazards and limitations that may be addressed by
commonly accepted land planning and development practices. In the Morehead City
planning jurisdiction, this class contains the following natural features:

• Soils with slight to moderate limitations for septic tanks
• Soils with slight erosion hazards
• Non-wetland area or wetlands rated beneficial significance and not high
potential risk (NC-CREWS)
• Land located within a 100-year flood hazard area
• Land located within a storm surge area
• HQW watersheds
• Land located within 500 feet from a historic or archaeological site
• Land located inside historic district
• Estuarine shoreline
• Public trust shoreline

Class II
Class II is 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. In Morehead City, this class contains the following natural
features:
• Soils with severe limitations for septic tanks
• Estuarine waters
• Public trust areas outside estuarine waters
• Non-coastal wetlands rated as beneficial significance and high potential
risk (NC-CREWS)
• Non-coastal wetlands rated as substantial significance or exceptional
significance and not high potential risk (NC-CREWS)
• Unrated non-coastal wetlands (NC-CREWS)

Class III
Class III is land containing serious hazards for development or land where the impact of
development may cause serious damage to the functions of natural systems. In
Morehead City, this class contains the following natural features:

• Coastal wetlands
• Non-coastal wetlands rated as substantial significance or exceptional
significance with high potential risk (NC-CREW S)
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• Non-coastal wetlands with overriding considerations (in general,
exceptional significance - risk analysis not completed) (NC-CREWS)
• Protected lands

The Environmental Composite Map is a ‘broad-brush’ depiction of the location of the
three land classes discussed above. Class II is the largest class accounting for 58.6% of
the total land area. Class III accounts for 30.6% and Class I is the smallest class with
only 10.8% of the total land area. Due to the size and scale of the map, it cannot be used
for permit decision-making or for final development plans. The Geographic Information
System (GIS)–based model that was used to create the map uses one-acre units.
Therefore, one ‘cell’ in the model represents one acre. W hen the different data sets
overlay in the model, the highest class present will be assigned to the cell. For example,
an area that is located inside an exceptional wetland with high potential risk (Class III)
inside the storm surge area (Class I) and in an area with soils with severe limitations for
septic systems (Class II) will be assigned to Class III.

3.2.3 Summary Environmental Conditions
Information on water quality, natural hazards and natural resources is the basis for
developing goals and policies to maintain and restore water quality, reduce vulnerability
to natural hazards and protect valuable natural resources.

A. Water Quality
The NC Division of Water Quality classifies surface waters according to their best
intended uses. W aters are given a use support status (how well a water supports its
uses) after interpreting and assessing water quality. Surface waters are rated fully
supporting, partially supporting or not supporting. The terms refer to whether the
classified uses of the water (such as shellfish harvesting, aquatic life protection or
swimming) are being met. All surface waters in the Morehead City planning
jurisdiction classified for the fish consumption use support category are partially
supporting. Other waters are impaired for commercial shellfish harvesting.

DEH Shellfish Sanitation monitors all estuarine waters (SC, SB and SA) for fecal
coliform bacteria. Waters are then classified as Approved, Conditionally Approved-
Open, Conditionally Approved-Closed, Restricted or Prohibited as defined in Table
3.23.
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Table 3.23
DEH Shellfish Sanitation Growing Area Classifications
DEH
Classification

DEH Criteria
Approved The median fecal coliform Most Probable Number (MPN) or geometric
mean MPN of water shall not exceed an MPN of 43 per 100 milliliters,
and the estimated 90th percentile shall not exceed an MPN of 43 per 100 milliliters for a five tube decimal dilution test.
Conditionally
Approved-Open
Sanitary Survey indicates an area can meet approved area criteria for a
reasonable period of time, and the pollutant event is known and predictable and can be managed by a plan.
Conditionally
Approved-
Closed
Sanitary Survey indicates an area can meet approved area criteria for a
reasonable period of time, and the pollutant event is known and
predictable and can be managed by a plan.
Restricted Sanitary Survey indicates a limited degree of pollution, and the area is
not contaminated to the extent that consumption of shellfish could be
hazardous after controlled depuration or relaying.
Prohibited No Sanitary Survey; point source discharges; marinas; data does not
meet criteria for Approved, Conditionally Approved or Restricted
Classification.
Source: White Oak River Basinwide Water Quality Plan NCDENR DWQ

In 2002, approximately 25% of the waters in Morehead City were closed to
shellfishing. Prohibited or restricted areas include all of Spooners Creek, all of
Peletier Creek, and the Newport River restricted area around the Morehead City
Harbor. The Newport River is divided into multiple sections with a different
classification for each section. The sections above Neighborhoods 5 and 7 (please
see section 3.3 for a description of these neighborhoods) are restricted in varying
degrees (prohibited or restricted, and conditionally approved closed). Shellfishing in
Calico Creek, Calico Bay, W illis Creek and Crab Point Bay is prohibited or restricted.
Most of the shoreline around Radio Island is also prohibited or restricted to
shellfishing. A source of impairment to these waters is fecal coliform bacterial
contamination. This is most likely caused by rapid growth rates and large seasonal
populations in and around the Town of Morehead City (NCDENR 2001). The
Morehead City wastewater treatment plant is already above plant flow capacity on
maximum flow days and contributes to this impairment. The Division of
Environmental Health also identified fecal coliform bacterial contamination in fresh
water runoff as a major contributor to impairment as well as pollutants from urban
development and marinas (NCDENR 2000). Especially of concern are the Newport
River and its tributaries to the north of the Town of Morehead City.

The Morehead City municipal wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) discharges into
Calico Creek and affects water quality. The WWTP is a major point source discharge
with a capacity of 1.7 MGD. The North Carolina Coastal Federation monitors
wastewater treatments plants along the coast and has reported that the Morehead
City WWTP exceeded its discharge limit twice in 2000. In addition, the maximum
flow exceeded limits a number of times in 2002. Currently, Morehead City is under a
state-imposed sewer line extension moratorium. A plan to improve existing problems
with effluent discharge is due to the NC Division of W ater Quality by December 2004
and should result in improved water quality. The only other point discharge source in
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the town is Morehead City Terminals, which is classified as a minor source and
discharges into the Newport River (NCDENR 2000).

B. Natural Resources
As noted earlier in this section, there are three Significant Natural Heritage Areas in
the Morehead City planning area. Two are located in wetlands on the eastern edge
of the planning area and the third is on Radio Island. Five active sand and gravel
mining operations are located in the planning area (of 23 in Carteret County). Sand
and gravel mining account for 64% of all mining in North Carolina.

3.3 Existing Land Use and Development

This section of the Land Use Plan provides a description of current and emerging development
trends and land use in Morehead City and a forecast of future development based on existing
trends. The analysis of existing development is a major component of the foundation upon
which land use policies and the future land use map are built. It provides a base for projecting
future land needs and for forecasting the location of development.

3.3.1 Development Trends
Since the 1999 Land Use Plan Update (1999 update), Morehead City has pursued an
active annexation and development policy. Since 1999, approximately 2160 acres have
been annexed into the Morehead City limits. Figure 2, Annexations 1998 to Present
shows the locations of the areas annexed through 2003.

Records maintained by the Morehead City Planning and Inspections Department show
26 new subdivisions between 1999 and 2003. These subdivisions total approximately
266 acres and include 314 in-city lots/units and 163 out-of-city lots/units. Table 3.24
shows the subdivision breakout.

Table 3.24
Morehead City Subdivisions
Type of Subdivision Number of Subdivisions Total Lots/Units
Commercial 10 62
Single Family Residential 11 252
Duplex Residential 2 52
Multi-family Residential 3 113

Annual building permit activity has increased since the last plan update, with the most
permits (1187) being issued in 2001. Permit activity from 1998 through 2003 is shown in
Table 3.25. A breakdown of permit types is also shown for 2001 through 2003. Permits
were not tracked by type previous to 2001.
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Table 3.25
Building Permits Issued by Year
Permit Type 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003
Single Family Residential n/a n/a n/a 85 105 159
Residential Alterations &
Additions
n/a n/a n/a 177 162 157
Duplexes n/a n/a n/a 0 0 2
Apartment Units n/a n/a n/a 17 60 69
Mobile Homes n/a n/a n/a 40 31 23
Commercial n/a n/a n/a 83 57 66
Demolitions n/a n/a n/a 10 7 21
Signs n/a n/a n/a 105 67 75
Electrical n/a n/a n/a 244 99 81
Plumbing n/a n/a n/a 123 32 22
Mechanical n/a n/a n/a 303 205 177
TOTAL 647 766 796 1187 825 852

3.3.2 Existing Land Use
To provide a meaningful analysis of existing land use conditions in Morehead City and
the extraterritorial planning jurisdiction (ETJ), the planning area was subdivided into ten
neighborhood planning areas. The ten neighborhoods (see Figure 3, Morehead City
Neighborhood Planning Areas) represent distinct areas of the planning area that have
different land use patterns, constraints for development, potential for growth and land
development concerns.

Since 1998, Morehead City has grown eastward to include portions of Radio Island,
northward to include Blair Farms Subdivision and westward to include the Crystal Coast
Business Park. This expansion has affected the boundaries of Neighborhoods 1 and 7
and 8. Neighborhood 10 is a new neighborhood added since the 1999 Land Use Plan. It
was created by dividing the existing Neighborhood 8 along the Norfolk-Southern railroad
tracks to reflect new development patterns. Neighborhood 8 is now located north of the
railroad tracks, with Neighborhood 10 to the south. In addition, the Town has annexed a
minimum width of 500 feet of waters along its entire shoreline.

A. Neighborhood 1
Neighborhood 1 is basically the eastern end of the peninsula created by Calico Bay,
the Newport River, and Bogue Sound and the majority of the newly annexed Radio
Island. Neighborhood 1 consists of the central business district (CBD), an older,
established residential area north of downtown that includes the Town’s historical
district, the state port facility located east of downtown, and Radio Island. Subareas of
Neighborhood 1 include (i) the commercial core of the CBD located on the north and
south sides of Arendell Street (US 70), (ii) the waterfront commercial district, (iii) the
port facility and Radio Island, (iv) the mixed-use Bridges Street corridor, (v) the
residential area between Bridges Street and Calico Bay and (iv) Annex Island in the
Newport River and Sugarloaf Island located in Bogue Sound.

Neighborhood 1 contains residential units that include a variety of housing types:
single-family detached, single-family attached and low and high rise multi-family.
Figure 3: Morehead City Neighborhood Planning Areas
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Retail, commercial service and office establishments comprise the CBD area. The
waterfront commercial district on Bogue Sound includes marinas, fish markets,
restaurants, charter fishing boat docks, and general retail. The Morehead City Yacht
Basin is located on Calico Creek just northeast of the CBD. A major industrial use in
Neighborhood 1 is the state port facility that occupies approximately 150 acres at the
extreme eastern end of the peninsula. A smaller industrial area is located northeast of
the CBD. Public and institutional uses located in this neighborhood include the
municipal building and administrative offices, Cape Lookout High School, two parks,
the US Army Reserve Center, the Webb Library, a post office and numerous
churches.

Neighborhood 1 contains little vacant land that is not located within a floodplain.
Consequently, there is little potential for new construction on undeveloped land.
Growth potential in Neighborhood 1 centers primarily on redevelopment and
conversion of existing structures to different uses. Sugarloaf Island is undeveloped
and, due to flood hazard potential and its inaccessibility to major urban services, will
most likely not be intensively developed in the near future. However it has been
recognized as having potential for a variety of land uses, including a public water
access facility that is being developed by the Town. Annex Island (also known as
Marsh Island), which is owned by the NC State Ports Authority, is also vacant and is
used as a dredge spoil site and for wetlands mitigation purposes.

Reflective of the current land use pattern, Neighborhood 1 contains a variety of zoning
classifications. The downtown business area is zoned for a variety of commercial
retail, marine commercial and professional uses. The Bridges Street corridor is zoned
primarily for office and professional service uses. The Calico Bay waterfront is zoned
as floodplain between 5th and 9th Streets, port industrial from 5th Street east, and
commercial marina between 11th and 12th Streets. The port facility and a three-block
area between 4th and 5th streets from the Norfolk-Southern Railroad to Calico Bay are
zoned for port industrial. Neighborhood 1 residential areas are predominantly zoned
R5 which permits a maximum density of eight dwelling units per acre. The existing
high-rise structures located on small tracts on the waterfront east of the CBD are
zoned PD which allows a much higher residential density than the R5 classification.
Sugarloaf and Phillips Islands are zoned as floodplain; Annex Island is zoned for
industrial port use. With the exception of Annex Island, the zoning classifications in
Neighborhood 1 generally parallel current and anticipated land use patterns. Since the
1999 update, Morehead City has received grant funding to develop a public waterfront
site on Sugarloaf Island consisting of docking facilities for small boats, trails, and
restroom facilities.

Radio Island consists of state owned property associated with the state port, as well
as privately owned areas. Waterfront areas in the state-owned portion consist mostly
of docking facilities and wharves, with upland areas having limited development
potential. The remainder of Radio Island is privately owned, with condominiums, a
marina and other uses. The Town recently extended water and sewer services to the
privately owned portion of the island. A public beach access facility operated and
maintained by the Town is located on the north side of Highway 70. Another public
access facility located on the south side of US 70 is maintained by Carteret County.
The nature of the future development of Radio Island has been identified as an
important planning issue to be addressed in this Land Use Plan Update.

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Although Neighborhood 1 is almost totally developed, continuation of existing land
uses or conversion to new land uses are influenced by several existing natural and
man-made features. Influencing features include the Norfolk-Southern Railroad, US
70, Bridges Street, the port facility, and Bogue Sound and Calico Bay, including their
floodplains. All of these features play an important role, either positively or negatively,
in the future development or redevelopment of the neighborhood.

Since the adoption of the 1999 update, Morehead City has supported the
redevelopment and restoration of the downtown area by providing staff and financial
support to the Downtown Morehead City Revitalization Association, amending
ordinances to allow for mixed uses, worked to provide additional on-street parking
and providing staff to serve on the downtown parking committee. The parking
ordinance has been amended to set aside an area downtown where off-street
parking is not required. The Town is studying alternative traffic patterns to increase
available parking and is working with NCDOT and NC Railroad to preserve the rail
corridor by closing certain crossings along the Highway 70 corridor. As noted above,
public waterfront access facilities have also been provided in Neighborhood 1.

B. Neighborhood 2
Neighborhood 2 is located south of the Norfolk-Southern Railroad tracts from 10th
Street westward to 34th Street. This neighborhood planning area is overwhelmingly
residential in nature and consists of three subareas: (i) the waterfront along Bogue
Sound, (ii) the south side of the US 70 corridor, and (iii) the interior blocks between (i)
and (ii).

Neighborhood 2 contains primarily residential structures, the vast majority of which are
single-family detached dwellings. A few low density multi-family units are scattered
throughout the neighborhood. The only nonresidential uses in Neighborhood 2 are
several commercial establishments scattered along Arendell Street in the vicinity of
the Atlantic Beach Causeway and on Evans Street near the CBD, a private school,
and several churches. Nonresidential uses account for only about ten percent of the
total area in Neighborhood 2. There is less than ten percent vacant land in the
neighborhood. The vacant land that is present consists primarily of small building-size
lots. Consequently, the growth potential of Neighborhood 2 basically involves the
renovation and/or the reuse of existing single-family residences.

The zoning pattern in Neighborhood 2 reflects the existing land use scheme in that
almost the entire area is zoned R5S. Single-family residences at a maximum density
of eight dwelling units per acre are permitted by the R5S zoning category. The small,
scattered existing commercial land uses are zoned for office and professional use.

The existing natural and man-made features that influence Neighborhood 2 include
Bogue Sound (including the floodplain), the Norfolk-Southern Railroad, US 70, the
causeway to Atlantic Beach, and the proximity of the central business district.

The 1999 update included a policy that waterfront street/alley ends should remain
open for public access, as well as policies intended to preserve the Neighborhood’s
residential characteristics. Accordingly, the Town has created a Waterfront Access
Plan that requires public waterfront street/alley ends to remain open and has actually
improved some of the street ends in accordance with the Waterfront Access Plan.
Since the 1999 update, Morehead City has received a few rezoning requests to
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allow for commercial development in this Neighborhood, but has consistently denied
these requests.

C. Neighborhood 3
This area is generally described as north of Arendell Street, south of Calico Creek,
between 14th Street and Barbour Road. This neighborhood contains a variety of land
uses including single- and multi-family residences, businesses, industrial
establishments, and public and institutional facilities. The subareas of Neighborhood 3
include: (i) the US 70 corridor, (ii) the Bridges Street corridor, and (iii) the residential
areas between Bridges Street and Calico Creek.

Approximately three-fourths of residences located in Neighborhood 3 are single-family
detached housing units. Multi-family residences, including some public housing units
and several large medium density apartment developments comprise the remainder of
the residential structures. Commercial establishments are concentrated on the north
side of the US 70 (Arendell Street) corridor and in the Bridges Street corridor. The
industrial uses in Neighborhood 3 are located on Bridges Street between 15th and
17th Streets and along the railroad spur north of Bridges Street. Public and institutional
uses are scattered throughout the neighborhood and include 3 large cemeteries, a
middle school, municipal facilities, churches, and recreational facilities. Available
vacant land consists chiefly of scattered lots and small parcels. Other undeveloped
land within Neighborhood 3 is floodable land located along the south bank of Calico
Creek.

The zoning pattern in this neighborhood is more varied than those previously
discussed. This variety is directly attributed to the multitude of land uses in
Neighborhood 3. Residential zoning classifications include R5 for the majority of the
area and R7 and R10 for small portions of the western sections of the neighborhood.
The density permitted by these zoning classifications range from a low of 4 units per
acre (R10) to 8 units per acre (R5). Commercial zoning is found in the Arendell Street
and Bridges Street corridors and includes downtown commercial, highway
commercial, neighborhood commercial, and office and professional categories.
Interestingly, the commercial zoning pattern along Bridges Street is in a nodal pattern
rather than a continuous strip pattern as in that portion of Bridges Street located in
Neighborhood 1. The small industrial areas located on Bridges Street are zoned for
unoffensive industrial use.

Due to the unavailability of vacant developable land, the growth potential of
Neighborhood 3 is limited. The major vacant parcels in the neighborhood are zoned
for residential use (R5 and R7 classifications). Consequently, the potential for future
development appears to be primarily for multi-family residences and, to a lesser
extent, institutional uses and commercial services.

The natural and man-made features which impact this neighborhood include Calico
Creek and its floodplain, US 70, Bridges Street, the Norfolk-Southern Railroad,
Morehead Middle School, cemeteries, and the proximity to the Morehead Plaza
shopping center.

The 1999 update included policies intended to maintain the residential character of
the Neighborhood, providing adequate screening/buffering between residences and
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adjacent non-residential properties. Since the 1999 update, land use decisions in
this neighborhood were made in conjunction with these policies.

D. Neighborhood 4
Neighborhood 4 is generally bounded on the east by Barbour Road, 28th Street
between Bridges Street and Arendell Street, the Norfolk-Southern Railroad, and 34th
Street; on the south by Bogue Sound; on the west by properties abutting the western
ends of South Street, Guardian Avenue, and Galantis Drive; and on the north by the
Carolina Power and Light Company transmission line right-of-way. This neighborhood
planning area contains a wide variety of land uses including large-tract public and
institutional, commercial, single-family and multi-family residential, manufactured
home, and, industrial uses. Subareas of Neighborhood 4 include: (i) the US 70
corridor, (ii) the institutional and professional office complex centered around 35th
Street, the community college campus and Carteret General Hospital, (iii) the
Morehead Plaza shopping center area, and (iv) the Bridges Street corridor.

The residential dwelling units that are located in Neighborhood 4 consist primarily of
multi-family residences and manufactured homes. This neighborhood contains the
largest number of multi-family developments which are concentrated in the Bonner
Avenue and Guardian Avenue/Symi Circle areas. Two large manufactured home
parks, containing about 180 units, are situated on the north side of Bridges Street
north of the Camp Glenn School. Scattered manufactured homes on individual lots are
also found throughout Neighborhood 4, particularly in the Maple Lane area. Single-
family detached residences, located in relatively small pockets of development, round
out the residential uses. Commercial land use consists of the Morehead Plaza
shopping center, retail and services in the US 70 and Bridges Street corridors, and the
professional office/services concentration located north of the hospital between Penny
Lane and North 35th Street. Major public and institutional uses consist of the Carteret
General Hospital, Carteret Community College, the North Carolina Division of Marine
Fisheries complex, the NC State Seafood Laboratory, Camp Glenn Elementary
School, nursing and health care facilities, the National Guard Armory, the Carteret
County Visitors Center, a small park with boat ramp, and an electrical substation.
Approximately half of the developed acreage in Neighborhood 4 is in residential use.
Institutional uses cover twice as much land as commercial.

The vacant land located in Neighborhood 4 is primarily in two general areas: a large
tract north of Bridges Street and east of North 35th Street and a tract located north of
Bridges Street and west of Barbour Road.

As in Neighborhood 3, the zoning pattern in Neighborhood 4 is varied due to the wide
array of existing land uses. Overall, the zoning pattern parallels the existing land use
pattern. Residential zoning is comprised of the R15M, R5, R10, and a limited amount
of the R20 classifications. The major multi-family developments are located in areas
that are zoned RMF or Office and Professional. The residential density permitted in
Neighborhood 4 ranges from about 2 units per acre to 16 units per acre. Commercial
zoning consists primarily of the office and professional, medical arts, community
shopping, and highway commercial classifications. The major vacant parcels in
Neighborhood 4 which were described earlier are zoned primarily for residential
(chiefly R5 and R20), office and professional, and industrial use.

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Undeveloped land in this neighborhood has decreased by almost half since the 1999
update. Given the remaining amount of vacant, developable land, the existing
supporting infrastructure, and recent transportation improvements (such as new
connector roads and improving traffic patterns) Neighborhood 4 should continue to be
a strong growth area. An area west of North 35th Street, south of the Carolina Power
and Light Company transmission line right-of-way, is currently being developed into a
subdivision. Morehead Plaza is being redeveloped and is expected to become a highly
visited retail center.

Neighborhood 4 is influenced by a variety of natural and man-made factors including
US 70, the Norfolk-Southern Railroad, Bridges Street, Bogue Sound, the CP&L
transmission right-of-way, Morehead Plaza shopping center, Carteret County
Community College, Carteret General Hospital, and the Camp Glenn School. Access
to the northwestern corner of Neighborhood 4 has improved with the completion of the
Bridges Street Extension and has resulted in more institutional/office uses. The
presence of wetlands in the western and northwestern portions of the neighborhood
will impact future land development.

Policy statements contained in the 1999 Land Use Plan Update relating to this
neighborhood include allowing mixed land uses, sidewalk/street improvements to
Barbour Road and North 35th Street and reviewing all development plans with the
Army Corps of Engineers to assure identification of wetlands. Since the adoption of
the 1999 plan, Morehead City has adopted MATS (Morehead Alternative
Transportation System) which includes recommendations for sidewalk and street
improvements in the general area. Funding was received through a DOT
Enhancement Grant to construct a sidewalk/bicycle path (a phase of MATS).

E. Neighborhood 5
Neighborhood 5 is overwhelmingly a single-family detached residential area consisting
of both well established and newly developing subdivisions.

Neighborhood 5 is generally bounded on the north by the Newport River, on the east
by vacant land abutting the Country Club East subdivision, on the south by the CP&L
transmission line right-of-way, Bridges Street Extension and the Norfolk-Southern
Railroad, and on the west by the town's western extraterritorial planning and zoning
jurisdictional boundary which generally runs from the West Carteret High School
northward to the Newport River. Subareas include (i) individual residential
subdivisions, (ii) the Morehead City Country Club area and (iii) a new commercial and
office area paralleling the Bridges Street Extension.

As noted above, Neighborhood 5 contains mostly residences, most of which are
single-family dwellings. Major residential subdivisions include, Mandy Farms, Country
Club East, Hedrick Estates, Westhaven, Lake and Shore Estates, Northwoods,
Oaksmith Acres, West Car Meadows, and Creek Pointe. Multi-family residences are
located in apartment developments which are generally concentrated in two areas:
adjacent to North 35th Street south of Mandy Lane and on the north side of Country
Club Road east of West Carteret High School. Several manufactured homes on
individual lots are scattered throughout the neighborhood.

Major commercial development includes the neighborhood-oriented businesses
located in the Mandy Park Shopping Center on North 35th Street at Old Gate Road,
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the office development on the north side of Mandy Lane in the 35th Street Extension
intersection area, a small industrial area on Friendly Road just north of the Norfolk-
Southern Railroad and new commercial and office development along the Bridges
Street Extension. Limited industrial uses have occurred since the 1999 update and are
located along the Bridges Street Extension.

Public, institutional, and recreational uses in this neighborhood include the Morehead
City Country Club and Golf Course, West Carteret High School, Morehead Primary
School, a county-owned park (Swinson Park), a nursing care facility, and several
churches.

Neighborhood 5 contains a considerable amount of vacant land. However, the vacant
acreage includes the 520-acre nature preserve located in the extreme northwestern
corner of the neighborhood as well as several hundred acres of land where wetlands
have been identified. Consequently, the vacant land in Neighborhood 5 is not
comprised entirely of vacant, buildable or developable land. However, it is estimated
that about 25% of all vacant land in Neighborhood 5 is suitable for development
purposes. These developable, vacant tracts are distributed throughout the
neighborhood with the larger tracts located on the east and west sides of Friendly
Road north of the Norfolk-Southern Railroad, and north of Country Club Road in the
northern portion of the neighborhood.

The majority of land in this neighborhood is zoned for low-density and single-family
uses (R20) with some small areas being zoned R15 and R15M. A small amount of
property is zoned R5, R7, PD, and RMF which permits a higher density that ranges
from 8 to 16 units per acres. Commercial zoning is basically limited to those areas that
are currently developed for business purposes, such as day care centers and the
Sports Center Complex. Industrial zoning is found on the north side of the Norfolk-
Southern Railroad on both the east and west sides of Friendly Road. The majority of
vacant land in Neighborhood 5 is zoned for residential use, chiefly R20 which allows 2
dwelling units per acre.

The growth potential is high in Neighborhood 5 given the large amount of vacant,
developable land. Low-density residences are the most probable type of future land
uses. Potential also exists for future light industrial or intensive commercial
development in the area north of the Norfolk-Southern Railroad on the east and west
sides of Friendly Road which is the location of the new Bridges Street Extension.

The natural and man-made features that influence the continuation of existing land
uses and the development of future land uses include the Bridges Street Extension,
West Carteret High School and Morehead Primary School, the Norfolk-Southern
Railroad, the Newport River and its floodplain, wetland areas, and the country club
and golf course.

Policy statements contained in the 1999 Land Use Plan for this neighborhood
include promoting low density housing in areas lacking public water/sewer, allowing
medium density residential development if public water/sewer exists, limiting curb
cuts on Bridges Street Extension and recognizing the siltation problem in the
Newport River. Again, any development that occurred in the area since the adoption
of the current land use plan was done only after a review of the neighborhood policy
statements.
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F. Neighborhood 6
The area is generally described as being bounded on the north by Bridges Street
Extension, on the east by properties abutting the end of South Street, on the south by
Bogue Sound, and on the west by Spooners Creek.

This neighborhood can best be characterized as two subareas: a strip commercial
area adjacent to both the north and south sides of the US 70 corridor and an older,
established residential area located on the east and west sides of Peletier Creek and
on the east side of Spooners Creek. Portions of the Mitchell Village and Spooners
Creek East Harbor subdivisions are located in this neighborhood.

Neighborhood 6 contains primarily residences, three-quarters of which are single-
family detached dwellings. Multi-family residences are generally located in relatively
small developments scattered throughout the neighborhood. Several small
manufactured home parks are located within the US 70 corridor. Commercial
development is extensive and includes most parcels adjacent to US 70 and NC 24.
Businesses located in this neighborhood include single-lot development, strip
shopping centers and marinas. Institutional and recreational uses include small parks
and churches. Very limited industrial land uses are located in this neighborhood,
occurring adjacent US 70. Vacant land consists primarily of subdivided building lots.
Since the 1999 update, growth in this neighborhood has been generally consistent
with previous patterns, commercial along the US 70 corridor and residential from US
70 south to Bogue Sound.

Because Neighborhood 6 is comprised of two basic land use groups, the zoning in the
area consists of two general zoning classifications, commercial and residential.
Commercial zoning includes office and professional, shopping center, highway
commercial, neighborhood commercial and marine commercial classifications.
Residential zoning on the north and east sides of Peletier Creek involves primarily the
R10 classification (maximum 4 units per acre) with some R7 (maximum 6 units per
acre) and PD (maximum 36 units per acre). The vast majority of the neighborhood
west of Peletier Creek is zoned for a maximum of 3 and 4 units per acre (R20 and
R15) with some limited R5 (maximum of 8 units per acre) and R10. Most of the vacant
land in Neighborhood 6 is zoned for residential use (primarily R15, R10, and R7) and
highway commercial use. The greatest potential for growth in this neighborhood is low-
density residential development and conversion of some existing residential parcels in
the US 70 corridor to commercial use.

This neighborhood is most noticeably influenced by US 70, NC 24, the Norfolk-
Southern Railroad, Bogue Sound, Peletier and Spooners Creeks and their
floodplains.

Policy statements included in the 1999 Land Use Plan were aimed at discouraging
commercial development along the Bogue Sound waterfront, working with NCDOT
on providing sidewalks and landscaping along US 70, maintaining the character of
existing residential areas, improving recreational opportunities and adopting
regulations requiring connecting or shared parking lots to reduce curb cuts on US
70. Morehead City has worked diligently to extend water and sewer lines to newly
annexed property to reduce the number of septic systems. The Town has also
worked in conjunction with NCDOT to develop a sidewalk along the US 70 corridor.
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There are plans to continue sidewalk development westward to the commercial
areas of town. Site plans are consistently reviewed to assure connected/shared
parking lots and all approved residential rezonings were completed to keep the
current neighborhood characteristics.

G. Neighborhood 7
Like Neighborhood 5, Neighborhood 7 is chiefly a single-family residential area that
consists of both mature and developing subdivisions. This neighborhood planning
area is generally bounded on the north and east by the Newport River, on the east by
Calico Bay, on the south by Calico Creek and on the west by Country Club East and
Mandy Farms subdivisions. Subareas of Neighborhood 7 include: (i) the individual
subdivisions adjacent to North 20th Street, (ii) the Crab Point peninsula and (iii) the
Dills Creek area.

The majority of residences located in this neighborhood, are single-family detached
dwellings. Major residential subdivisions include Keeter Park, Dill Creek, Sunrise
Point, River Heights, Brook Woods, South Shores, Blair Farms and Cambridge
Downs. Multi-family residences and condominiums are located on the south side of
Mayberry Loop Road and on North 20th Street at the Haystacks Development. An
estimated 225 manufactured homes are situated in Neighborhood 7, the majority of
which are located in the Pelican Point and Sprookey’s Mobile Home Parks on North
20th Street and in the Bay Meadows Mobile Home Park on Country Club Road at
Crab Point. A small mobile home park is also located on Oglesby Road. A small
number of manufactured homes on individual lots are scattered throughout the area.
Commercial development in this neighborhood is limited to businesses clustered near
the North 20th Street and Mayberry Loop Road intersection area. Public and
institutional land uses are comprised of a small park and private recreational facilities,
the town's wastewater treatment plant, and two churches. Industrial use in
Neighborhood 7 is limited to the Carolina Telephone substation. Several large tracts of
land are also used for farming/agricultural purposes. A new city-owned soccer
complex will be completed in the fall of 2004 off Mayberry Loop Road.

This neighborhood contains the highest amount of vacant land of all ten neighborhood
planning areas. Vacant land consists of many large tracts scattered throughout the
entire neighborhood. Several of the vacant tracts, are identified as wetlands and are
subject, in part, to flood hazards. Poor soil conditions limit development of much of the
vacant tracts in the Crab Point Neck and Dills Creek areas. Generally, the largest
developable vacant tracts are located along Country Club Road and west of North
20th Street.

The majority of land, developed and vacant, in Neighborhood 7 is zoned for residential
use. The residential zoning classifications (R5, R7, R10, R-15, R-15SM, R20, and
PD) range in maximum permitted density from 2 to 36 units per acre, with the lower
density zoning occurring on most of the land in the neighborhood. This neighborhood
also contains the largest amount of R15M zoning which permits manufactured home
parks and manufactured homes on individual lots. Commercial zoning is basically
limited to the area where the majority of the existing businesses are located, which is
the North 20th Street and Mayberry Loop Road intersection area.

Growth potential in Neighborhood 7 is good provided the constraints to development
can be overcome. Because of the amount of vacant land, it would appear that this
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neighborhood has the ability to accommodate growth, particularly low-density
residential development. Since the 1999 update, water service has been extended
along the Country Club Road corridor, thus enhancing the growth potential of this
area. Developmental constraints such as flood hazards, poor soil conditions, wetlands,
and the lack of support infrastructure in areas of the neighborhood limit the location
and intensity of future development

Neighborhood influences impacting this area, in addition to the developmental
constraints discussed above, include Calico Creek, the Newport River, North 20th
Street and Blair Farm Parkway, which serves as a minor thoroughfare connector
between Country Club Road and North 20th Street.

Policy statements contained in the 1999 update for this neighborhood promoted low-
density development in areas with no public water and sewer. Medium-density
development was promoted in areas with public water and sewer, including mobile
home parks. Traffic improvements along North 20th Street, Tootle Road and
Mayberry Loop Road were also encouraged. Zoning to allow additional mobile
home development was discouraged in the Crab Point area. Since the adoption of
the 1999 update, Morehead City has adjusted its Thoroughfare Plan to include
improvements to the three aforementioned corridors. In addition, no new rezonings
in Crab Point that would increase the number of manufactured housing
developments have been approved.

H. Neighborhood 8
With this update of the Land Use Plan, Neighborhood 8 has been divided into two
planning areas. The new Neighborhood 8 is located west of Neighborhood 5 and is
bounded by the Norfolk-Southern Railway, Hull Swamp, the Newport River and the
westernmost boundary of Neighborhood 5. This area is generally referred to as
Wildwood. The new planning area of Neighborhood 10 has been created from the
old southern portion of Neighborhood 8.

This neighborhood is primarily residential with numerous large undeveloped tracts
located between the railroad and the Newport River. The majority of Neighborhood 8
is zoned for low-density residential use. The Crystal Coast Business Park on Old
Airport Road is zoned for industrial use and is counted as one of three industrial
hubs in Carteret County. The other two hubs being the NC State Port and Jarrett
Bay off Highway 101.

Growth potential in Neighborhood 8 is high where adequate support utilities can be
extended. Neighborhood 8 contains the third largest amount of vacant land among
the ten neighborhood planning areas. Industrial development is projected along the
Business Drive Extension and along the railroad. Influencing features include the
proposed connector between NC 24 and US 70 in the vicinity of Little Nine Road, the
Norfolk Southern Railroad, and Hull Swamp. Recent road improvements, including
the Business Drive Extension, add to the growth potential of this neighborhood.

Policy statements contained in the 1999 update encouraged annexation of property
to promote economic development and supported installation of water system
improvements to promote economic and industrial development. Since the adoption
of the 1999 update, the Crystal Coast Business Park has been annexed.

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I. Neighborhood 9
This neighborhood generally includes (i) properties along the Bogue Sound waterfront
on the south side of NC Highway 24 from Spooners Creek to the Gull Harbor
subdivision, which is located at the southwestern most boundary of the town’s ETJ
and (ii) the Brandywine Bay golf course development and surrounding properties.

Neighborhood 9 is primarily residential. The largest residential developments in this
neighborhood include Brandywine Bay, Bogue Village, Bogue Landing, Spooners
Creek West, the Village at Camp Morehead by the Sea, Phillips Landing and Bay
Colony.
The major institutional and recreational uses in Neighborhood 9 include the
Brandywine Bay golf course, several churches and a cemetery. Commercial uses
are limited and there are no industrial uses located within Neighborhood 9. Several
tracts located on the west side of McCabe Road are currently used for agricultural
purposes. The majority of the undeveloped and vacant land within this neighborhood
is located on the south side of NC 24 and on the west side of McCabe Road.

The majority of this neighborhood is within residential zoning classifications that
permit a density of 2 to 3 dwelling units per acre. The Brandywine Bay development
is zoned PD, Planned Development. The greatest potential for growth in this
neighborhood is low-density residential development. The natural and man-made
features that influence Neighborhood 9 include NC 24, Spooners Creek, and Bogue
Sound.

As with other primarily residential neighborhoods, policies contained in the 1999
update encourage low-density development in areas where there is no public water
or sewer available. Medium density development is allowed where there is public
water or sewer available. There is a policy statement that encourages better
connectivity between the residential developments along the NC 24 corridor. The
extension of Little Nine Drive south to intersect with Highway 24 is also mentioned.
Any development that occurred in the area since the adoption of the 1999 update
was completed only after a review of the neighborhood policy statements.

J. Neighborhood 10
Neighborhood 10 has been delineated since the 1999 update to include an area
previously found in Neighborhood 8. It is best described as south of the Norfolk
Southern Railroad and Neighborhood 8, north of Mitchell Village and Spooners
Creek, east and north of Brandywine Bay and west of Neighborhood 6.

This neighborhood includes three distinct subareas. Subarea (i) is primarily composed
of commercial and industrial lots abutting the US 70 corridor from the US 70 / NC 24
intersection to the western terminus of the town’s extraterritorial planning jurisdiction.
Subarea (ii) includes chiefly commercial and vacant lots abutting the north side of NC
24 corridor from the US 70 / NC 24 intersection to just east of the Brandywine Bay
development. Subarea (iii) encompasses the mixture of commercial and residential
uses north of US 70 and south of the Norfolk Southern Railroad that parallels US 70.

The majority of subareas (i) and (ii) are zoned for commercial use-highway
commercial, shopping center, and office and professional. The remaining areas in
Neighborhood 10 are zoned primarily for low-density residential use.
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Policy statements contained in the 1999 update supported coordination with NCDOT
on sidewalks and landscaping improvements, encouraged annexation of property to
promote economic development and supported installation of water system
improvements to promote economic and industrial development. Other policies
supported improved recreational opportunities by development of a park in the
neighborhood, limiting curb cuts on US 70 and NC 24 by requiring interconnected
parking lots and connecting the water mains between Morehead City and Newport.
Since the adoption of the current land use plan, Morehead City has successfully
completed improvements to the water system, including the construction of an
elevated water tank. Site plan reviews for new commercial development require
interconnected parking lots. Morehead City and Newport have also successfully
connected their water mains which will provide backup water supplies for each
community.

Since the 1999 update, commercial growth along US 70 and in the vicinity of the US
70 / NC 24 intersection has been strong, resulting in the opening of several new or
expanded businesses, including a new Super Wal-Mart and Lowes Home
Improvement Store. Outside of the downtown area, Neighborhood 10 is now the
main commercial area in Morehead City and Carteret County. Also, Morehead City
has been working to develop a road connection in the vicinity of Little Nine Drive
between NC 24 and US 70.

Growth potential in Neighborhood 10 is high, particularly along the US 70 and NC 24
corridors and in areas where adequate support utilities can be extended. Continued
retail and commercial services development is anticipated along the highway
corridors. Industrial development is projected along Little Nine Road and along the
railroad. The recent connection of the Newport and Morehead City water systems
also contributes to the attractiveness of the area for growth. Features that have the
potential to influence growth include the Bridges Street Extension, the Norfolk
Southern Railroad, the existing US 70 and NC 24 highways and the recently
connected water line with Newport.

The following table shows the number of acres in each land use category by
neighborhood:
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Table 3.26
Morehead City Existing Land Use by Neighborhood (in acres)

Neighborhood

Residential

Commercial

Industrial

Institutional
Ag/Open
Space

Undeveloped
Total Area in
Neighborhood
1 47 36 217 32 53 297 682
2 109 1 0 5 2 7 124
3 92 24 11 74 2 50 253
4 161 65 11 138 0 103 478
5 752 7 10 102 36 1,308 2,215
6 162 82 3 6 146 208 607
7 859 5 6 17 317 1,487 2,691
8 503 38 25 1 53 1,188 1,808
9 466 22 0 51 290 384 1,213
10 93 313 30 5 46 310 797
Total 3,244 593 313 431 945 5,342 10,868
Percent of
Total
29.8% 5.5% 2.9% 4.0% 8.7% 49.2% 100%

Over 50% of the total land area in Morehead City is developed. Vacant or
undeveloped land makes up approximately 49% of the total area within the
Morehead City planning jurisdiction. Approximately 60% of the developed area (30%
of the total land area) within the Morehead City planning jurisdiction is in residential
use. Commercial uses represent approximately 11% of the developed area (5% of
the total), industrial uses comprise approximately 5% of the developed area (3% of
the total) and institutional uses represent 7% of the developed area (4% of the total).
Agriculture/open space (which includes farming operations, parks, recreation areas
and golf courses) represents approximately 17% of areas considered as developed
(9% of the total area). Figure 4, Existing Land Use shows the land use for each
parcel in the planning area.

Since the 1999 update, the percentage of developed land used for residential
purposes has decreased slightly from approximately 68% to about 60%, while all
other uses have shown an increase. In general, there is potential for growth in all of
the neighborhoods. In Neighborhood 1, further development of Radio Island is
expected to occur, with a mix of industrial, residential and recreational uses. The
downtown business area is expected to experience continued restoration and
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redevelopment. Given the attractiveness of Morehead City as a retirement/second
home destination and the rising monetary value of waterfront property, the
established waterfront residential areas along the Bogue Sound and Calico Creek
waterfronts in Neighborhoods 1, 2 and 3 are expected to experience redevelopment
pressures. Neighborhood 4 has large amounts of undeveloped property, existing
infrastructure, including improved roads and varied zoning, that will allow for mixed
uses. The potential for low-density residential uses is strong in Neighborhood 5. Also
in Neighborhood 5, the potential for light industrial and intense commercial uses are
good along Bridges Street Extension. Neighborhood 7, particularly along the Country
Club Road corridor, has good growth potential for low-density residential uses,
provided that constraints to development can be overcome. Given the existence of
numerous large undeveloped tracts, as well as the Crystal Coast Business Park, the
potential for residential and industrial development is good in Neighborhood 8 in
areas where adequate support utilities can be extended. The greatest potential for
growth in Neighborhood 9 is continued low-density residential development. The
potential for retail and commercial growth in Neighborhood 10 is high in areas where
adequate utilities can be extended, particularly along the US 70 and NC 24 corridors.
Industrial development is expected along Little Nine Road and the railroad.

3.3.3 Watershed Development
The level of development in a watershed is an essential consideration in developing land
use policies to protect open shellfish waters and restore closed shellfish waters, as
required by the Coastal Resources Commission. There is a link between the type and
intensity of land use and nonpoint source pollution has been established.

The land area within the Morehead City planning jurisdiction is located within three small
(14-digit hydrologic) watersheds. These watersheds do not correspond to municipal or
county boundaries. Therefore, it is important to note that portions of these watersheds
are not under the jurisdiction of the Town.

Table 3.27 shows the number of acres of each of these watersheds that are under
Morehead City jurisdiction and the percent of these areas that are developed. The
percentage calculations are based on the area that the town actually has the ability to
influence. Other land exists in the watershed but it is under different planning
jurisdictions. In this table, ‘developed’ includes agricultural areas as these areas can
contribute sediment and pollutants to surface water, thus impacting water quality.

Table 3.27
Watershed Development in Morehead City (in acres)

Watershed
Land under
Jurisdiction

Developed

Undeveloped
Percent
Developed
03020106030070 9564 ac 4858 ac 4706 ac 50.8
03020106030060 367 ac 260 ac 107 ac 70.8
03020106030020 1346 ac 921 ac 425 ac 68.4

*Total acres of land in watershed exceed land use total acreage. Watershed
development includes roads

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3.3.4 Land Use and Land / Water Conflicts
Existing and potential land uses that have negative impacts on water quality are
identified below:
• In recent years, a major compatibility problem has centered on land
development in areas classified as wetlands (also referred to as non-
coastal wetlands, freshwater wetlands and “404” wetlands). The
delineation of wetland boundaries is often controversial and their
presence can alter or preclude land development proposals.
Consequently, the goal of protecting or preserving wetlands and water
quality often conflicts with economic development objectives. To minimize
the potential of this conflict, Morehead City has implemented a policy of
reviewing all development plans with the regulatory branch of the US
Army Corps of Engineers.
• The Town of Morehead City’s Wastewater Treatment Plant discharges
into Calico Creek, which is classified as a Primary Nursery Area. Due in
part to a pattern of heavy rains in recent years, the facility has repeatedly
exceeded its permitted limits. The Town has identified and implemented
corrective actions, including removing sources of rainwater inflow and
groundwater infiltration. The facility was previously under a sewer line
moratorium. The purpose of the moratorium was to facilitate a sewer
rehabilitation project that was started in June 2003. Sewer system
improvements included in the project are expected to reduce extraneous
infiltration from the system and hopefully improve water quality in Calico
Creek.
• Stormwater concerns also impact the existing and planned road
improvements that serve development in the Morehead City planning
jurisdiction. The Carteret County Transportation Committee has
recommended to the NCDOT that stormwater improvements for the
Towns of Morehead City and Beaufort be included as a priority in the
2006-2012 Transportation Improvement Program. Stormwater drainage
problems along US 70 (Arendell Street) from the state port to Carteret
General Hospital and Carteret Community College are noted as a
particular problem, although other roadways also experience stormwater
drainage problems. The existing drainage system has deteriorated and is
not large enough to handle stormwater runoff in many areas. This leads
to ponding and hazardous driving conditions.
• Septic system failure problems exist with some of the older systems in the
Town’s extraterritorial jurisdiction, and affect water quality in nearby
waters.

Potential and existing land use conflicts in the Morehead City planning jurisdiction
include the following:
• Ongoing development of Radio Island may result in conflicts between
industrial (state port-related), residential and recreational uses. The
potential for hazardous uses would result in negative impacts on both
residential and recreational uses, including quality of life issues and
potential property devaluations.
• Continuing industrial development of the Crystal Coast Business Park
may conflict with nearby existing and adjacent future residential uses. It
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will be important to consider buffering requirements, potential rezonings
and other tools to prevent these potential conflicts.
• Industrial uses in predominantly residential areas exist in parts of
Morehead City. Of particular concern is the railroad “Y” area located on
Arendell Street near the approach to the Atlantic Beach Causeway.
Existing zoning would allow another industrial use on the site.
• Blighted areas, mostly consisting of dilapidated housing structures
interspersed with newer, more expensive development, are scattered
throughout the jurisdiction. This is a particular problem in the older
waterfront areas of Neighborhoods 1, 2 and 3.
• The Town requires public waterfront street/alley ends on Bogue Sound to
remain open for public access. Although some of the street ends have
been improved, the resulting public access function has created some
conflicts with neighborhood residents.

3.3.5 Land Needs Forecast
The following table provides short and long-term projections of residential land area
needed to accommodate the projected future permanent and seasonal population
projections. These land needs projections are based, in part, upon permanent
population projections for Carteret County prepared by the NC State Data Center
(Section 3.1.4 A) and on seasonal and peak population projections (Section 3.1.4 B.).
The 7B Guidelines allow the projections of land needs to be increased by up to 50
percent to account for unanticipated growth and to provide market flexibility.

The table also projects commercial, industrial, and public and institutional land needs
through 2025. Nonresidential land needs projections are based upon the proportional
relationship of each of the nonresidential land use categories to total existing residential
land as demonstrated in the existing land use patterns evaluated in Section 3.3.2,
Existing Land Use. Commercially-used land represents about 18 percent of the existing
residential acreage, industrially-used land approximately 15 percent, and public and
institutionally-used acreage about 13 percent. The nonresidential land needs projections
assume that these proportional ratios will remain constant in future years.

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Table 3.28 Land Needs Projections
Morehead City Planning Jurisdiction
Total
2000-2005 2005-2010 2010-2015 2015-2020 2020-2025 2000-2025
Projected
Permanent
Population
14,869 15,622 16,166 16,669 17,033 ---
Permanent
Population
Increase
771 753 544 502 365 2,935
Permanent
Dwelling Unit
Increase*
378 369 267 246 179 1,439
Seasonal
Dwelling Unit
Increase**
36 36 26 24 17 139
Total Dwelling
Unit Increase
414 405 292 270 196 1,577
Residential
Acres Per
Dwelling
Unit***
1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 ---
Additional
Residential
Acres Needed
414 405 292 270 196 1,577
Total
Residential
Acres w/50%
Adjustment
621 607 438 404 294 2,366
Additional
Commercial
Acres Needed
114 111 80 74 54 433
Additional
Industrial
Acres Needed
93 91 66 61 44 355
Additional
Public and
Institutional
Acres Needed
83 81 58 54 39 315
* Assumes 2.07 pph
** Assumes 12.6% of permanent du will be seasonal du
*** Assumes 1.0 acre per du
Nonresidential land needs projections are based upon the current approximate proportional relationship of
each category of nonresidential land to residential land.
Source: The Wooten Company, October 2006

It appears that sufficient undeveloped land and redevelopable tracts currently exist
within or on the immediate periphery of the current Morehead planning jurisdictional area
to meet projected residential and nonresidential land needs through 2025.

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3.4 Community Facilities Analysis

This section of the Land Use Plan analyzes the existing and planned capacity and adequacy of
the water, wastewater, and transportation systems of Morehead City and its planning
jurisdiction. Maps of the water, sewer and transportations systems are included in Appendix D.

The W ater and Sewer Systems Map (see Figure 11 in Appendix D) shows the approximate
location of the Town of Morehead City’s water lines and sewer lines as well as water supply
wells and storage tanks. Virtually all primary and secondary roads in the town have water and
sewer lines, and portions of the ETJ are also served. Drainage system adequacy is briefly
addresses in the transportation section. It is impossible to pinpoint the exact areas with drainage
problems as only part of the drainage infrastructure within the city limits is mapped and there is
very little data associated with it. Most surveys of the drainage systems note problems, such as
ponding due to a clogged pipe, at the time of the survey but do not address long term issues.

3.4.1 Water
The Town of Morehead City’s water system is operated as a division of the Public
Utilities Department. Five wells located throughout the Town of Morehead City and its
extra territorial jurisdiction (ETJ) provide raw water supply for the system (NCDENR
2002). The raw water is treated with chlorine and fluoride at each of the 5 wells before it
enters the system. According to the 2003 W ater Quality Report, the system had no
violations and drinking water met or exceeded all federal and state requirements (Town
of Morehead City-A 2003).

The town has approximately 4,944 metered connections. Of these connections, 82.3%
are residential, 16.6% are commercial, 1.0% is institutional and 0.1% is industrial
(NCDENR 2002).

The system has approximately 2.55 million gallons per day (MGD) of available supply
NCDENR 2002). Average daily use, according to the 2002 Town of Morehead City
W ater Supply Plan, is 1.178 MGD or 46.2% of the current available supply. The Public
Utilities Department estimates the average daily demand will grow to 1.514 MGD in
2020 or 48% of the current available supply (NCDENR 2002). The future demand is
below 80% of available supply, which is the maximum allowed without adding additional
supply. The system has three storage tanks with a combined total storage of
approximately 1.5 million gallons of water (NCDENR 2002).

According to the town’s 2002 W ater Supply Plan, the average annual daily water use
was 1.178 MGD with a peak daily use of 1.870 MGD. The average annual daily use in
2002 was 0.540 MGD for residential uses, 0.299 MGD for commercial customers, 0.043
MGD for industrial uses and 0.083 MGD for institutional uses. W ater used by the
system accounted for 0.982 MGD and there was .016 MGD of unaccounted for water
(leaks etc.)

Projected average daily demand is expected to increase from the current level of 1.178
MGD to 1.966 MGD by 2030, or to 63 percent of the total available supply. The
projected average annual daily use in 2030 is expected to be 0.901 MGD for residential
uses, 0.499 MGD for commercial customers, 0.072 MGD for industrial uses, and 0.138
MGD for institutional uses. W ater used by the system in 2030 is estimated to account
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for 1.638 MGD and there is anticipated to be 0.328 MGD of unaccounted for water
(leaks etc.) Average daily water demand is not projected to exceed 63 percent of
available supply through 2030.

The following table summarizes projected water supply demand and needs for the
town’s water system:

2010 2020 2030
Year-Round Service Area Population 8,900 10,000 13,000
Seasonal Service Area Population 11,000 13,000 18,000
Total Service Area Demand, MGD 1.346 1.514 1.966
Total Available W ater Supply, MGD 3.126 3.126 3.126
Total Average Daily Demand, MGD 1.346 1.514 1.966
Demand as Percent of Supply 43% 48% 63%
Additional Supply Needed to Maintain 80% of Available Supply,
MGD
0.000 0.000 0.000
Source: Morehead City 2002 Water Supply Plan

Future system plans include adding a sixth well providing an additional 0.576 MGD of
supply to the system in 2010 (NCDENR 2002). The location of this new well is currently
undetermined. The Public Utilities Department has noted that the system may need
additional water treatment to meet Tri-Halo Methane (THM) standards and/or color
standards in the drinking water (NCDENR 2002).

3.4.2 Sewer
The Town of Morehead City’s W astewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) is also operated as
a division of the Public Utilities Department. The facility is a permitted 1.7 million gallon
per day (MGD) treatment plant which consists of primary clarifiers, trickling filters,
secondary clarifiers and chlorination (Town of Morehead City-B 2003). The wastewater
treatment plant has a design capacity of 2.8 MGD. The discharge receiving stream is
Calico Creek in the W hite Oak River Basin.

The facility was previously under a sewer line moratorium that was imposed in April 1999
by the NC Division of Water Quality (NCDW Q 2004). Under this moratorium, limits were
set for particular parameters under the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System
(NPDES) Permit could be relaxed for a time determined to be reasonable for making
necessary improvements to the facility (NCDWQ 2004). The purpose of the moratorium
was to facilitate a $3,000,000 sewer rehabilitation project. This project began in June
2003 and includes replacement of approximately 250 manholes and five miles of sewer
line to help reduce the inflow/infiltration of rainwater that enters the sewer collection
system (Town of Morehead City-B 2003). This has resulted in the elimination of
approximately 264,028 gallons per day of extraneous infiltration from the system (Town
of Morehead City-B 2003). Additional work is anticipated to provide additional
improvements toward meeting the goals of the project.

The normal hydraulic design of the wastewater treatment facility for the year 2030 is
projected at 2.66 MGD, with facilities to handle individual day peak hydraulic loads of up
to 4.0 MGD. In 2030 the land use breakdown will be as follows (based on current
percentage of total use): for residential uses is 1.68 MGD, 0.86 MGD for commercial
uses, 0.03 MGD for industrial use, 0.09 MGD for institutional uses, and 0.00 MGD for
plant use and maintenance. It has been recommended that planning for proposed
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improvements to the wastewater treatment facility tentatively provide for a daily hydraulic
capacity of 3.0 MGD. In addition, it has been recommended that the wastewater
treatment facility be designed to accommodate peak daily flows of 4.5 MGD.

In 2000 the W astewater Treatment Plant was fined two times for limit violations at a cost
of $1040.55 for each violation (NCDENR 2004) (Town of Morehead City-B 2000). The
facility repeatedly exceeded its permitted limit of 1.7 MGD in 2003 due to the area
receiving 91.5 inches of rainfall (average annual rainfall is 55 inches per year.) The Town
exceeded the monthly average Wastewater Treatment Plant flow for 8 of the 12 months.
Future plans for the W astewater Treatment Plant through 2010 include expansion of the
facility infrastructure to treat 2.5 MGD (NCDENR 2002).

3.4.3 Transportation
The 1996 NC Department of Transportation (NCDOT) Transportation Improvement
Program (TIP) listed two major highway projects that impact Morehead City. Both of
these projects have been completed. The Bridges Street Extension from its previous
terminus at Arendell Street westward to the US Highway 70 / NC Highway 24
intersection was completed in 1998. The second highway improvements project listed in
the TIP involved the multi-lane widening of NC Highway 24 from Swansboro to US
Highway 70 in Morehead City and was completed in 2001.

The NCDOT Transportation Improvement Program for 2004-2010 does not include any
projects for Morehead City. The Carteret County Transportation Committee presented
transportation priorities for the county to NCDOT in November of 2003 to be considered
for inclusion in the 2006-2012 TIP.

The Committee report identified six priorities for the 2006-2012 Transportation
Improvement Program. Five of these pertain to the US 70 corridor. Although only one
priority would actually take place within the Town of Morehead City’s planning
jurisdiction, all of the projects will affect the municipality.

The highest priority recommended by the Carteret County Transportation Committee is
the replacement of the Gallants Channel Bridge. The second priority for the County is
the completion of bypasses at Clayton, Goldsboro, Kinston, and Havelock as well as
projects between these cities so that Highway 70 will be a fully controlled-access
freeway from Raleigh to the Port of Morehead City. The third priority involves widening
and improvement of US 70 from Beaufort to East Carteret High School.

The fourth priority consists of stormwater improvements for Beaufort and Morehead City.
The report notes there are stormwater drainage problems in the older sections along US
70 from the Port of Morehead City to Carteret General Hospital and Carteret Community
College. The existing system has deteriorated and is not large enough to handle
stormwater run-off in many areas. This leads to ponding of stormwater and hazardous
driving conditions. Currently, a feasibility study is recommended as the scope of these
needed improvements is beyond the capabilities of the NCDOT Division 2 budget.
Priority five is the widening and improvement of the Newport River Bridge. Priority six is
construction of the Northern Bypass from the Havelock Bypass to the Port of Morehead
City. A preliminary environmental feasibility study identified three potential locations for
the bypass.

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The Carteret County Transportation Committee also reported on roads that were at or
near capacity in the county in 1996. In the Morehead City planning jurisdiction, US 70
was near capacity from the western edge of the planning area to Old Murdock Road and
from 24th to 4th Streets. It was at or over capacity from Old Murdock Road to 24th Street
and from 4th Street to Radio Island. Other road sections near capacity include a section
of Country Club Road less than one mile in length near the intersection with US 70, 35th
Street between US 70 and Bridges Street, and Bridges Street near Barbour Road.
Projections for 2025 show the above-mentioned road sections at or over capacity.
Country Club Road from US 70 to N 35th Street and Bridges Street from 35th Street
East to US 70 will be near capacity.

Comparing traffic volumes over time is a good indicator of areas where growth is
occurring. For those roads monitored in the same location in 1999 and 2002, all but two
(Bridges Street between 24th and 25th Streets and US 70 between 8th and 9th Streets)
saw an increase in traffic volume (Table 3.29). The Transportation Systems Map (see
Figure 12 in Appendix D) shows the locations of roads at or near capacity, roads over
capacity and the locations of the traffic count points.

Table 3.29
Traffic Volumes in Morehead City
Location 1999 2002
West of the US 70/NC 24 Intersection 27,000 31,000
Country Club Rd near intersection with US 70 N/A 120
East of the US 70/NC 24 Intersection 30,000 32,000
Friendly Rd near intersection with US 70 N/A 5,500
US 70 east of intersection with N 35th St N/A 31,000
US 70 between N 35th St and Taylor St 26,000 30,000
US 70 between 28th and 30th Streets 25,000 31,000
Bridges St between 24th and 25th Streets 14,000 13,000
US 70 between 19th and 20th Streets N/A 25,000
US 70 between 8th and 9th Streets 21,000 21,000
Country Club Rd near the intersection with Tootle Rd 4,300 5,200
Mayberry Loop Rd between N 20th St and Mizzell Rd 1,100 1,300
N 20th St north of intersection with Golden Ln 3,500 3,700
Source: NCDOT 1999, NCDOT 2002

In 1992 NCDOT, in cooperation with the Towns of Morehead City and Beaufort, Carteret
County and the Federal Highway Administration, completed the Morehead City /
Beaufort Thoroughfare Plan. The planning period for the study extended through 2010.
The 1992 Thoroughfare Plan has as its major objective improving operational efficiency
through street system coordination and layout. The plan considered existing and
projected conditions, including population statistics and projections, vehicle usage trends
and transportation needs of the area. The study compared traffic volumes to road
capacities, considered parking needs and identified problem areas as indicated by traffic
accident records.

In addition to the capacity issues identified by the Carteret County Transportation
Committee, the 1992 Thoroughfare Plan identified the following local areas which are at
or exceed their practical capacity: NC 24 west of the US 70 / NC 24 intersection and the
Causeway from Morehead City to Atlantic Beach. Projections by the NCDOT indicate
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that by 2010, Barbour Road, 20th Street / Crab Point Road and a portion of Mayberry
Loop Road will also be near or exceeding practical capacity.

Major recommendations contained in the 1992 Thoroughfare Plan include the following:

• A new east-west road in the Crab Point area
• An extension of Bridges Street westward past the US 70 / NC 24
intersection
• A new street tying Country Club Road to Arendell Street west of the
Swinson Park area
• An interchange at the intersection of US 70 and NC 24

Additional transportation improvement goals and issues identified by Morehead City
officials for the planning period include the following:

• Developing a connector road between US 70 and NC 24 in the vicinity of
Little Nine Drive to provide a link between the Crystal Coast Business
Park and NC 24 (Business Drive Extension has been completed to
provide multiple access to industrial sites at the Business Park,
convenient access to NC 24 will improve opportunities for further
development of the Business Park)
• Straightening of the curve in the Mayberry Loop Road
• Decreasing the number of traffic lights on US 70
• Balancing the functionality of US 70 with rights of property owners to
develop and redevelop property
• Promoting of the Morehead City waterfront as a destination of traveling
boaters along the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway
• Installing additional sidewalks along area streets / Morehead Alternative
Transportation System (MATS)

Parts of MATS have been implemented since the last plan update and when complete
will provide a network of sidewalks throughout the Town’s planning area. A connected
sidewalk system has been installed on the south side of Arendell Street from Rochelle
Drive to the downtown area. Sidewalk construction is under contract to be constructed
along portions of Country Club Road and Bridges Street Extension. Sidewalks are also
planned along NC 24 within the town limits and into the ETJ.

Air service to Morehead City is provided by the county owned Beaufort–Morehead City
Airport located in Beaufort, which provides three runways that accommodate single and
twin engine aircraft. Commercial airports are located in nearby New Bern and
Jacksonville. Rail freight service to the area is provided by Atlantic and East Carolina
Railway. The Port of Morehead City provides water transportation services, specializing
in bulk, break bulk and specialty cargoes. Commercial bus service is available to the
area through Seashore Transportation Company (Trailways). Major truck lines serving
Morehead City include Estes Express, Old Dominion, Roadway Express, Southeastern
Freight and Yellow Freight.

3.4.4 Stormwater
The existing stormwater drainage facilities within the Town of Morehead City consist of a
system of piping, catch basins, drainage ditches, and swales (see Figure 13 in Appendix
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D). Approximately two-thirds of the 22.8 miles of stormwater piping consists of concrete
pipes; the remainder is composed of vitrified clay, corrugated metal, PVC, and steel
pipes. Pipe sizes range from 2 to 48 inches. Over half of the pipes are 12 to 15 inches
in diameter. Of the total 1,080 catch basins in the storm drain system, a recent
assessment determined that 80 percent functioned properly. Blockage, ponding, and
structural problems were reported for the remaining 20 percent of the catch basins.

The Town’s existing stormwater management program involves:
• Maintaining existing ditches.
• Building new city projects utilizing low impact development design
techniques (i.e. Rotary Park).
• Updating stormwater facilities as part of street improvement projects.
Such projects usually include the installation of underground storage
facilities that allow seepage.
• Development of a draft stormwater management ordinance. The draft
ordinance has not been adopted and implemented due to insufficient
staffing to enforce the ordinance. Once the adequate staff is hired,
adoption and administration of the ordinance is anticipated.
• Maintaining a database and maps of the existing stormwater system.
• Identifying illicit discharge areas.
• Reporting malfunctioning/poorly maintained stormwater ponds to the
State.
The Town of Morehead City has agreed to the following voluntary mitigation measure to
address the impacts of increased stormwater resulting from increased development
associated with the expanded wastewater treatment plant capacity:

1. No sewer service to Sugarloaf Island, Haystacks Marshes, Newport
Marshes (more specifically identified as being west of Northwoods
Subdivision, north of Westhaven Subdivision and east of now/formerly
Luther Jones property) and Phillips Island.

2. To the maximum extent practical, by the completion of the new
wastewater treatment plant, the Town will proceed with voluntarily
developing and implementing a local stormwater management program
for the Town’s entire jurisdiction designed to utilize measures identified in
the State of North Carolina’s NPDES Stormwater program including:
a. Public Education
b. Public Involvement
c. Illicit Discharge Detection & Elimination
d. Construction Site Stormwater Runoff Controls
e. Post Construction Stormwater Management.
f. Municipal Housekeeping & Pollution Prevention

3. Inventory potential opportunities for Clean W ater Management Trust Fund
grant applications which include identification of environmentally sensitive
areas and pursue grant funding.

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4. Pursue grants to enhance and complement the Advanced Identification of
Wetlands mapping that was completed for Carteret County in the 1990’s,
including Morehead City.

5. Continued cooperative efforts between various state agencies and
environmental groups to evaluate and improve stormwater management
in Morehead City (i.e. Visitor’s Center Stormwater Project).

6. No additional or enlarged stormwater discharge points into SA waters in
accordance with State regulations.

7. In an effort to mitigate and reduce wastewater and existing stormwater
discharges into Calico Creek, the Town will complete an inventory of
existing stormwater discharges and evaluate retrofit opportunities prior to
completion of the new wastewater treatment plant. It will also pursue
projects such as the demonstration water reuse project which pipes
discharge to a 5-acre sod area on North 25th Street. The Town will
pursue grant funding to complete this study and to fund retrofit
opportunities.

8. Pursue staff training to assist the state in monitoring stormwater projects.
Implement a model ‘Community Watch’ system as an extension of the
State’s stormwater program and convey collected data to the Division of
Water Quality.

9. Conduct a self-evaluation of existing ordinances and policies utilizing the
Watershed Protection Manual provided by the Center for W atershed
Protection.

3.5 Land Suitability Analysis

The land suitability analysis (LSA) is a process for identifying land in the Morehead City
planning jurisdiction that is most suitable for development. The analysis is not intended to “rule
out” any land or site from development. The LSA simply ranks land from least suitable to most
suitable for development. It is intended to provide this information to local decision-makers in
order to guide the formulation of local policies.

The LSA is based on consideration of several factors. These include the following:
• Natural features and their capabilities
• Existing development
• Compatibility with existing land uses
• Proximity/availability of community facilities
• Regulatory restrictions on land development

As part of the land suitability analysis, the CAMA Land Use Planning Guidelines require the
development of a Land Suitability Map. The Division of Coastal Management (DCM), in
conjunction with the NC Center for Geographic Information and Analysis, has provided a
geographic information system-based model for analyzing land suitability and development of
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the LSA map. This system utilizes the suitability factors shown in the table on the following
page.

The LSA model puts land areas into one of four categories: least, low, medium, and high
suitability. Areas that are the most undesirable for development, such as coastal wetlands, are
placed into the least suitable category and cannot be weighted or changed in the model.

The remaining characteristics, such as soil septic suitability or proximity to water lines, are
weighted as important, very important or extremely important in determining suitability. Using a
weighting scale, the local planners and decision-makers can determine the relative importance
of these characteristics. The chart below illustrates the weighting scale.

Relative Importance Numerical Weight
Important 1
Very important 2
Extremely important 3

To develop the local LSA map, the Land Use Plan Advisory Committee assigned numerical
weights indicating the relative importance of each factor. The following table represents the
factors included in the analysis, the suitability rating of each factor and the locally assigned
weights:

Table 3.30
Morehead City Land Suitability Analysis Weights

Suitability Factor
Least
Suitable
Rating
Low
Suitability
Rating
Medium
Suitability
Rating
High
Suitability
Rating
Local
Assigned
Weight
(A) Coastal Wetlands Inside Outside n/a
(B) Exceptional & Substantial
Noncoastal W etlands
Inside Outside n/a
(C) Estuarine W aters Inside Outside n/a
(D) Protected Lands Inside Outside n/a
(E) Beneficial Noncoastal
Wetlands
Inside Outside 2
(F) High Quality Waters Inside Outside 1
(G) Storm Surge Areas Inside Outside 1
(H) Soils with septic limitations Severe Moderate Slight 3
(I) Flood Zones Inside Outside 2
(J) Significant Natural Heritage
Areas
<500’ >500’ 1
(K) Hazardous Substance
Disposal Sites
<500’ >500’ 1
(L) NPDES Sites <500’ >500’ 1
(M) W astewater Treatment
Plants
<500’ >500’ 1
(N) Sewer Discharge Points <500’ >500’ 1
(O) Airports <500’ >500’ 1
(P) Developed Land >1 mi .5 – 1 mi <.5 mi 2
(Q) Primary Roads >1 mi .5 – 1 mi <.5 mi 2
(R) W ater Pipes >.5 mi .25 – .5 mi <.25 mi 3
(S) Sewer Pipes >.5 mi .25 – .5 mi <.25 mi 3

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The suitabilities have been established in the LSA model by DCM. Factors in rows A through D
are least suitable for development and cannot be weighted. However, the Land Use Plan
Advisory Committee has determined the importance of each of the other factors (rows E through
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S) and assigned weights (1, 2 or 3) to meet local goals and policies. Weights have been
assigned based on the local government’s determination of the importance of each factor as it
relates to suitability to development. The following categories remained at their default
classification: High Quality W aters, Flood Zones, Hazardous Substance Disposal Sites, NPDES
Sites, Wastewater Treatment Plants, Sewer Discharge Points, Airports, Primary Roads, Water
Pipes, and Sewer Pipes. The Soils with Septic Limitations factor was raised from a default
assigned weight of 1 to a weight of 3. Beneficial Non-coastal Wetlands and Developed Land
were both raised from a default weight of 1 to a weight of 2. Storm Surge and Significant Natural
Heritage Areas were both lowered from a default weight of 2 to a weight of 1. Figure 5, Land
Suitability Map shows the results of the land suitability analysis for the Morehead City planning
jurisdiction.

The map shows four classes of land – least suitable, low suitability, medium suitability and high
suitability. In general, the higher suitability areas are located along the Bogue Sound and Calico
Creek waterfront areas, along major roads and areas served by water and sewer. According to
the land suitability analysis, 15% of the undeveloped land in Morehead City is highly suitable for
development. In addition, 13% is classified as medium suitability, and 13% is classified as low
suitability. Over 58% of the undeveloped land in Morehead City is classified as least suitable for
development.

State Port property, including portions of Radio Island, is identified on the map as it has
statewide significance, but the Town’s jurisdiction over these properties is limited. As shown in
Table 3.27, federal lands fall into the least suitable category because of ownership.

3.6 Review of Existing Policies

The purpose of this section of the Land Use Plan is to evaluate how the 1999 Town of
Morehead City Land Use Plan has been used to guide growth and development and the Town’s
success in implementing policies contained in the plan. Morehead City’s approach to land use
planning is different from most other local governments. The 1999 plan divided the planning
jurisdiction into nine neighborhoods and incorporated specific policy statements for the
individual neighborhoods, as well as citywide policy statements.

3.6.1 Resource Protection Issues
The main resource protection issues discussed during the development of the 1999 plan
and reflected in the adopted policy statements include the following:

• Surface and groundwater quality
• Stormwater runoff impacts to water quality
• Long-term solutions to wastewater treatment and disposal
• Protection of Sugarloaf Island while allowing flexible use options
• Conservation of Phillips Island and the Newport Marshes
• Economic and environmental impacts of deepening Calico Creek
• Preservation of wetlands
• The implication of anticipated sea level rise

Overall, Morehead City’s general policy relating to resource protection is to give the
highest priority to the protection and management of the area’s natural resources.

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Since the adoption of the 1999 CAMA Land Use Plan, Morehead City has accomplished
the following:

• Reviewed and adopted policies to encourage property owners to tie into
the City’s sewer system rather than using septic tanks
• Initiated a slip-lining project of old sewer lines to reduce the amount of
extraneous inflow and infiltration into the City’s waste treatment plant
• Extended sewer lines to properties that had failing septic systems
• Provided water and sewer service to property that was being developed
with marginal soil capacity
• Conducted a storm water study for the corporate limits and the
extraterritorial jurisdiction and worked towards meeting the Phase II
requirements (although Morehead City is not a scheduled Phase II
community)
• Developed an education program for utility customers to encourage water
conservation and adopted incentive programs
• Purchased Sugarloaf Island to preserve it as a natural open space park
with limited improvements
• Assisted the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) with the
development and adoption of more accurate flood maps
• Continued participation in the FEMA Community Rating System and
increased the flood insurance rate reduction to 10%

3.6.2 Economic and Community Development Policies
The main issues that were considered and addressed in the development of these
policies were:

• Maintenance of low residential densities
• Impacts of high-rise development
• Redevelopment of downtown
• Infill development in established residential areas
• Commercial land use encroachment in residential areas
• Economic impact of the North Carolina State Port
• Strip commercial development management adjacent to US 70
• Impact of tourism
• Thoroughfare improvements
• Promotion of voluntary annexations
• Norfolk-Southern Railroad corridor
• Waterfront access
• Industrial development promotion

Morehead City’s overall policy concerning economic and community development is to
consider growth of the community as a desirable objective. Furthermore, the Town
promotes only those types of development that do not significantly impact natural
resources and which retain and maintain the Town’s present character.

Morehead City has made the following advances regarding implementation of policies
addressing the above-mentioned issues:

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• Incorporated a review of the Land Use Plan as a part of the rezoning
decision making process
• Amended the land development ordinances to allow for mixed use
development
• Adjusted procedures to ensure the opportunity to develop affordable
housing
• Updated the City’s Thoroughfare Plan
• Provided financial and staff support to the Downtown Morehead City
Revitalization Association, whose mission is to encourage redevelopment
and restoration of the central business district
• Worked to develop additional on-street parking in the downtown area
• Extended water and sewer service to the Crystal Coast Business Park
and helped coordinate the development of an industrial grade road
leading to the park
• Continued cooperation with federal and state agencies relating to land
development
• Developed and began implementation of a waterfront access plan.

3.6.3 Neighborhood Policies
As noted above, the 1999 Land Use Plan divided the planning jurisdiction into nine
neighborhoods to address specific issues of the different areas.

Neighborhood 1: This is primarily the downtown area and most of the policy statements
deal with improving and enhancing the neighborhood. Since the adoption of the 1999
Land Use Plan, Morehead City has:

• Supported the redevelopment and restoration of the downtown area by
providing staff and financial support to the Downtown Morehead City
Revitalization Association
• Amended ordinances to allow for mixed uses
• Worked to provide additional on-street parking and provided staff to serve
on the downtown parking committee
• Studied alternative traffic patterns to increase available parking
• Continued to work with the NCDOT and NC Railroad to preserve the rail
corridor by closing certain crossings along the US 70 corridor

Neighborhood 2: This area is located south of Arendell Street from 9th to 34th Street.
Many of the policy statements for this neighborhood relate to preserving its residential
characteristic by limiting commercial rezoning requests and maintaining the current use,
density and building height requirements. The plan also contains a policy that waterfront
street/alley ends should remain open for public access. Implementation measures
include:
• Denial of rezoning requests to allow commercial development in this
neighborhood
• Development of a waterfront access plan which requires public waterfront
street/alley ends to remain open and improvement of some of the street
ends in accordance with the Waterfront Access Plan

Neighborhood 3: This area is generally described as north of Arendell Street, south of
Calico Creek, between 14th Street and Barbour Road. Three subareas include the
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Highway 70 corridor, the Bridges Street corridor and residential neighborhoods. The
policy statements speak to maintaining residential areas and providing adequate
screening/buffering between residences and adjacent non-residential properties. Land
use decisions in this neighborhood have been made in conjunction with these policies.

Neighborhood 4: This area can generally be described as south of Mandy Farms
subdivision and west of Barbour Road, including Carteret General Hospital, Carteret
Community College, the Medical Park and Madisen Parke Subdivision. The policy
statements for this neighborhood include allowing mixed land uses, sidewalk/street
improvements to Barbour Road and North 35th Street and reviewing all development
plans with the Corps of Engineers to assure identification of wetlands. Since the
adoption of the City’s current land use plan, Morehead City has:

• Adopted MATS (Morehead Alternative Transportation System) which
provides recommendations for sidewalk and street improvements in the
general area
• Obtained funding through a DOT Enhancement Grant to construct a
sidewalk/bicycle path (a phase of MATS)
• Continued to review development plans with the Corps of Engineers

Neighborhood 5: This is primarily a low-density residential area and includes Country
Club East, Mandy Farms, Morehead City Country Club, Hedrick Estates, Northwoods,
Westhaven, W est Carteret High School, Morehead Primary and Swinson Park. The
neighborhood policy statements include promoting low density housing in areas lacking
public water/sewer, allowing medium density residential development if public
water/sewer exists, limiting curb cuts on Bridges Street Extension and recognizing the
siltation problem in the Newport River. Any development that has occurred in the area
since the adoption of the 1999 update was completed only after a review of the
neighborhood policy statements.

Neighborhood 6: This neighborhood is best described as south of Bridges Street
Extension and west of Oak Drive, including Mitchell Village. Policy statements include
discouraging commercial development along the Bogue Sound waterfront, coordination
with NCDOT on providing sidewalks and landscaping along US 70, maintaining the
character of existing residential areas, improving recreational opportunities and adopting
regulations requiring connecting or shared parking lots to reduce curb cuts on US 70.
Implementation includes the following:

• Extending water and sewer lines to newly annexed property to reduce the
number of septic systems
• Worked with NCDOT to develop a sidewalk along the US 70 corridor and
continue to develop it westward to the commercial areas of town
• Reviewed site plans to assure connected/shared parking lots
• Limited rezoning approvals were limited to those which maintain the
current neighborhood characteristics

Neighborhood 7: This neighborhood is bounded on the south by Calico Creek, the
north and east by the Newport River and the west by Country Club East and Mandy
Farms. Policy statements for this neighborhood include promoting low density
development in areas with no public water and sewer and allowing medium density
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development in areas with public water and sewer, including mobile home parks. Traffic
improvements along North 20th Street, Tootle Road and Mayberry Loop Road are also
encouraged. Zoning in the Crab Point area to allow additional mobile home development
is discouraged. Morehead City, since the adoption of the current land use plan, has:

• Amended the Thoroughfare Plan to address improvements to the above
mentioned corridors
• Denied rezoning requests in Crab Point that would increase the number
of manufactured housing developments

Neighborhood 8: This neighborhood is located west of Neighborhood 5 and includes
the land north of Mitchell Village and Spooner’s Creek. It also includes the land east and
north of Brandywine Bay subdivision. It is generally referred to as W ildwood. Policy
statements include working with the NCDOT on sidewalks and landscaping
improvements, encouraging annexation of property to promote economic development,
installation of water system improvements to promote economic and industrial
development, improving recreational opportunities by developing a park, limiting curb
cuts on US 70 and NC 24 by requiring interconnected parking lots and connecting the
water mains between Morehead City and Newport. Since the adoption of the current
land use plan, Morehead City has:

• Successfully completed improvements to the water system, including the
construction of an elevated water tank
• Annexed the Crystal Coast Business Park into the Town limits
• Reviewed site plans for new commercial development to ensure they
include interconnected parking lots
• Connected water mains between Morehead City and Newport, which will
provide backup water supplies for each community

Neighborhood 9: This neighborhood includes Brandywine Bay and the land south of NC
24 to Mitchell Village. As with other primarily residential neighborhoods, policies
encourage low-density development in the absence of public water or sewer, while
medium density development is allowed where there is public water or sewer.
Transportation policies encourage better connectivity between the residential
developments along the NC 24 corridor and the extension of Little Nine Drive south to
intersect with Highway 24. Implementation measures include:

• Reviewed neighborhood policy statements before approving any
development since the adoption of the 1999 update
• Made efforts to develop a highway connection in the vicinity of Little Nine
Drive between NC 24 and US 70

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SECTION 4 PLAN FOR THE FUTURE

This section of the Plan is organized in accordance with the requirements of Subchapter 7B
.0702(d). Section IV includes goals, land use and development policies, and a future land use
map. This portion of the Plan is intended to guide the development and use of land within the
Morehead City planning jurisdiction in a manner that achieves the community’s goals as well as
the goals of the Coastal Area Management Act program.

Within this section specific definition of terms used in the goals and policies are as follows:

Continue: Follow past and present procedures to maintain desired goal, usually with Town staff
involved at all levels from planning to implementation.

Encourage: To stimulate or foster a particular condition through direct or indirect action the
private sector or through Town regulation, staff recommendation and decisions.

Enhance: Improve existing conditions by increasing the quantity or quality of desired features or
current regulations and decisions towards a desired state through the use of policies and Town
staff involvement at all levels of planning. This could include financial support.

Implement: Actions to guide the accomplishment of the Plan recommendations.

Promote: Advance the desired state through the use of Town policies and codes and Planning
Boards and staff activity at all levels of planning. This may include financial support.

Protect: Guard against a deterioration of the desired state through the use of Town policies and
regulations, staff, and, if needed, financial assistance.

Provide: Take the lead role in supplying the needed financial and staff support to achieve the
desired goal. The Town is typically involved in all aspects from planning to implementation to
maintenance.

Support: Supply the needed staff support, policies, and financial assistance at all levels to
achieve the desired goal.

Work: Cooperate and act in a manner through the use of Town staff, actions, and policies to
create the desired goal.

During the course of the preparation of the land use plan update, specific issues have been
identified that the Town’s goals and policies strive to address. The following table summarizes,
by CRC land use plan management topic, those issues.
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September 28, 2007

Table 4.0
Land Use Issues and Management Topics
Management
Topic

Issue
Providing for public water access to all segments of the community, including
persons with disabilities.
Public Water
Access
Development of comprehensive policies that provide access opportunities for the
public along the shoreline within the planning jurisdiction.
Development of local development policies that balance protection of natural
resources and fragile areas with economic development.
Development of policies that provide clear direction to assist local decision making
and consistency findings for zoning, divisions of land, and public and private
projects.
Compatibility of Town land use regulations in future municipal utility service areas.
Land Use
Compatibility
Development of land use and development policies that minimize adverse impacts
on Areas of Environmental Concern (AECs) and which support overall CAMA goals.
Establishment of service area boundaries for existing and future infrastructure
Development of infrastructure service policies and criteria consistent with future
land needs projections
Correlating future land use map categories with existing and planned infrastructure
such as water, sewer, and transportation facilities
Infrastructure
Carrying Capacity
Ensuring that public infrastructure systems are appropriately sized, located, and
managed so that the quality and productivity of AECs and other fragile areas are
protected or restored
Development of policies that minimize threats to life, property, and natural
resources resulting from land development located in or adjacent to hazard areas
such as those subject to erosion, high winds, storm surge, flooding, or sea level
rise.
Development of location, density, and intensity criteria for new, existing
development, and redevelopment (including public facilities and infrastructure) so
as to avoid or better withstand natural hazards.
Natural Hazard
Areas
Ensuring that existing and planned development is coordinated with existing and
planned evacuation infrastructure.
Development of policies to prevent or control nonpoint source discharges (sewage
and storm water) such as impervious surface limits, vegetated riparian buffers,
wetlands protection, etc.
Establishment of policies and land use categories for protecting open shellfishing
waters and restoring closed shellfishing waters.
Water Quality
Adoption of policies for coastal waters within the planning jurisdiction to help ensure
that water quality is maintained if not impaired and improved if impaired.
Areas of Local
Concern
Identify and address local concerns and issues, such as cultural and historic areas,
scenic areas, economic development, or general health and human service needs.

4.1 Land Use and Development Goals

The formulation of land use and development goals is based upon Morehead City’s evaluation
of its identified concerns and aspirations (Section 2 of this Plan) and the needs and
opportunities identified in the analysis of existing and emerging conditions (Section 3 of this
Plan). These land use plan goals were formulated after a review and analysis of the goals and
objectives contained in the 1999 Town of Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan (see Appendix
J) and the Coastal Resource Commission (CRC) management goals and planning objectives
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Section IV: Plan for the Future
September 28, 2007
(see Appendix F). Delineation of goals is a foundation upon which policy statements can be
built.

The following table summarizes the land use and development goals, organized by CRC land
use plan management topic, that have been formulated by Morehead City.

Table 4.1
Morehead City Land Use and Development Goals
Management Topic Goals
Public Water Access Provide adequate opportunities for public access to coastal waters
Balance growth and development and conservation/preservation of natural
resources
Promote land use and public infrastructure development that is compatible with
land suitability as well as capabilities to provide requisite public services
Land Use
Compatibility
Promote land use and land development compatible with the functional purposes
of Areas of Environmental Concern
Infrastructure
Carrying Capacity
Promote land use and public infrastructure development that is compatible with
land suitability as well as capabilities to provide requisite public services
Natural Hazard Areas Conserve and maintain natural hazard areas
Water Quality Maintain and enhance the water quality of coastal waters
Areas of Local
Concern
Preserve historic and cultural resources
Ensure compatible development along the downtown waterfront
Provide a variety of housing opportunities
Promote diversified economic development

4.2 Land Use and Development Policies

The formulation of land use and development policies is based upon a review and analysis of
policy statements contained in the 1999 Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan (see Section 3.6
of this Plan); an evaluation of identified concerns and aspirations (see Section 2 of this Plan)
and the needs and opportunities identified in the analysis of existing and emerging conditions
(see Section 3 of this Plan); input from the Land Use Plan Advisory Committee, local planning
board, and elected officials; and input obtained through citizen participation efforts including
public informational meetings, and Land Use Plan Advisory Committee meetings.

Table 4.2
Morehead City Land Use and Development Policies
Management Topic Land Use and Development Policies
4.2.1 Public Access to Public Trust Waters
Policy 1: It is the policy of the Town of Morehead City to ensure a variety of
opportunities for access to public trust waters to all segments of the
community, including persons with disabilities.
Policy 2: Morehead City supports the state’s shoreline access policies as
set forth in NCAC Chapter 15A, Subchapter 7M and the goals and
recommendations set forth in the town’s Waterfront Access Plan. The town
will conform to CAMA and other state and federal environmental regulations
affecting the development of estuarine access areas.
Policy 3: The town will continue to ensure that existing water access points,
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Table 4.2
Morehead City Land Use and Development Policies
including street ends and alleys, are not closed.
4.2.2 Land Use Compatibility
Policy 1: It is the policy of the Town of Morehead City to ensure that land
use and development activities provide a balance between economic
development needs and protection of natural resources and fragile
environments.
Policy 2: Morehead City will support growth and development at the
densities specified in the Future Land Use Map land classifications as
delineated in Section 4.5 of this plan.
Policy 3: The town will promote the continued low-density residential
development character of areas located on the fringes of the extraterritorial
jurisdiction and in locations adjacent to identified fragile areas.
4.2.3 Infrastructure Carrying Capacity
Policy 1: It is the policy of the Town of Morehead City to coordinate the
establishment of service area boundaries for existing and future water and
sewer infrastructure with Carteret County, adjoining municipalities, and other
utility providers.
Policy 2: It is the policy of the Town of Morehead City to ensure that public
infrastructure systems are sized, located and managed in accordance with the
need to protect or restore natural resources and fragile environments.
Policy 3: Public water and sewer will be required for all new development
occurring within the town's corporate limits in areas in which municipal sewer
service is available or can be made readily available.
Policy 4: The town supports the use of water conservation practices and
groundwater protection measures in order to prevent lowering the water table,
to limit the quantity of wastewater generated, and to protect the quality of
water.
Policy 5: Package treatment plants may be permitted in areas in which
municipal sewer service is currently unavailable and where the town has
determined that the municipal sewer system is not likely to be extended in the
future, provided that they conform to state permitting requirements and are
designed for compatibility with the Morehead City sewer system in the event of
ultimately tying into the town's system.
Policy 6: The town will encourage land development in areas that currently
have the necessary support infrastructure (water, sewer, streets, etc.) or
where these services can readily be made available. Land development will
be guided to areas that have public water and sewer services and an
adequate street system to accommodate increased land development.
4.2.4 Natural Hazard Areas
Policy 1: It is the policy of the Morehead City to conserve the natural
resources and fragile environments that provide protection from such natural
hazards as floods and storm surges.
Policy 2: It is the policy of the Town of Morehead City to minimize the threat
to life, property, and natural resources that may result from land use and
development within or adjacent to identified natural hazard areas.
Policy 3: The Town will avoid zoning areas located in V-flood zones for high
density residential or intensive nonresidential use.
Policy 4: Based upon the availability of federal and state grant funds, land
acquisition programs will be utilized in the most hazardous areas to minimize
future damage and loss of life.
Policy 5: If any portion of the Town’s public infrastructure is significantly
damaged by a major storm, consideration will be given to the feasibility of
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Table 4.2
Morehead City Land Use and Development Policies
relocating or modifying the affected facilities to prevent the reoccurrence of
storm damage.
4.2.5 Water Quality
Policy 1: It is the policy of the Town of Morehead City to establish land use
and development policies to help ensure that water quality in coastal wetlands,
rivers, streams, and estuaries is maintained if not impaired and improved if
impaired.
Policy 2: Within the corporate limits, extension of water and sewer to areas in
which poor soil conditions create septic field problems shall have the highest
priority when the town undertakes system extensions.
Policy 3: The town encourages voluntary annexation requests to facilitate
adequate wastewater disposal in order to prevent the installation of additional
septic systems and to improve environmental conditions, particularly in areas
with poor soil conditions for subsurface sewage disposal systems.
Policy 4: Morehead City will promote the use of best available management
practices to minimize the degradation of water quality resulting from
stormwater runoff; examples of these practices include using pervious or semi-
pervious materials for driveways and walks, retaining natural vegetation along
marsh and waterfront areas, and allowing stormwater to percolate into the
ground rather than discharging it directly to coastal waters.
Policy 5: Morehead City will ensure that developments locating adjacent to
coastal waters make every effort to mitigate any adverse effects on riverine
and estuarine water quality and on primary nursery and fish habitat areas.
Policy 6: The Town of Morehead City supports retaining existing vegetation,
creating buffers, and limiting impervious surface areas in new commercial
developments to assist with managing stormwater runoff.
4.2.6 Areas of Environmental Concern
General Policy 1: The Town of Morehead City supports state and federal law
regarding land use and development in AECs.
Coastal W etlands Policy 2: Morehead City considers coastal wetland areas to be valuable
passive recreation areas. These areas should be protected in their natural
state. Only uses which are permitted by 15A NCAC 7H will be allowed.
Policy 3: Marina construction will not be permitted in coastal wetlands except
in the case of an upland marina site requiring access dredging only and
meeting state and/or federal permitting requirements for acceptable impacts.
Policy 4: Coastal wetlands should only be filled in connection with activities
or projects that are directly related to erosion control or water dependent uses.
However, coastal wetlands should only be filled in extreme cases when a
permit applicant has exhausted all means of avoiding coastal wetlands in
development of the project plans, and only in cases where the filling of coastal
wetlands would have an overwhelming public benefit and proper mitigative
measures are to be incorporated in the project.
Estuarine W aters
and Public Trust
Areas
Policy 5: Morehead City supports the use standards for estuarine and
public trust areas as specified in 15A NCAC .0207.
Policy 6: Marina construction will be permitted in estuarine waters which are
classified as primary nursery areas in accordance with the CAMA 7H Use
Standards, local zoning, and other land use regulations.
Policy 7: Dry stack storage boat facilities, either in conjunction with or
independent of marina development, may be permitted in accordance with
provisions of the Unified Development Ordinance. Water access to such
facilities shall meet state and/or federal permitting requirements for acceptable
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Table 4.2
Morehead City Land Use and Development Policies
impacts on active shellfishing areas.
Policy 8: Morehead City opposes the location of floating structures in all
primary nursery areas, outstanding resource waters, public trust areas, and
estuarine waters except that floating structures are allowed in marinas and are
required to have an approved sewage hook-up or a self-contained holding
tank. Floating structures are defined as any structure, not a boat, supported
by a means of flotation, designed to be used without a permanent foundation,
which is used or intended for human habitation or commerce. A structure will
be considered a floating structure when it is inhabited or used for commercial
purposes for more than thirty days in any one location. A boat may be
deemed a floating structure when its means of propulsion has been removed
or rendered inoperative and it contains at least 200 square feet of living space
area. A boat is defined as a vessel or watercraft of any type or size
specifically designed to be self-propelled, whether by engine, sail, oar, or
paddle or other means, which is used to travel from place to place by water.
Policy 9: Public mooring fields shall be permitted in accordance with CAMA
regulations.
Policy 10: The town encourages marina siting and design which promotes
proper flushing action. Such design features include locating marinas near
inlets, maximizing the opening of entrance channels, and minimizing stagnant
corners by using rounded corners, level bottoms sloping towards the entrance,
and avoiding bends.
Policy 11: Morehead City will permit bulkhead installation provided that all of
the use standards of 15 NCAC 7H.0208(b)(7) are adhered to.
Policy 12: Trawling activities in estuarine waters are not opposed by the town
as long as such activities meet state and/or federal permitting requirements for
acceptable impacts on the estuarine waters.
4.2.7 Areas of Local Concern
General
Policy 1: Morehead City will promote the diversification of housing in varying
types, densities, and costs to meet the demands of all income levels and age
groups.
Policy 2: The town will encourage voluntary annexations as a mechanism for
promoting orderly city growth and utility extensions.
Policy 3: Morehead City will continue to promote a variety of land uses which
complement the residential, commercial, institutional, recreational and
industrial needs of the community.
Policy 4: Current residential densities will be maintained in order to preserve
the overall low-density character of Morehead City's residential sector.
Policy 5: The residential integrity of existing neighborhoods will be
maintained by discouraging the encroachment of non-residential uses into
such areas.
Policy 6: Multi-family and higher density residential development will be
encouraged at a moderate density range of six to sixteen dwelling units per
acre. Such development will be guided to locations in which adequate water
and sewer services and a sufficient street system are available. High-rise
residential development will be encouraged only where emergency services
can be adequately provided.
Policy 7: In-fill development in existing residential areas will be encouraged
only if it is compatible in density and scale to that in the surrounding area.
Policy 8: Morehead City will encourage the redevelopment and restoration of
the central business district as a retail, business and professional services,
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Table 4.2
Morehead City Land Use and Development Policies
office, and commercial marine center of the community. The town will
encourage uses which provide for a multi-purpose central business district
which includes living space as well as shopping and services. The town will
promote the adaptive reuse of buildings in the central business district.
Policy 9: Neighborhood-oriented commercial development will be
encouraged only in areas where such use is compatible with existing
surrounding and anticipated residential areas and where the street system is
adequate to accommodate commercial vehicular traffic.
Policy 10: Industrial development will be encouraged in those sections of
town with adequate public water and sewer services and vehicular access to a
major arterial highway.
Policy 11: The town encourages the continued operation and expansion of
the Port of Morehead City.
Policy 12: The town will promote the location of office and professional land
uses in transitional areas between intensive nonresidential uses and
residential neighborhoods.
Policy 13: Any development located outside of the corporate limits
requesting water and sewer service from the town will be required to petition
for voluntary annexation to the town.
Policy 14: Expansion of and improvements to the town's water and sewer
systems will be planned through a capital improvements program and budget.
Water and sewer impact fees will be utilized to assist in the financing of water
and wastewater facility improvements.
Policy 15: The town will encourage new commercial development to
integrate design features that are compatible with Morehead City’s existing
architecture.
Policy 16: The town will encourage the installation of landscaping
improvements, pedestrian walkways, and bicycle paths along thoroughfares
and city streets in accordance with the Morehead Alternative Transportation
System (MATS) Plan.
4.2.8 Neighborhood-Specific Policies
Neighborhood 1
Policy 1: Morehead City will encourage the redevelopment and restoration
of the central business district as a retail, business and professional
services, office, and commercial marine center of the community. The town
will encourage uses which provide for a multi-purpose central business
district which includes living space as well as shopping and services. The
town will promote the adaptive reuse of buildings in the central business
district.
Policy 2: The town will cooperate with and assist the NCDOT and the
Norfolk-Southern Railroad in preserving US 70 and the railroad as a vital
transportation corridor.
Policy 3: The town will continue to address the parking concerns and
issues in the downtown area and will consider alternative traffic patterns as a
possible solution to parking concerns.
Policy 4: The town will continue to support the redevelopment of the
Morehead City waterfront and business district, while supporting DMCRA
projects.
Policy 5: The town will work with the Corps of Engineers and the Division of
Coastal Management to extend the Morehead City harbor line south of its
present location in order to promote economic development in the downtown
area.
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Table 4.2
Morehead City Land Use and Development Policies
Policy 6: The town will work to connect existing alleys and streets to
improve development in the downtown area and make it more pedestrian
friendly.
Policy 7: The Town will encourage development of Radio Island with a
good blend of residential, recreational and industrial uses, while only
encouraging industrial uses that are not hazardous to or would diminish the
value of the residential or recreational uses. The Town will continue to
support activities on the State Port-owned properties.
Policy 8: In an effort to promote tourism, the Town will explore opportunities
to encourage the cruise ship industry in the area.
Neighborhood 2
Policy 1: The town will prohibit any commercial rezoning in the Evans and
Shepard Street areas in order to limit commercial encroachment into
residential areas.
Policy 2: The creation of additional commercial districts on Arendell Street
in Neighborhood 2 will also be discouraged by avoiding the rezoning of
existing residential areas to commercial zoning districts.
Policy 3: The current use, density, and building height requirements of the
R5S classification will be maintained to ensure the existing character of the
neighborhood.
Policy 4: Street and alley ends that terminate at Bogue Sound will be kept
open as public water access points.
Neighborhood 3
Policy 1: The town will encourage, through its unified development
ordinance, screening and buffering between nonresidential uses and
adjacent residences.
Policy 2: The highest priority for the development of major vacant parcels
located north of Fisher Street will be given to residential use.
Policy 3: The town will promote the enhancement of the North 20th Street
corridor as a major thoroughfare to improve access to the residential areas
located in the northern section of town.
Policy 4: Commercial rezonings that promote neighborhood retail and
service uses will be closely evaluated to monitor impacts on community
character and scale.
Policy 5: The Town recognizes the problem with the siltation of Calico
Creek and supports dredging efforts outside the Primary Nursery Area to
eliminate the adverse impacts of siltation on the productivity of the
waterbody.
Neighborhood 4
Policy 1: The review of development plans for tracts where potential
wetlands have been identified will be coordinated with the US Army Corps of
Engineers.
Policy 2: Morehead City will continue to promote development in this
neighborhood which is comprised of a variety of land uses--office and
professional, medium-density residential, commercial, institutional, and
medical.
Policy 3: The Town will strive to maintain Barbour Road as a local north-
south collector street and will discourage abutting development that
negatively impacts the functional capacity of the street.
Policy 4: The town will pursue the installation of sidewalks and roadway
improvements along Barbour Road, the North 35th Street corridor, and
Bridges Street.
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Table 4.2
Morehead City Land Use and Development Policies
Neighborhood 5
Policy 1: The review of development plans for tracts where potential
wetlands have been identified will be coordinated with the US Army Corps of
Engineers.
Policy 2: Low-density residential development will be promoted in those
areas lacking public water and wastewater facilities.
Policy 3: Medium-density residential development will be encouraged in
those areas with public water and sewer, with vehicular access to major
streets, and in transitional locations between intensive nonresidential uses
and existing low-density residential uses.
Policy 4: The town will pursue the installation of sidewalks and roadway
improvements along Barbour Road and the North 35th Street corridor.
Policy 5: The town supports the policy of limiting curb cuts on the Bridges
Street Extension. New development will be encouraged to provide
connecting and/or shared parking lots, if economically feasible, in order to
reduce the number of curb cuts along the corridor.
Policy 6: The town will evaluate the feasibility of improvements to Country
Club Road and Friendly Road to improve traffic flow and will evaluate the
need for a connector street west of Friendly Road to connect Bridges Street
Extension and Country Club Road.
Policy 7: The town recognizes the problem with the siltation of the Newport
River and supports dredging efforts to eliminate the adverse impacts of
siltation on the productivity of the river.
Policy 8: Morehead City will work with the North Carolina Department of
Transportation (NCDOT) on installing landscaping improvements, pedestrian
walkways and bicycle paths from the NCDOT welcome station to the
commercial areas located to the west.
Neighborhood 6
Policy 1: The town will discourage nonresidential development adjacent to
the Bogue Sound waterfront within existing residential neighborhoods.
Policy 2: Morehead City will work with the North Carolina Department of
Transportation (NCDOT) on installing landscaping improvements, pedestrian
walkways and bicycle paths from the NCDOT welcome station to the
commercial areas located to the west.
Policy 3: The current use, density, and building height requirements of the
residential zoning classification in this neighborhood will be maintained to
ensure the existing character of the area, unless developed as a Planned
Development.
Policy 4: The town will strive to improve recreational opportunities through
the development of a park in the western section of town.
Policy 5: New development, along the Highway 70 corridor, will be
encouraged to provide connecting and/or shared parking lots, if
economically feasible, in order to reduce the number of curb cuts along the
corridor.
Neighborhood 7
Policy 1: The review of development plans for tracts where potential
wetlands have been identified will be coordinated with the US Army Corps of
Engineers.
Policy 2: Low-density residential development will be promoted in those
areas lacking public water and wastewater facilities.
Policy 3: Medium-density residential development will be encouraged to
locate in those areas with public water and sewer and with vehicular access
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Table 4.2
Morehead City Land Use and Development Policies
to major streets.
Policy 4: The town will promote the enhancement of the North 20th Street
corridor as a major thoroughfare to improve access to the residential areas
located in the northern section of town.
Policy 5: The town will promote traffic improvements on Tootle Road and
Mayberry Loop Road through roadway realignment and through the
installation of sidewalks and roadway improvements.
Neighborhood 8
Policy 1: Morehead City will work with the North Carolina Department of
Transportation (NCDOT) on installing landscaping improvements, pedestrian
walkways and bicycle paths from the NCDOT welcome station to the
commercial areas located to the west.
Policy 2: The town will encourage the annexation of adjacent areas to
promote jobs and economic development.
Policy 3: The town will study water system improvements, including the
installation of an elevated water storage tank, to promote light industrial and
economic development.
Policy 4: The town will study landscaping and curb cut issues along the US
Highway 70 and NC Highway 24 corridors. Along the Pond Drive and
Business Drive extension, joint driveway cuts will be required and
interconnect the roads if possible. This area will be more industrial than
retail.
Policy 5: The town will strive to improve recreational opportunities through
the development of a park in the western section of town.
Policy 6: New development, along the Highway 70 corridor, will be
encouraged to provide connecting and/or shared parking lots, if
economically feasible, in order to reduce the number of curb cuts along the
corridor.
Policy 7: Bridges Street Extension shall continue west to connect to Pond
Drive/Business Drive.
Neighborhood 9
Policy 1: The town will discourage nonresidential development adjacent to
the Bogue Sound waterfront within existing residential neighborhoods.
Policy 2: Low-density residential development will be promoted in those
areas lacking public water and wastewater facilities.
Policy 3: The current use, density, and building height requirements of the
residential zoning classifications in this neighborhood will be maintained to
ensure the existing character of the area.
Policy 4: Medium-density residential and mixed-use development will be
encouraged in those areas with public water and sewer, with vehicular
access to major streets, and in transitional locations between intensive
nonresidential uses and existing low-density residential areas.
Policy 5: The town will encourage better interconnection between
residential developments located along the NC Highway corridor so that
local residential vehicular traffic is not totally dependent upon Highway 24 for
access and circulation.
Policy 6: The town will support the extension of Little Nine Road from its
present terminus southward to NC Highway 24 in order to improve access
between Highway 24 and US Highway 70.
Neighborhood 10
Policy 1: Morehead City will work with the North Carolina Department of
Transportation (NCDOT) on installing landscaping improvements, pedestrian
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Table 4.2
Morehead City Land Use and Development Policies
walkways and bicycle paths along US Highway 70.
Policy 2: New development, along the Highway 70 corridor, will be
encouraged to provide connecting and/or shared parking lots, if
economically feasible, in order to reduce the number of curb cuts along the
corridor.
Policy 3: Low density residential development will be promoted in areas
that do not have the adequate infrastructure (utilities and streets) to support
intensive development.

4.3 Analysis of the Impact of Policies on Management Topics

The following table summarizes the general impact of the Morehead City land use and
development policies on the CRC land use plan management topics.

Table 4.3
Impact of Local Policies on CRC Land Use Plan Management Topics
CRC Land Use Plan Management Topics

Policies
Public
Water
Access

Land Use
Compatibility
Infrastructure
Carrying
Capacity
Natural
Hazard
Areas

Water
Quality
Local
Areas of
Concern
Public Water
Access Positive Positive
Land Use
Compatibility Positive Positive Positive Positive
Infrastructure
Carrying Capacity Positive Positive Positive Positive Positive
Natural Hazard
Areas Positive Positive Positive Positive
Water Quality Positive Positive Positive
Areas of
Environmental
Concern
Positive Positive Positive Positive Positive
Areas of Local
Concern Positive Positive Positive Positive

Note: Blank space in table indicates neutral impact. All local policies have been determined to have
either a positive or neutral impact on CRC management topics. No specific actions or programs are
required to mitigate negative impacts.

A general analysis of the impact of Morehead City’s policies on the CRC land use plan
management topics is provided below.

Public Water Access
Numerous water access points currently exist within the Morehead City planning jurisdiction.
The Town’s Unified Development Ordinance requires that waterfront subdivisions provide water
access every one-quarter mile along the shoreline.

The Morehead City Waterfront Access Plan, adopted in 1998, identifies water access needs and
potential locations for additional public water accesses. Additional water access improvements
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Page 101 of 165
Section IV: Plan for the Future
September 28, 2007
are scheduled for FY 05 and FY 07. The Town’s policies support the implementation of the
Waterfront Access Plan.

The Town’s policies encourage the provision of public water access and the continued
assessment of its water access needs and opportunities for improving public water access. The
Town’s policies have a positive impact on the CRC public water access goals and objectives.

Land Use Compatibility
Overall, the Town’s existing building intensities and densities are consistent with infrastructure
availability and land suitability. Generally, the most intense development is located in areas with
adequate water and sewer facilities and other support infrastructure and outside of sensitive
natural environments.

The Town’s policies provide for a balance of growth and the preservation of fragile
environments. Development with acceptable impacts on natural resources and which is in
harmony with the Town’s existing character is encouraged. Town policies concerning Areas of
Environmental Concern support state and federal law regarding development with AECs.
Development is encouraged in those portions of the Town’s planning jurisdiction that possess
the support infrastructure necessary to sustain that growth.

Morehead City’s policies support the implementation of the recommended sewer system
improvements which will vastly improve the Town’s ability to provide effective and reliable
wastewater collection, treatment, and disposal systems. The Town’s policies have a positive
impact on the CRC land use compatibility goals and objectives.

Infrastructure Carrying Capacity
The Town of Morehead City supports managing and directing development in balance with the
availability of municipal services. The most intensive land uses and highest residential densities
are guided to those portions of the Town’s planning jurisdiction that possess the support
infrastructure necessary to sustain that level of development.

Within the next five years, Morehead City is anticipated to grow mainly to the north and west.
However, infill development and redevelopment of existing developed properties are also
expected to accommodate future short-term growth. The majority of the Town’s future land
development will be in areas that currently have the necessary infrastructure already in place or
in areas where that infrastructure can be readily provided.

Morehead City’s policies support the implementation of the recommended sewer system
improvements which will vastly improve the Town’s ability to provide effective and reliable
wastewater collection, treatment, and disposal systems. The Town’s policies ensure that public
infrastructure is located and managed in harmony with fragile environments and natural
resource areas. Morehead City’s policies have a positive impact on the CRC infrastructure
carrying capacity goals and objectives.

Natural Hazard Areas
Town policies encourage the conservation of natural resources and fragile environments that
provide protection from natural hazards. Intensive nonresidential development and high density
residential development is discouraged within areas susceptible to storm surge and flooding.
Flood damage prevention policies encourage compatible development and redevelopment with
flood hazard areas. The Town’s policies have a positive impact on the CRC natural hazard
areas goals and objectives.
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Section IV: Plan for the Future
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Water Quality
The Town’s policies support the maintenance, protection, and enhancement of water quality.
Morehead City’s policies support land development that has minimal adverse impacts on water
quality. Best management practices are encouraged to minimize stormwater impacts. Town
policies support the continued use of land in conservation-designated areas for appropriate land
uses that are compatible with their fragile nature.

Morehead City’s policies support the implementation of the recommended sewer system
improvements which will vastly improve the Town’s ability to provide effective and reliable
wastewater collection, treatment, and disposal systems. Morehead City’s policies also support
the development of a stormwater management plan and ordinance. The Town’s policies have a
positive impact on the CRC water quality goals and objectives.

Local Areas of Concern
Morehead City’s policies regarding local areas of concern support and have a positive impact on
the CRC public water access, land use compatibility, and infrastructure carrying capacity goals
and objectives. The Town’s policies encourage increased public access, compatible
development, and the redevelopment and restoration of the downtown and waterfront areas.
Town policies also promote tourism-related economic development. Neighborhood policies
encourage land use compatibility and intensity of development commensurate with available
infrastructure.

Appendix G provides a more detailed analysis of the impact of Morehead City’s policies on the
CRC land use plan management topics.

4.4 Statement of Local Support Regarding Areas of Environmental Concern

The Town of Morehead City supports state and federal law regarding land use and development
in Areas of Environmental Concern (AECs). Specific policy statements have been developed
that support the general use standards of the North Carolina Administrative Code (15 NCAC
7H) for development within the estuarine system (see Section 4.2.6). No policy statements
have been developed which exceed the requirements of CAMA regarding land use and
development within AECs.

4.5 Future Land Use Map

The purpose of the Future Land Use Map is to graphically depict Morehead City’s policies for
growth and land development and the projected patterns of future land use. The Future Land
Use Map has been prepared with consideration given to land development objectives and
policies, natural constraints and limitations, overall land suitability, and the ability to provide the
infrastructure to support growth and development.

The Future Land Use Map for the Morehead City planning jurisdiction encompasses the
Morehead City corporate limits and the Town’s extraterritorial planning and zoning jurisdiction.
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Page 103 of 165
Section IV: Plan for the Future
September 28, 2007
The Town’s Future Land Use Map classifications include the following categories and
subcategories:

• Residential
o Low Density Residential
o Medium Density Residential
o High Density Residential
• General Commercial
• Downtown Mixed Use
• Public and Institutional
• General Industrial
• Port Mixed Use
• Conservation/Open Space

Generally, growth and land development is anticipated to occur in all future land use categories
except for the Conservation/Open Space classification. The type and intensity of projected
development varies within each future land use map classification. Future Land Use projections
are delineated in Figure 14, Future Land Use Map.

A. Residential Classification
The Residential classification is subdivided into three subcategories: Low Density,
Medium Density, and High Density.

Low Density Residential Classification. The Low Density Residential
classification encompasses approximately 5.8 square miles (3,691 acres) or about
38 percent of the total planning jurisdiction. The majority of the lands classified as
Low Density Residential are located primarily in the northern one-half of the Town’s
planning jurisdiction and include the majority of Neighborhoods 5, 7, and 8.

The Low Density Residential classification is intended to delineate lands where the
predominant land use is low density detached residences. The residential density
within this classification is generally 2 to 2.5 dwelling units per acre. Minimum lot
sizes vary from 15,000 to 20,000 square feet unless a larger minimum lot area is
required by the health department for land uses utilizing septic systems. Single-
family detached residences are the predominant types of dwellings within these
areas. Manufactured homes on individual lots are also dwelling types found within
this classification. Land uses within Low Density Residential-designated areas are
generally compatible with the R-20, R-15, R-15M, and R-15SM, Single-Family
Residential zoning classifications. Public water service is available on a limited basis
throughout the Low Density Residential-classified areas. Public sewer service is
generally not available within this classification.

The Town’s goals and policies support the continued use of land in Low Density-
classified areas for low density dwellings and for public and institutional land uses
that support and that are compatible with this type of residential development.
Future development is projected to be approximately 2 dwelling units per acre.
Some Low Density Residential areas may evolve into higher density areas over time,
particularly where public utilities and other infrastructure will be available to support
increases in residential density.
M o r e h e a d C i t yMorehead C i t y
N e w p o r tNewport
A t l a n t i c B e a c hAtlantic B e a c h
P i n e K n o l l S h o r e sPine K n o l l S h o r e s
B e a u f o r tBeaufort
£¤70
£¤70
£¤70
QR58
QR24
Newport River
(Including Intracoastal Waterway to Beaufort Inlet)Hoop Pole CreekMoney Island Bay
Calico Creek
Crab PointBay
Tar Landing Bay
Atlantic Ocean
Harbor Channel
Newport River Restricted Area (Morehead City Harbor)
S
p
o
o
n
e
r Cr
e
e
k
Peltier Creek Willi
s
Cr
e
e
k
Fort Macon Creek
Fishing Creek
Back Sound
Money Island Slough Allen Slough
Ware Creek
Hull Swamp
Mill Creek
Little Creek Swamp
Bogue Sound
7
5
8
1
9
6 4
1 0
3
2
Morehead City Corporate Limits
Morehead City ETJ
Neighborhood Boundaries
USDA Sub-watershed Boundary
Future Land Use
Low Density Residential
Medium Density Residential
High Density Residential
General Commercial
Downtown Mixed Use
Public/ Institutional
General Industrial
Port Mixed Use
Conservation/ Open SpaceIThe original version of this map was prepared by the Wooten Company and financed in part through a grant provided by the North Carolina Coastal Management Program, through funds provided by the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as amended, which is administeredby the Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management, National Oceanic andAtmospheric Administration. The map has been subsequently amended by the Morehead CityPlanning Department.
MOREHEAD CITY, NC Figure 14: Future Land Use
0 0.5 1 1.5 20.25 Miles
M a y , 2 0 2 1May, 2 0 2 1
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Page 105 of 165
Section IV: Plan for the Future
September 28, 2007
Medium Density Residential Classification. The Medium Density Residential
classification encompasses approximately 2.3 square miles (1,454 acres) or about
15 percent of the total planning jurisdiction. The majority of the properties classified
as Medium Density Residential are generally located in the southwestern portion of
the Town’s planning jurisdiction between Bogue Sound and US Highway 70 and
include Neighborhoods 6 and 9.

The Medium Density Residential classification is intended to delineate lands where
the predominant land use is higher density single-family residential developments,
two-family developments, and multifamily developments. The residential density
within this classification is generally 3 to 8 dwelling units per acre. Minimum lot sizes
vary from 7,000 to 10,000 square feet unless a larger minimum lot area is required
by the health department for land uses utilizing septic systems. Land uses within
Medium Density Residential-designated areas are generally compatible with the R-
10 and R-7 Single-Family Residential zoning classifications. Public water is widely
available and sewer service is required to support the higher residential densities in
this classification. Adequate streets to accommodate higher traffic volumes are also
necessary to support Medium Density Residential development.

The Town’s goals and policies support the use of land in Medium Density-classified
areas for single-family and two-family dwellings where adequate public utilities and
streets are available or can be upgraded to support the higher residential densities
encouraged in this classification.

High Density Residential Classification. The High Density Residential
classification encompasses approximately 0.7 square miles (448 acres) or about 5
percent of the total planning jurisdiction. The properties classified as High Density
Residential are generally located west of the downtown in Neighborhoods 2, 3, and
4.

The High Density Residential classification is intended to delineate lands where the
predominant land use is higher density single-family residential developments,
multifamily developments, and planned mixed use developments. The residential
density within this classification is generally 8 to 16 dwelling units per acre. Much
higher densities, approaching 30-70 dwellings per acre are possible in Planned
Development and Downtown Commercial zoning districts. Land uses within High
Density Residential-designated areas are generally compatible with the RMF,
Residential Multi-Family District; the Downtown Commercial; the PD, Planned
Development District, and the R-5 and R-5S, Single-family Residential District zoning
classifications. Public water and sewer service is required to support the residential
densities in this classification. Adequate streets to accommodate higher traffic
volumes are also necessary to support High Density Residential development.

The Town’s goals and policies support the use of land in High Density-classified
areas for single-family and multifamily dwellings where adequate public utilities and
streets are available or can be upgraded to support the higher residential densities
encouraged in this classification. The higher density residential developments
anticipated to occur during the planning period are encouraged within the High
Density-classified areas.
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Page 106 of 165
Section IV: Plan for the Future
September 28, 2007

B. General Commercial Classification
The General Commercial classification encompasses approximately 1.4 square
miles (881 acres) or about 9 percent of the planning jurisdiction. The properties
classified as General Commercial are located along the Town’s major road corridors-
-US Highway 70 and NC Highway 24. The majority of neighborhood 10 and the
northern portion of Neighborhood 6 are classified as General Commercial.

The General Commercial classification is intended to delineate lands that can
accommodate a wide range of retail, wholesale, office, business services, and
personal services. Areas classified as General Commercial may also include some
heavy commercial uses as well as intensive public and institutional land uses. W hile
there are no minimum required lot size regulations, lot sizes typically range from
10,000 to 40,000 square feet. Land uses within General Commercial-designated
areas are generally compatible with the CH, Highway Commercial; CS, Shopping
Center; CN, Commercial Neighborhood; and CM, Commercial Marina zoning
classifications. Public water service is needed to support the land uses characteristic
of this classification. Public sewer service is needed to support the most intensive
commercial uses. Adequate streets to accommodate higher traffic volumes are
necessary to support commercial development.

General Commercial-classified areas are anticipated to accommodate some of the
most intensive land uses found in the Town’s planning jurisdiction. The Town’s goals
and policies support the use of land in General Commercial-classified areas for a
wide variety of retail and commercial services uses where adequate public utilities
and streets are available or can be upgraded to support the intensity of development
encouraged in this classification. Public and institutional land uses that support and
that are compatible with this type of commercial development are also encouraged.

C. Downtown Mixed Use Classification
The Downtown Mixed Use classification encompasses approximately 0.2 square
miles (129 acres) or about 1 percent of the total Town planning jurisdiction. The
properties classified as Downtown Mixed Use are located in and immediately
surrounding the Morehead City Central Business District and the downtown
waterfront area. The Downtown Mixed Use area is generally located includes the
westernmost portion of Neighborhood 1.

The Downtown Mixed Use classification is intended to delineate properties that can
accommodate a variety of retail, office, business services, and personal services.
Areas classified as Downtown Mixed Use may also include medium and high density
residences and public and institutional land uses, particularly government buildings
and facilities. Multifamily densities are consistent with the current requirements of
the Town’s zoning ordinance which allows a density range of 8 to 69 dwellings per
acre for planned developments. Residential building types encouraged within this
classification include condominiums, cluster developments, and multifamily
dwellings. The Downtown Mixed Use classification also specifically includes
waterfront tourist-oriented land uses. W hile there are no minimum required lot size
regulations, lot sizes typically range from 3,000 to 20,000 square feet. Minimum lot
sizes are generally dependent upon the specific nature and characteristics of the
land use but typically range from 10,000 to 40,000 square feet for residential land
uses and 3,000 to 8,000 square feet for nonresidential land uses. Land uses within
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Page 107 of 165
Section IV: Plan for the Future
September 28, 2007
the Downtown Mixed Use-designated areas are generally compatible with the CD,
Downtown Commercial and the CMD, Commercial Marina Downtown zoning
districts.

Public water and sewer service is needed to support the land uses characteristic of
this classification. Adequate streets to accommodate higher traffic volumes are also
necessary to support the intensive land uses within this classification.

The City’s goals and policies support the use of land in Downtown Mixed Use-
classified areas for a wide variety of retail and commercial services uses where
adequate public utilities and streets are available or can be upgraded to support the
intensity of development encouraged in this classification. Redevelopment of the
downtown waterfront area for tourist-oriented mixed uses consisting of retail shops,
places of entertainment, restaurants, boating services, and overnight lodging is
promoted by the City’s goals and policies.

D. Public and Institutional
The Public and Institutional classification encompasses approximately 1.2 square
miles (744 acres) or about 8 percent of the total planning jurisdictional area. The
majority of the properties classified as Public and Institutional are located in the
south central portion of the Town’s planning jurisdiction in the southwestern section
of Neighborhood 4. Sugarloaf Island, located in Neighborhood 1, is also designated
as Public and Institutional. The largest individual properties within the Public and
Institutional classification include the Carteret General Hospital, the Carteret
Community College, NC Divisions of Marine Fisheries complex, and the Carteret
County Civic Center.

The Public and Institutional classification is intended to delineate large land areas
that are used for intensive public and educational purposes. Land uses within this
classification include primarily government buildings and service facilities, public
recreational facilities, and public educational facilities. Some private office and
institutional facilities may also be included within this classification. Minimum lot
sizes are generally dependent upon the specific nature and characteristics of the
land use but typically range from 5,000 to 40,000 square feet for low intensity uses to
multiple acres for more intensive land uses. Land uses within the Public and
Institutional-designated areas are generally compatible with the OP, Office and
Professional and IC, Institutional Campus zoning districts. Generally, public water
service is needed to support the land uses characteristic of this classification. Public
sewer is needed to support the most intensive public and institutional uses.
Adequate streets to accommodate higher traffic volumes are necessary to support
the intensity of development expected within the Public and Institutional
Classification.

E. General Industrial
The General Industrial classification encompasses approximately 1.0 square miles
(663 acres) or about 7 percent of the planning jurisdiction. The properties classified
as General Industrial are located in the west central section of the town’s planning
jurisdiction in the southern portion of Neighborhood 8.

The General Industrial classification is intended to delineate lands that can
accommodate industrial and manufacturing establishments. Some heavy
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Page 108 of 165
Section IV: Plan for the Future
September 28, 2007
commercial uses as well as services and businesses which support industrial land
uses are also appropriate land uses within the General Industrial classification.
While there are no minimum required lot size regulations, lot sizes typically range
from 40,000 square feet to multiple acres. Minimum lot sizes are generally
dependent upon the specific nature and characteristics of the land use. Land uses
within the Industrial-designated areas are generally compatible with the IU,
Unoffensive Industrial and IP, Port-Industrial zoning districts. Public water and sewer
service is needed to support the land uses characteristic of this classification.
Adequate streets to accommodate higher traffic volumes are necessary to support
the intensity of development expected within the General Industrial Classification.

The General Industrial areas are expected to accommodate the majority of the future
industrial growth projected for the planning period. Critical factors that will determine
the development potential of these General Industrial-classified areas include market
demand and the provision of the necessary support infrastructure (particularly public
water and sewer utilities). Consequently, the development potential of the majority of
the lands within the General Industrial areas may be more long-term than short-term.

The Town’s goals and policies support the use of land in General Industrial-classified
areas for a wide variety of manufacturing and heavy commercial services uses
where adequate public utilities and streets are available or can be upgraded to
support the intensity of development encouraged in this classification. Public and
institutional land uses as well as commercial services that support and that are
compatible with this type of industrial development are also encouraged. General
Industrial-classified areas may include certain land uses which, due to their nature
and characteristics, have potential adverse impacts on surrounding land use types.
Consequently, the Town’s objective is to ensure the compatible location of industrial
land uses and to require the necessary measures to mitigate any adverse impacts.

F. Port Mixed Use Classification
The Port Mixed Use classification encompasses approximately 0.6 square miles (419
acres) or 4 percent of the total land area. The properties classified as Port Mixed
Use include the NC Port Authority facility and Radio Island. Port Mixed Use-
classified properties include all of the eastern section of Neighborhood 1.

Port Mixed Use-classified areas include the existing state port facilities as well as
surrounding properties that are suitable for multiple land uses including industrial,
commercial, and high density residential. Portions of the area identified as Port
Mixed Use are potential growth areas that may develop primarily as one use type or
may evolve into multi-use areas.

Industrial uses with this classification include marine port facilities, warehousing, and
related uses. Commercial uses include a variety of support retail, office, business
services, personal services, and marine-related uses. The anticipated residential
density within this classification includes primarily high density developments.
Residential building types encouraged within this classification include single-family
attached dwellings, condominiums, and multifamily dwellings. W hile there are no
minimum required lot size regulations, lot sizes typically range from 40,000 square
feet to multiple acres. Minimum lot sizes are generally dependent upon the specific
nature and characteristics of the land use but typically range from 10,000 to 40,000
square feet for residential land uses and 40,000 square feet to multiple acres for
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Page 109 of 165
Section IV: Plan for the Future
September 28, 2007
nonresidential land uses. Land uses within the Port Mixed Use-designated areas are
generally compatible with the IP, Port-Industrial and PD, Planned Development
zoning districts. Public water and sewer service is needed to support the land uses
characteristic of this classification. Adequate streets to accommodate higher traffic
volume are necessary to support the intensity of development expected within the
Port Mixed Use Classification.

The Town’s goals and policies support the use of land in Port Mixed Use-classified
areas for a range of industrial, commercial, and medium/high density residential uses
where adequate public utilities and streets are available or can be upgraded to
support the intensity of development encouraged in this classification. Public and
institutional land uses that support and that are compatible with this type of mixed
development are also encouraged.

While the Port Mixed Use areas are expected to accommodate future growth and
development, they may or may not actually be developed during the planning period.
Critical factors that will determine the development potential of these areas include
market demand and the provision of the necessary support infrastructure (particularly
public water and sewer utilities). Consequently, the development potential of the
some of the lands within the Port Mixed Use areas may be more long-term than
short-term.

In order to permit the type of mixed use development envisioned in this classification,
the Town of Morehead City may have to prepare amendments to its existing Unified
Development Ordinance to establish specific conditions and standards for such
mixed use development.

G. Conservation/Open Space
Conservation/Open Space areas are scattered throughout the Morehead jurisdiction
and include coastal wetlands, estuarine waters, estuarine shoreline, public trust
areas, and ‘404’ wetlands. Due to the small size of such areas, they are not
individually identified on the Future Land Use Map. Generally, the precise location of
such areas must be determined by field investigation. Conservation/Open Space
areas that are delineated on the Future Land Use Map include the NC Coastal Land
Trust tract located in the north central portion of the planning jurisdiction (in
Neighborhood 5) and the Newport River Marshes and Phillips Island (in
Neighborhood 7). These Conservation/Open Space-designated areas encompass
approximately 1.9 square miles (1,229 acres) or approximately 13 percent of the
planning jurisdictional area.

The Conservation/Open Space classification is intended to delineate areas where
traditional land uses are not desirable or expected to develop. Land development
may, however, include public building and facilities necessary to support existing
land uses within the areas classified as Conservation/Open Space. Lot coverage is
limited to 40% and building heights are limited to 35 feet. Land uses within the
Conservation/Open Space-designated areas are generally compatible with the FP,
Floodplain zoning district. Public water or sewer utilities are not needed to support
the types and intensities of land uses in these areas. Extensions of water and sewer
utilities into these areas are not expected or encouraged.

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Section IV: Plan for the Future
September 28, 2007
The Town’s goals and policies support the continued use of land in
Conservation/Open Space-classified areas for appropriate uses that are compatible
with the fragile nature of the Conservation/Open Space areas. Traditional urban
growth and development in such areas is discouraged. Conservation/Open Space
areas are expected to retain their existing character over time.

Table 4.4
Future Land Use Map Calculations
Future Land Use Map
Classification
Total
Acres
% of Total
Acres
Low Density Residential 3,691 38%
Medium Density Residential 1,454 15%
High Density Residential 448 5%
General Commercial 881 9%
Downtown Mixed Use 129 1%
Public and Institutional 744 8%
General Industrial 663 7%
Port Mixed Use 419 4%
Conservation/Open Space 1,229 13%
Totals 9,658* 100%
* Excludes street rights-of-way
Source: The Wooten Company, October 2006

4.6 Cost Estimates for Planned Community Facility Improvements

• Addition of a 6th well: $300,000
• Wastewater collection, treatment, and disposal systems improvements:
$10 million
• Water and sewer system improvements to Causeway Area and Radio
Island: $200,000.
• Water and sewer system improvements along Little Nine Drive:
$100,000.
• Newport River Park W ater Access: $300,000
• Morehead City W ater Access at 7th Street: $250,000
• Continued implementation of the W aterfront Access Plan: $250,000

Estimated total cost for all proposed capital improvements is $11.4 million.

4.7 Consistency With Natural Systems and Land Suitability Analyses

The land use patterns depicted on the Future Land Use Map are consistent with the analysis of
natural systems and the analysis of land suitability. The Future Land Use Map depicts very
generalized patterns of projected land use. The intent of the map is to illustrate a typical pattern
of use for a general area and not the specific use of an individual parcel. The Future Land Use
Map is not intended for site-specific land planning or for regulatory purposes.
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Page 111 of 165
Section IV: Plan for the Future
September 28, 2007

The northern and eastern portions of the Town’s planning jurisdiction contain the greatest
concentrations of natural constraints, primarily floodplains and wetlands. Major undeveloped
areas with significant natural constraints and low suitability ratings within the Morehead City
jurisdiction are designated as Conservation/Open Space on the Future Land Use Map. The
majority of developed areas with significant natural constraints and low suitability ratings are
designated on the Future Land Use Map for conservation/open space use.

Other Conservation/Open Space areas are scattered throughout Morehead City and include
coastal wetlands, estuarine waters, estuarine shoreline, public trust areas, and ‘404’ wetlands.
Due to the small size of such areas, they are not specifically identified on the Future Land Use
Map. Other areas with significant natural constraints and low suitability ratings are designated
on the Future Land Use Map for low intensity land uses such as those anticipated to occur in
the Low Density Residential classification.

The table below illustrates the amount of land area within the Morehead City planning
jurisdiction by land suitability rating.

Table 4.5
Distribution of Land Suitability Ratings Morehead City Planning
Jurisdiction
Suitability Rating Total Acres Percent
High 3,336.7 31.2%
Medium 2,250.0 21.0%
Low 1,511.6 14.1%
Least 3,599.6 33.7%
Totals 10,697.9 100.0%
Source: The Wooten Company, January 2005

Some portions of the projected use classifications shown on the Future Land Use Map may
include land which is designated as having moderate or serious natural limitations or land which
is rated as having low suitability for development. Inclusion of such areas within a specific
projected future use classification does not denote a recommendation for future development.
Rather, it means that while such areas are located within a broader general use pattern, their
ultimate future use may be different from other properties because of their natural constraints
and regulatory limitations. Some of the designated fragile areas may always remain in their
current natural state or, if permitted by regulatory authority, may be altered and any negative
impacts overcome through approved mitigation measures. Some of the areas currently
designated as having low suitability for development may lose that rating over time as, for
example, public utilities are installed and roads are constructed. Consequently, the future use
of such areas, if the low suitability conditions are eliminated, will be in accordance with the
broader general use classification.

Land development activity within most environmentally fragile areas is subject to local, state,
and/or federal restrictions. Local land use regulations such as the Town’s Unified Development
Ordinance include specific standards for land development activities. Site-specific soil analyses
are required by the Carteret County Environmental Health Department to evaluate the suitability
of a particular parcel for septic system suitability. Encouraging good site planning principles and
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Page 112 of 165
Section IV: Plan for the Future
September 28, 2007
best management practices can assist with mitigating the impacts of land development on
environmentally fragile areas.

Development within the designated Areas of Environmental Concern is limited by CAMA
regulations and development guidelines. Generally, the development standards for coastal
wetlands, estuarine waters, and public trust areas permit only water-dependent uses such as
navigation channels, dredging projects, docks, piers, bulkheads, boat ramps, groins, and
bridges. Priority is, however, given to the conservation of these AECs. CAMA standards for
estuarine shoreline development generally require that (i) the development not cause significant
damage to estuarine resources; (ii) the development not interfere with public rights of access to
or use of navigable waters or public resources; (iii) the development preserve and not weaken
natural barriers to erosion; (iv) impervious surfaces not exceed 30 percent of the lot area
located within the AEC boundary; (v) the development comply with state soil erosion,
sedimentation, and stormwater management regulations; and (vi) the development comply with
the CAMA Land Use Plans. Specific CAMA development standards for AECs can be found in
15 NCAC 7H.

The US Army Corps of Engineers is responsible for regulating non-coastal or '404' wetlands.
Authorization must be obtained from the Corps prior to disturbing such wetlands.

Opportunities exist for the conservation of fragile areas and natural resource areas through both
private and public means. Private land trusts and conservancies are tax-exempt organizations
that acquire and preserve natural areas, open spaces, and historical properties. Such
organizations offer mechanisms such as conservation easements to protect natural resources
(natural habitats, places of scenic beauty, farms, forestlands, floodplains, watersheds, etc.)
while also providing compensation and possible tax incentives to private property owners. Tax
incentive programs, such as the North Carolina Conservation Tax Credit Program, provide
opportunities for property owners donating land for conservation purposes to receive tax credits.
State and local governments may also accept land donations for conservation purposes.

Public land use regulations, such as conservation design subdivision requirements, can be
developed to assist with the conservation of environmentally sensitive areas and open space as
land is being subdivided into building parcels.

The timing of the provision of infrastructure improvements, particularly water and sewer services
and roads, will also have a tremendous impact on the rate and location of growth and
development. Development will occur where infrastructure is available or can readily be made
available to sustain that development. Consequently, achieving the Future Land Use Map land
use projections will depend in large part upon if and when infrastructure is provided. The
provision of public infrastructure generally depends upon capability to provide the service and
demand for the service. Economic climate will be a major factor in the capability to make
infrastructure available as well as the level of service demand.

4.8 Comparison of Future Land Use Allocations and Projected Land Needs

The following table provides a comparison of the amount of projected future residential land
area with projected residential land needs.
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Section IV: Plan for the Future
September 28, 2007

Table 4.6
Comparison of Future Land Allocation with Projected Needs

Gross Acres Allocated
on the Future Land
Use Map

Existing Acres
from the
Existing Land
Use Map

Gross
Undeveloped
Acres*

Projected
Additional
Acres Needed
Through 2025
Residential** 5593 3244 2349 2366
Commercial 1010 593 417 433
Industrial 663 313 350 355
Public &
Institutional 744

431

313

315
Source: The Wooten Company, October 2006

* Gross Future Land Use Map Acres less Existing Land Use Map Acres.
** Includes the allowable 50% increase in residential acreage to accommodate market flexibility and
unanticipated growth (see Section 3.3.5, Land Needs Forecast).

Note that the ‘Mixed-Use’ future land use classifications have been omitted from the comparison
table as a separate line item, as there is no corresponding category on the existing land use
map. However, the Downtown Mixed Use and Port Mixed Use future land use category have
been integrated into the Residential, Commercial, and Industrial Future Land use categories in
the table. Mixed Use was divided according to the ratio of residential and nonresidential
development which currently exists within the Town, with the assumption that the ratio will
roughly continue. The breakdown results in the following division of the 548 acres of proposed
Mixed Use: 123 additional acres added to the Commercial category, 398 acres to the Industrial
category, and 27 acres added to the Residential category for comparison with existing land use
acreage. Also, acreage adjustments have been made to some of the future land use map
classifications to more accurately reflect multiple land uses that are accommodated within a
single future land use classification such a public and institutional land uses in residential
classifications and industrial land uses in commercial classifications.

Based upon this comparison, the projected residential land needs through 2025 can be met with
the estimated amount of available developable acreage in the current Morehead City
jurisdiction. It should be noted, however, that some undeveloped land within the Town’s
jurisdiction containing developmental constraints can be utilized by employing mitigating
measures. Therefore, a greater supply of land that will support development, with
environmental mitigation techniques, exists than is delineated here.

Based on the water and wastewater capacity and projected needs through the year 2030 as
outlined in Sections 3.4.1 and 3.4.2, the projected land use needs will be supported by the
associated necessary water and sewer infrastructure. The improvements to each system that
the town has planned within the next five years will support the associated growth.

The following table summarizes a hypothetical maximum buildout scenario and utility demand
by future land use map classifications using assumed density and intensity levels as identified in
the table:
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Section IV: Plan for the Future
September 28, 2007

Table 4.7
Projected Utility Demand at Buildout
Future Land
Use
Map
Classification

Estimated
Buildable
Acreage

Average
DU/AC

Maximum
Projected
DU
Average
Nonresidential
Lot Size
(Acres)
Maximum
Projected
Nonresidential
Users

Projected
Water &
Sewer
Demand
MGD*
Low Density
Residential

2,411

2

4,822

na
na
0.964
Medium
Density
Residential

1,147

5

5,735

na

na

1.147
High Density
Residential

388

12

4,656

na
na
0.931
General
Commercial

664

na

na

1.0

664

0.332
Downtown
Mixed Use

76

12

72

0.5

140

0.120
Public and
Institutional

212

na
na
5.0

42

0.042
General
Industrial
201
na
na
3.0

67

0.335
Port Mixed
Use

247

12

252

20.0

11

1.365
Totals 5,346 15,537 924 5.237
* Based upon an average consumption of 200 gpd for residential users, 500 gpd for commercial users, 1,000 gpd for
public and institutional users, and 5,000 gpd for industrial users
Source: The Wooten Company, October 2006; average consumption rates by the Town of Morehead City.

This hypothetical projection helps to illustrate the areas of Morehead City that have the greatest
potential for intensive growth as well as the highest demand for water and sewer services.

4.9 Use of the Future Land Use Plan to Guide Development

In preparing the Future Land Use Map, consideration was given to land development objectives
and policies, land suitability, and the ability to provide the infrastructure to support growth and
development. The Future Land Use Map depicts the general location of projected patterns of
future land uses. The Future Land Use Map is a plan or guideline for the future.

The ultimate use and development of a particular parcel of land will be determined by property
owners’ desires, overall market conditions, implementation tools employed by the Town to
regulate land use and development (such as the Town’s Unified Development Ordinance), the
absence of specific natural constraints to development, and the availability of the necessary
infrastructure (water, sewer, roads, etc.) to support development. Consequently, even though
the Future Land Use Map may indicate a specific projected use in a particular location, many
factors come into play to determine if the projected use is appropriate and the land can be
developed as projected. Also, formal amendments to the Unified Development Ordinance will
be required to specifically authorize the type of mixed use development envisioned in this Land
Use Plan.

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Section IV: Plan for the Future
September 28, 2007
In the way of an example, the Morehead City Future Land Use Map indicates General Industrial
use in the southern portion of Neighborhood 8. Thus, it has been determined through the Land
Use Plan that the industrial use of property in this area is desirable and is expected to occur.
However, the actual industrial use of a specific piece of property in this generally-identified area
will depend upon the following:

• Is the property owner willing to use or sell the parcel for the proposed
industrial use? Change of use or change of development intensity is, in
most cases, initiated by the desires of the property owner.
• Is the parcel properly zoned for industrial use? If not, a rezoning must be
requested and approved by the Town Council. In reviewing the rezoning
request, the Town Council will determine if industrial use is appropriate
and desirable for the parcel.
• If the parcel is already zoned for industrial use, a zoning and building
permit must be requested and approved by the Town. The proposed use
and layout of the proposed building will be reviewed to determine
conformance with the Town’s land use and development regulations and
standards. Water supply and sewage disposal systems must be
approved.
• In reviewing rezoning requests and zoning and building permit
applications, site characteristics of the parcel will be a major
consideration by the review and approval authority. Are site
characteristics such that the parcel can be physically used for the
proposed industrial use? Do poor soils, poor drainage, wetlands, flood
hazards, etc. limit the use of all or a portion of the parcel for industrial
development? Can adverse site conditions be overcome or mitigated in
accordance with Town, County, State, and Federal regulations? The
allowable building intensity and density of development may need to be
reduced to ensure compatibility with existing site conditions.
• Are adequate utilities in place to support the proposed industrial use? If
adequate utilities are not in place, improvements will have to be planned,
approved, and extended to the parcel in accordance with Town, County,
State, and utility provider standards and regulations. Are improvements
and extensions economically feasible?
• Are adequate roads in place to provide access to the parcel? If new
roads or improvements to existing roads are needed, they will have to be
planned, approved, and constructed in accordance with Town and
NCDOT standards.

Achieving the projected patterns of land use indicated by the Future Land Use Map will be
greatly impacted by timing. Much of the projected land use indicated on the Future Land Use
Map will not come to fruition without market demand. Therefore, market and economic
conditions must be conducive for growth and development. W hile the Land Use Plan attempts
to provide a general expectation of growth based upon projected population change, it simply
cannot predict the economic future. The demand for houses, businesses, industries, etc. will
fluctuate widely with economic conditions.

The timing of the provision of infrastructure improvements, particularly water and sewer services
and roads, will also have a tremendous impact on growth and development. Development will
occur where infrastructure is available or can be made available to sustain that development.
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Section IV: Plan for the Future
September 28, 2007
Consequently, achieving the Future Land Use Map land use projections will depend in large part
upon if and when infrastructure is provided. The provision of public infrastructure depends upon
capability to provide the service and demand for the service. Economic climate will be a major
factor in both the capability to make infrastructure available and the level of service demand.

Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Page 117 of 165
Section V: Tools for Managing Development
September 28, 2007
SECTION 5 TOOLS FOR MANAGING DEVELOPMENT

This section of the Plan is organized in accordance with the requirements of Subchapter 7B
.0702(e). Section V includes a description of the Town of Morehead City land management
tools and programs as well as the actions and strategies that the Town will use to implement the
Land Use Plan.

5.1 Guide for Land Use Decision-making

The Land Use Plan, as adopted by the elected officials of the Town of Morehead City and as
may be amended from time to time, will serve as the primary guide upon which to make land
use policy decisions. Every land use policy decision, such as a rezoning request or approval of
a conditional or special use permit, will be measured for consistency with the goals, policies,
and recommendations of the Plan. The elected officials, Planning Board, Board of Zoning
Adjustment, and Town staff should utilize the Land Use Plan as the basic policy guide in the
administration of the zoning ordinance, subdivision regulations, and other land development
regulatory tools. Persons involved in the land development business as well as the general
public can also utilize the Land Use Plan to guide private decisions regarding land use and land
development.

The policy statements and recommendations of the Land Use Plan can also be of assistance to
the elected officials in making long-range decisions regarding such matters as the provision of
municipal services, thoroughfare planning, stormwater planning and management,
implementation of economic development strategies, recreational facility planning, and
preparation of capital and operating budgets. It should be noted, however, that the Land Use
Plan is one of a variety of guides in making a public policy decision. The Plan should be viewed
as a tool to aid in decision making and not as the final decision.

Additional information regarding utilizing the Land Use Plan to guide development is provided in
Section 4.9.

5.2 Existing Land Use and Development Management Program

Morehead City’s existing land development management program includes the following land
regulatory ordinances and related plans:

• Unified Development Ordinance.
• Airport Height Regulations for the Michael J. Smith Field, 2000.
• CAMA Land Use Plan Update, Certified in May 1999.
• Waterfront Access Plan, 1998.
• Hazard Mitigation Plan, 2004.
• Parks and Recreation Master Plan.
• Utility extension policies and requirements.
• Crystal Coast Thoroughfare Plan.

The Town’s land development management program is administered primarily by the Town of
Morehead City Planning Department. The Town’s land development regulations are applicable
to all land areas located within the Morehead City planning and zoning jurisdiction. The Town of
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Morehead City Planning Department provides staff support for the Morehead City Planning
Board and the Morehead City Board of Adjustment. The Planning Board serves primarily in an
advisory capacity, making recommendations to the Town Council on zoning and subdivision
matters. The Board of Adjustment is responsible for hearing requests for special use permits as
well as requests for appeals and variances from the zoning ordinance. The Town Council’s
responsibilities in the zoning process include adopting and amending the zoning ordinance text
and map and making approval decisions regarding applications for planned residential
developments. The Town Council is also responsible for making approval decisions on all
preliminary and final subdivisions.

Building inspections throughout the Morehead City jurisdiction are administered by the Town of
Morehead Inspections Division.

5.3 Additional Implementation Tools

5.3.1 Amendments or Adjustments to Existing Land Development Ordinances
Amendments to land development ordinances necessary to ensure consistency with the
Land Use Plan include the following:

• UDO amendment regarding building heights and residential densities.
• UDO amendment regarding retaining existing vegetation, buffers, and
tree preservation.
• UDO amendment regarding design guidelines for commercial
development.
• UDO amendment regarding sign standards and requirements.

5.3.2 Capital Improvements
Proposed water and wastewater systems capital improvements include the following:

• Addition of a 6th well: $300,000.
• Wastewater collection, treatment, and disposal systems improvements:
$10 million.
• Water and sewer system improvements to Causeway Area and Radio
Island: $200,000.
• Water and sewer system improvements along Little Nine Drive:
$100,000.
In addition, proposed public water access and recreation facilities improvements include:

• Newport River Park W ater Access: $300,000.
• Morehead City W ater Access at 7th Street: $250,000.
• Continued implementation of the W aterfront Access Plan: $250,000.

Estimated total cost for all proposed capital improvements is $11.4 million.

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5.4 Implementation Plan and Schedule

The Town of Morehead has developed the following action plan and schedule to implement the
Land Use Plan.

5.4.1 Public Water Access Implementation Actions

1. FY 05: Morehead City Water Access at North 7th Street improvements.
2. FY 07: Newport River water access improvements.
3. Ongoing: The town will require, through its Unified Development
Ordinance, provisions for common water access in waterfront
subdivisions and public water access for major residential developments
which adjoin a waterfront for a distance of 1200 feet or more.
4. Ongoing: Review, through the subdivision plat and site plan review and
approval process, proposed waterfront land development projects to
ensure consistency with the town’s W aterfront Access Plan and the
town’s public access goals and policies.

5.4.2 Land Use Compatibility Implementation Actions
1. Ongoing: Review the Unified Development Ordinance and other Town
land use and development regulations and policies to ensure that
residential densities and building intensities are consistent with the
Town’s land suitability goals and policies. Prepare revisions and updates
as determined appropriate. Coordinate the review with the Carteret
County Health Department.
2. Ongoing: In areas where municipal sewer service is unavailable and the
soils are identified as having severe limitation for urban development, major
new development shall be required, through the town’s unified
development, prior to approval, to present data indicating how the limitation
can be mitigated. Major development is defined as shopping centers, office
parks, planned unit developments, multi-family complexes, industrial parks,
and any residential subdivision that includes more than 5 acres.

5.4.3 Infrastructure Carrying Capacity Implementation Actions
1. FY 08: W ater and sewer improvements along Little Nine Mile Drive.
2. FY 09: W ater system improvements to the Causeway and Radio Island.
3. FY 10: Addition of a 6th well to the town’s water system.
4. Ongoing: Utilize the Land Use Plan, Unified Development Ordinance,
and utilities extension policies to guide public infrastructure and services
to areas where growth and development are desired.
5. Ongoing: The town will continue to review and evaluate its current water
and sewer extension policies to determine if revisions are necessary to
better encourage new development located outside of the existing service
area to utilize the town's water and sewer system.
6. Ongoing: In order to discourage additional septic system use in areas
where municipal sewer service is currently unavailable, major subdivisions
(subdivisions of 5 or more lots) will be required, through the town’s unified
development ordinance, to contact the town during the subdivision review
process to discuss municipal sewer availability and the feasibility of
extending the town’s sewer system to the subdivision.
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5.4.4 Natural Hazard Areas Implementation Actions
1. Ongoing: The Town will review its Unified Development Ordinance and
flood damage prevention ordinance to determine if more specific
locational and density regulations regarding development or
redevelopment activities within identified flood hazard areas and storm
surge areas are warranted. Issues to be addressed include restrictions
on land uses that utilize or store hazardous materials on-site,
establishment of riparian buffers, increasing the minimum freeboard
height above base flood elevation, etc.
2. Ongoing: Coordinate the review and approval of development plans for
major subdivisions, multifamily developments, and large public and
institutional uses located within identified natural hazard areas with the
County Emergency Management Agency. Continue the active
enforcement of the State Building Code provisions regarding wind-
resistance requirements and participation in the National Flood Insurance
Program.
3. Ongoing: The town will continue to enforce the Flood Damage Prevention
Ordinance which requires new construction to be elevated at least one foot
above the established 100-year flood elevation.
4. Ongoing: The town will continue to participate in the Federal Emergency
Management Agency’s Community Rating System Program which results
in lower flood insurance rates.
5. Ongoing: The town will continue implementation of the action plan
contained in the 2004 Morehead City Hazard Mitigation Plan

5.4.5 Water Quality Implementation Actions
1. FY 06: Begin wastewater collection, treatment, and disposal systems
improvements.
2. FY 07: UDO amendment regarding retaining existing vegetation, buffers,
and tree preservation.
3. FY 08: Pursue grant funding for retrofitting existing stormwater
discharges.
4. FY 10: Implementation of a stormwater management program.
5. Ongoing: The Town will continue to require, through its subdivision
regulations, adequate stormwater drainage systems for new
developments. The Town will continue to promote the use of best
management practices to minimize the degradation of water quality
resulting from stormwater runoff. The Town will continue to coordinate
the approval of land development projects with the applicable State
agencies.

5.4.6 Areas of Environmental Concern Implementation Actions:
1. FY 06: Sugarloaf Island improvements regarding environmental
education.
2. FY 10: Pursue Clean Water Management Trust Funds grants for
identification of environmentally sensitive areas.
3. Ongoing: The Town will review its Unified Development Ordinance to
determine if revisions are needed to include additional protective
measures for AECs.

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September 28, 2007
5.4.7 Areas of Local Concern Implementation Actions:
1. FY 07: UDO amendment regarding building heights and residential
densities.
2. FY 07: UDO amendment regarding design guidelines for commercial
development.
3. FY 08: Coordinate an annexation boundary agreement with the Town of
Beaufort.
4. FY 06: Review UDO regarding sign standards and requirements.
5. Ongoing: The Town will prepare a comprehensive community
services/facilities plan. This plan will identify major municipal services and
facilities needs and deficiencies, prioritize those needs, and prepare cost
estimates and a budgeting plan for the recommended improvements.

5.5 Description of Public Participation Activities to Assist in Monitoring Plan
Implementation

The Town of Morehead City has developed the following action plan to assist in monitoring
implementation of the Land Use Plan.

Annual Performance Review
The Town of Morehead City, through the Director of Planning and the Planning Board, will
undertake an annual review of the proposed implementation activities delineated in
Section 5.4 to determine the following:

• The status of the implementation actions proposed during the previous
fiscal year.
• If the implementation action has been completed, evaluate the general
effectiveness of the implementation action taken and make
recommendations on any follow-up action deemed necessary to assist in
implementing the goals, objectives, and policies of the Land Use Plan.
• If the implementation action has not been undertaken, assess the
reasons that the action has not been completed, evaluate the current
need to undertake the action, and make recommendations regarding a
revised schedule for carrying out the action.

In addition to reviewing specific implementation actions outlined in Section 5.4, the Town
will also undertake an assessment of the general effectiveness of the policies outlined in
Section 4.2 and make recommendations on any follow-up action deemed necessary to
improve the effectiveness of the policies.

The Planning Director and Planning Board will forward their evaluation and
recommendations to the Town of Morehead City Town Council. The Town Council,
following a review of the recommendations, will make a determination of what action, if
any, should be taken to ensure implementation of the Land Use Plan. All Planning Board
and Town Council meetings are open to the public and citizen comments are welcomed.

If a formal amendment to the Land Use Plan is deemed necessary, such amendment shall
be processed in accordance with the requirements of NCAC 7B.0900.

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September 28, 2007
The Town of Morehead City will utilize a variety of media outlets (i.e.., webpage,
newsletter, etc.) to distribute information regarding the Town’s overall planning program,
annual reports and evaluations, and specific implementation activities.

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APPENDICES

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Appendix A
Citizen Participation Plan

Morehead City has received grant funding from the Department of Environment and Natural
Resources (DENR) through the Local Government Planning and Management Grant Program
to prepare an update to the existing CAMA Land Use Plan. A condition of the funding
agreement requires the local government to “employ a variety of educational efforts and
participation techniques to assure that all socio-economic segments of the community and non-
resident property owners have opportunities to participate during plan development” [15A
NCAC7L .0506 (a)].

Development and implementation of a Citizen Participation Plan is the main resource to address
these public participation requirements.

The Citizen Participation Plan provides the following opportunities:
1. Sharing of information about the CAMA land use planning process between the local
government, the State and local residents.
2. Actively involving citizens in the process of identifying land use issues, identifying and
evaluating options and the development of land use policies.

Active citizen involvement in the development of the Land Use Plan is essential to the
development of a quality plan and the success of its implementation. To provide information to
the public and to encourage adequate citizen involvement, the following Citizen Participation
Plan will be utilized by Morehead City.

Designation of Lead Planning Group: The Morehead City Council will appoint a Land Use
Plan Advisory Committee to oversee the preparation of the land use plan. The Land Use Plan
Advisory Committee (LUPAC) will be composed of two Councilmen, two Planning Board
members and seven citizens representing a broad cross-section of the population of Morehead
City. The LUPAC will advise and coordinate plan development with the Morehead City Planning
Board, the Morehead City Council and the City’s Consultant, BLUE: Land, W ater, Infrastructure,
PA (BLWI).

The LUPAC will have the following duties and responsibilities:
• Provide overall direction for development of the Draft Land Use Plan;
• Serve as a public contact for citizens to get information and to comment on the proposed
plan;
• Review technical planning materials for accuracy;
• Assist with preparation of major plan elements, including identification of concerns and
key planning issues, development of a community vision, goal development, preparation
of draft policies and future land use map;
• Assist with organization, management and facilitation of public participation events;
• Help publicize public participation events in the community; and,
• Recommend and present a draft land use plan to the Morehead City Planning Board and
the Morehead City Council.

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The Land Use Plan Committee will meet approximately 9 times in the course of the next 18
months with special meetings being called as needed. Generally, meetings will be scheduled
on the first Tuesday of the month at 5:30 p.m.

All meetings will be held in the Morehead City Council Chambers located on the 2nd floor of the
Municipal Building, 202 South 8th Street. A time for public comment will be reserved at all
LUPAC meetings. The City will keep a record of residents and property owners who speak at
Land Use Plan meetings and other plan events and will retain any written comments that are
received. The names of the speakers and written comments will be provided to the Division of
Coastal Management (DCM) District Planner for use in draft plan review.

An initial Land Use Plan orientation meeting will be held during the LUPAC’s first meeting
scheduled for December 2, 2003.

Initial Public Information Meeting: The County’s funding agreement with DENR requires a
public information meeting(s) at the beginning of the process. The meeting will be an
educational opportunity to inform the general public of the purpose of the CAMA Land Use Plan
and to outline the County’s public participation process. The meeting is tentatively scheduled for
Tuesday, December 2, 2003 at 5:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers located on the 2nd floor of the
Municipal Building, 202 South 8th Street in conjunction with the orientation meeting.

The following items will be discussed at the Initial Public Information Meeting:
• Policy statements contained in the current Morehead City Land Use Plan;
• Effect of current policies on the City;
• Ways the current plan has been used to guide development during the last planning
period;
• An explanation of how Morehead City will report to the public and solicit the views of
citizens in the development of updated policy statements;
• The tools to be used to report planning process to the public during plan development;
• A description of the methods and techniques that shall be used to solicit public
participation and input from residents and non-resident property owners, including the
results that are expected from these methods and techniques; and,
• The general meeting schedule for the preparation of the Land Use Plan Update.

Opportunity for public comment will be provided during the Initial Public Information Meeting.

The City will give two public notices of the initial public information meeting. The first notice will
be published in the Carteret County News-Times not less than 30 days before the meeting. The
second notice will be published not less than 10 days before the meeting. In addition, the City
will notify local members of the Coastal Resources Advisory Council (CRAC) and the DCM
District Planner of the date, time, and place of the meeting.

Public participation tools: Morehead City will use several methods to solicit public
participation in the Land Use Plan process. These methods were selected to assist in meeting
the citizen participation objectives of education, listening, collaboration and support. The public
participation tools include:
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• A community/neighborhood forum near the beginning of the process will provide an
opportunity for a wide range of residents and property owners to express their views on
land use and development issues and the Land Use Plan on a citywide and
neighborhood basis. It will also provide an opportunity for citizens to learn about the
views of others. This method will help meet the listening and education goals of the
citizen participation program.
• Open house to be conducted prior to the Preliminary draft being presented to the
Planning Board and the Morehead City Council to allow for public review of maps and
policies. This will provide an opportunity for the community to express views and
concerns about what is being proposed. It provides an informal setting for stakeholders
to examine work products and to interact with members of the planning group. This
technique will assist in meeting the listening and collaborative objectives of the citizen
participation program.
• Media releases will keep the community informed and educated about the Land Use
Plan process. Newspaper articles and public service announcements will be used to
report planning progress, as well as to encourage participation in and support for the
planning process.
• Quarterly newsletter and Morehead City website updates The City’s website
(townofmorehead.com) will be used to report planning progress to and solicit
participation by the public, including non-resident property owners. Progress will also be
reported through the newsletter which is mailed out quarterly.
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Tentative Meeting/Public Participation Schedule

1. October 7, 2003 – Morehead City Council review and approval of Citizen Participation
Plan/appointment of Land Use Plan Advisory Committee (LUPAC).
2. December 2, 2003 – LUPAC Initial Public Information Meeting/Orientation on Land Use
Plan Process.
3. January 6, 2004 – LUPAC holds Neighborhood Forum to receive input on issues,
concerns, and opportunities citywide and by neighborhood.
4. February, 2004 – LUPAC to review
• existing and emerging conditions
• key planning issues
• vision statement
5. March, 2004 – LUPAC to review technical analyses
• population, housing, and economy
• natural systems and existing land use
• stormwater and community facilities
6. April, 2004 – LUPAC review of land suitability and current plans and policies.
7. May, 2004 – LUPAC to continue review of land suitability analysis and begin review of
draft policies.
8. June, 2004 – LUPAC to continue review of draft policies.
9. August, 2004 – LUPAC to continue review of draft policies.
10. September, 2004 – LUPAC to review Future Land Use Map and Tools for Managing
Development.
11. November, 2004 – Open House for citizens to review and comment on preliminary draft
of policies and Future Land Use Map.
12. November, 2004 – Present preliminary draft and comments received at Open House to
the Planning Board for review and recommendation.
13. December, 2004 – Present preliminary draft to Morehead City Council. Identify needed
adjustments.
14. March, 2005 – Review DCM plan comments and make necessary adjustments.
15. May, 2005 – Morehead City Council to hold required Public Adoption Hearing.

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Appendix B
Census Explanation

According to the US Census Bureau (USCB) decennial census statistics are considered to be
100% data based on short-form questionnaires that are sent to every person and housing unit
and long-form questionnaires that are sampled of every 1 in 6 persons and households. All
demographic data for the non-decennial years are estimates based on the latest decennial data.
Population estimates are released annually by the US Census Bureau and are calculated by
using predictor variables or administrative records that are available on an annual basis.
Examples of some administrative records include: birth and death certificates, Internal Revenue
Service data, Medicare enrollment records, Armed Forces data, etc. Growth rates based on
changes in these administrative records are combined with the latest decennial census statistics
to form the yearly demographic estimates (USCB 2003).

POPULATION ESTIMATES
U.S. Census Bureau annual demographic estimates are considered to be rough estimates
based on administrative records easily available to Federal Demographers. State
Demographers are privy to more detailed annual administrative records and may have access
to local data from the Department of Motor Vehicles, housing permits, Medicare, birth and death
data, and school enrollment data which can be analyzed to produce population estimates. The
North Carolina Demographers Unit uses a similar methodology and any annual administrative
records available to make their population estimates.

For example, in calculating the 2002 North Carolina county population estimates, the North
Carolina State Demographer used the 2002 US Census Bureau population estimates (that were
released in April 2003) as a starting base (North Carolina State Demographics Unit 2003). For
this 2002 estimate, the U.S. Census Bureau assumed that the institutional population for each
North Carolina county would be the same as that of 2001 (NCSDU 2003). Available data from
current state Medicare enrollees and all North Carolina military bases and institutions proved
that assumption invalid, so the data was used to adjust the US Census Bureau’s original
estimate (NCSDU 2003). Due to the fact the North Carolina Demographer has access to more
detailed administrative records, demographic data released by the state may differ slightly from
US Census Bureau data estimates and can be considered to be more accurate.

POPULATION PROJECTIONS
A population projection differs from an estimate in that it relies on certain assumptions about
long-term trends in data that are not yet available, while an estimate is based on data from
predictor variables or administrative records that are available for the estimate year. Recent
population projections were released in June 2002 by the North Carolina Office of State Budget
and Management for all geography types in the state. The base decade used to determine the
forecasting trend for the population projections is 1990-2000 (NCSDU 2002). The most
fundamental base year for these projections is the 2000 US Census Bureau’s modified age,
race and sex file (NCSDU 2002). The most basic technique used to project the population
projections for age, race and sex is to combine the trends of birth and death data, migration
data and institutional population (NCSDU 2002). It is important to note that it was assumed all
institutional population would remain constant after 2000 (NCSDU 2002).

1990 MOREHEAD CITY EXTRA JURISDICTIONAL AREA POPULATION ESTIMATE
This population estimate was derived from U.S Census Bureau block group data. Using a
Geographic Information System (GIS), the 2004 Morehead City ETJ boundary was overlaid onto
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Page 129 of 165
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September 28, 2007
1990 U.S. Census Bureau block group data. The population for block groups inside the ETJ
boundary were combined to produce a population estimate. The block group boundaries were,
in many cases, not coincident with the ETJ boundary. This resulted in several block groups
being partially inside and partially outside the ETJ boundary. In these instances, a simple
estimate of population was derived for each of the block groups based on the percentage of the
block group area inside the ETJ boundary. For example, if a block group with a population of
100 persons was split by the ETJ boundary so that 60% of its area was inside the ETJ boundary
and 40% was outside the ETJ boundary, it was estimated that the portion of the block group
inside the ETJ boundary contained 60 persons.

2000 MOREHEAD CITY EXTRA JURISDICTIONAL AREA POPULATION ESTIMATE
This population estimate was derived from U.S Census Bureau block data. Using a Geographic
Information System (GIS), the 2000 Morehead City ETJ boundary was overlaid onto 2004 U.S.
Census Bureau blocks. The population for blocks inside the ETJ boundary were combined to
produce a population estimate. The block boundaries were, in many cases, not coincident with
the ETJ boundary. This resulted in several blocks being partially inside and partially outside the
ETJ boundary. In these instances, a simple estimate of population was derived for each of the
blocks based on the percentage of the block area inside the ETJ boundary. For example, if a
block with a population of 100 persons was split by the ETJ boundary so that 60% of its area
was inside the ETJ boundary and 40% was outside the ETJ boundary, it was estimated that the
portion of the block inside the ETJ boundary contained 60 persons.

HOUSING, INCOME, EMPLOYMENT AND ECONOMIC STATISTICS
Statistics regarding housing, income, employment and economics are not generated by the
North Carolina State Demographics Unit. They are listed on the North Carolina State
Demographics Internet site for convenience, but are generated by federal agencies including
the US Census Bureau and the Bureau of Economic Analysis. All data of this type included in
this report has been checked for consistency between the federal agencies and the North
Carolina State Demographics Unit. Any discrepancies have been noted.

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Appendix C
Natural Features Maps

The following maps are provided in Appendix C:

• Figure 6, Areas of Environmental Concern

• Figure 7, Soil Suitability for Septic Systems

• Figure 8, Water Quality Classes

• Figure 9, Fragile Areas

• Figure 10, Flood Hazard Areas

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Appendix D
Community Facilities Maps

The following maps are provided in Appendix D:

• Figure 11, W ater and Sewer Systems

• Figure 12, Transportation Systems

• Figure 13, Stormwater Drainage

M o r e h e a d C i t yMorehead C i t y
N e w p o r tNewport
A t l a n t i c B e a c hAtlantic B e a c h
P i n e K n o l l S h o r e sPine K n o l l S h o r e s
70
70
24
Newport River
(In cluding Intr acoas tal Waterway t o Beauf ort In let)Hoop Pole CreekMoney Island Bay
Cal ico Creek
Cr ab Poi ntBay
Tar Landing B ay
Harbor Ch ann el
S
p
o
o
n
e
r
C
r
e
e
k
Pelti er Creek Wil
li
s
Cr
e
e
k
Fish ing Creek
Money Island S lou gh All en Sloug h
Hull Swamp
Mill Creek
Li ttle Creek Swa mp
Bog ue So un d
The prepa rat ion o f this map was finan ced in pa rt t hro ugh a g ran t provided b y the NorthCarolina Co asta l Man ageme nt Program, through fu nds p ro vided by the Co asta l ZoneManagement Act of 19 72, as amen ded, which is administered b y the Office of Ocea n andCoastal Reso urce Ma nagement, National O cean ic and Atmospheric Ad ministration.
MOREHEAD CITY, NC Figure 13: Stormwater Drainage
0 0.75 1.5 2.25 30.37 5 MilesStormwater data developed by
Fi nalized Conveyances
Swale
Storm drain
Wet pond
Creek
Hidden drain
Dry pond
Box Culvert
Bridge
Piping
Fi nalized Structures
Bridge end
Other-See Comments
Manhole/Junction Box
Curb inlet-no grate
Control structure
Open throat CB
Curb cut
Hidden Junction Box
Curb inlet - grate
Grate
Headwall
Conveyance end
Pipe End
Open Channels
Culverts
Non-Stormwater Discharges
BMP
Elevation
High : 44

Low : -12
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Appendix E
References

(Carteret County EDC-A) Carteret County Economic Development Council (2003). Business
Performance Office. Cherry Point Marine Core Air Station. Cherry Point Impact 2003.
http://www.carteretedc.com/demographics/cherrypoint.htm. (Downloaded 03/23/2004)

(Carteret County EDC-B) Carteret County Economic Development Council (2003). North
Carolina Department of Commerce, Division of Tourism. Tourism Impact 2003.
http://www.carteretedc.com/demographics/tourism.htm (Downloaded 03/23/2004)

(Carteret County EDC-C) Carteret County Economic Development Council (2003) N.C. Division
of Marine Fisheries. Stanford W hite Associates. Seafood Industry 2003.
http://www.carteretedc.com/demographics/seafood.htm (Downloaded 03/23/2004)

North Carolina Coastal Federation (NCCF). (02/24/2004) The Pollution Database. Retrieved
3/01/2004 from: http://www.nccoast.org/CKSewer/Chronic%20Polluters.htm.

North Carolina State Demographics Unit. (2003). Certified July 1, 2002 County Population
Estimates: http://demog.state.nc.us/

North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources (NCDENR). 2001. W hite
Oak River Basinwide Water Quality Plan, July 2001. Division of W ater Quality / Planning.
http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/basinwide/whiteoak/2001/whiteoak2001.htm.

North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources (NCDENR). 2000. Basin
Wide Assessment Report: W hite Oak River Basin, June 2000. Division of Water Quality, Water
Quality Section, Environmental Sciences Branch.
http://www.esb.enr.state.nc.us/Basinwide/W OK2000.pdf.

North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources (NCDENR). (3/02/2004).
Division of W ater Quality. Environmental Enforcement Data. Available on the internet at:
http://www.enr.state.nc.us/novs/wq0503.pdf

North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources (NCDENR). (2002). Division
of W ater Resources. Part 1: Water Supply System Report for Calendar Year 2002; Part 2:
Water Supply Planning Report; Part 3: Water conservation and Demand Management. Raleigh,
NC.

North Carolina Division of W ater Quality (NCDWQ). (3/25/2004). Point Source Compliance and
Enforcement: Moratorium. Overview of Sewer Line Moratorium. Available on the Internet at:
http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/psceu/moratorium.htm.

(Town of Morehead City-A) Town of Morehead City. (06/05/2003). W ater Quality Report. Town
of Morehead City PW SID# 04-16-015, June 5, 2003. Town of Morehead City, NC.

(Town of Morehead City-B) Town of Morehead City. 2003 Annual W astewater Treatment Plant
and Collection System Report. (2003). Town of Morehead City, NC.

Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Page 141 of 165
Appendices
September 28, 2007
Town of Morehead City. 2000 Annual W astewater Treatment Plant and Collection System
Report. (2000). Town of Morehead City, NC.

U.S. Census Bureau (2003) http://eire.census.gov/popest/topics/methodology/coasro.pdf

U.S Census Bureau. (2001) http://www.census.gov/prod/2001pubs/mso-01icdp.pdf

A Guide to North Carolina’s Tidal Saltwater Classifications, Cape Fear Council of Governments,
1994.

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Appendix F
Summary of CRC Land Use Plan Management Topic Goals and Objectives

Public Access
Goal Maximize public access to the beaches and the public trust waters of the coastal
region
Objective Develop comprehensive policies that provide access opportunities for the public
along the shoreline within the planning jurisdiction
Land Use
Compatibility

Goal Ensure the development and use of resources or preservation of land minimizes
direct and secondary environmental impacts, avoids risks to public health, safety
and welfare, and is consistent with the capability of the land based on
considerations of interactions of natural and manmade features
Adopt and apply local development policies that balance protection of natural
resources and fragile areas with economic development
Objective
Policies should provide clear direction to assist local decision making and
consistency findings for zoning, divisions of land, and public and private projects
Infrastructure
Carrying Capacity

Goal Ensure that public infrastructure systems are appropriately sized, located, and
managed so that the quality and productivity of AECs and other fragile areas are
protected or restored
Objective Establish level of service policies and criteria for infrastructure consistent with future
land needs projections
Natural Hazard
Areas

Goal Conserve and maintain barrier dunes, beaches, floodplains, and other coastal
features for their natural storm protection functions and their natural resources
giving recognition to public health, safety, and welfare issues
Objective Develop policies that minimize threats to life, property, and natural resources
resulting from development located in or adjacent to hazard areas such as those
subject to erosion, high winds, storm surge, flooding, or sea level rise
Water Quality
Goal Maintain, protect and, where possible, enhance water quality in all coastal
wetlands, rivers, streams, and estuaries
Objective Adopt policies for coastal waters within the planning jurisdiction to help ensure that
water quality is maintained if not impaired and improved if impaired
Local Areas of Concern
Goal Integrate local concerns with the overall goals of CAMA in the context of land use
planning
Objective Identify and address local concerns and issues, such as cultural and historic areas,
scenic areas, economic development, downtown revitalization or general health
and human service needs
Source: CAMA Land Use Planning Guidelines, Subchapter 7B .0702(d)(3)

Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Page 143 of 165 Appendices September 28, 2007 Appendix G Impact of Morehead City Policies on CRC Land Use Plan Management Topics CRC Land Use Plan Management Topics and Benchmarks Public Water Access Land Use Compatibility Infrastructure Carrying Capacity Natural Hazard Areas Water Quality Local Areas of Concern Land Use and Development Policies (see Table 4.2 for the details of each policy) • Improvements to existing access locations • Development of new access areas • Reduce the placement of incompatible land uses • Preservation of existing character • Water, sewer, and other services being available in required locations at adequate capacities to support development • Land uses and development patterns that reduce the vulnerability to natural hazards • Planning for adequate evacuation infrastructure. • Land use and development measures that abate impacts that degrade water quality • Compatible development • Redevelopment • Tourism development • Land use density compatible with services 4.2.1 Public Water Access: • Policy 1 Beneficial • Policy 2 Beneficial • Policy 3 Beneficial 4.2.2 Land Use Compatibility: • Policy 1 Beneficial Beneficial Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 2 Beneficial • Policy 3 Beneficial Beneficial 4.2.3 Infrastructure Carrying Capacity: • Policy 1 Beneficial • Policy 2 Beneficial Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 3 Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 4 Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 5 Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 6 Beneficial Beneficial 4.2.4 Natural Hazard Areas: • Policy 1 Beneficial Beneficial
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Page 144 of 165 Appendices September 28, 2007 Public Water Access Land Use Compatibility Infrastructure Carrying Capacity Natural Hazard Areas Water Quality Local Areas of Concern • Policy 2 Beneficial • Policy 3 Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 4 Beneficial • Policy 5 Beneficial 4.2.5 Water Quality: • Policy 1 Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 2 Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 3 Beneficial Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 4 Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 5 Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 6 Beneficial Beneficial 4.2.6 Areas of Environmental Concern: • Policy 1 Beneficial • Policy 2 Beneficial • Policy 3 Beneficial • Policy 4 Beneficial • Policy 5 Beneficial • Policy 6 Beneficial • Policy 7 Beneficial • Policy 8 Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 9 Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 10 Beneficial • Policy 11 Beneficial • Policy 12 Beneficial 4.2.7 Areas of Local Concern, General: • Policy 1 Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 2 Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 3 Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 4 Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 5 Beneficial Beneficial
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Page 145 of 165 Appendices September 28, 2007 Public Water Access Land Use Compatibility Infrastructure Carrying Capacity Natural Hazard Areas Water Quality Local Areas of Concern • Policy 6 Beneficial Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 7 Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 8 Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 9 Beneficial Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 10 Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 11 Beneficial • Policy 12 Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 13 Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 14 Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 15 Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 16 Beneficial Beneficial 4.2.8 Areas of Local Concern, Neighborhood 1: • Policy 1 Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 2 Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 3 Beneficial • Policy 4 Beneficial • Policy 5 Beneficial • Policy 6 Beneficial • Policy 7 Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 8 Beneficial 4.2.8 Areas of Local Concern, Neighborhood 2: • Policy 1 Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 2 Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 3 Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 4 Beneficial Beneficial 4.2.8 Areas of Local Concern, Neighborhood 3: • Policy 1 Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 2 Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 3 Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 4 Beneficial Beneficial
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Page 146 of 165 Appendices September 28, 2007 Public Water Access Land Use Compatibility Infrastructure Carrying Capacity Natural Hazard Areas Water Quality Local Areas of Concern • Policy 5 Beneficial Beneficial 4.2.8 Areas of Local Concern, Neighborhood 4: • Policy 1 Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 2 Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 3 Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 4 Beneficial Beneficial 4.2.8 Areas of Local Concern, Neighborhood 5: • Policy 1 Beneficial • Policy 2 Beneficial Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 3 Beneficial Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 4 Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 5 Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 6 Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 7 Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 8 Beneficial Beneficial 4.2.8 Areas of Local Concern, Neighborhood 6: • Policy 1 Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 2 Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 3 Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 4 Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 5 Beneficial Beneficial 4.2.8 Areas of Local Concern, Neighborhood 7: • Policy 1 Beneficial • Policy 2 Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 3 Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 4 Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 5 Beneficial Beneficial 4.2.8 Areas of Local Concern, Neighborhood 8: • Policy 1 Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 2 Beneficial
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Page 147 of 165 Appendices September 28, 2007 Public Water Access Land Use Compatibility Infrastructure Carrying Capacity Natural Hazard Areas Water Quality Local Areas of Concern • Policy 3 Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 4 Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 5 Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 6 Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 7 Beneficial Beneficial 4.2.8 Areas of Local Concern, Neighborhood 9: • Policy 1 Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 2 Beneficial Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 3 Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 4 Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 5 Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 6 Beneficial Beneficial 4.2.8 Areas of Local Concern, Neighborhood 10: • Policy 1 Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 2 Beneficial Beneficial • Policy 3 Beneficial Beneficial Beneficial
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Appendix H
Maps and Land Use Plan Data Available at the Morehead City Planning Department

Maps
• Natural Features Map
• Composite Environmental Conditions Map
• Floodplains Map
• Storm Surge Map
• Existing Land Use Map
• Water and Wastewater Systems Map
• Stormwater Management System Map
• Septic System Soil Limitations Map
• Land Suitability Map
• Future Land Use Map

Data
• 2005 Morehead City Land Use Plan Update

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Appendix I
Population Projections

US
Certified
Estimate

Projections
Census
2000
July
2002

2005

2010

2015

2020

2025

2030
Carteret County 59,383 60,064 62,760 65,939 68,235 70,353 71,894 73,084
Morehead City
Corporate Area

7,691

7,726
Average rate of growth
1970-2000 7,844 7,998 8,157 8,317 8,483 8,649
Town to county ratio 8,112 8,523 8,819 9,093 9,292 9,446
Average of both
methodologies 7,978 8,260 8,488 8,705 8,888 9,047
Morehead City
Planning Jurisdiction 14,098* na 14,869 15,622 16,166 16,668 17,033 17,315

Sources: US Census, 1970-2000. 2002 Certified Population Estimates, NC State Data Center, October
2003. County Population Growth 2000-2030, NC State Data Center, June 2006. Block 2000
US Census data for the ETJ area.

*2000 estimate for the Morehead City planning jurisdiction by the Town of Morehead City.

Carteret County projections by the NC State Data Center.

Morehead City corporate and planning jurisdiction projections by The W ooten Company.

Morehead City Planning Jurisdiction population projections based upon the average of two the
methodologies delineated above for the Morehead City corporate area.

Assumptions:
1. The average rate of growth (0.4%) annualized rate for the period 1970-2000 will remain
constant through 2030.
2. The average ratio (8.4%) of the town’s population to the Carteret County population for
the period 1970-2000 will remain constant through 2030.
3. The ratio (131.4%) of the estimated 2000 planning jurisdiction population to the 2000
Morehead City corporate population will remain constant through 2030.
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Appendix J
Summary of Land Use Issues, Goals, and Objectives
Identified in the 1999 Morehead City Land Use Plan

Summary of 1999 Land Use and Development Issues

The major land use and development issues identified during the preparation of
this land use plan update that will affect Morehead City during the next ten year period
include the following (not presented here in any priority order):

Resource Protection Issues

• Stormwater runoff impacts.
• Water quality of surface and ground waters.
• Options for the use of Sugarloaf Island.
• The potential economic and environmental impacts of deepening Calico
Creek.
• Long-term solutions to wastewater treatment and disposal.
• The demand for and impacts of marinas.
• The conservation of Phillips Island and the Newport Marshes.
• Preservation of wetlands.
• The implications of anticipated sea level rise.
• The designation of a portion of Calico Creek as a primary nursery area.

Resource Production and Management Issues

• The impact of land development activities on marine fisheries.
• Off-road vehicle use in fragile environments.
• Siltation problems on the Newport River.
• The presence of prime agricultural land and commercial forest land in the
Morehead City Planning Jurisdiction.
• The designation of a portion of Calico Creek as a primary nursery area.

Economic and Community Development Issues

• Maintaining low residential densities.
• The impacts of high-rise development.
• Redevelopment of the downtown area.
• Managing infill development in established residential areas.
• Commercial land use encroachment in residential areas.
• The economic impact of the NC State Port.
• Managing strip commercial development adjacent to US 70.
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• The impact of tourism on Morehead City.
• Improvements to major thoroughfares.
• Promoting voluntary annexations.
• Annexation agreements with the Towns of Newport and Beaufort
• Water and sewer extensions and agreements.
• Coordination of comprehensive stormwater management practices and
policies with adjoining local governments.
• Regional solutions to wastewater disposal needs.
• The potential economic impact of future development on Calico Bay.
• Protection of the Norfolk-Southern Railroad corridor.
• Provision of waterfront access.
• Annexation of outlying, developed areas.
• Promoting industrial development, including industrial park development.
• Expansion of municipal ETJ areas.
• Planning and zoning jurisdiction of Radio Island.

Summary of 1999 Goals and Objectives

Resource Protection and Resource Production and Management Goals and
Objectives
• Protect and manage the area’s natural resources.
• Promote development that does not significantly impact natural resources.
• Promote development that retains and maintains the town’s present
character.
• Facilitate adequate wastewater disposal so as to prevent the installation of
additional septic tanks and to improve environmental conditions, particularly
in areas with poor soil conditions for subsurface sewage disposal systems.
• Discourage additional septic system use in areas where municipal sewer
service is currently unavailable promote the extension of the town’s sewer
system to such areas.
• Permit marina construction in primary nursery areas in accordance with the
CAMA 7H Use Standards, local zoning, and other land use regulations.
• Promote flexible options for the use of Sugarloaf Island in accordance with
CAMA minimum use standards, the town’s zoning ordinance, and other
applicable town regulations and policies.
• Promote water conservation measures through the development of
incentive programs sponsored by the town’s public utility department.
• Continue participation in the Carteret County Interlocal Agency and the
Regional W astewater Task Force to develop long-term solutions to
wastewater treatment.
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• Encourage marina siting and design which promotes proper flushing action.
• Discourage the location of floating structures in primary nursery areas,
outstanding resource waters, public trust areas, and estuarine waters.
Allow floating structures in marinas where approved sewage hook-ups or
self-contained holding tanks are available.
• Allow public mooring fields in accordance with CAMA Use Standards.

Economic and Community Development Goals and Objectives
• Encourage voluntary annexations as a mechanism for promoting orderly
city growth and utility extensions.
• Support local intergovernmental cooperation with regard to land use
planning issues such as ETJ areas, Radio Island, annexation agreements,
industrial park development, and utility extensions and agreements.
• Encourage high-rise residential development only in locations where
emergency services can adequately be provided.
• Support dredging efforts to eliminate the adverse impacts of siltation on the
productivity of the Newport River.
• Encourage the redevelopment and restoration of the central business
district as a retail, business and professional services, office, and
commercial marine center of the community.
• Encourage a variety of land uses including living space as well as shopping
and services; and promote the adaptive reuse of existing buildings.
• Promote infill development which is compatible in density and scale to the
surrounding area.
• Address the parking concerns and issues in the downtown area and
consider alternative traffic patterns as a possible solution to parking
concerns.
• W ork with the US Army Corps of Engineers and the Division of Coastal
Management to extend the Morehead City harborline south of its present
location in order to promote economic development in the downtown area.
• Promote the enhancement of the North 20th Street corridor as a major
thoroughfare to improve access to the residential areas located in the
northern section of town.
• Promote traffic improvements on Tootle Road and Mayberry Loop Road
through roadway realignment and the installation of sidewalks and roadway
improvements.
• Evaluate commercial rezonings that promote neighborhood retail and
service uses to monitor their impact on community character and scale.
• Pursue the installation of sidewalks and roadway improvements along
Barbour Road and the North 35th Street corridor.
• Limit curb cuts on the Bridges Street Extension.
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• Evaluate, upon the completion of the Bridges Street Extension, the
feasibility of roadway improvements to Country Club Road and Friendly
Road to improve traffic flow and the feasibility of a connector street west of
Friendly Road to connect Bridges Street Extension and Country Club Road.
• Discourage nonresidential development adjacent to the Bogue Sound
waterfront within existing residential areas.
• W ork with the North Carolina Department of Transportation to install
landscaping improvements, pedestrian walkways, and bicycle paths from
the NCDOT welcome station to the commercial areas located to the west.
• Install water and sewer improvements to newly annexed areas.
• Improve recreational opportunities through the development of a park in the
western section of town.
• Encourage public water access to the maximum extent feasible.
• Prepare a waterfront access plan.
• Encourage new development along the US Highway 70 corridor to provide
connecting and/or shared parking lots in order to reduce the number of curb
cuts along the corridor.
• Encourage, in Neighborhood 8, the annexation of areas adjacent to the
corporate limits to promote jobs and economic development.
• Evaluate the need for water system improvements in Neighborhood 8,
including the installation of an elevated water storage tank, to promote
industrial and economic development.
• Address landscaping and curb cut issues along the US Highway 70 and NC
Highway 24 corridors.
• Discourage further manufactured home park development in the Crab Point
area.
• Support the construction of interconnecting water mains between Newport
and Morehead City to provide a backup water supply for each community.
• Encourage better interconnection between residential developments in
Neighborhood 9 to promote local vehicular access and circulation other
than from NC Highway 24.
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Appendix K
Glossary

ADT (Average Daily Traffic). The average number of cars per day that pass over a given
point.

Anadromous. Ascending rivers from the sea for breeding. Fish species, such as shad,
herring, and striped bass, migrate from their primary habitats in the oceans up freshwater rivers
and streams to spawn.

Areas of Environmental Concern (AECs). The Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA)
designates four categories of areas of environmental concern (AECs): the estuarine system, the
ocean hazard system, public water supplies, and natural and cultural resource areas. These
AECs, and the standards for development within them, cover almost all coastal waters and
three percent of the land in the twenty coastal counties in North Carolina.

Benthic. Living in or on the bottom of a body of water.

Best Management Practice (BMP). A method, activity, maintenance procedure, or other
management practice for reducing the amount of pollution entering a body of water.

CAM A. Coastal Area Management Act of 1974.

Coastal Complex Natural Areas. Lands that support native plant and animal communities and
provide habitat qualities which have remained essentially unchanged by human activity.

Coastal Wetlands. Any salt marsh or other marsh subject to regular or occasional flooding by
tides, including wind tides (whether or not the tide waters reach the marshland areas through
natural or artificial watercourses), provided this shall not include hurricane nor tropical storm
tides. Coastal wetlands contain some, but not necessarily all, of the following marsh plant
species:

• Cord Grass
• Bulrush
• Black Needlerush
• Saw Grass
• Glasswort
• Cat-tail
• Salt Grass
• Salt Meadow Grass
• Sea Lavender
• Salt Reed Grass

Also included in this definition is such contiguous land as the Secretary of the NC Department of
Environment, Health and Natural Resources reasonably deems necessary to affect by any such
order in carrying out the purposes of the CAMA regulations.

CRC. Coastal Resources Commission.

DCM. Division of Coastal Management, North Carolina Department of Environment, Health and
Natural Resources.

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Estuarine Shorelines. Those non-ocean shorelines which are especially vulnerable to erosion,
flooding, or other adverse effects of wind and water and are intimately connected to the estuary.
This area extends from the mean high water level or normal water level along the estuaries,
sounds, bays and brackish waters for a distance of 75 feet landward. For those estuarine
shorelines immediately contiguous to waters classified as Outstanding Resource Waters
(ORW), the estuarine shoreline extends 575 feet landward from the mean high water level or
normal water level.

Estuarine System. The coast’s broad network of brackish sounds, marshes, and the
shorelines surrounding them. The following components of the estuarine system have been
designated as AECs: estuarine waters, public trust areas, coastal wetlands, and estuarine
shorelines

Estuarine Waters. All the waters of the Atlantic Ocean within the boundary of North Carolina
and all the waters of the bays, sounds, rivers, and tributaries thereto seaward of the dividing line
between coastal fishing waters and inland fishing waters, as set forth in an agreement adopted
by the Wildlife Resources Commission and the Department of Environment, Health, and Natural
Resources.

Estuary. A semi-enclosed body of water where fresh water draining from the mainland mixes
with salt water from the ocean.

Floating Structures. Any structure, not a boat, supported by a means of flotation, designed to
be used without a permanent foundation, which is used or intended for human habitation or
commerce. A structure is considered a floating structure when it is inhabited or used for
commercial purposes for more than thirty days in any one location. A boat may be deemed a
floating structure when its means of propulsion has been removed or rendered inoperative and it
contains at least 200 square feet of living space area. A boat is defined as a vessel or watercraft
of any type or size specifically designed to be self-propelled, whether by engine, sail, oar, or
paddle or other means, which is used to travel from place to place by water.

Fecal Coliform. Bacteria from the intestinal tracts of warm-blooded animals. High numbers of
fecal coliform bacteria in a water body may indicate a recent release of untreated wastewater
and/or the presence of animal feces. Fecal coliform is used as an indicator for managing the
closure of shellfish beds to protect the public health.

Freshwater Wetlands. Swamps and inland wetlands that are not covered by the Coastal Area
Management Act, unless the Coastal Resource Commission designates them as a natural
resource AEC. Freshwater wetlands are protected by the Clean W ater Act and a US Army
Corps of Engineers permit is required for work in them.

Freestanding Moorings. Any means to attach a ship, boat, vessel, floating structure or other
water craft to a stationary underwater device, mooring buoy, buoyed anchor, or piling (as long
as the piling is not associated with an existing or proposed pier, dock, or boathouse).

Impaired Waters. Surface waters that are negatively impacted by pollution resulting in
decreased water quality.

Marinas. Any publicly- or privately-owned dock, basin, or wet boat storage facility constructed
to accommodate more than 10 boats and providing any of the following services: permanent or
transient docking spaces, dry storage, fueling facilities, haulout facilities, and repair service.
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Excluded from this definition are boat ramp facilities allowing access only, temporary docking,
and none of the preceding services.

Migration Rate. Migration rate is the difference between population in-migration and out-
migration expressed as a percentage of the base year total population. It is derived by dividing
natural increase (or decrease) by the base year total population.

Natural and Cultural Resource Areas. Areas containing environmental, natural or cultural
resources of more than local significance in which uncontrolled or incompatible development
could result in major or irreversible damage to natural systems or cultural resources; scientific,
educational, or associative values; or aesthetic qualities.

Natural Increase. Natural increase is the difference between total births and total deaths.

Net Migration. Net migration is the difference between total population change and natural
increase (or decrease).

Normal High Water. The ordinary extent of high tide based upon site conditions such as
presence and location of vegetation, which has its distribution influenced by tidal action, and the
location of the apparent high tide line.

Normal Water Level. The level of water bodies with less than six inches of lunar tide during
periods of little or no wind. It can be determined by the presence of such physical and biological
indicators as erosion escarpments, trash lines, water lines, marsh grasses, and barnacles.

Nutrient Sensitive Waters. A supplemental water classification developed by the Division of
Water Quality that is intended for waters needing additional nutrient management due to their
being subject to excessive growth of microscopic or macroscopic vegetation.

Ocean Beaches. Lands consisting of unconsolidated soil materials that extend from the mean
low water line landward to a point where either the growth of vegetation occurs or a distinct
change in slope or elevation alters the configuration of the landform, whichever is farther
landward.

Ocean Hazard Areas. Beaches, frontal dunes, inlet lands, and other areas along the Atlantic
Ocean shoreline in which geologic, vegetative, and soil conditions indicate a substantial
possibility of excessive erosion or flood damage. The ocean hazard system of AECs contains
the following areas: ocean erodible areas, high hazard flood areas, inlet hazard areas, and
unvegetated beach areas.

On-site Wastewater Treatment Systems. Systems, including septic tanks and package
treatment plants, which treat wastewater where it is produced. These systems are smaller in
scale than municipal central sewage treatment plants.

Outstanding Resource Waters. Estuarine waters and public trust areas classified by the
North Carolina Environmental Management Commission as waters of exceptional state or
national recreational or ecological significance.

Primary Nursery Areas. Areas in the estuarine system where initial post larval development of
finfish and crustaceans takes place. They are usually located in the uppermost sections of an
estuarine system where populations are uniformly early juvenile stages.
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Public Water Supplies. Public water supply AECs include small surface water supply
watersheds and public water supply well fields. Small water supply watersheds are catchment
areas situated entirely within the coastal area which contain a water body classified as A-II by
the Environmental Management Commission. Public water supply well fields are areas of well-
drained sands that extend downward from the surface into the shallow ground water table which
supplies the public with potable water.

Public Trust Areas. All waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the lands thereunder from the mean
high water mark to the seaward limit of state jurisdiction; all natural bodies of water subject to
measurable lunar tides and lands thereunder to the mean high water mark; all navigable natural
bodies of water and lands thereunder to the mean high water level or mean water level as the
case may be, except privately-owned lakes to which the public has no right of access; all water
in artificially created bodies of water containing significant public fishing resources or other
public resources which are accessible to the public by navigation from bodies of water in which
the public has acquired rights by prescription, custom, usage, dedication, or any other means.
Public trust areas overlap with the estuarine waters AEC, but they also cover inland fishing
waters that are not in the estuarine waters AEC.

Riparian. Relating to the bank or shoreline of a body of water.

Runoff. Water which is not absorbed by soil and which drains off the land into bodies of water.

Significant Coastal Archaeological Resources. Areas that contain archaeological remains
(objects, features, and/or sites) that have more than local significance to history or prehistory.

Significant Coastal Historic Architectural Resources. Districts, structures, buildings, sites or
objects that have more than local significance to history or architecture.

Stormwater. Water which is generated by rainfall, causes runoff, and often is routed into
drainage systems.

Unique Coastal Geologic Formations. Sites that contain geologic formations that are unique
or otherwise significant components of coastal systems, or that are especially notable examples
of geologic formations or processes in the coastal area.

Water-dependent Uses. Uses that must be located near or in water to accomplish their
intended purpose. Examples include navigation channels, drainage ditches, docks, wharfs,
piers, bulkheads, utility easements, revetments, culverts, mooring pilings, boat ramps, groins,
bridges, and bridge approaches.

Watershed. The geographic region within which water drains to a particular river, stream, or
body of water.

Wetlands. The Division of Coastal Management has developed the following definitions for
wetlands:

• Altered Wetlands. Areas of human impact that has physically disturbed the wetlands
but the area is still wetland.

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• Bottomland Hardwoods. Seasonally flooded forested or occasionally scrub/shrub
areas usually occurring in floodplains. Typical species include hickories, oaks (overcup,
water, laurel, swamp chestnut), sweet gum, green ash cottonwoods, willows, river birch,
and occasionally pines.

• Disturbed Wetlands. Areas of hydric soils where vegetation has been removed. (No
longer wetlands)

• Drained Wetlands. Any wetland system described herein which is or has been
effectively drained.

• Estuarine Forested. A forested wetland community subject to occasional flooding by
tides, including wind tides (whether or not the tide waters reach the marshland areas
through natural or artificial watercourses). Examples include pine dominated
communities with Juncus spp. understories or fringe swamp communities such as those
which occur along the Albemarle and Pamlico sounds.

• Estuarine Shrub Scrub. Any shrub/scrub dominated community subject to occasional
flooding by tides, including wind tides (whether or not the tide waters reach the
marshland areas through natural or artificial watercourses). Typical species include
Myrica spp. and Juniperus virginiana.

• Freshwater Marsh. Herbaceous areas which are flooded for extended periods during
the growing season. Included in this are marshes within lacustrine systems, managed
impoundments, some Carolina Bays, and nontidal other non-tidal marshes (i.e. marshes
which do not fall into the Salt/Brackish Marsh category). Typical communities include
species of sedges, millets, ashes and grasses not specified in the coastal wetland
regulations. Also included is Arundinaria gigantea, Sagittaria spp., Pontederia spp,.
Peltandra spp., Polygonum spp., and Typha spp.

• Hardwood Flat. Poorly drained interstream flats not associated with rivers or estuaries.
Seasonally saturated by high water table or poor drainage. Species vary greatly but
often include Liquidambar styraci .flua and Acer rubrum.

• Headwater Swamps. Wooded, riverine systems along first order streams. These
include hardwood dominated communities with moist soil most of the year. Channels
receive their water from overland flow and rarely overflow their own banks.

• Managed Pinelands. Seasonally saturated, managed pine forests (usually Pinus
taeda) occurring on hydric soils.

• Maritime Forest. A forested community characterized by its stunted growth due to the
stresses imposed by its vicinity to salt spray from the ocean. Typical vegetation includes
Quercus virginiana, Acer rubrum and Nyssa biflora.

• Pine Flats. Palustrine, seasonally saturated pine communities on hydric soils that may
become quite dry for part of the year. Generally on flat or nearly flat interfluves. Usually
dominated by Pinus taeda. This category does not include managed pine systems.

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• Pocosin. Palustrine scrub/shrub communities (i.e., non-Estuarine Scrub/Shrub)
dominated by evergreen shrubs, often mixed with pond or loblolly pines. Typically occur
on saturated, acid, nutrient poor, sandy or peaty soils usually removed from large
streams and subject to periodic burning.

• Salt/Brackish Marsh. Any salt marsh or other marsh subject to regular or occasional
flooding by tides, including wind tides (whether or not the tide waters reach the
marshland areas through natural or artificial watercourses), provided this shall not
include hurricane or tropical storm waters. Coastal wetland plant species include:
Spartina alterniflora, Juncus roemerianus, Salicornia spp., Distichlis spicata, Limonium
spp., Scirpus spp., Cladiumjaillaicense, Typha spp., Spartina patens and Spartina
cywosuroides.

• Swamp Forest. Riverine and non-riverine forested or scrub/shrub communities which
are semi-permanently flooded, including temporarily flooded depressional systems.
Typical species include Taxodium spp., Nyssa spp., Fraxinus pennsylvanica, Acer
rubrum and Carya aquatica.
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Page 160 of 165 Appendices September 28, 2007 Appendix L Hazard Mitigation Plan Matrix TITLE & ADOPTION DATE PURPOSE DESCRIPTION MITIGATION EFFECTIVENESS NOTES CAMA Land Use Plan Flood Hazard Areas The Town will continue to enforce the Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance which requires new construction to be elevated at least one foot above the established 100 year flood elevation. HIGH The Town will continue to participate in the Federal Emergency Management Agency's Community Rating System Program which results in lower flood insurance rates. Estuarine Shoreline Development shall be designed to adequately provide for stormwater runoff in accordance with State regulations. MODERATE Potable Water Supply Protection The Town will coordinate land development activities involving hazardous chemical or petroleum storage and disposal with the appropriate county and state regulatory agencies. The Town also supports management practices which address the incidental use of hazardous materials such as insecticides, herbicides, fertilizers, etc. MODERATE Stormwater Runoff, Water Quality Problems and Management Measures Morehead City will promote the use of best available management practices to minimize the degradation of water quality resulting from stormwater runoff. The Town will coordinate its approval of land development projects with (i) the North Carolina Division of Water Quality, Water Quality Section and (ii) the Land Quality Section of the North Carolina Division of Land Resources. The Town will develop a comprehensive stormwater assessment plan. The Town promotes the coordination with adjoining local government jurisdictions of comprehensive stormwater management practices and policies to enhance water quality. HIGH Examples include using pervious or semi-pervious materials for driveways and walks, retaining natural vegetation along marsh and waterfront areas and allowing stormwater to percolate into the ground rather than discharging it directly to coastal waters. The permitting requirements and stormwater regulations. The soil erosion and sedimentation control regulations. To evaluate the existing stormwater drainage system and which will be utilized to established guidelines for future land development consistent with state regulations.
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Page 161 of 165 Appendices September 28, 2007 TITLE & ADOPTION DATE PURPOSE DESCRIPTION MITIGATION EFFECTIVENESS NOTES Soil Suitability/Septic Tank Use Sea Level Rise Impacts In areas where municipal sewer service in unavailable and the soils are identified as having severe limitations for urban development, major new development shall be required, through the town's zoning ordinance and subdivision regulations, prior to approval, to present data indicating how the limitation can be mitigated. Public water and sewer will be required for all new development occurring within the Town's corporate limits in areas in which municipal sewer service is available or can be made readily available. Septic tank installation shall be in accordance with applicable county health regulations. In order to discourage additional septic system use in areas where municipal sewer service is currently available, major subdivisions will be required, through the Town's subdivision regulations, to contact the town during the subdivision review process to discuss municipal sewer availability and the feasibility of extending the town's sewer system to the subdivision. The Town supports continued state research into the problems associated with sea level rise and will consider the development of policies to address sea level rise as more data concerning problem definition and alternative solutions are made available. MODERATE LOW Where permissible. Major subdivisions are considered 5 lots or more.
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Page 162 of 165 Appendices September 28, 2007 TITLE & ADOPTION DATE PURPOSE DESCRIPTION MITIGATION EFFECTIVENESS NOTES General Land Development Policies The Town will encourage land development in areas that currently have the necessary support infrastructure or where these services can readily be made available. The Town will promote the continued low-density residential development character of areas located on the fringes of the extraterritorial jurisdiction and in locations adjacent to identified fragile areas. The Town will strive to provide a safe, efficient and well-maintained street system consistent with the Town's adopted thoroughfare plan. The Town will encourage voluntary annexations as a mechanism for promoting orderly city growth and utility extensions. The Town will support local intergovernmental cooperation with regard to land use planning issues. MODERATE Water, sewer, streets, etc. ETJ areas, Radio Island, annexation agreements, industrial park development and utility extensions/agreements. Desired Types of Urban Growth Patterns The Town will encourage the type of industrial development that is consistent with the community's present manufacturing base and which has limited off-site impacts. Industrial development will be encouraged in those sections of Town with adequate public water and sewer services and vehicular access to a major arterial highway. MODERATE
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Page 163 of 165 Appendices September 28, 2007 TITLE & ADOPTION DATE PURPOSE DESCRIPTION MITIGATION EFFECTIVENESS NOTES Commitment to State and Federal Programs The Town will evaluate state and federal programs which impact the Town's development. The Town's policy has generally been to assist and cooperate with state and federal offices in local development programs. HIGH Some of the programs include highway, rail, air and water transportation improvements, solid waste disposal, water quality, community development, stormwater management and military facilities. Assistance to Channel Maintenance Projects The Town will cooperate and assist the US Army Corps of Engineers in its effort to maintain channels. The Town recognizes the problem with the siltation of the Newport River and supports dredging efforts to eliminate the adverse impacts of siltation on the productivity of the river. LOW Neighborhood 9 The Town will encourage better interconnection between residential developments located along the NC Highway 24 corridor. The Town will support the extension of Little Nine Road from its present terminus southward to NC Highway 24. LOW This will mean local residential vehicular traffic is not totally dependent upon Highway 24 for access and circulations. This will improve access between Highway 24 and Highway 70. Storm Hazard Mitigation, Post-Disaster Recovery/ Evacuation Plans/ Reconstruction Plan The Town will continue to enforce the State Building Code requirements that relate to wind-resistant construction standards. The Town will participate in the National Flood Insurance Program and to enforce the Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance. The Town will avoid zoning areas susceptible to storm surge for higher density residential uses and intensive nonresidential uses. The Town will continue to support and cooperate with Carteret County and other local units of government in emergency management planning and training. A post disaster plan provides a program that will permit a local government to deal MODERATE
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Page 164 of 165 Appendices September 28, 2007 TITLE & ADOPTION DATE PURPOSE DESCRIPTION MITIGATION EFFECTIVENESS NOTES with the aftermaths of a storm in an organized and efficient manner. The Plan provides the mechanisms, procedures, and policies that will enable a local community to learn from its storm experiences and to rebuild the community in a wise and practical manner. A post disaster reconstruction plan encompasses three distinct reconstruction periods. The emergency period is the reconstruction phase immediately after a storm. The restoration period covers the weeks and months following a storm disaster. The replacement reconstruction period is the period during which the community is rebuilt. Unified Development Ordinance Regulations Relationship to Coastal Area Management Act [CAMA] Land Use Plan It is the intention of the City Council that this Ordinance implement the planning policies adopted by the City Council for the Town and its extraterritorial planning area, as reflected in the CAMA land use plan and other planning documents. Calls for developers to provide drainage easements with adequate width in new subdivisions. Identifies information to be depicted on subdivision plats. Addresses nonconforming structures and uses. HIGH While the City Council reaffirms its commitment that this Ordinance and any amendment to it be in conformity with adopted planning policies, the City council hereby expresses its intent that neither this Ordinance nor any amendment to it may be challenged on the basis on any alleged nonconformity with any planning document. It includes a requirement that provides for the future upkeep and maintenance of drainage easements. This includes flood zones, CAMA areas, 404 wetlands, existing streams or water courses, open space, street layouts, permits from state and federal agencies. Provides a framework for considering expansion and continuation of nonconforming situations in certain circumstances. Provisions for Flood Hazard Reduction - General Standards All new construction and substantial improvements shall be: anchored to prevent flotation, collapse, or lateral movement of the structure; constructed with materials and utility equipment resistant to flood damage; constructed by methods and practices that minimize flood damages; service facilities shall be designed and/or located so as to prevent water from entering or accumulating within the components during conditions of flooding; water supply systems shall be designed to minimize or eliminate infiltration of floodwaters into the system; sanitary sewerage systems shall be designed to minimize or eliminate infiltration of floodwaters into the systems and discharges from the systems into HIGH Service utilities include electrical, heating, ventilation, plumbing and air conditioning equipment. Water supply systems include all new and replacement systems. Sanitary sewerage systems include new and replacement systems.
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Page 165 of 165 Appendices September 28, 2007 TITLE & ADOPTION DATE PURPOSE DESCRIPTION MITIGATION EFFECTIVENESS NOTES floodwaters; on-site disposal systems shall be located and constructed to avoid impairment to them or contamination from them during flooding; any work performed on a structure, which is in compliance with the provisions of this Ordinance, shall meet the requirements of "new construction" as contained in this Ordinance. Work on a structure includes any alteration, repair, reconstruction or improvement. Provisions for Flood Hazard Reduction - Specific Standards Nonconforming buildings or uses may not be enlarged, replaced or rebuilt unless the enlargement or reconstruction is accomplished in conformance with the provisions of this Ordinance. In all areas of special flood hazard where base flood elevation data has been provided as established by identification by the Federal Emergency Management Agency in its Flood Hazard Boundary Map or Flood Insurance Study and Flood Insurance Rate Map(s) for the Town there are specific requirements that must be met. HIGH Residential construction: new construction or substantial improvement of any residential structure (including manufactured homes) shall have the lowest floor, including basement, elevated no lower than one foot above the base flood elevation. Should solid foundation perimeter walls be used to elevate a structure, openings sufficient to facilitate the unimpeded movements of floodwaters shall be provided. Nonresidential construction: new construction or substantial improvement of any commercial, industrial, or nonresidential structure shall have the lowest floor, including basement, elevated no lower than one foot above the level of the base flood elevation. Structures located in A Zones may be flood proofed to the flood protection level in lieu of elevation provided that all areas of the structure below the required elevation are watertight with walls substantially impermeable to passage of water using structural components having the capability of resisting hydrostatic and hydrodynamic loads and the effect of buoyancy. A registered professional engineer or architect shall certify that the standards of this subsection are satisfied. Disaster Response Plan Hurricanes The Town Police Department has adopted this policy to provide for the expeditious response to natural and manmade disasters, and other circumstances of an unusual nature. LOW Disasters include manmade (chemical spills, train derailments, aircraft crashes, etc.) and natural.