Land Use Plan Executive Summary 1997

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BEAUFORT COUNTY, NC
1997 LAND USE PLAN
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
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Adopted by the Beaufort County Board of Commissioners: October 5, 1998
Certified by the Coastal Resources Commission: November 20, 1998
Prepared By:
Holland Consulting Planners, Inc.
Wilmington, North Carolina
NO 4GY *
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.

BEAUFORT COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA
FY97 LAND USE PLAN
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The FY97 Land Use Plan Update for Beaufort County was prepared in accordance with requirements
of the North Carolina Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA). Specifically, this executive summary
complies with Subchapter 7B, "Land Use Planning Guidelines," Section.0202 "Executive Summary,"
of the North Carolina Administrative Code, as amended, January 1, 1996.
Subchapter 713, Section .0202, defines the following intent of executive summaries:
"An executive summary shall be prepared and included as an introduction to the Land
Use Plan, or as a separate document. In either case, it shall be suitable for distribution
throughout the planning area. The executive summary shall contain a summary of the
land use issues which will affect the community during the planning period, the polices
which the local government has selected to address those issues, and a land
classification map. An executive summary is not required for a Sketch Land Use
Plan."
-= It should be noted that the policy section of the land use plan contained in this executive summary
is the most important part of the document. State and federal agencies will use the local land use
policies in making project consistency, funding, and permit decisions.
SECTION I: ANALYSIS OF EXISTING CONDITIONS
A. DEMOGRAPHICS, HOUSING AND ECONOMY
1. Background
Beaufort County occupies 958 square miles (827 square miles of land area) in central coastal
North Carolina. It is the eighth largest county in the State. Originally called Pamptecough Precinct
when it was formed from Bath County in 1705, the name was changed to Beaufort in 1712 to honor
Henry Somerset, Duke of Beaufort.
Beaufort County is an area rich in natural and cultural resources. Early settlers built a strong
local economy based on the county's environmental resources. Prosperous port communities
developed along the county's navigable waterways. Stately residences, office and commercial
buildings were built to service a wealthy merchant population; many of these remain today to
distinguish the region.
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Water resources are a major presence in the county. Water accounts for about 84,000 acres
(13.7%) of the county's total 613,200 acres. Numerous creeks drain the land. Many empty into the
Pamlico River which bisects the county in a northwest -southeast direction. The Pungo River forms
a portion of the county's eastern boundary, and the Pantego, Dismal, and Great Swamps occupy a
large portion of the county's northeastern area. The county has the state's second longest shoreline.
Precipitation in the county averages about 51 inches per year. Mean January temperature is 41 OF;
mean July temperature is 79OF.
The county has seven incorporated areas: Aurora, Bath, Belhaven, Chocowinity, Pantego,
Washington, and Washington Park. As most ofthese communities have elected to prepare their own
land use plans, development issues within these localities will be addressed only as they affect land
uses in the unincorporated areas of the county.
2. Population
During the past 35 years, the twenty Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA) counties have
experienced a total population increase of 63.1 %. This exceeded the North Carolina total population
increase of 55.8%. During that period, all CAMA-regulated counties except four experienced
population increases. These increases ranged from a low of 0.3% in Washington County to a high
of 347.5% in Dare County.
Population within the county has increased steadily since 1880 except for the period 1960-
1970 when total population declined slightly. Even so, total population has only doubled over the
past century. Population grew fairly rapidly (averaging 1.8% per year) until 1940. Between 1940
and 1970, growth slowed and the county experienced little change in population. Since 1970
however, the county has again experienced moderate growth. Between 1970 and 1980, the
population increased by 12.2% and between 1980 and 1990 population increased by 4.8%. From
1990 to 1995 the population increased only 2.5%.
Currently, overtwo-thuds of all county residents live in unincorporated areas. Between 1980
and 1995, most of the county's total population growth occurred in rural (unincorporated) areas. The
City of Washington was the only municipality that experienced a population increase between 1980
and 1990. In 1990 and 1995, more than two people lived in rural areas of the county for every one
person that lived in an urbanized place.
Unlike some of the coastal counties in the state, Beaufort County is not greatly affected by
seasonal fluctuations in population. The local county economy did however realize $38,190,000 in
travel -related expenditures in 1995, according to the Department of Commerce. While some migrant
workers find employment in the area, their numbers do not produce significant seasonal changes in
population. According to the Employment Security Commission, there were approximately 485
migrant workers in the county in 1995.

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3. Housing
The county's 1990 population was housed among 19,598 dwelling units. Sixty-seven percent
of all dwellings in the county are single-family units; the remainder are mobile homes and multi -family
dwellings. One in five dwellings in the county are rental units. In 1990, according to the U.S.
Census, approximately 17% of all existing units were vacant. This included seasonal dwelling units.
Only 3.7 percent of all residences were without complete plumbing. In 1990, single -person
households (typically elderly and young unmarried persons) accounted for about 25% of all
households. In the years 1992 to 1996, mobile home development far outweighed site -built
development, and about twice as many single wide mobile homes were permitted each year than
double wide mobile homes. Between 1992 and 1996, mobile home permits outpaced single-family
unit permits at a rate of 3 to 1. Multi -family development has made a strong showing in 1995 and
1996 as well.
4. Economy
Per capita income in the county has increased steadily since 1970. Local changes in per capita
income have closely paralleled those for the State as a whole. This recent trend toward parity would
indicate an improving local economy. The 1990 median income of families in the county increased,
though again lagging behind the statewide increase by $5,538. In 1980, the Median Family Income
(MFI) in the county had more than doubled to $14,461; statewide, the MFI had risen to $16,792.
In 1990, the county MFI was $26,010, compared to $31,548 for the State. As local income has risen,
the percentage of residents with incomes below the poverty line has decreased. In 1980, the number
of persons living below poverty line in the county was 21 % of all individuals and 12% of all families,
compared to 15% and 12% respectively for the state. In 1990, 19% of county individuals and 16%
of all county families fell below the poverty line (12% and 9.9% respectively for the State).
The county appears to have a relatively strong economy. Major employers include PCS
Phosphate, located outside Aurora, and National Spinning and Hamilton Beach in Washington. In
1997, there were approximately twenty (20) manufacturing firms in the county which employed about
6,500 people. Just over one in four employed persons is employed by a manufacturing enterprise.
Nineteen percent of all employed residents are involved in wholesale and retail trade, and about one
in twelve persons is employed in either agriculture, forestry, or fishery. Retail sales in the county
during fiscal year 1996 totaled almost $396,506,000 which exceeded all other counties in the region,
except Pitt.
The 1995 labor force numbered about 19,5 00 persons. Historically, the rate of unemployment
in the county has been higher than the state as a whole. In 1995, the local unemployment rate (8.2%)
was, almost double the statewide average (4.3%).
Agriculture plays a major role in the county with over one quarter of all land being devoted
to agricultural uses. In 1994, harvested cropland accounted for 150,000 acres of county land, up
from 139,900 in 1990. Although the total number of farms has been declining (from 630 in 1987 to
447 in 1992), the average size of farms in the county has been increasing, from an average of 248
acres in 1987 to 323 acres in 1992. Notably, Beaufort County ranked number one in the State in
1995 in the production of corn and wheat, and second in the production of soybeans. At the same

time, the value of local farm products has been increasing. Between 1987 and 1992, the average
market value of agricultural products per farm increased by about 54% - from $78,330 per farm in
1987 to $120,476 per farm in 1992.
5. Implications
As the county's population continues to grow, the need for sound land use and services
planning increases. As the county's population increases and local income rises, more people will find
themselves with time and money to spend on leisure activities. The need for services for the county's
older population will also increase. Residential development in outlying areas will compete with
agricultural, water -related, and open space uses for suitable land. Development in rural and urban
areas will have impacts on water quality in the county and beyond.
B. LAND USE EXISTING CONDITIONS
1. Introduction
Beaufort County has experienced modest population growth and land development over the
last decade. Several industries have located within the county limits and some commercial enterprises
have expanded. Nonetheless, the county remains rural in nature. The county's 1996 land use acreage
is summarized in Table 1. Undeveloped land accounts for 71 % of all land in the county. Most of this
acreage is forestland (65% of the undeveloped total) with the remainder being crop and pastureland
(35.3% of the undeveloped total). Developed land accounts for 29% of all land in the county.
Incorporated communities and industrial areas account for 48% of the developed total. Rural
developed land, including residential areas beyond city and town limits, account for approximately
44% of the developed total.
Table 1
Beaufort County
1996 Generalized Land Use Summary
Land Use Acreage % of Total Land Acreage
Forestland 202,400 64.7%
Crop/Pastureland
110,400
35.3%
Total Undeveloped
312,800
71.4%
Incorporated Communities
60,000
47.9%
Industrial Areas
10,000
8.0%
Rural Developed Land
55,200
44.1 %
Total Developed
125,200
28.6%
Sub -total Land Acreage
439,000-
Water
175,334
TOTAL
613,334
Source: Mid -East Commission and Holland Consulting Planners, Inc.
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2. Implications
The county values its land and water resources. Residents and visitors alike enjoy the
aesthetic amenities and recreational opportunities the county holds. Many residents earn their
livelihood from the county's natural resource base. Many of the manufacturing firms in Beaufort
County are involved in resource development; farming and forestry employ many local citizens;
tourist and recreation -related enterprises employ many others.
In its land use planning, the county should consider the effects of new development and
develop policies and regulations necessary to mitigate the negative impacts of growth. The county
should support development and enforcement of regulations which control point -source pollution.
` The county should continue to support state efforts to reduce agricultural non -point pollution
by encouraging use of Best Management Practices and participation in the Agricultural Cost Share
Program. In the summer of 1986, the state legislature took major actions toward addressing the
problem of agricultural non -point pollution by increasing funding available in the Agricultural Cost
- Share Program. Under this program, 75% of the costs of projects designed to reduce the input of
agricultural non -point sources will be reimbursed by the state. Projects eligible for cost -sharing
include conservation tillage, filter strips, field borders, water control structures, and animal waste
systems.
3. Basinwide Water Ouality Management
The North Carolina Division of Water Quality has initiated a basinwide approach to state
_ water quality management. The overall goal of basinwide management is to develop consistent and
effective long range water quality management strategies that protect the quality and intended uses
-- ofNorth Carolina's surface waters while accommodating population increases and economic growth.
I I Basinwide management is not a new regulatory program. Rather, it is a watershed -based
management approach which features basinwide permitting of discharges, integration of existing point
and nonpoint source regulatory programs, and preparation of basinwide water quality management
i plans for each of the state's 17 river basins by 1998. Plans will be updated at five year intervals.
The purpose of the basinwide management plan is to communicate to policy makers, the
regulated community, and the general public, the state's rationale, approaches, and long-term
strategies for each basin. In general, this process involves the following five major phases of
development:
Collecting pertinent water quality and related information,
- Analyzing the information and targeting problem areas,
-- Development management strategies,
-- Circulating a draft plan for public review and comment, and
-- Finalizing the plan.

Eight of North Carolina's major river basins cross the coastal area: Lumber, Cape Fear, White
Oak, Neuse, Tar -Pamlico, Roanoke, Chowan, and Pasquotank. The Division of Water Quality has
further subdivided these basins into smaller "sub -basins", which are currently used as the foundation
for their basinwide water quality plans. Even smaller watersheds were recently delineated for the
entire state by the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. These watersheds are referred
to as "14-digit hydrologic units" (because of the unique 14-digit code assigned to each watershed)
or simply "small watersheds". These small watersheds generally range in size from 5,000 to 50,000
acres. _
Beaufort County is located in the Tar -Pamlico basin. The Tar -Pamlico basinwide
management plan was completed and ready for staff review in 1994.
The long-range basinwide management goal is to provide a means of addressing the complex
problem of planning for reasonable economic growth while protecting and/or restoring the quality
and intended uses of the Tar -Pamlico Basin's surface waters.
In striving towards the long-range goal stated above, the Division of Water Quality's highest
priority near -term goals will be the following:
-- Identify and restore the most seriously impaired waters in the basin;
-- Protect those waters known to be of the highest quality or supporting biological communities
of special importance;
- Manage problem pollutants, particularly nutrients, biological oxygen demand and sediment
and fecal coliform, in order to correct existing water quality problems and to ensure
protection of those waters currently supporting their uses.
The North Carolina Division of Water Quality has identified 8 sub -basins including 27
watersheds within the Tar -Pamlico Basin. Each sub -basin and watershed has been assigned a
numerical code for the purpose of identification. The county's planning jurisdiction includes portions
of 3 sub -basins and all 27 watersheds located in the Tar -Pamlico basin.
SECTION II: PROJECTED LAND DEVELOPMENT ANALYSIS
A. PROJECTED DEMAND FOR DEVELOPMENT
Demographic Trends
Table 2 provides the forecast population for Beaufort County and its municipalities through
2005. The data is based on 1997 population information which includes population annexed in 1996
by the City of Washington. The forecast indicated that the municipalities percentage of the county's
population will remain at approximately 33%from 1997 to 2005. However, some municipalities have
indicated their intention to pursue annexation of adjacent areas. This could result in an increase in
the county's residents which reside within municipalities.

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The county's total population is expected to increase from 43,330 to 44,962, an increase of
3.8%. The population of the county's unincorporated areas is forecast to increase from 28,814 to
29,790, an increase of 1.3%. The overall county growth rate of 3.8% falls behind that of 47.26% for
all of the CAMA counties.
I Table 2
Beaufort County and its Municipalities
Summary of Projected Year -Round Population Growth, 1995-2005
Municipality/Area Year -Round Population
Percentage Change
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Overall
!
1997
2000
2005
'97200
'00-'05
'97-'05
Aurora
640
626
618
-2.2%
-1.2%
-3.4%
Bath
190
227
246
19.4%
8.5%
29.5%
Belhaven
2,212
2,154
2,123
-2.6%
-1.4%
-4.0%
Chocowinity
809
998
1,097
23.4%
9.9%
35.6%
Pantego
170
169
168
-0.6%
-0.3%
-0.9%
Washington
10,013
10,182
10,444
1.7%
2.6%
4.3%
! Washington Park
482
478
476
-0.8%
-0.4%
-1.3%
Total Municipalities
14,516
14,834
15,172
2.2%
2.3%
4.5%
Total Unincorporated Areas
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28,814
29,567
29,790
2.2%
1.1%
3.4%
Total County
43,330
44,401
44,962
2.2%
1.5%
3.8%
Sources: North Carolina Office of State Planning; extrapolation of data for municipalities from 2000-2005
by Holland Consulting Planners, Inc.
Note: 1990-1995 ratios of municipal/county growth utilized to extrapolate 1995-2005 municipal growth.
2. Housine Trends
During the period 1992 to 1996, an average of almost 134 single-family residential building
permits per year were issued in Beaufort County. During the same time, 434 permits per year were
issued for single and double wide mobile homes. During the 1992-1996 time period, the residential
_ construction activity significantly surpassed population growth. At an average of 2.3 persons per
household, the annual average issuance of 568 residential permits could have accommodated an
additional annual population of1,306. During that period, the average annual population growth was
approximately 240 people. Some of the building permits never resulted in new construction or mobile
' homes while others were issued for replacement homes. Precise data is not available.
Because of the lack of county -wide zoning and the availability of approximately 312,800
(1996) acres of vacant land (some of which is not buildable), it is impossible to forecast when and if
residential build -out will occur in Beaufort County. However, if the average residential unit requires
.75 acres per unit, sustained average of 568 residential units per year would consume 426 acres. With
' approximately 312,800 acres of vacant land, build -out would literally require hundreds of years.
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There is clearly sufficient land available to accommodate residential growth throughout the
planning period. In addition to new construction, housing rehabilitation and the demolition of
dilapidated structures will continue to be a priority during the planning period.
3. Commercial and Industrial Land Use
During the planning period, no significant changes in commercial and industrial land use are
anticipated. From 1992 to 1996, an annual average of only 42 commercial building permits were
issued. This trend may be expected to continue throughout the planning period.
Commercial development may be expected to continue in the vicinity of municipalities and -
along major transportation routes such as U.S. 264 and U.S. 17. Without county -wide zoning to
regulate the location of commercial land uses, "strip" commercialization could become a problem =
within Beaufort County and commercialization could infringe on established residential areas.
Industrial development is expected to continue to be concentrated in and near municipalities
where water and sewer utilities are available. In addition, emphasis will be placed on continued
development of the Washington -Beaufort County industrial park.
Beaufort County will support the extension of water and sewer improvements throughout the
county as an aid to expanding economic development opportunities. However, most industrial
development within the county maybe expected to occur along the U.S. 264 corridor west of the City
of Washington.
The following summarizes the factors which should influence commercial and industrial
growth in Beaufort County:
-- Continued expansion ofwater and sewer systems within the county will improve development
opportunities.
Without county -wide zoning, land use compatibility problems may become an increasing
issue.
Improvement of Warren Field will aid in industrial economic development.
-- The location of a corridor for the U.S.17 Washington bypass will have a long-term influence
on commercial and industrial development.
-- The county will continue to have good regional accessibility, especially highway access.
- The existing Beaufort County -City of Washington industrial park will be a magnet for future
industrial development.
- Beaufort County will give priority to industries with minimal environmental impact.

-- "404" wetland regulations may be expected to influence the location of industrial and
commercial land uses.
-- Commercial and industrial development should not be allowed to adversely effect the county's
shoreline areas.
4. Transportation
Beaufort County will support and encourage comprehensive transportation improvements
throughout the planning period.
5. Public Land Use
With the possible exception ofrecreational land uses, no significant changes to public land use
are expected within the planning period. The county has not provided organized recreational facilities
for its residents. County residents have, through cooperative agreement with the City of Washington,
utilized facilities and programs offered by the city.
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6. Redevelopment Issues
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Beaufort County is not normally subject to major coastal storm damage. Convectional storms
and tornadoes pose a more regular threat. However, wind and water damage could result from the
inland movement of a major hurricane. This situation occurred in 1996 with Hurricanes Bertha and
Fran. While storm -related damage is not a significant redevelopment issue, the county will support
the reconstruction and/or relocation of all storm destroyed structures when reconstruction complies
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with all current local, state, and federal regulations and the policies contained in this plan.
The preservation and renovation of housing for its low -to -moderate income families and
individuals should be the most significant redevelopment issue confronting Beaufort County. Based
on the county's application for Fiscal Year 1995 Community Development Block Grant funding,
approximately 24% of the county's housing inventory is deteriorated and 3.7% still does not have
bathrooms. In addition, 21% of the county's population is low -to -moderate income.
The county will undertake the following in support of residential development: Support
applications for North Carolina Community Development housing rehabilitation funds; support
applications for North Carolina Housing Finance Agency home improvement funds; and stress
enforcement of its minimum housing code and update the minimum housing code in 1997.
A long range concern may be the issue of sea level rise. During the next 30-year period,
approximately 15 to 20 percent of the land area within the county's planning jurisdiction could be
inundated by rising sea water. Most of these areas are located along the county's shoreline areas.
During the planning period, the county should begin planning for possible sea level rise. Local
_ ordinances should be reviewed for determination of changes which may need to be made to protect
developments from rising sea level and to accommodate the movement of structures to higher
ground. However, sea level rise should not be an issue during the planning period.

Areas Likely to Experience Major Land Use Changes
Significant changes in land uses within Beaufort County are not anticipated during the
planning period. The following land use patterns should continue to deteriorate:
-- The shoreline areas will attract residential development.
Strip commercialization along major transportation arteries will continue to occur unless —
regulated.
Most high density development will continue to occur in the vicinity of the municipalities.
-- The majority of the county's non -municipal areas will remain in undeveloped to low density
land use.
The county should monitor development along both U.S. 264 and U.S. 17. Construction of
the U.S. 17 bypass may alleviate some of the existing development pressure on these two
traffic arteries. However, construction of the bypass is not expected within the planning
period.
SECTION III: LAND CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM
As explained in the introduction to the policy statements, land use plans prepared to comply with 15A _
NCAC 7B regulations have three areas of impact on application: (1) to set policy to guide local
planning and land use management decisions; (2) review of projects for consistency with local
planning policies; and (3) the establishment of local policies for areas of environmental concern. The
CAMA regulations require the establishment of a specific land classification system to support the
local government's policy statements. The CAMA 15A NCAC 7B regulations state:
"The land classification system provides a framework to be used by local governments
to identify the future use of all lands. The designation of land classes allows the local
government to illustrate their policy statements as to where and to what density they
want growth to occur, and where they want to conserve natural and cultural resources
by guiding growth."
The CAMA regulations provide for the following land classifications: Developed, Urban Transition,
Limited Transition, Community, Rural with Services, and Conservation. These classifications may
be further defined by alocal government. In applying these classifications, a local government should
carefully consider where and when various types of development should be encouraged. Additionally,
the areas of environmental concern requiring protection should be identified and mapped. Each
applicable land classification must be represented on a land classification map (see Map 1). The
following land classifications apply in Beaufort County:
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DEVELOPED -- Areas included in the developed land classification are currently predominantly
urban in character. This classification is limited to the municipalities and their extraterritorial
jurisdiction areas. Municipal types of services are in place or are expected to be provided within the
next five to ten years. Land uses include residential (single- and multi -family), commercial,
institutional, transportation, open space, industrial, and other urban land uses at high or moderate
densities. Residential densities are allowed in excess of an average of three dwelling units per acre.
All uses allowed by 15A NCAC 7H shall be permitted.
COMMUNITY -- Areas included in the community classification are presently developed at low
densities and are suitable for septic tank usage. This classification includes the following areas: U.S.
17 corridor south of Chocowinity; areas north, east, and west of Washington; Pantego community;
areas along NC 33 west and south of Aurora, Old Ford, Cox Crossroads/Blount Creek, Bonnerton,
Yeatsville, Acre, and Ransomville. Uses include single-family residences, isolated general and
_ convenience stores, churches, public facilities, health care facilities, businesses, industrial
development, and mixed land uses at low densities. Very limited municipal type services, including
water service, may be available. Sewer service may be provided to correct an existing or projected
public health hazard. Residential densities shall average two dwelling units per acre. All uses allowed
by 15A NCAC 7H shall be permitted.
URBAN TRANSITION -- Areas included in the urban transition classification are presently being
developed for urban purposes, or will be developed in the next five to ten years. These areas will
eventually require complete urban services. This classification includes areas immediately adjacent
- to the municipalities, areas of extraterritorial jurisdiction, scattered areas along the north shoreline
of the Pamlico River, NC 33 west of Aurora, and areas in the vicinity of Chocowinity which are or
can be provided municipal services. The urban transition areas include mixed land uses such as
residential (single- and multi -family), commercial, institutional, industrial, industrial parks,
transportation, and other uses approaching high to moderate densities. Residential densities are
allowed in excess of an average of three dwelling units per acre. All uses allowed by 15A NCAC 7H
shall be permitted.
LIMITED TRANSITION -- Areas included in the limited transition classification are those which will
experience increasing development during the next five to ten years. Some municipal type services
will be required. The limited transition areas are widely scattered along the county's shoreline areas.
The limited transition classification is intended for predominantly residential uses. However, some
scattered commercial, health care, and industrial development may occur. Clustering, or development
associated with planned unit developments may be appropriate. Residential densities at an average
of three dwelling units per acre or less are acceptable. All uses allowed by 15A NCAC 7H shall be
permitted.
RURAL WITH SERVICES -- Areas included within the rural with services classification are
developed at very low density. Land uses include residential use where limited water services are
provided in orderto avert existing or projected health problems, public facilities, health care facilities,
commercial, and industrial uses. All uses allowed by 15A NCAC 7H shall be permitted. Lot sizes
will be large, and the provision of services will not disrupt the primary rural character of the
landscape. Residential densities shall average two dwelling units per acre. Development should be
low density in order to maintain a rural character. All areas of the county not otherwise classified are
considered classified as rural with services.
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CONSERVATION
Coastal Wetlands: This classification includes all areas of salt marsh or other marsh subject regular
or occasional flooding by tides, including wind tides. However, tidal flooding is understood not to
include hurricane or tropical storm tides. Because of map size and scale, these areas cannot be
accurately mapped. Precise locations must be determined in the field. Development which meets the
minimum use standards of 15A NCAC 7H and the policies contained in this plan shall be allowed in
areas classified as coastal wetlands.
404 Wetlands: This classification includes areas of404 wetlands which meet the wetlands definition
contained in Section 404 of the Clean Water Act. Only uses consistent with the policy statements
section of this plan will be allowed. These areas are generally delineated on the Land Classification
Map. Specific locations must be determined in the field by representatives of the Washington office
of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The county concurs with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers'
standards and does not intend to develop more restrictive standards.
Estuarine Shorelines: All areas lying 0-75 feet landward of the mean high water level of estuarine
waters are classified as estuarine shorelines. Because of map size and scale, these areas cannot be
accurately mapped. Precise locations must be determined in the field. Uses consistent with the
policies contained in this plan, and the 15A NCAC 7H use standards shall be allowed in estuarine
shoreline areas.
Estuarine and Public Trust Waters: All public trust areas and estuarine waters are included in this
classification. All waters in Beaufort County's planning jurisdiction are classified as estuarine waters
as described by 15A NCAC 7H.0206 or public trust areas as described by 15A NCAC 7H.0207.
Because of map size and scale, these areas cannot be accurately mapped. Precise locations must be
determined in the field. Uses consistent with 15A NCAC 7H.0207 will be allowed. The county
opposes the permanent location of floating structures in public trust waters and in marinas. Except
for floating structures and prohibition of signage in public trust waters policies, the conservation
policies are not more restrictive than the use standards included in 15A NCAC 7H.
Natural Resource Fragile Areas: These areas include the hardwood swamps along the Tar/Pamlico
River and its tributaries.
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N
2 0 2 4 8 8 10 Miles The preparation ofthis d 's map was finance
W E in through a giant provided ant
of Nor
Caasamended. Management Ad
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6 administered Res ur the Office ct Oscan and
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Beaufort County
Land Classification
1997
® Community
0 Developed
® Limited Transition
0 Rural with Services
Urban Transition
Municipal Districts
Conservation
Coastal Wadznda: This ctasado6m includes all
areas of MR mash ar other mash subject regular or
occasional floodrg by base, mdudny wild fides.
However, tidal flooding is understood not to include
hurricane ortropical stonn fides. Because of crap size
and sole, these areas cannot be accurately mapped.
Precise locations must be determined in the field.
Development which meets the minimum use standards'
of 15A NCAC 7H and the policies contained in this
plan shall be allowed in areas classified as coastal
wetlands.
404 Wetlands: This classification includes areas of
404 wetlands which meet the wetlands definition
contained in Section 404 of the Clean Water AM Only
uses consistent with the policy statements section of
this plan will be allowed. These areas are generally
defineated on the Land Classification Map. Specific
locations must be determined in the field by
representatives of the Washington office of the U.S.
Amry Corps of Engineers. The county concurs with
the U.S. Amry Corps of Engineers' standards and
does not intend to develop more restrictive standards.
Esbtarine Shorelines: All areas lying 0-75 feet
landward of the mean high water level of estuarine
waters are classified as estuarine shorelines.
Because of map size and scale, these areas cannot
be accurately mapped. Precise locations must be
determined in the field. Uses consistent with the
poficm omemed in this plan, and the 15A NCAC 7H
use standards shall be allowed in estuarine shoreline
areas.
Eabtarine and Public Trust Waters: All public trust
areas and estuarine waters are included in this
classification. An waters in Beaufort County's planning
jurisdiction am classified as estuarine waters as
described by 15A NCAC 71-1.0206 or public bust areas
as described by 15A NCAC 7H.0207. Because of
map sae and sole, these areas cannot be accurately
mapped. Precise locations must be determined in the
field. Uses onsistem with 15A NCAC 71-1.0207 will be
allowed. The county opposes the permanent location
of Mating structures in public trust waters and in
m idnas. Except for floating structures and prohibition
of signage in public trust waters policies, the 13
conservation policies are not more restrictive than the
use standards included in 15A NCAC 7H.
Mavall Resistance Fra0ile Arran: Those areas
YrJuEe its hardwood swamps Mary the Taeft, Yo
River and 7e b6t6tW.

SECTION IV: POLICY STATEMENTS
A. INTRODUCTION TO POLICY STATEMENTS
The previous sections of this plan identify a number of areas of concern dealing with growth,
development, and the environment. The plan also discusses many opportunities and assets that exist
_- within Beaufort County. This section provides policies designed to address growth management and
protect the county's assets. The policy statements should address the desires and objectives of the
citizens of Beaufort County, and respond to the policy statement requirements of the Coastal
Resources Commission as defined by 15A NCAC 7B.
The policy statements are extremely important and have a day-to-day impact on businesses and
- individual citizens within the county. The statements have an impact in three areas:
• CAMA minor and major permitting as required by NCGS 113A-118 prior to
undertaking any development in any area of environmental concern.
• Establishment of local planning policy.
• Review of proposed projects requiring state or federal assistance or approval
to determine consistency with local policies.
For the issuance of CAMA permits within areas of environmental concern, the state's minimum
acceptable use standards are defined by 15A NCAC 7H. A local unit of government must adopt
policies which are, at a minimum, equal to and consistent with the state's minimum use standards.
A local unit of government may adopt policies which are more stringent than the minimum use
standards. For example, the state standards allow marinas to be located within primary nursery areas
if some minimum conditions are met. A local government may adopt a policy stating that marinas
will not be permitted within primary nursery areas. If this were to occur, a CAMA permit for marina
t construction in a primary nursery area would not be issued. IT IS CRUCIAL THAT A LOCAL
GOVERNMENT UNDERSTAND THE IMPACT OF ITS POLICIES WITHIN AREAS OF
ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERN.
The second area of land use plan application is that of establishing policies to guide the county's local
planning. This may apply both within areas of environmental concern where CAMA regulations apply
and in non-CAMA regulated areas of the county. Under North Carolina legislation, land use plans
are not regulatory controls. Non-CAMA related recommendations must be implemented with local
land use ordinances such as zoning or subdivision ordinances. If a land use plan recommends that
the average residential density should be three dwelling units per acre within a particular area, then
that density must be achieved through local zoning ordinance or other regulatory control. (This
should not be confused with the interaction of the land use plan with the CAMA regulations and 15A
NCAC 7H use standards.)
The final area of application is that of "Consistency Review." Proposals and applications for state
and federal assistance or requests for agency approval of projects are normally reviewed against a
jurisdiction's land use plan to determine ifthe project is consistent with local policies. Inconsistencies
W

of a project with local policies could serve as grounds for denial or revision of a project. For
example, an individual or agency may request state or federal funding to construct a 30-unit low -to -
moderate income housing project. If the proposed location of the project is within an area in which
the land use plan states that the residential density should not exceed two dwelling units per acre, the
project may be judged to be inconsistent with the local land use plan.
The Coastal Resources Commission requires all governments to specify stated development policies
under each one of five broad topics. These topics include:
- Resource Protection
Resource Production and Management
Economic and Community Development
- Continuing Public Participation
-- Storm Hazard Mitigation, Post -Disaster Recovery, and Evacuation Plans
During 1995 and 1996, the 15A NCAC 7B CAMA planning guidelines were revised. The revised
guidelines included new requirements for the development of policy statements. These changes
included the following policy statement additions:
A general vision policy statement describing the type of community
that the local government would like to become within the next ten
years.
A basic statement of the community attitude toward resource
protection.
-- A policy addressing the protection of wetlands identified as being of
the highest functional significance on maps supplied by the Division
of Coastal Management.
-- A policy addressing moorings and mooring fields.
-- A policy addressing water quality problems and management measures
designed to reduce or eliminate•local sources of surface water quality
problems.
-- A statement of the community attitude toward resource production
and management.
A policy addressing commitment to state and federal programs,
including housing rehabilitation, community development block
grants, housing for low and moderate income level citizens, water and
sewer installation, and rural water systems.
- A policy addressing assistance to interstate waterways.
15

Based on the analysis of existing conditions and trends, suggestions from the county's citizens, and
substantial input and guidance from the Beaufort County Land Use Planning Committee, the policies
in the following sections have been formulated to provide a guide for regulating growth,
development, and resource management throughout the planning period. In developing these
policies, many alternatives were considered by the Planning Board. The alternatives that were not
adopted are included as Appendix III to the Land Use Plan.
B. VISION STATEMENT
_ Beaufort County will strive to preserve its natural environment as a valuable physical and economic
asset while endeavoring to expand economic opportunities. The county desires to nurture an
environment conducive to business development, growth of seasonal population, development ofthe
_ tourist industry, and expansion of the county's industrial base. As a foundation for overall growth,
the county will work to improve its educational and cultural opportunities. Beaufort County desires
to become a stable, diversified, and attractive community.
C. RESOURCE PROTECTION POLICY STATEMENTS
Community Attitude Toward Resource Protection
While Beaufort County is concerned with resource protection, the county places emphasis on broad
based economic and community development. However, the county will implement resource
protection policies which meet the state's 15A NCAC 7H minimum use standards for the protection
of areas of environmental concern. The county is especially concerned with the preservation of water
quality within its rivers and tributaries and extensive estuarine system. Its shoreline, especially the
hardwood swamp areas, is a valuable resource.
Physical Limitations
Soils
To mitigate existing septic tank problems and other restrictions on development posed by soil
limitations, Beaufort County will:
_ . (a) Enforce, during the development process, all current regulations of the N.C. State Building
Code and North Carolina Division of Health Services relating to building construction and
septic tank installation/replacement in areas with soils restrictions.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Building Inspector and Sanitarian.
Schedule: Continuing Activity
(b) Coordinate all development activity with appropriate county and state regulatory personnel,
and in particular with the Beaufort County Building Inspector and Sanitarian.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Building Inspector and Sanitarian.
Schedule: Continuing Activity
Ti

(c) Beaufort County opposes the installation of package treatment plants and septic tanks or
discharge of waste in any areas classified as coastal wetlands, 404 wetlands, or natural
heritage areas.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Building Inspector and Sanitarian.
Schedule: Continuing Activity
Alternative Considered: Appendix III, policy 1
(d) Beaufort County will cooperate with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in the
regulation/enforcement of the 404 wetlands permit process but objects to the establishment
of any state 404 wetland regulations. _
Implementation Responsibility: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Schedule: Continuing Activity
Alternative Considered: Appendix III, policy 2
Flood Hazard Areas
(a) Beaufort County will continue to coordinate all development within the special flood hazard
area with the county's Inspections Department, North Carolina Division of Coastal
Management, FEMA, and the U.S. Corps of Engineers.
(b) Beaufort County will continue to enforce its flood damage prevention ordinance and follow
the storm hazard mitigation plan herein.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Building Inspector
Schedule: Continuing Activity
Groundwater/Protection of Potable Water Supplies
(a) The county should make every effort to ensure that the protection of existing and future
potable water supplies and resources will be consistent with all State and Federal policies and
guidelines.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: Continuing Activity
Alternative Considered: Appendix III, policy 3
(b) Continue to support capacity use groundwater monitoring by the Division of Water Quality.
Implementation Responsibility: Division of Water Quality
Schedule: Continuing Activity
Alternative Considered: Appendix III, policy 3
1Gl

_ (c) Land uses near groundwater sources are regulated by the North Carolina Division of Water
Quality,through N.C.A.C. Subchapters 2L and 2C. Beaufort County recognizes the
importance of protecting potable water supplies and therefore supports the enforcement of
these regulations.
Implementation Responsibility: Division of Water Quality
Schedule: Continuing Activity
Alternative Considered: Appendix III, policy 4
(d) Continue the development of public water supplies and distribution systems into areas of the
county.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: Continuing Activity
Mamnade Hazards
1 (a) Beaufort County will support the technical requirements and state program approval for
underground storage tanks (40 CFR, Parts 280 and 281), and any subsequent state
} regulations concerning underground storage tanks adopted during the planning period.
'F
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: Continuing Activity
(b) Beaufort County opposes the disposal of any toxic wastes, as defined by the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency's Listing of Hazardous Substances and Priority Pollutants
- ` (developed pursuant to the Clean Water Act of 1977) within its planning jurisdiction.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
' Schedule: Continuing Activity
(c) Expansions of Aviation Military Restricted Areas or Military Operations Areas in eastern
North Carolina must be consistent with civil aviation regulations, must comply with other
- applicable state and federal regulations, and must be supported by environmental impact
statements addressing the cumulative impact of such airspace uses.
Implementation Responsibility: Appropriate Federal Agencies
Schedule: Continuing Activity
(d) Beaufort County supports the following aircraft operations standards which were adopted by
the Coastal Resources Commission on December 1,1989, and were effective March 1,1990:
1. Minimum Altitudes: No development involving airspace activity shall be allowed in
any AEC which would result in violation of minimum altitude standards adopted by
the Federal Aviation Administration and codified at 14 CFR Part 91.79. Future
amendments by the Federal Aviation Administration shall be deemed to be
18

incorporated into this rule pursuant to G.S. 15013-14(c) unless the Commission
objects within ninety (90) days of publication of the action in the Federal Register.
Upon objection by the Commission to a change, the Commission shall initiate rule -
making proceedings on incorporation of the amendment into this rule. The
amendment will not be incorporated into this rule pending a rule -making hearing and
final action by the Commission on the proposed amendment.
2. Noise Pollution: Except as required for safe aircraft takeoff and landing operations,
airspace activity associated with coastal development shall not impose an increase in
average noise exceeding 10 dBA above background levels. Noise measurements shall
be normalized DNL as set forth by the Environmental Protection Agency in its report
550/9-74-004 entitled Information on Levels of Environmental Noise Requisite to
Protect the Public Health and Welfare with an Adequate Margin of Safety. The
maximum noise level associated with any single event shall not exceed 85 dBA.
These limits shall not apply where noise impacts are confined to surface areas owned
or controlled by the project's proponent. Any noise monitoring required to ensure
compliance with this rule shall be the responsibility of the proponent.
Policies on Use of Coastal Airspace
-- Declaration of General Policy: It is hereby declared with the use of aircraft by
state, federal, and local government agencies forpurposes ofmanaging andprotecting
coastal resources, detecting violations of environmental laws and regulations, and
performing other functions related to the public health, safety and welfare serves a
vital public interest. The Commission further finds that future economic development
in the coastal area and orderly management of such development requires air access
to and among coastal communities.
-- Policy Statements
a) It is the policy of the State of North Carolina that access corridors free of special
use airspace designations shall be preserved along the length ofthe barrier islands and
laterally at intervals not to exceed 25 miles to provide unobstructed access both along
the coastline and from inland areas to the coast. Such access corridors shall extend
from the surface to an altitude of 6,000 feet above sea level except where
communication and radar services allow positive aircraft control at lower altitudes.
b) Development of aviation -related projects and associated airspace management
practices shall, to the maximum extent practicable, facilitate use of aircraft by local,
state, and federal government agencies for purposes of resource management, law
enforcement, and other activities related to the public health, safety, and welfare. In
any case, access to restricted areas shall be provided on a periodic basis for routine
enforcement flights, and access shall be provided on an emergency basis when
required to respond to an immediate threat to public health and safety.
19

4. Policies on Water and Wetland Based Tareet Areas for Military Training Activities
-- Declaration of General Policy: The use of water and wetland based target areas
for military training purposes may result in adverse impacts on coastal resources and
on the exercise of public trust rights. The public interest requires that, to the
maximum extent practicable, use of such targets not infringe on public trust rights,
cause damage to public trust resources, violate existing water quality standards, or
result in public safety hazards.
-- -- Policy Statements
a) It is the policy of the State of North Carolina that all public trust waters subject
to surface water restrictions pursuant to 33 USCS 3 for use in military training shall
be opened to commercial fishing at established times appropriate for harvest of the
fisheries resources within those areas.
b) Where laser weaponry is used, the area of restricted surface waters shall be at least
as large as the recommended laser safety zone.
i c) Water quality shall be tested periodically in the surface water restricted areas
surrounding such targets and results of such testing shall be reported to the
department.
Implementation Responsibility: Appropriate Federal Agencies
Schedule: Continuing Activity
Alternative Considered: Appendix III, policies 6, 7, & 8
Stormwater Runoff
(a) The county recognizes the importance ofprivatemanagement ofstormwater runoffassociated
- with agriculture, residential development, phosphate, or peat mining and their impacts on
coastal wetlands, surface water, or other fragile areas. If the county considers the adoption
of a subdivision ordinance, it should have guidelines and land development criteria for
- stormwater management and runoff related to private land uses. The county supports State
and Federal stormwater runoff criteria applicable to land development.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: Continuing Activity
Alternative Considered: Appendix III, policies 9,10, & 10A
Cultural/Historic Resources
` (a) Beaufort County shall coordinate all housing code enforcement/redevelopment projects with
the N.C. Division of Archives and History, to attempt to ensure that any significant
architectural details or buildings are identified and preserved.
P

Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Building Inspector
Schedule: Continuing Activity
(b) Beaufort County will coordinate all county public works projects with the N.C. Division of
Archives and History, to ensure the identification and preservation of significant
archaeological sites. '
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Building Inspector _
Schedule: Continuing Activity
(c) Encourage land use proposals through subdivision review and approval which will not have
a negative impact on historic, and/or archaeological resources in the county.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: Continuing Activity
(d) Encourage citizens' awareness programs and public educational opportunities for county
historic and natural resources, including the conservation, preservation, and maintenance
thereof.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: Continuing Activity
Industrial Impacts on Fragile Areas
(a) Industrial development which can comply with the use standards specified by 15A NCAC 7H,
Beaufort County zoning ordinance (where applicable, see page I-47), and federal regulations
may be located within conservation classified areas. Beaufort County aggressively
encourages the development of industry. The county does not want any policies contained
within this plan to prohibit industrial development which meets all applicable state and federal
regulations.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners and Division
of Coastal Management
Schedule: Continuing Activity
Alternative Considered: Appendix III, policies 11,12, and 13
(b) Beaufort County, in cooperation with the City of Washington, will continue to support an
active industrial recruitment program.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: Continuing Activity
Alternative Considered: Appendix III, policy 14
21

i
iMiscellaneous Resource Protection
Package Treatment Plant Use
(a) With the exception of Soils policy (c) on page IV-4, the county will not oppose the
construction of state -approved package treatment plants in areas not provided with central
sewer service. The county supports effective monitoring by the state of the operation of
package treatment plants.
Implementation Responsibility: Division of Water Quality
-- Schedule: Continuing Activity
Alternative Considered: Appendix III, policy 15
—, (b) The location of any proposed use of package treatment plants for sewage treatment disposal
must be approved by the proper permitting agency.
(c) If any package plants are approved by the state, Beaufort County supports the requirement
of a specific contingency plan specifying how ongoing private operation and maintenance of
the plant will be provided, and detailing provisions for assumption of the plant into a public
system should the private operation fail. Operational plans should also address elimination
of package treatment plants when the system owner elects to connect to a central sewer
system.
Implementation Responsibility: Division of Water Quality
Schedule: Continuing Activity
Alternative Considered: Appendix III, policy 16
Marina and Floating Home Development
(a) The county encourages the development of marinas (for mooring of ten or more vessels) and
dry stack storage facilities at appropriate locations provided that such development is
consistent with all State and Federal regulations and the following conditions:
-- new marinas are not to be located in Primary Nursery Areas;
-- construction of marinas in Class SA and/or WS-111 waters are to be provided with
pump -outs;
-- the timing of marina construction involving dredging shall be determined by Division
of Marine Fisheries.
Implementation Responsibility: Division of Coastal Management
f Schedule: Continuing Activity
J Alternative Considered: Appendix III, policy 20
ON

(b) The county encourages continued State study of development guidelines for marinas with
particular emphasis on upland excavations for marina basins. The county will consider the
possible inclusion of these State guidelines should the county consider adoption of a
subdivision ordinance.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners and Division
of Coastal Management
Schedule: Continuing Activity
Alternative Considered: Appendix III, policies 21 and 22
(c) Beaufort County supports the construction of drystack storage facilities which comply with
the policies contained in this plan and 15A NCAC 7H minimum use standards.
Implementation Responsibility: Division of Water Quality
Schedule: Continuing Activity
Alternative Considered: Appendix III, policy 23
(d) The county does not have a policy on floating homes at this time because of the absence of
these homes in the county. If at a future date the need arises for policies concerning floating
homes, the county will amend the Land Use Plan at that time. "
Implementation Responsibility: Not applicable
Schedule: Not applicable
Alternative Considered: Appendix III, policies 24, 25, and 26
Mooring Fields
Beaufort County will prepare a water use plan as a prerequisite to state certification of a mooring
field(s).
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: During the Five (5) Year Planning Period
Alternative Considered: Appendix III, policies 27 and 28
Bulkhead Construction
Beaufort County supports the construction of bulkheads which fulfill the use standards set forth in
15A NCAC 7H.
Implementation Responsibility: Division of Coastal Management
Schedule: Continuing Activity
Alternative Considered: Appendix III, policies 29 and 30
23

I
Development of Sound and Estuarine Islands
The development of sound and estuarine system islands has not been an issue for Beaufort County.
Although a specific policy has not been provided, the county does not consider any of its estuarine
islands to be suitable for development at this time.
Alternative Considered: Appendix III, policies 31 and 32
Sea Level Rise
Beaufort County recognizes the uncertainties associated with sea level rise. The rate of rise is
difficult to predict. Those factors combine to make it difficult, ifnot impossible, to establish specific
policies to deal with the effects of sea level rise.
Beaufort County will implement the following policy to respond to sea level rise:
It is the county's position that a policy to address the restriction of development that might be
susceptible to sea level rise and wetland loss is worthy of continued research and investigation.
However, as of this point in time, no specific policy has been finalized for adoption.
Alternative Considered: Appendix III, policies 33, 34, and 35
Maritime Forests
Based on the Maritime Forest Protection Initiative, May 24,1990, there are no major maritime forest
sites that are under Beaufort County jurisdiction.
Water Quality Management
(a) Beaufort County will undertake a review of all local land use regulation ordinances to
determine ifrevisions should be undertaken to respond to specific water quality management
problems.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners.
Schedule: During the Five (5) Year Planning Period
(b) The county supports state and local actions intended to improve water quality within the
Tranters Creek, Lower Tar River, and Pamlico River subbasins ofthe Tar -Pamlico watershed.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners and Division
of Water Quality
Schedule: Continuing Activity
r
24

(c) The county supports preservation of the natural heritage priority areas which are delineated
on Map 6, page I-56 of the Land Use Plan.
Implementation Responsibility: Appropriate State Agencies
Schedule: Continuing Activity
(d) Beaufort County supports the management strategies contained in the Tar -Pamlico Basin
Water Quality Management Plan.
Implementation Responsibility: Division of Water Quality
Schedule: Continuing Activity
(e) The county should support State efforts to reduce nutrient loading in the county's surface
water.
Implementation Responsibility: Division of Water Quality
Schedule: Continuing Activity
(t) If the county considers the adoption of a subdivision ordinance, any proposed guidelines
should include incentives for private development to preserve areas adjacent to Primary and
Secondary Nursery Areas.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: During the Five (5) Year Planning Period
D. RESOURCE PRODUCTION AND MANAGEMENT POLICIES
Community Attitude Toward Resource Production and Mana eg ment
Beaufort County supports responsible resource production and management. The county will
support policies which meet or exceed 15A NCAC 7H minimum use standards. Beaufort County
desires to protect its shoreline areas as valuable economic and natural resources. However,
responsible resource production and management should be used to support economic development
and expand job opportunities.
Recreation Resources
(a) Subject to available funding, Beaufort County supports comprehensive recreational programs
to provide a broad range of recreational activities for its citizens.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: Continuing Activity
25

(b) The county will seek donations of land, bargain sales, or grant funds in order to obtain sites
suitable for development as recreational facilities.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: Continuing Activity
(c) Beaufort County 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
i NCAC 7H will be allowed.
Implementation Responsibility: Division of Coastal Management
Schedule: Continuing Activity
(d) The county will consider development of a shoreline access plan to define the need for public -
owned waterfront recreational facilities within its planning jurisdiction. This effort should be
closely coordinated with shoreline access planning by the City of Washington.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: During the Five (5) Year Planning Period
r-
(e) Beaufort County encourages the establishment of a land conservation fund which would
protect areas of environmental, recreational, and/or aesthetic importance by fee acquisition,
i dedication, and/or permanent easement.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: During the Five (5) Year Planning Period
Productive Agricultural Lands
(a) Beaufort County supports and encourages use of the U.S. Natural Resources Conservation
Service "Best Management Practices" program. This includes agricultural practices which
' minimize the runoff of sediment and nutrients. The county will actively support continued
funding of State and Federal cost -share programs.
Implementation Responsibility: Private Farm Operators/Owners
Schedule: Continuing Activity
Alternative Considered: Appendix III, policy 38
(b) Because of the soil types and topography, the county recognizes that proper drainage is
essential and must be allowed to continue as needed if it does not result in irreversible damage
to environmentally sensitive areas.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: Continuing Activity
OR

(c) Explore alternative land use guidelines, including subdivision or zoning ordinances, which
ensure that possible conversion of agricultural lands to other uses can be achieved with
minimal impact on adjacent agricultural lands.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: During the Five (5) Year Planning Period
(d) Support State and Federal agricultural programs which assist county farming and aid in
identifying prime agricultural lands.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: Continuing Activity
(e) Continue to promote and support the Farmers Market in Downtown Washington.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: Continuing Activity
(f) Future county public improvements should be planned and financed to avoid adverse tax
impacts on agricultural property where such agricultural use will not directly benefit from the
planned public improvements.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: Continuing Activity
(g) Continue to promote use -value assessment as a means of preserving the farming base and
encourage farmers owning parcels of 10 acres or more to apply for use -value assessment.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: Continuing Activity
(h) Support the expansion of the Agricultural Cost Share Program for counties in the
Pamlico/Tar drainage basin.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: Continuing Activity
Productive Forestlands
(a) Beaufort County encourages and supports utilization of the Forest Best Management
Practices Manual, 1989, North Carolina Division of Forest Resources for all forestry
operations. Promote public awareness of forestry Best Management Practices in the county.
Implementation Responsibility: Private Forestry Companies
Schedule: Continuing Activity
Alternative Considered: Appendix III, policy 39
27

I L (b)
Support State and Federal forestry programs which assist county commercial forests and the
forestry industry.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: Continuing Activity
(c) Minimize the degree of land use controls on commercial forest lands in order that adequate
forestry drainage activities can be economically implemented by the private sector, while, at
the same time, supporting State and Federal programs aimed at minimizing the practices of
the uncontrolled drainage of wetlands for silvacultural activities.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: Continuing Activity
(d) Future county public improvements should be planned and financed to avoid adverse tax
impacts on the owners of prime forestry lands where such lands will not directly benefit from
the planned public improvements.
i'
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: Continuing Activity
L�
(e) Continue to promote use -value assessment as a means of preserving the forestry resource
base and encourage owners of parcels of 20-acres or more to apply for use -value assessment.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: Continuing Activity
(f) Explore alternative land use guidelines and subdivision regulations which ensure that the
subdivision of forestry land can be optimally achieved without adversely impacting adjacent
forestry lands.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: During the Five (5) Year Planning Period
(g) Explore alternative land use guidelines and subdivision regulations which will encourage
forestry operators to maintain vegetative buffers between cleared areas and major county
public roadways.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: Continuing Activity
1
Aauaculture
(a) Beaufort County encourages all aquaculture activities which meet applicable permit
requirements. However, Beaufort County reserves the right to comment on all aquaculture
activities.
L'
28

Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners and Division
of Water Quality
Schedule: Continuing Activity
Alternative Considered: Appendix III, policies 40 and 41
Off -Road Vehicles
The county does not consider off -road vehicles to be an issue of significant concern requiring that it
be addressed in this policy statement.
Alternative Considered: Appendix III, policies 42, 43, and 44
Residential, Commercial, and Industrial Development Impacts on Resources
(a) Residential, commercial, and industrial development which meets 15A NCAC 7H use
standards will be allowed in estuarine shoreline, estuarine water, and public trust areas. In
all other areas, development will be allowed that is consistent with applicable local, state, and
federal regulations.
Implementation Responsibility: Division of Coastal Management
Schedule: Continuing Activity
Alternative Considered: Appendix III, policies 45 and 46
(b) Consider the adoption of a subdivision ordinance which establishes appropriate design
standards for development of waterfront areas and areas with water accessibility. -
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: During the Five (5) Year Planning Period
(c) Define and delineate land areas with development constraints as a part of the Land Use Plan
Update process.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: During the Five (5) Year Planning Period
(d) Reviewpossible control through appropriate means; including asubdivision ordinance which
would control land development in areas with identified physical land development
constraints.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: During the Five (5) Year Planning Period
(e) Encourage intensive land development activities only on lands in which land development
constraints can reasonably be overcome.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: Continuing Activity
W

I
L.
(f) Study local growth management techniques -- such as zoning -- which would provide for the
_ recognition and control of land use types, densities, and development criteria within areas
having defined development constraints.
_ Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: During the Five (5) Year Planning Period
(g) Study alternative local growth management techniques which would provide for the controls
of land use types, densities, and development criteria within AECs.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: During the Five (5) Year Planning Period
(h) Encourage development within the estuarine shoreline that does not significantly interfere
with existing public rights, usage, and access to navigable water and other public resources.
Implementation Responsibility: Division of Coastal Management
Schedule: Continuing Activity
(i) Ensure that all land development plans within AECs have evaluated all possible alternatives
to controlling pollution, erosion, natural barrier impacts, limiting drainage, and reducing other
potentially negative impacts related to land use activities.
i
Implementation Responsibility: Division of Coastal Management
Schedule: Continuing Activity
(j) Support and complement Coastal Resource Commission efforts to protect, preserve, and
manage Areas of Environmental Concern (AECs).
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: Continuing Activity
(k) Develop guidelines for land development which conform to the general use standards of the
North Carolina Administrative Code (as amended) for development within the defined
estuarine system.
- Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: During the Five (5) Year Planning Period
(1) Beaufort County does not oppose the construction of signs in public trust or estuarine waters.
Implementation Responsibility: Division of Coastal Management
Schedule: Continuing Activity
Alternative Considered: Appendix III, policy 47
Rig

Solid Waste
(a) Beaufort County supports aegional multi -county approach to solid waste management. The
county will support and dispose of its solid waste in the Bertie County Regional Landfill
through the Albemarle Solid Waste Authority.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: Continuing Activity
(b) The county will cooperate with any efforts to educate people and businesses on waste
reduction and recycling. The county vigorously supports recycling by the county and other
users of the landfill and supports setting up practical collection methods and education efforts
to achieve a high degree of county -wide recycling.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: Continuing Activity
(c) Beaufort County favors the siting of recycling centers within all land classifications except
those within the conservation category.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners and Division
of Coastal Management
Schedule: Continuing Activity
Marine Resource Areas
(a) Beaufort County supports the use standards for estuarine waters and public trust areas as
specified in 15A NCAC 7H.0207.
Implementation Responsibility: Division of Coastal Management
Schedule: Continuing Activity
(b) The policies and requirements of the North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries are
constantly changing. Decisions made by the Division of Marine Fisheries have an impact on
Beaufort County. In response, Beaufort County reserves the right to comment on the
individual policies and requirements of the North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: Continuing Activity
(c) The county will support enforcement of septic tank placement regulations as defined by title
18A of 15A NCAC .1900.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Sanitarian
Schedule: Continuing Activity
31

I �
f '
i_ (d) The county will consider applying for funds through the N.C. Division of Marine Fisheries'
ReefDevelopment Program to develop artificial reefs in selected locations along the Pamlico
Sound. The reefs should attract fish and enhance commercial and sports fishing in Beaufort
County.
Implementation.Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: During the Five (5) Year Planning Period
(e) Commercial and recreational fishing resources and production activities, including nursery and
habitat areas, and trawling activities in estuarine waters, are recognized as valuable
contributors to the economy of Beaufort County. These activities are subject to regulation
by the Divisions of Coastal Management, Marine Fisheries, and Wildlife Resources. The
consideration of detailed policies, strategies, and implementation programs designed to
protect and enhance commercial and recreational fishing activities in the Pamlico River and
its tributaries should be encouraged by the county.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: Continuing Activity
(f) Continue to support development of a fisheries management program and regulations for both
commercial and sports fisherman; support expansion of local operations serving both
commercial and recreational users.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board. of Commissioners
Schedule: Continuing Activity
(g) Encourage activities such as "catch and release" and stocking programs which attempt to
preserve declining fish species.
Implementation Responsibility: Division of Marine Fisheries
Schedule: Continuing Activity
j Peat or Phosphate Mining and Mineral Production
(a) Phosphate mining provides a substantial economic benefit to Beaufort County and its
_ residents. The county supports continued development of the area's phosphate deposits,
provided that such developments are operated in accordance with applicable State or Federal
mining laws or regulations.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
cf Schedule: Continuing Activity
(b) The county continues to support mining activities when the projects are reviewed and
permitted by appropriate State or Federal mining regulations.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: Continuing Activity
32

E. ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Community Attitude on Economic and Community Development
In anticipation of the continued growth in Beaufort County over the coming decades, the community
generally favors the ongoing implementation of responsible economic and community development
projects throughout the area. The county's encouragement and active support of local employment
that generates land uses are considered to be an important goal of the 1997 Land Use Plan Update.
The county has helped create two new economic development commissions, the Beaufort County
Economic Development Commission and the North Eastern Beaufort County Economic Development
Commission.- Each commission has a full-time director.
The county will emphasize the following:
-- The county encourages and supports all types of economic development which can be shown
to complement the existing demographic, economic, and environmental base within Beaufort
County.
The county, in conjunction with its incorporated jurisdictions, is committed to providing
appropriate levels of public services, facilities, and infrastructure.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: Continuing Activity
Alternative Considered: Appendix III, policy 50
Economic Growth/Expansion
(a) The county emphasizes the importance of locating new economic development in and around
existing urban areas where public infrastructure and acceptable transportation systems already
exist or where such infrastructure and systems can be reasonably extended.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: Continuing Activity
(b) The county places priority on encouraging new economic development which provides
employment -intensive opportunities for the local work force, and in particular, offers viable
job opportunities for the youth and underemployed of Beaufort County.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: Continuing Activity
(c) The county encourages the redevelopment and revitalization of existing underutilized
industrially and commercially developed areas. The county also encourages increasing
development densities on properties which are capable of supporting higher land use
intensities without being deleterious to the environment and public infrastructure.
33

I l_
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: Continuing Activity
Water Suonly
(a) Beaufort County supports all efforts to secure available state and federal funding for the
construction and/or expansion of public and private water systems. Beaufort County will
continue to advocate, plan, and program a county -wide water system to provide for long-term
economic development provided that the feasibility of such projects can be justified on
economic and environmental grounds.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: Continuing Activity
Alternative Considered: Appendix III, policies 52 and 53
(b) The county is aware that inappropriate land uses near well fields increase the possibility of
well contamination. Land uses near groundwater sources are regulated by the NC Division
of Water Quality through NCAC Subchapters 2L and 2C. Beaufort County recognizes the
importance of protecting potable water supplies, and therefore supports the enforcement of
these regulations.
Implementation Responsibility: Division of Water Quality
Schedule: Continuing Activity
Sewer System
- (a) Beaufort County recognizes that most areas of the county will not be provided central sewer
_ service within the planning period. However, the county supports development of a county-
wide plan for the provision of efficient and cost-effective wastewater disposal.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: Continuing Activity
(b) Beaufort County supports the extension of the City of Washington's sewer system into areas
of the county when service is requested by the citizens in those areas.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: Continuing Activity
(c) Beaufort County supports the possibility of discharge of effluent into 404 wetland areas.
Wetlands "created" to aid in treating waste effluent shall be allowed.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners and U.S.
Army Corps of Engineers
Schedule: Continuing Activity
34

(d) Beaufort County supports all efforts to secure available state and federal funding for the
construction and/or expansion of public and private sewer systems.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: Continuing Activity
(e) Beaufort County supports construction of sewer lines through conservation areas to serve
development which meets all applicable local, state, and federal regulations.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners and Division
of Coastal Management
Schedule: Continuing Activity
Stormwater
(a) Beaufort County will cooperate with the NCDOT, the North Carolina Division of Water
Quality, and other state agencies in minimizing the impact of stormwater runoff on all
conservation classified areas. The county will actively support the Division of Water Quality
stormwater runoff retention permitting process through its subdivision approval process.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners and Division
of Water Quality
Schedule: Continuing Activity
(b) Beaufort County supports the policy that all North Carolina Department of Transportation
projects should be designed to limit to the extent possible stormwater runoff into estuarine
waters.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: Continuing Activity
Energy Facility Siting and Development
(a) The siting of OCS energy facilities is not an issue with the county at this time.
Alternative Considered: Appendix III, policies 54, 55, and 56
(b) At this time, the county does not have any energy siting priorities. There are no electric
generating plants located in or proposed for Beaufort County. However, the county will
review proposals for development of electric generating plants on a case -by -case basis,
judging the need for the facility by the county against all identified possible adverse impacts.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: Continuing Activity
35

_ Redevelopment of Developed Areas
The most significant redevelopment issues facing Beaufort County through 2007 are substandard
housing, deteriorating commercial structures, and reconstruction following a hurricane or other
natural disaster. The county will allow the reconstruction of any structures demolished by natural
disaster which will comply with existing state and local codes. During the planning period, the county
will attempt to correct its substandard housing conditions by:
(a) supporting the enforcement of a Minimum Housing Code;
(b) applying for Community Development Block Grant Community Revitalization and North
Carolina Housing Finance Agency funds;
(c) coordinating redevelopment efforts with the county Building Inspection Department;
(d) preparing a county -wide housing strategy to increase the quantity and quality of affordable
housing.
(e) Reconstruction following a hurricane or other natural disaster is a concern. The Storm
Hazard Mitigation, Post -Disaster Recovery, and Evacuation Plan provides policies for
responding to hurricanes and other natural disasters. Those policies address reconstruction
needs. The county will allow the reconstruction of any structures demolished by natural
disaster when the reconstruction complies with all applicable local, state, and federal
regulations.
(f) Implementation of hazard mitigation projects.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: Continuing Activity
Tunes and Locations of Desired Industry
Industrial development is extremely important to the continued economic growth and stability of
Beaufort County. The county's heavy reliance on employment in the.service and retail trade sector
should be balanced by the development of a stronger base of industrial/manufacturing employment.
The following industrial development policies will be applied:
(a) Beaufort County encourages the development of industrial sites which are accessible to
municipal/central water and sewer services.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: Continuing Activity
01

(b) Beaufort County does not encourage intensive economic development activities in remote
areas of the county which are not currently served by adequate public facilities and public
access unless such facilities can be provided within the definition of this plan.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: Continuing Activity
(c) The county will study the feasibility of using zoning as a mechanism to (1) select, designate,
and reserve optimal economic development sites for future industry and commerce, and (2)
establish minimal, but appropriate, controls for the location, density and standards for all
types of intensive land uses.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: During the Five (5) Year Planning Period
(d) Beaufort County will continue to support the development of the Washington/Beaufort
County Industrial Park.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: Continuing Activity
(e) Beaufort County will continue to provide cooperative assistance in working with incorporated
municipalities to plan for and extend water and/or sewer services to industrial and commercial
firms locating outside municipal service areas.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: Continuing Activity
(f) Industrial development should not infringe on established residential development. However,
the county does not have a county -wide zoning ordinance to regulate the locations of
industrial development.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: Continuing Activity
(g) The county believes that all industrial prospects should be given a fair, case -by -case
assessment in order to carefully compare possible economic benefits with possible negative
environmental effects.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: Continuing Activity
37

Estuarine Access
(a) Beaufort County supports the state's shoreline access policies as set forth in NCAC Chapter
15, Subchapter 7M. The county will conform to CAMA and other state and federal
environmental regulations affecting the development of estuarine access areas.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: Continuing Activity
- (b) Beaufort County will consider the need to apply for CAMA funding to assist in the
preparation of a shoreline access plan and construction of shoreline access sites.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: During the Five (5) Year Planning Period
Commitment to State and Federal Programs
The county remains committed to State and Federal programs in planning areas, where applicable,
related to community and economic development, including erosion control, public access, highway
improvements, port facilities, dredging, and military facilities.
In addition, the county will support the following activities:
I
The county will continue to support local, regional, and State public interest groups
concerned with economic development.
-- Continue to support the Chamber of Commerce in their efforts to market the county retail and
industrial sites.
-- Continue to support and provide public information pertaining to groups such as the Mid -East
_ Commission, the Regional Development Institute, and the Small Business Institutes at
Beaufort Community College and East Carolina University, which provide assistance to new
and small businesses and to economic development projects.
Continue to support the four lane upgrade of US 17 and US 264 in Beaufort County as close
as feasible to the existing locations within Beaufort County.
Continue to seek Community Development Block Grants or other applicable funding sources
for community development purposes.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: Continuing Activity
38

Community Facilities
During the planning period, Beaufort County will consider developing a community services/facilities
plan (as a stand-alone document, not as an expansion of this plan), which will define existing
deficiencies in police protection, fire protection, local administrative buildings, public recreational
facilities, public shoreline access, and public parks. This plan will not address school system needs.
The plan will prioritize needs and make specific recommendations concerning financing and budgeting
the high priority needs. The county will coordinate facility planning with the school system and the
municipalities.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: Continuing Activity
Land Use Regulation
Beaufort County will review the need for a county -wide subdivision ordinance. This will be done to
make the ordinances more responsive to current county needs and conditions. Funding assistance
for revision of the ordinance will be requested from the North Carolina Division of Community
Assistance.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: During the Five (5) Year Planning Period
Assistance in Channel Maintenance
The proper maintenance of channels is apriority to Beaufort County. The county remains committed
to pursuing State and Federal program assistance for projects for channel maintenance and beach
nourishment projects, where applicable (including financial aid, provision of borrow and spoil areas,
provision of easements for work). The county supports reducing the Pamlico River channel width
to 100 feet between the U.S. 17 Bridge and the Railroad Bridge.
Implementation Responsibility: Appropriate state and federal agencies.
Schedule: Continuing Activity
Alternative Considered: Appendix III, policy 65
Assistance in Interstate Waterways
Beaufort County considers the interstate waterway to be a valuable economic asset and encourages
adequate maintenance.
Implementation Responsibility: Appropriate state and federal agencies.
Schedule: Continuing Activity
Alternative Considered: Appendix III, policy 66
39

Tourism
Tourism is extremely important to Beaufort County and will be supported by the county. The county
will implement the following policies to further the development of tourism:
(a) Continue to encourage efforts aimed at promoting and enhancing levels of tourism and
tourism -related development opportunities in the county.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: Continuing Activity
(b) Continue to encourage the activities of local and regional public interests groups responsible
for promoting tourism in the county such as the Beaufort County Economic Development
Commission and the North Eastern Beaufort County Economic Development Commission.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: Continuing Activity
(c) Continue to support the development of an annual calendar of all special events to be held
throughout the county; publicize the periodic listing of events in appropriate local, regional,
and national publications.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: Continuing Activity
(d) Support the development of a museum to commemorate the life and works of Cecil B.
deMille.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: Continuing Activity
(e) Support State efforts to develop the North Carolina Estuarium.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: Continuing Activity
(f) Beaufort County will support North Carolina Department of Transportation projects to
improve access to and within the county.
' Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners and
NCDOT
Schedule: Continuing Activity
(g) Beaufort County will support projects that will increase public access to shoreline areas.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: Continuing Activity
40

(h) The county will continue to support the activities of the North Carolina Division of Travel
and Tourism; specifically, the monitoring of tourism -related industry, efforts to promote
tourism -related commercial activity, and efforts to enhance and provide shoreline resources.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners and NC
Division of Travel
Schedule: Continuing Activity
Transportation
Beaufort County supports the following transportation projects/improvements:
-- Adoption of a county -wide thoroughfare plan.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners and NC
Department of Transportation
Schedule: Continuing Activity
Transportation Improvements Program:
Beaufort northern bypass, SR 1409 west of Beaufort to SR 1600 east of Beaufort. Construct
a four lane divided facility on new location.
SR 1501, SR 1306 (12th Street) to SR 1507. Widen to five lanes with curb and gutter.
Pungo River Canal. Replace bridge no. 30.
Branch of Pungo Creek. Replace bridge no. 70.
Pantego Creek. Replace bridge no. 77.
-- Cuckold's Creek. Replace bridge no. 63.
-- Proposed rest area at intersection of US 264 and new alignment of US 17 in conjunction with
R-2510.
-- SR 1306 (Fifteenth Street) at SR 1422 (Market Street). Construct left turn lanes on SR 1306
at SR 1422 on both directions of travel and revise signal.
Blounts Creek at Southern Railroad Crossing 466 372F. Safety improvements.
Windmill road near Chocowinity at Carolina and Northwestern Railroad Crossing 466 365V.
Safety improvements.
- U.S. 17 Washington By-pass to be located in Beaufort County.
-- NC 99 at Carolina Coastal Railroad Crossing 466 289E. Revise automatic warning devices.
-- Construct bridge and approaches across the Pamlico River.
-- Beaufort bypass. Four lane divided freeway on new location.
Beaufort bypass to multi -lanes south of Williamston. Widen roadway to a multi -lane facility.
-- NC 43 to Beaufort bypass. Widen roadway to a multi -lane facility.
SR 1309 to SR 1300. Widen roadway to a multi -lane facility.
NC 32 to NC 99 at Belhaven. Widen roadway to a multi -lane facility.
Implementation Responsibility: NC Department of Transportation
Schedule: Implement as funding is available
41

Warren Field Capital Improvement Program
-- Height/Land Use Study
-- Approach Survey R/W 17-35
- Rehabilitate Access Road
-- T-Hangar Taxiway Site Prep
-- DME; R/W 5
Drainage Improvements
-- Property Acquisition for FAR Part 77; R/W 5
-- Approach Survey
T-Hangar Taxiway/Access Road/Parking Paving
Terminal Apron Expansion
Automated Weather Station (AWOS-III)
Rehabilitate/Strengthen Taxiways and Aprons
Property Acquisition for Approach Lighting, R/W 5
Glide Scope/Outer Marker, R/W 5
T-Hangar Construction (two complexes - 10 bays)
-- Approach Lighting System (MALSF); R/W 5
-- High Intensity Runway Lighting (HIRL); R/W 5-23
-- Rehabilitate R/W 17-35
Implementation Responsibility: Warren Field Airport Commission
Schedule: Implement as funding is available
Affordable Housing
Beaufort County will implement the following to aid in providing affordable housing:
(a) Support moderate income housing.
(b) Apply for Community Development Block Grant Community Revitalization and North
Carolina Housing Finance Agency funds.
(c) Pursue state and federal funding of projects to improve and increase moderate income
housing.
(d) Support state and federal programs which assist with housing rehabilitation.
(e) Support low to moderate income housing.
(f) When economically feasible, the county will support extension of water and sewer lines to
serve new residential developments.
i (g) Support hazard mitigation grants.
Implementation Responsibility (a)-(g): Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: Continuing Activity
42

Land Use Trends
The following policies address management strategies relating to the future growth of the county:
(a) Employ the Land Classification Map as a means of aiding in the selecting and designing
appropriate areas of the county for future commercial, industrial, and other economic
development land areas.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: During the Five (5) Year Planning Period
(b) To provide guidance for possible subdivision development, the county will considerthe need
for, and possible adoption of a county -wide subdivision ordinance.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: During the Five (5) Year Planning Period
(c) Adopt, as apart ofthis plan, the Land Classification Map which designates appropriate areas
of the county for residential land use activities requiring public services and infrastructure.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: During the Five (5) Year Planning Period
(d) Study the most appropriate means by which to link land use density requirements to the
county's Land Classification Map.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: During the Five (5) Year Planning Period
(e) Review the Mobile Home Park Ordinance in order to incorporate more contemporary and
reasonable health, safety, and general welfare standards for manufactured housing and the
siting thereof.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: During the Five (5) Year Planning Period
(f) Continue to take active steps towards the preservation and enhancement of the quality of life
in the county.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: During the Five (5) Year Planning Period
(g) Support the development and enhancement of urban waterfront areas, while ensuring such
projects are compatible with all local, State, and Federal environmental requirements.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners
Schedule: Continuing Activity
43

!_ (h) Provide active leadership in ensuring that NCDOT roads and streets in the county are
adequately maintained and upgraded in a fashion consistent with the 1997 plan's land use
objectives.
Implementation Responsibility: Beaufort County Board of Commissioners and North
Carolina Department of Transportation
Schedule: Continuing Activity
m