Brunswick County's Blueprint for the Future

OUR COUNTY, OUR FUTURE
Comprehensive Plan | Section 1
DRAFT

2 Blueprint Brunswick – Section 1

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Blueprint Brunswick – Section 1
Brunswick County’s new comprehensive land use
plan, Blueprint Brunswick, is intended to provide a
framework that will guide local government officials
and private citizens as they make short- and long-
term decisions regarding development and
conservation. As the name of the plan suggests, it
serves as an overall “blueprint” for the future of
Brunswick County. Implementation of the plan will
result in the most appropriate use of available land
in the county and protection of the county’s natural
and cultural resources.
Blueprint Brunswick has been developed in
accordance with the requirements of Chapter 160D
of the North Carolina General Statutes as well as
the requirements contained in the North Carolina
Coastal Resources Commission (CRC) Land Use
Planning Requirements 15A NCAC 7B as modified
by the CRC in 2016. A matrix identifying the
location within the plan of the required elements is
provided under “Organization of the Plan” in
Appendix A.

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The Planning Area is Brunswick County, which
encompasses over 1,000 square miles. It includes
the entire area within the county boundaries.
However, the recommended policies are intended
for the unincorporated area, where the County has
planning and zoning authority, as well as five
participating municipalities. (Refer to Figure 1,
Planning Area Map.) As participants, Bald Head
Island, Belville, Caswell Beach, Navassa, and
Northwest fall under the purview of the Brunswick
County’s Land Use Plan (“Blueprint Brunswick”). The
other incorporated municipalities in Brunswick
County prepare and adopt separate land use plans.
Six municipalities chose to participate at a higher
level and prepare specific land use plans as separate
but related elements within Blueprint Brunswick.
These communities funded these supplemental
products of the process and the tasks to produce
them. The resulting plans are provided in Section 6.
• Bald Head Island
• Belville
• Bolivia
• Navassa
• Northwest
• Sandy Creek

A comprehensive plan is a policy guide that details a community’s long-term vision and
outlines the steps necessary to achieve it. The plan provides a framework for addressing
issues and opportunities pertaining to growth and development in an organized, efficient,
and sustainable manner. Taking into consideration existing conditions and emerging trends
that could impact how and where development occurs, it seeks to strike a balance among
the many competing demands on resources while protecting public investments. It is
comprehensive, as it addresses several interrelated topics.
Change is inevitable. Every community has the option of managing change or simply letting change happen. In
planning for the future, Brunswick County has proactively chosen to effect change in a manner that brings
about positive outcomes for the community as a whole. Planning presents an opportunity for citizens to have a
voice in the process. Through the process, a broad cross-section of the community can participate in shaping
the plan by communicating ideas, preferences, concerns, priorities, and expectations. In doing so, they can help
define the changes that are desired and, more importantly, express support for policies to improve their future
economic, environmental, and social well-being. This process opened the door to defining the future vision for
Brunswick County and conveying that vision through this Comprehensive Plan.
In North Carolina, counties and municipalities are required by the North Carolina General Statutes to meet the
planning requirements of N.C. General Statutes Chapter 160D.
In environmentally sensitive areas, plans are crucial in effectively managing growth to minimize the negative
impacts of development on important natural resources. Therefore, the North Carolina Coastal Area
Management Act (CAMA) legislation requires that each of the twenty coastal counties prepare and adopt a
Land Use Plan. Municipalities within these counties have the option of adopting individual plans or being
under the authority of the County plan.

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In North Carolina, our General Statutes give
local governments the authority to plan for
the future of their jurisdictions. The plans
developed for each town, city, and county are
policy guides. They provide a foundation for
the regulations. They also inform decisions
about public investments in infrastructure
and services.
• Authority granted by the State to local
governments (NC G.S. 160D).
• Plans are policy guides. They are not
legally binding.
• Plans are implemented by land
development ordinances (such as zoning
or subdivision regulations).
• The plans can also be used to guide public
investments, such as water, sewer, and
transportation improvements.

Blueprint Brunswick replaces the Brunswick County
CAMA CORE Land Use Plan that was adopted by
the Brunswick County Board of Commissioners in
2007. The previous plan was certified by the Coastal
Resources Commission (CRC) in 2007, and it was
recertified as recently as 2012. While the previous
plan served the County well for many years, the
recent and projected increases in population growth
rates, change in development patterns throughout
the county, and development activity in the county
warranted the creation of an updated policy guide.
The new plan will better inform the decisions of
County leaders, the County’s partner agencies, and
a wide variety of stakeholders.
Several other plans have been adopted in recent
years, including the More than a Trail Plan. A
summary of each is provided in Appendix B. The
recommendations of such plans and studies have
been taken into consideration and the relevant
policies in those plans helped formulate the
recommendations outlined in this document.
The process to prepare Blueprint Brunswick
included the creation of an updated Parks &
Recreation Master Plan for the County. Both
were developed in concert with the County’s
Water and Sewer Master Plan, which was updated
during the same planning period. Simultaneously,
the Comprehensive Transportation Plan (CTP)
created specifically for Brunswick County was
prepared through a separate but coordinated
effort overseen by the North Carolina Department
of Transportation.
Figure 1.2. Adopted
Plan Timeline

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Going forward, adopted plans should be
reviewed to determine the need for
modifications to ensure consistency with the
recommendations of Blueprint Brunswick,
which now serves as a new framework for
growth management in Brunswick County.
(Refer to Section 4 for more about updating
plans.)
A common point of confusion is the difference
between a land use map and a zoning map. The
distinction is an important one. To be clear, land
use plans are policy guides. They do not have the
force of law. Plans establish a vision for the
future that is reflective of community
expectations. The “vision” is represented by a
land use map that shows the future development
pattern. Plans are implemented through a variety
of tools. One of those tools is the zoning
ordinance, which does have the force of law.
Zoning puts into place the rules to be followed as
property is developed or redeveloped. Such rules
should be consistent with the intent of the
adopted plan. The official zoning map depicts the
zoning districts to delineate the areas where the
rules apply. Another tool is subdivision
regulations that puts into place rules for
subdividing land. Both subdivision and zoning
regulations can be found in the Brunswick
County Unified Development Ordinances.

Blueprint Brunswick was developed through four phases of work completed over a period of two years. The
timeframe allowed ample opportunities to engage the community, coordinate with concurrent planning processes
(Parks & Recreation Master Plan, Water and Sewer Master Plan Update, and Comprehensive Transportation Plan),
and prepare six municipal plans to be integrated as additional elements in the county’s plan. The key activities are
noted in Figure 1.3.
Figure 1.3. The Planning Process by Phase

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At project kickoff, the
County staff and the
consultants toured the
Planning Area. A first-hand
look at the existing
development pattern
strengthened the
Consultant team’s grasp of
the existing conditions and
stimulated the generation
of ideas to explore during
the planning process. This
tour included County staff
and others with knowledge
of the development
pattern. This sharing of
insights exposed important
local conditions and issues
that might not be
immediately apparent.
Community Engagement
The process was organized around an inclusive, multifaceted community engagement program
executed through collaboration with various project partners whose buy-in is critical to the successful
implementation of the plan. In addition to community meetings, other community input opportunities
were offered, including an online survey, municipality interviews, and stakeholder interviews. Project
participants considered issues and potential opportunities, fiscal and market realities, and community
values to clearly define an inspirational yet realistic vision for the future and outline a sound set of
action steps to realize that vision. (Refer to Appendix C for a complete summary of the Community
Engagement process.)
Advisory Committee
A series of Advisory Committee meetings were conducted during this process. The committee was
made up of representatives of various County departments, the Planning Board, and and the Parks &
Recreation Board. This committee helped guide the process by deciphering community input gathered
throughout the process, sharing background information to provide context, offering ideas for policy
changes, and evaluating products of the process prior to completion.

County & Municipal Meetings
A series of community meetings were held during the planning process.
Community Meeting 1: The existing conditions as well as related issues and opportunities were
discussed at the community meetings hosted in November 2020. A total of five meetings, one in
each electoral district, were held. Due to COVID restrictions, these meetings were held outdoors
when possible, three mini sessions were held at each location to accommodate more people safely,
and the meetings were live streamed.
Community Meeting 2: A second meeting in November 2021 was hosted as an open house at the
County Government Complex. Refinements to community goals and ideas for the direction for the
future of the community were presented. With input gathered at the second meeting, more specific
policy ideas were formulated.
Community Meeting 3: The third meeting was held in October 2022 to confirm the preferred direction
and solicit additional feedback on policies and strategies for implementing the plan. In addition,
County staff and consultant team representatives attended community events to expand outreach
efforts.
In 2022, the County staff and consultant team conducted
interactive meetings to engage the residents and other
stakeholders of six municipalities in crafting specific land
use plans. More information about the process to
develop each plan is provided with the plans, which have
been incorporated into the Section 6 of Blueprint
Brunswick.
Municipal Meetings 1: Six meetings were held in March
2022 to define the issues and opportunities in each
municipality. In this meeting, attendees were asked to
examine the goals prepared for the county and identify
those most relevant to their municipality.
Municipal Meetings 2: A set of follow-up meetings were
conducted in April 2022 to evaluate a draft land use
“vision” for each municipality as well as draft policy
recommendations tailored to address the issues and
opportunities identified in the March meetings. The input
received helped refine the plans that are provided in
Section 6.

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Focus Groups
Focus groups, another type of input meeting held in the initial phase of the project, augmented the
information gleaned from the analysis of existing conditions, as people with direct knowledge of crucial
data shared insights and clarified the relevance of specific circumstances to the planning process. Nearly
300 people participated in the 23 sessions, which were hosted, both in-person and virtually, as small-group
discussions at the County offices. The groups were generally organized according to the key topics,
including the following: economic development; business; development/real estate; utilities (primarily water
and wastewater); transportation; parks and recreation; open space and natural resources; college life;
youth; senior living; health; affordable and workforce housing/homelessness; neighborhood interests; public
safety; community health; service/faith; municipal interests; historic and rural resources; and agriculture.
(Refer to the Appendix C for a list of invitees by topic.)
Supplemental Interviews
County staff conducted interviews with individuals who could supplement the information gathered during
the Focus Group meetings. The 17 interviews addressed a wide variety of topics: economic development,
real estate development, the needs of small businesses, community health, the environment, transportation,
public safety, the needs of the current population, agriculture, and rural community concerns. (Refer to
Appendix C for more about these interviews.)
Website & Social Media
A project webpage was maintained by County staff for Blueprint Brunswick on the County’s website.
Through this page, a one-stop, online resource was created where the project team kept the public
informed about the project and the schedule of activities, encouraged public involvement with notices of
meetings, provided links to online surveys, and posted documents produced by the consultants during each
phase. Links to this information were made available via social media posts (i.e., Facebook and Twitter).
Municipal Interviews
Early in the process, the consultant team conducted brief interviews with representatives of the 19
municipalities. These interviews typically included the managers and at least one elected leader. Ideas for
better coordination between the municipal and County governments were among the input gathered.

Community Surveys
The online survey participation was tremendous! Over 3,500 community members submitted responses to
the three qualitative surveys, which included both closed- and open-ended questions about land use,
development quality, employment, infrastructure, and community amenities. The responses helped clarify
residents’, property owners’, business owners’, and other stakeholders’ perceptions, preferences, and
expectations for the future. (Note: A complete set of reports with survey results is available through the Brunswick
County Planning Department.)
Figure 1.5. Types of Development
to Encourage
When asked what types of development they would like the
County to support in the future, respondents ranked parks &
recreation, small-scale retail, markets, sit-down restaurants,
and medical facilities.
Q: Every community can identify opportunities for improvements. Which of the
following do you think apply to Brunswick County? (Please select from most
important to least important to you.)
Q: In the future, what type of development should the County encourage? (Check all
that apply)
Figure 1.4. Opportunities for
Improvement
As the survey results revealed, traffic/roads, utilities, and
encroachment of development on agriculture and sensitive
environmental areas were the top 3 areas needing
improvement.

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Youth Art Contest
In February of 2021, Brunswick County announced the Blueprint Brunswick 2040 Art Contest. The purpose
of the contest, which was created through the support of Brunswick County Schools and a partnership with
the Brunswick County Arts Council, was to raise awareness of and increase fun, interactive engagement in
the Blueprint Brunswick 2040 planning process. The contest also helped promote the arts in Brunswick
County. The youth were invited to participate in the contest and help shape the County’s vision for the
future!
The contest was open to all students throughout the County in grades K-12 or those homeschooled from
ages 5 to 17. Participants were asked to show their vision of Brunswick County’s future using mediums such
as acrylic paint, watercolors, tempera paint, colored pencils, markers, and crayons. Entries were separated into
4 grade level categories: grades K-2, 3-5, 6-8, and 9-12. First, second, and third place awards were given in
each category. Prizes for winners included gift cards, art supplies, and a framed award. In addition, the schools
with the most submissions were awarded $100 each.
A total of 20 submissions were received. Waccamaw School submitted the most in the K-2 and 3-5 grade
categories and tied with Leland Middle School in the 6-8 category. North Brunswick High School had the
most submissions in the 9-12 grade category.
A panel of judges comprised of local artists and members of the Planning and Parks and Recreation
Departments selected the first, second, and third place winners within each category. In addition, the
Planning Department and Parks and Recreation Department each picked their favorite. Winners were
announced on June 19th
, 2021 at the Soundstock Solstice by the Sea Festival at Middleton Park in Oak Island.
The winning artwork is featured throughout this Blueprint Brunswick 2040 document.
Emma Robinson took first place in the
grades 3-5 category.
Certificates were given out along with
prizes to the winners.
Winners received
baskets filled
with art supplies
and toys.

Blueprint Brunswick will be used by the County and its municipalities as well as state and federal agencies and
others involved in making decisions about the future of Brunswick County. Their decisions pertaining to
changes to zoning and other land development regulations, capital investments, development approvals and
permitting (including CAMA permits), economic development initiatives, funding, and conservation should be
informed by the plan.
Additionally, the plan should serve as an effective communication tool. It should be used by a broad group of
individuals and organizations seeking to understand the vision for the future of the county and their role(s) in
helping realize the vision. The plan suggests new programs and partnerships. Therefore, to maximize the
effectiveness of the plan, the County should be deliberate in sharing the vision with others involved locally in
the community development process.
While the plan provides guidance to the County’s leaders, staff, and partner agencies as they navigate change
that is anticipated over the next 20 years, circumstances will shift in unexpected ways. Therefore, the plan
should be reviewed every five to 10 years to determine needs for updates to respond to unforeseen
challenges, emerging trends, and new opportunities.
Role of the Plan
Defines the issues and opportunities so affected individuals and
organizations can move forward with purpose.
Sets a clear vision for the future so everyone—leaders, staff, citizens,
partner agencies—are all headed in the same general direction to
address key concerns and aspirations.
Informs decisions, especially those pertaining to future development
and the use of tax revenue to support desired investments.
Aids coordination across County and municipal departments, with
neighboring jurisdictions, and with regional, state, and federal
agencies.
Bolsters grant applications and other initiatives to build funding for
detailed studies, desired programs, and capital investments.
Sets the foundation for local regulations and other government
functions. (NC General Statutes 160D)
Frame |
Focus |
Guide |
Coordinate |
Strengthen |
Comply |

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Market & Communicate:
• Job Retention and Attraction
• Collaoration with Partners
Investments:
• Infrastructure
• Services
• Amenities
• Conservation Tools
Development Approvals:
• Zoning
• Subdivision
Funding:
• CIP
• Grant Applications
• Private

Savannah Lancaster took
first place in the grades 6-8
category.
Miranda King took second
place in the grades 6-8
category.
Emma Collis was the Parks
Pick.
Lily Lopez took second place
in the grades 3-5 category.
Estrella Gonzalez took
third place in the grades
K-2 category.
Maria Ochoa took first
category.
Olivia Badovinac took
second place in the grades
9-12 category and was the
Planning Pick.
Claire Brown took first place
in the grades K-2 category.
Nicole Sanchez Resendiz
took second place in the
grades K-2 category.
Addysen Rawley took third
category.
Eunice Gutierrez Nino took
third place in the grades
9-12 category.

BRUNSWICK TODAY
DRAFT

With a median age well above that of the state and
US, we are getting older.
Technology is enabling us to work remotely and shop
online, and it is changing how we travel.
Storms are more severe and more frequent.
Our housing preferences are changing. We seek
smaller homes with less maintenance. We can work
and learn anywhere, so we are choosing locations that
offer a better quality of life.

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Existing Conditions, Emerging Trends, Issues & Opportunities
Since it was established in 1764, Brunswick
County has evolved into a quiet, yet growing,
coastal community. In that time, many things
have stayed the same. As its people have
diversified and its population grown, the county
has retained a strong sense of community
identity. As its primary industry changed from
farming to tourism, it retained its agrarian rural
roots and remains a top producer of fruits and
vegetables. While accommodating modern
development and supporting infrastructure, the
county has effectively celebrated its heritage
through the preservation of some of its historic
sites, neighborhoods, and buildings.
Described as one of the gems of the Southeast,
Brunswick County has become the fastest
growing county in the state due to 2022 census
data and is increasingly a choice for business
investment due to factors such as its proximity
to key transportation resources. It is well
known as a premier tourist destination with its
stunning beaches, and, increasingly, as a
preferred location for second homes and
retirement living.
An understanding of the characteristics that
define the county as well as the emerging
trends that will present both issues and
opportunities over the next few decades will
help the community define the vision for the
future, determine the appropriate steps
forward, and manage change effectively. As a
snapshot of existing conditions in 2020, this
section highlights the major features of the
county, including its people, places, economy,
and the natural and built environment. It also
notes specific challenges the community is
facing in connection with anticipated growth
over the next few decades, including the
following:
• Mitigating impacts of development on the
environment and cultural assets
• Minimizing the devastating effects of
natural disasters on properties and
infrastructure
• Managing infrastructure as growth puts
pressure on existing systems
• Reducing traffic congestion building on the
highways, including scenic roadways
• Enhancing connectivity in terms of mobility
as well as social, economic, and
environmental networks
• Maintaining affordability as real estate
values (and housing prices) soar
• Growing the economy and the tax base
• Keeping and creating jobs in the county,
ensuring employment opportunities and
higher wages for residents
• Retaining the community’s identity and
sense of place
• Improving the health, well-being, and quality
of life of the residents, especially older
people aging in the county

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The people of Brunswick County have been
described by some as those who want to savor the
good things about life at a slow and carefree pace.
This county is home to farmers, commercial
fishermen, young families, golf enthusiasts, and
retirees who value the area’s coastal beauty and
sense of community. Over time, the population has
become more diverse, especially as many people
from all over the US have chosen to relocate to this
part of North Carolina for retirement.

Since 2010, the population of the entire Coastal Region of
North Carolina, which includes Brunswick County, has grown
steadily. Brunswick County has seen some of the highest
growth rates in the state. The County’s population has
increased by 94% over the past twenty years. Therefore, in
terms of a percentage increase, it has seen the most growth of
any county in the state, followed by Union, Wake, and Johnston
Counties.
This map depicts the population density
(persons per square mile) in each census block
in Brunswick County. The highest
concentrations of residents are in the coastal
communities. Towns in the northern part of the
county, which are within commuting distance of
Wilmington, have also attracted a lot of growth.
Not only is Brunswick
County the fastest
growing county in the
state, it’s ranked fourth
in growth nationwide.
73,717
(2000)
136,693
(2020)
235,171
(2040)
<320,000 (2020) ~572,000 (2040)
Percentage of the
population has increased
over the past 20 years,
which is the greatest
percentage of any County in
the state!
Percentage the County is
expected to grow over the
next 20 years. Only Johnston
and Union counties are
expected to grow faster.
85% 72%
~2.4x
Amount the population
increases during the
mid-summer months.
>185,000 (2000)

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Percentage of the County’s population over 25 that
had earned a bachelor’s degree or higher (2019).
Sources: U.S .Census, 2019
The population of Brunswick County is
getting older. Between 2010 and 2019,
Brunswick County saw a 60% increase in the
number of people ages 65 and up. While this is
due in part to some long-time residents aging,
the real reason for the growth in the upper age
groups is newer residents. Older people
relocating here for retirement are driving the
median age up to above 50, which is much
higher than the state and the US. Other
characteristics of the population are changing
with the in-migration of people. Educational
attainment is higher now and household
income, which was roughly equal to that of the
state in 2012, has been steadily rising.

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One thing many of these residents have in common
regardless of their length of residency is their love
of the coastal community. While Brunswick County
is best known for its white sandy beaches and
island destinations, it also boasts acres of
picturesque farmlands and irreplaceable natural
resources in the Green Swamp. In fact, it is an ideal
location for filming of television shows and movies
thanks to its natural beauty and proximity to
Wilmington’s thriving film industry. Situated
between two major metropolitan areas,
Wilmington, North Carolina and Myrtle Beach,
South Carolina, Brunswick County offers access to
a wide variety of amenities while retaining its quiet,
quaint identity. The historic towns and cultural
sites, recreational opportunities both natural and
manmade, and agreeable weather all add up to an
enviable standard of living for county residents.

Brunswick County boasts 15 buildings on the
National Register of Historic Places, and over
40 state-recognized Historic Preservation Sites
(see map below for their locations). As the map
shows, these resources are spread across the
county, with concentrations in historic town
centers including Southport, Shallotte, and
Leland. These resources not only ground the
community in a strong sense of shared history
and wonder, they also inspire visitors and
residents alike to explore the county and
engage with its history and culture.
Source: Brunswick County GIS
Historic sites in Brunswick
County predate the United
States itself. Fort Anderson was
constructed on the site of a pre-
Revolutionary port on the Cape
Fear River. Referred to as
“Rrunswick Town,” it was
destroyed by the British in
1776.

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Above: The Old Brunswick County
Jail is one of fifteen structures in
Brunswick County on the National
Register of Historic Places.
Right: Orton Plantation is one of the oldest
structures in Brunswick County, and has
been home to lawyers, physicians, military
leaders, and a Colonial governor.
Above: The ruins of St. Philip’s Church in the
Brunswick Town Historic District. Before its
destruction at the hands of British soldiers in
the Revolutionary War, it was known as one
of the finest religious structures in the state.
Left: The Town of Calabash, in southern
Brunswick County just over the border from
South Carolina, is known across the world for its
fried seafood, and lends its name to a host of
“Calabash-style” restaurants across the
Southeast.
The number of miles of “Brunswick Town Road,”
a designated NCDOT Scenic Byway.

• Coastal Wetlands. Valued most for the natural habitats
they provide for various plant and animal species, storm
impact mitigation, and natural water filtration.
• Estuarine Waters. Important habitat for a diverse range
of shellfish, birds, and other forms of marine wildlife.
• Coastal Shorelines. The non-ocean shoreline along the
estuarine waters, estuaries, sounds, bays, fresh and
brackish waters.
• Public Trust Areas. Public trust areas include coastal
waters and the submerged tidal lands below the normal
highwater line (NHW).
The quality of life for residents and visitors of Brunswick County is directly linked to the area's natural
systems. One of the primary purposes of a CAMA Land Use Plan is to establish an integrated program
capable of rational and coordinated management of coastal resources to ensure their protection over the long
term. Identification and recognition of Areas of Environmental Concern (AECs) is critical to the plan. The
AECs have environmental, social, economic, and aesthetic value, and are categorized as follows:
This system is the coast's broad network of brackish sounds,
marshes, and surrounding shores.
Oceanfront beaches and the dunes that protect public buildings
and the environment behind them by absorbing the force of wind
and waves.
Fresh drinking water, which is vital to human health and the
economy and vulnerable to sea-level rise and saltwater intrusion.
Resources that are important to the entire state due to their
natural and cultural heritage value.
Due to on-going containment problems with water
Coastal Shorelines

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Estuarine Waters Coastal Wetlands

Several parcels throughout the county are owned and
maintained by Federal, State, and local governments and other
public entities. Many are shown on the Protected Areas Map,
which also displays lands that are privately held and protected through conservation easements and
other mechanisms. Among them are several large parcels that, in addition to protecting natural
habitats, are used for special purposes. Combined, the scale of these protected areas have and will
continue to have an impact on the development pattern in the county.
Established in 1955, Military Ocean Terminal
Sunny Point (MOTSU) is situated in the
southeastern part of Brunswick County on
nearly 9,000 acres and is responsible for
storing and shipping Department of Defense
ammunition. This site has been used as a
strategic military shipping hub since 1725, and
it remains the largest military terminal in the
world and the key ammunition shipping point on
the Atlantic coast for United States’ military.
MOTSU maintains 16+ miles of rail lines and an
interchange yard in Leland, facilitating a seamless
transfer of munitions between trucks, rails, and
ships.
Encroachment of development, particularly
residential subdivisions, has become a concern in
recent years. To address the relationship
between the installation and neighboring
development, the Military Ocean Terminal Sunny
Point Joint Land Use Study (JLUS) was conducted.
Completed in 2019, the JLUS examined areas of
potential conflict and sought to establish policies
and procedures for managing compatible land
uses adjacent to and encroaching on MOTSU. To
protect public safety and maintain safe
evacuation routes, the JLUS recommends that
local governments:
• Consider adopting regulations to restrict certain
uses, particularly residential, as well as the
density/intensity and height of structures
adjacent to MOTSU, the Leland Interchange
Yard, and the rail corridor connecting them; and
• Involve MOTSU representatives in decisions
pertaining the land use and development.
During the Gulf War
operations of Desert Shield,
Desert Sortie, and Desert
Storm, MOTSU handled over
90% of the resupply
munitions for US forces.

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The NC Wildlife Resource Commission (NCWRC) manages
game lands in the county, including more than 18,000 acres
in the Juniper Game Creek Game Land and 2,048 in the
Green Swamp Game Land. Within them are some rare plant
species, such as the Longleaf Pine, and they abut one of the
state’s core black bear habitats: the bear sanctuary in the
Green Swamp Preserve.
Bald Head Island (BHI) is another area of the county with
land that is managed by the State. Bald Head Woods
Reserve is a 191-acre protected maritime forest. Together,
this reserve and the BHI State Natural Area, comprise
approximately 10,000 acres of the 12,000-acre island.
The Green Swamp Preserve is an environmental gem, home
to longleaf pines, venus fly traps, orchids, and at least 14
different species of insectivorous plants. Its 17,424 acres
are managed by The Nature Conservancy.

Urbanization of the county has occurred
primarily along the coastline in the beach
communities as well as areas along US-17
and NC-211. Built at a relatively low density,
the existing development pattern is
comprised primarily of single-family homes
and small-scale, local-serving businesses.
Recently, the northern communities,
particularly Leland and Belville, have
experienced higher rates of growth as
retirees and families seek neighborhoods
conveniently located between the beaches
and downtown Wilmington. New
development in that part of the county
includes a variety of housing types and
densities as well as shopping centers with
national retailers and franchise restaurants as
the predominant types of tenants.
The value per acre of land developed for
townhomes in Brunswick County is
almost $2 million.
Land values have been steadily rising as the demand
for sites for residential and commercial development
climbs to new levels. The higher value real estate is
located in the beach communities, along the major
highways, and in areas near Wilmington.

35
Residential building permit activity has been steady over the last
few years. From 2017 to 2020, the number of residential building
permits issued annually has exceeded 1,000.
The average density of
residential development is
less than 3 units per acre.
Image source: pinterest.com Image source: journalnow.com
Image source: southeastdiscovery.com
Image source: brunswickforest.com
As a popular retirement location in the Southeast, the county has had an increase in residential development, particularly in the form of planned
communities. Many are gated and most offer a wide variety of recreational amenities including golf courses, walking trails, and fitness centers.
(Pictured above: Brunswick Forest)
The county’s 50 miles of shoreline have been a major driver of real
estate development. Homes on the waterfront are selling for at least
three times the median price of $250,000 for single-family homes in
the county, according to realtor.com (December 2020).
Grocery-anchored retail centers serve the local population as well as
vacationers.
Local “mom-and-pop” shops and restaurants located in the historic
town centers and surrounding areas cater to the tourists.

This map depicts the existing land use pattern based on Brunswick County’s
tax parcel data (2021). Most of the county’s development is concentrated on
approximately 15% of the county’s land area.

37
Almost 85% of the county is
relatively undeveloped.
While single-family housing development occupies only 17% of the county’s total
land area (excluding water bodies and public rights-of way), it accounts for more
than 76% of the County’s tax base.

The development status of all parcels in the county is described as follows:
• Developed — The level of investment is
high and such parcels are not likely to
redevelop over the next 20 years.
• Open Space — Parcels of land are protected
as public parks, state-maintained game
lands, military installations, or privately-
owned conservation easements.
• Underdeveloped — The level of investment
is low relative to the parcel value and the
property is therefore ripe for
redevelopment.
• Undeveloped — With few or no structures,
parcels of land remain vacant or relatively
undeveloped. (Note: These parcels include
agricultural lands that are managed for
timber, cultivated fields, and pastureland.)
Combined, some of the “undeveloped” and “underdeveloped” parcels in the county’s jurisdiction
constitute the “Land Supply,” which is approximately 45,000 acres of land that may be available
for future development. If land currently in use for agriculture is included, that number could be
as high as 140,000.

39
Some of the land that comprises the Land
Supply is not highly suited for future
development. A suitability analysis was
conducted to delineated areas to which future
growth will be drawn.
The suitability of land refers to the capacity of
land to support a type of land use. This is
based on various attributes, such as availability
of infrastructure, access, parcel size,
topography, environmental conditions, and
proximity to other uses. Regulatory constraints
can also have an impact on suitability. All such
factors make a parcel more or less attractive
for future growth. In the three maps shown
below, green areas are more suitable and red
areas are generally less suitable.
• Proximity to existing schools
• Proximity to existing towns
• Proximity to water and sewer utilities
• Proximity to roads and major intersections
• Lack of environmental constraints
• Distance from historic resources
• Outside military mission areas
(e.g., proximity to MOTSU)
• Proximity to existing towns
• Parcels larger than 50 acres

Though the average household size in Brunswick County is smaller than that of the state and
the US, single-family detached homes comprise more than 60% of all housing in the county.
Roughly half of all housing is occupied by the owners. The other half are rented (13%) or are
vacant (38%). Many of the vacant homes are those constructed for seasonal use and made
available to visitors as vacation rentals.
Total Housing – 86,968
Occupied – 54,226
• Owner-occupied – 42,857
• Renter-occupied – 11,369
Vacant – 32,742*
*Vacant homes include those that are rented
to visitors (“visitors” refers to occupants that
stay for less than two months).
of all housing in the County
is considered unoccupied,
possibly indicating a strong
short-term, vacation
rental market.
Owner-Occupied
Renter-Occupied
Vacant

41
Over half (52.8%) of renter
households spend 35% or
more of household income
on rent.
By the end of 2020, home prices had soared to a new
median of almost $350,000 (up more than 15% over the
previous year). As people all around the US realized they
could easily work and learn remotely while avoiding
exposure to the COVID-19 virus, Brunswick County
became a popular choice for those seeking temporary
and permanent relocation options. Rising home prices
are affecting the affordability of housing in the county.
So, many who work in the county rent their homes.
Others find housing outside of the county and routinely
commute into Brunswick County for work.
Source: BCAR

Sources:
Occupational
Employment
Statistics: 2019
Employment and
Wages in North
Carolina; U.S.
Census Bureau,
Center for
Economic
Studies LEHD
On the Map,
2017.
Attracting visitors and retirees, Brunswick
County has seen steady job growth in
healthcare, retail, and hospitality. The County
has recognized the need to diversify
employment to include industries that offer
higher wages and salaries. With the help of
Brunswick Community College, the County is
increasingly able to assure prospective
employers a skilled workforce and opportunities
for customized training.
• More employment opportunities for
Brunswick County residents
• Increased tax base
• Reduced traffic congestion with shifts in the
commuting patterns

43
Ranked as the best community college in the country
according to a recent study by SmartAsset, Brunswick
Community College is bolstering economic
development efforts through job training that is related
to potential industry growth and aligns with employer
needs. In addition, the college offers Early College
program to high school students and has established a
business and industry incubator in Leland.
College graduation rates increased 22% between 2012
and 2018. County leaders have encouraged enrollment
through The Brunswick Guarantee, a program that
enables eligible Brunswick County high school
graduates to pursue a degree, diploma, or certificate at
no cost at Brunswick Community College.
• Brunswick County Board of Education
• Progress Energy Service Company
• County of Brunswick
Healthcare
Support
Healthcare
Practitioners &
Technical
Building/
Grounds
Maintenance
Education,
Training, &
Library
Food
Preparation &
Serving Related
• Wal-Mart Associates, Inc.
• Food Lion
• Brunswick Novant Medical Center
• Brunswick Community College
• Lowes Food Stores, Inc.
• Dosher Memorial Hospital
• Liberty Healthcare Medical Center
Source: NC Commerce, Labor and Economic
Analysis Division, Top 25 Employers by NC
County - Brunswick County

The county is home to two of North Carolina’s
seven lighthouses, as well as numerous
museums and historic districts, rich
recreational amenities, and excellent
restaurants that appeal to long-time residents
and visitors alike. The revenue that is
generated annually due to the shear number of
people passing through and spending money
on shopping, dining, entertainment, and
lodging is the reason tourism remains a key
component of the local economy.
As noted earlier in this section, the seasonal
population, comprised of second-home owners
and visitors, nearly triples the county’s
population each year. Coupled with the
spending power of full-time residents whose
average household income exceeds that of the
state and the US, tourists’ and part-time
residents’ impact on the local economy is
substantial. According to Visit North Carolina,
tourist spending in 2019 was up almost 6%
from the previous year.
Job growth in tourism-related businesses, such
as food services and accommodations, is
strong. However, the associated hourly wages
are not sufficient to bolster household incomes
among many workforce-age residents. Higher
income jobs are needed to sustain the retail
and dining required to compete for a larger
share of the regional market.
Median Household Income is
rising. However, that is due in part
to the income levels of retirees
moving into the county. Almost
15% of jobs in the county are in
the accommodation and food
services industry. Workers in food
service earn an hourly wage
($11.36) that is about 59% of the
average
hourly wage ($19.35) in
Brunswick County.
According to a 2019 study
by Airbnb, hosts in the
County had a combined
income of $6 million
dollars with
approximately 37,000
guests arriving during the
12-month period.

45
Brunswick County is not capturing all spending,
and some concerns about “retail leakage” have
been expressed. Retailers outside the
Brunswick County market are fulfilling a
portion of the demand. Some revenue is lost as
Brunswick County residents commuting to jobs
outside of the county on a regular basis make
retail purchases closer to their places of
employment. Other revenue is lost to
Wilmington and Myrtle Beach as these cities
offer shopping options and experiences not
present in Brunswick County. Estimates reveal
that the county loses over $300 million
annually to neighboring communities.
Recent commercial development along the US
Highway 17 corridor, particularly in the
northeastern part of the county, is beginning to
shift spending activity back to Brunswick
County. However, retail trends across the US
indicate a higher percentage of sales through
online retail. Prior to the Coronavirus
Brunswick County residents
spend a lot of money outside
the county on retail purchases.
The total retail leakage is
Sources: SEDC 2017-2022 Comprehensive Economic
Development Strategy, ESRI's Business Analyst
According to Visit North Carolina, Brunswick County had $633.62 mil-
lion in domestic tourist spending in 2019, up 5.8% from the previous year.
Local tax receipts totaled $38.37 million.
Almost 15% of jobs in the county are in the
accommodation and food services industry.
pandemic, almost 12% of all sales were online.
Today, that number is over 16%. Many retail
establishments with brick-and-mortar
locations will survive as part of experiential
shopping destinations.

According to the Agricultural Development
Plan, prepared by Brunswick County in 2019,
over 250 farms are operating in the county.
While the average size of farms has decreased
over time to less than 200 acres, the amount
of land devoted to agriculture is actually
increasing. Approximately three-fourths of
agricultural land is comprised of managed
timber lands. The other 25% is devoted to
crops and livestock. Combined, agricultural
operations yielded over $43M in cash receipts
in 2016. Brunswick County maintains its
position as a major producer of fruits and
vegetables in the state.
The 2019 study identifies several threats to
existing agriculture in the county. Among
them is encroaching development. Residential
subdivisions are being approved and
constructed at a rate that has farmers
concerned about the long-term viability of
agriculture in Brunswick County. The
Voluntary Agricultural District (VAD) program
is one mechanism that helps protect farmers
from development conflicts. Mitigating
farming-related impacts, such as noise and
odor, on neighboring development can
hamper productivity. By placing land in a
VAD, farmers are in a stronger position to
continue pre-development farming activities
while avoiding litigation associated with
complaints from adjacent development.
Participation in the program has helped raise
awareness of agriculture and unified the
agricultural community.
Low Profitability
Aging Farmers
Rapid Growth, Rising Real Estate
Values, and Rising Taxes
Lack of Agriculture Support
Regulations
Wildlife
Loss of Pollinator Habitat
in production of tomatoes
in production of fruits and vegetables
Sources: Ag Census (2012), Brunswick County
Agricultural Development Plan (2019)

47
Farmland is increasing in
Brunswick County.
• 84% of land area is in
agriculture
• 76% of that in timber
• 254 farms
• Avg farm size: 179 acres
County residents value agriculture as
important to the maintaining the local
economy, landscape, and heritage. In
fact,
of survey respondents want to protect
agriculture and expressed concern about
the encroachment of development on it.
This map depicts the general locations of Voluntary Agricultural
Districts (VADs) established in the county. The footprint of the VADs
expands and contracts as farms are added to and removed from the
program. Greater contiguity tends to strengthen the viability of
existing farms.

The County updates its Community Health
Assessment every three years. The 2019
assessment identified priority areas to be
considered in the planning and creation of the
community health improvement plan (CHIP).
The top three are:
• Chronic Conditions (with an overarching
theme and focus on the aging population)
• Substance Misuse
• Access to Health Care
Interestingly, survey* respondents identified
specific areas for improvement to
neighborhoods and the community as a whole
that could address health issues. Among the
top ten topics listed were accessibility to health
services and healthy food, roadway design and
maintenance, availability of recreation facilities,
and employment opportunities. These and
other factors affecting health and well-being
are directly related to the built environment.
The CHA outlines ways to improve health
through better planning and design of the
physical environment:
• Access to Exercise Opportunities – 21% of
those surveyed said access to better/more
recreational facilities such as parks, trails, and
community centers would help residents
improve their health.
• Access to Healthy Foods – 14% of County
residents struggle with food insecurity (2018)
(NC is 15%)
• Transportation – The lack of transportation
was cited as one of four barriers to health
care access.
• Housing Quality – In addition to costs,
housing conditions can negatively affect
quality of life.
* This survey was part of the analysis completed for
the Brunswick County Community Health Assessment
(CHA), 2019
1. Cancer
2. Heart Disease
3. Unintended Injuries
4. Lung Disease
5. Stroke
6. Alzheimer’s Disease
7. Diabetes
8. Motor Vehicle Injuries
9. Kidney Disease
10. Pneumonia / Flu
When Brunswick County
survey* respondents were asked
how they would improve their
health if they could, respondents
said:
• Eating healthy food (54%)
• Exercising (50%)
Source: Brunswick County Community
Health Assessment (CHA), 2019

49
Pickleball is just one of many popular recreational activities that residents of Brunswick County enjoy.
When asked what would address the health
needs of the Brunswick County community,
local health care professionals identified the
following:
• Improvements made to park facilities
• Expansion of senior center facilities
• Increased access to exercise classes and
recreational activities
• Improved access to affordable and
nutritious foods
• Increased access to health education and
screenings
Brunswick County has many publicly-
accessible open space areas that could
support “ecotherapy," nature-based
programs and exercises that can help
patients cope with mental and physical
illnesses. Instead of prescriptions for more
pills, doctors around the country are
increasingly prescribing time in nature for
the treatment of a range of mental health
disorders and chronic illnesses such as
diabetes and high blood pressure.
https://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/dose-
nature-doctors-prescribe-day-park-anxiety-n823421
of all adults in the
County are considered

Brunswick County maintains a variety of park
types that serve the existing population. Based
on the latest budget figures from the North
Carolina Office of State Budge and Management,
facts and figures, for per capita cultural and
recreation expenses (2018), Brunswick County
outspent other North Carolina counties of
similar population size. With that level of
investment, the County is well-prepared to
meet some of the needs of its growing
population. The County has nearly reached the
target recommended for existing recreation
facilities but will need to expand to meet
anticipated future population growth. (Refer to
Section 4 of the Comprehensive Parks &
Recreation Master Plan for a detailed
assessment of the County’s current inventory
of park and recreation facilities and programs.)
0 200 400 600 800 1000 1200 1400 1600 1800 2000
Regional Park
District Park
Community Park
Neighborhood Park
Mini Park
PARK ACREAGE
Acres Required 2030 Acres Required 2020 Current Acres
The total number of
acres in County-
maintained
parkland
as of 2020.

51
Blueways and greenways are among the most utilized recreation facilities in the county.
of survey
respondents
expressed support
for more
walking
trails in
the county.

As Brunswick County continues its current pattern of
growth, transportation matters will certainly be a focal point
for local and state officials. Through a network of roadways,
some freight rail service, public transportation provided by
Brunswick Transit System, bike/pedestrian routes, ferry
systems, and airports people and products are transported
within the county. Though Brunswick County does not own,
build, or maintain roads, per North Carolina state statutes,
state contributions help fund the NC Department of
Transportation (NCDOT) initiatives within the county, as well
as Powell Bill initiatives to help with improvements for some
municipal assets. In December 2020, Brunswick County
began work to update its Comprehensive Transportation
Plan (CTP), which is a long-range plan that identifies major
transportation improvement needs and develops long-term
solutions for the next 25 to 30 years. The study is a joint
effort with Brunswick County municipalities, the NCDOT,
Grand Strand Area Transportation Study Metropolitan
Planning Organization (GSATS MPO), and the Cape Fear
Rural Planning Organization (CFRPO).
SNAPSHOT OF SOME NCDOT ROAD
IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS:
• Carolina Bays Parkway Extension (Date TBD)
• NC-211 Widening - Sunset Harbor Road to
Midway Road (Post 2029)
• Widen NC-133 from US-17/74/76 to Old
River Road (6/2/2022)
• NC-130 at Longwood Rd and Waccamaw
School Rd Intersection (1/6/2022)
• US-17 at Thomasboro and Pea Landing
Roads Superstreet (7/7/2022)
• US-17 Bus (Main St) and Wall St/Shallotte
Ave Realignment (3/18/21)
A few areas with roadway transportation
challenges include the southern portion of US-17
(Ocean Highway) corridor within potential areas
of the Carolina Bays Parkway Extension, NC-211
(Southport-Supply Road) from its intersection
with US-17 to Southport, and those related to
growth and circulation in the northern end of the
county in and around US-17 and NC-133. These
and other areas are targeted on the NCDOT
project development listing for Brunswick
County, which is a statewide competitive
process. Another challenge is traffic congestion
from rapid increases in new development).
Source: NCDOT
Source: NCDOT

53
The average travel time to
work for residents is about
24 minutes.
~Survey respondent
Brunswick Transit System (BTS) was incorporated in
1989 as a non-profit community transportation system
for non-emergent needs. Available to all county
residents, BTS offers limited trips to New Hanover
County.
Almost 90% of survey respondents indicated that
improving transportation (roads, sidewalks, etc.) in
Brunswick County is of the most important, as access for
emergency services (97%) as well as access to healthcare
(93%), education (67%), area destinations, and services are
also important.
Source: Brunswick Beacon, 9-22-20
This image depicts potential alignments of the Carolina
Bays Parkway (SC-31) Extension into Brunswick County.
Access to a port, interstate highways, and rail distribution
lines make Brunswick County an ideal hub for refrigerated
transport of perishable food.

In the late 1990s, Brunswick County began
operating its first wastewater treatment plant
(WWTP) to serve the Leland Industrial Park.
Today, Brunswick County operates six
wastewater treatment plants with a
permitted treatment capacity of 10,855,000
gallons per day. A Wastewater Master Plan is
expected to be completed by end of 2022 to
guide and forecast growth plans for
wastewater treatment and conveyance
facilities for the next 20 years.
The number of miles of the
County sewer transmission
and collection system.
Brunswick County operates over 25 miles
of reuse force mains that supply water for
irrigation to four golf courses. Brunswick
County also owns and operates 1,040
acres at three dedicated sites for irrigation
of cover crops and infiltration ponds.
The largest of the County’s sewer treatment facilities, the West Brunswick Water Reclamation Facility located in Supply,
NC, was completed in 2006 to serve the unincorporated areas in central Brunswick County as well as the community of
Supply and the towns of Bolivia, Holden Beach, St. James, and portions of Shallotte.

55
Brunswick County operates two water
treatment plants: the 24 million gallon per
day Northwest Water Treatment Plan (WTP)
that treats raw water from the Cape Fear
River and the 6 million gallon per day 211
WTP that treats groundwater. Brunswick
County retail water rates have seen minimal
adjustments over the past 17 years. The only
increase occurred in FY 2015 when the
monthly retail base rate was increased by $1.
Meanwhile, volumetric rates for retail
customers were decreased by $0.90 in both
FY 2004 and FY 2020. A new Master Water
Plan is expected to be completed by the end
of 2022. This will help in guiding water
treatment, capacity, and expansion into the
future.
This map depicts the areas within which public water and
wastewater services are currently provided.

Flooding occurs during most major storm
events in Brunswick County. Flooding
associated with hurricanes, such as Hurricane
Florence in 2018 that according to National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
National Centers for Environmental
Information caused $24B in public and
private property damage in NC, can be
particularly devastating. Efforts to better
manage stormwater and reduce the impacts
of flooding include some initiatives of the
County and State of North Carolina. Among
them are the creation of stormwater
management regulations that guide the design
and implementation of stormwater control
measures intended to treat and reduce the
offsite flow rates from developed project
surfaces. Additionally, Brunswick County is
participating in the RISE Program to develop a
portfolio of priority projects that strengthen
regional resilience.
This map depicts the areas that are subject to flooding during
major storm events.
HIGH-RISK
FLOODING &
CAMA SETBACKS
Approximately 27% of Brunswick County is located in a flood hazard area. The greatest
storm surge impact occurs with hurricanes. Figure 2.11 shows the general areas of
Brunswick County that may be affected by hurricane-generated storm surge.

57
The County’s Stormwater Ordinance requires individual property owners to maintain all
streams, creeks, ditches, swales, pipes, culverts, etc. that are on the private property. The
County neither provides maintenance of drainage ways nor controls stormwater conveyance
along North Carolina Department of Transportation roadways.
A county Stormwater Permit is required for:
• All non-residential new development.
• Non-residential redevelopment that increases impervious surface on the site.
• Residential development that disturbs more than an acre.
• Residential developments where the site will be graded, filled, or excavated and thereby
change the elevation of a location by more than four inches.
• Residential development or any related disturbance within 30 feet of the banks of a natural
stream or water body.
Development in Brunswick County is also subject to the North Carolina Coastal Stormwater
regulations enforced by NC Department of Environmental Quality (NCDEQ).
The number of acres that lie within the high-risk flood areas of the coun-
ty, which is roughly 42% of the total land area. Approximately 16% of
the flood areas are developed for residential or commercial uses.

Brunswick County residents have two
electrical service providers, depending on
location: Duke Energy Progress and
Brunswick Electric Membership Corporation
(BEMC). Duke owns and operates the
Brunswick Nuclear Plant in Southport, as well
as various electrical transmission and
distribution assets within the county. BEMC,
a not-for-profit electric power provider
owned and governed by its local membership,
owns and operates various substation,
transmission and distribution assets.
Brunswick County has two
electrical service providers: Duke
Energy Progress and Brunswick
Electric Membership Corporation
(BEMC).
• Members
• Counties Served
• Miles of Line
Piedmont Natural Gas, a business unit
of Duke Energy, is the trusted natural
gas provider for residential and
business customers in North Carolina,
South Carolina and Tennessee.
Focus Broadband is a nonprofit
cooperative chartered in 1955. As
the primary broadband provider in
Brunswick County, Focus
Broadband supports the
community with local telephone
service and a wide variety of
services, related to high-speed
Internet, Cable TV, Business
Communications, and Security.
Focus Broadband continues to
utilize grant opportunities to
expand high speed internet to the
rural areas of the county.

59
Duke Energy’s Brunswick nuclear power plant, named for Brunswick County, covers 1,200 acres about 5 miles from
the Atlantic Ocean. The site is adjacent to the Town of Southport and was opened in 1975.
Our need for reliable internet access has only
increased with COVID-19. As businesses
continue to operate with employees working
remotely, and as more students are participating
in online learning from home, we are requiring
faster upload and download speeds to be
productive. In addition, as we have shifted away
from in-person activities to virtual interactions
through online platforms, we expect
uninterrupted internet connections for meetings,
shopping online, and telehealth medical exams.
Census blocks shown in blue have at least one
provider delivering download speeds of 25 mb/s and
upload speeds of 3 mb/s.

The County provides many services to the community and supports the delivery of services by
other entities operating in the county. Among them are senior centers, public schools, libraries,
garbage pick-up, landfill, and public safety (fire, law enforcement, and emergency medical services).
Through funding and partnerships, county resources are directed in a manner that helps ensure
accepted standards are met and the quality of life of county residents is maintained.
In 2018, hundreds of
residents helped the
County celebrate the
opening of the
Brunswick Center at
Calabash, the County’s
fifth senior center.
Through its five branches, the
Brunswick County Library
system offers storytimes and
read-a-longs, which are just
some of the many programs
designed for children.
Enrollment in Brunswick County Schools is over 12,000 (FY2020).
The pressure on the public school capacity is lessened by the area
charter schools, with 13,698 enrolled .

61
The Brunswick County Schools (BCS) District consists of 3 traditional high
schools, 1 Early College High School, 5 middle schools, 10 elementary
schools, and 1 trade school (The COAST). In 2020, enrollment across all
public schools in the county was more than 12,000. Overall, enrollment has
been steady over the past 10 years.
With the increase in the number of households with families with school-age
children in the northeastern part of the county, capacity issues have resulted
in the need for the opening of a new 12-classroom addition at North
Brunswick High School (ready for the 2021-22 school year) which followed a
6-classroom addition at Lincoln Elementary and Town Creek Elementary
along with the new Town Creek Middle School.
In partnership with Brunswick Community College, BCS offers Early College
High School. About 375 students participated in the 2019-20 as well as the
2020-21 school years at BCECHS.
Charter schools enrolled 13,698 students in 2020-21.
Brunswick Senior Resources offers over 30 classes weekly at five locations.
These are comprised of a variety of exercise, health and wellness, education,
and arts & crafts classes. The Brunswick County Parks and Recreation
Department uses the buildings to provide shag, karate, and cheer
instructions to the public at different times throughout the year. Senior
Nutrition is provided at sites in Boiling Spring Lakes, Oak Island, Calabash,
Shallotte, Surry, Southport, and Ash.
The Brunswick County Library System has five branches. The locations of
each are shown on Figure 2.12. In addition to the typical materials (books,
periodicals, music, and historical records), the library branches are
community resources offering computer access, educational and community
events, and eBooks. Recognizing the opportunity to play a role in enhancing
the lives of residents, the Library has expanded its reach with online tools
including links to entertainment and educational enrichment.
OVER
individuals are served by
Brunswick Senior Resources

Number of hospitals
EMS transports to
Average response time for a
paramedic level ambulance Law enforcement staff ISO rating (Fire)

63
The County has 22 fire departments operating 41 fire stations and three training
centers. Of the 22 departments, seven are municipal departments, 14 are non-
profit, and one is a federal fire department. Staffing of the departments are a mix
of career and volunteer staff. Response times range from three to eight minutes
in urban and suburban areas, and six to twelve minutes in the rural areas of the
county. The fire departments in the county have worked hard to improve their
Insurance Services Office (ISO) fire ratings and currently have a Class 5 rating or
lower in the county, resulting in county residents paying the lowest rates offered
on residential homeowner's insurance.
As the chief law enforcement agency in Brunswick County, the Brunswick County
Sheriff’s Office is a large, multi-faceted organization served by over 250 sworn
and professional staff members and over 100 volunteer personnel. The agency
provides general law enforcement, serving and protecting the 4th largest county
in North Carolina. With substations in Calabash and Belville and an array of
support operations necessary to ensure broad coverage, Sheriff’s Office provides
specialized regional services to the entire county, including the incorporated
cities and the unincorporated areas. Operating and maintaining the following are
also among the services:
Brunswick County Detention Center facility - The center provides a number of
educational and rehabilitative programs to its inmate population of over 350.
Brunswick County 911 Communications Center - The center is the central
dispatch facility serving Emergency Medical Services and all of the Sheriff’s Office
field personnel, investigators, and specialty units.
Brunswick County Animal Services - The adoption services and the pick-up of
stray or unwanted animals in Brunswick County.
Brunswick County Emergency Medical Services is a paramedic level emergency
medical system. It is Brunswick currently staffed by 101 full time employees and
41 part time employees who practice under a very dynamic set of EMS protocols
to provide up-to-date and quality pre-hospital emergency care. Brunswick
County EMS is currently budgeted for nine paramedic ambulances for 24 hours
per day, two 12-hour peak load ambulances, two paramedic quick response
vehicles, and a paramedic supervisor quick response vehicle. These units are also
assisted by a paramedic level ambulance from Sunny Point Military Ocean
Terminal, an Advanced EMT ambulance from Southport Fire and EMS, and an
EMT-Basic ambulance from St. James Fire and EMS. Emergency medical services
on Bald Head Island is contracted and provided by Bald Head Island Public
Safety. As part of the Brunswick County Emergency Medical Services System,
there are also three non-emergency medical transport providers and the Airlink
Helicopter based at Brunswick Novant Medical Center. The local fire
departments also provide medical first response within their districts on
emergency calls.

THE VISION
DRAFT

The Vision is a reflection of the
desired future toward which the
community is moving. Together.

67
With many changes anticipated in the next 20 years,
Brunswick County will have many challenges to overcome
and opportunities to build upon to imagine a future for the
county that benefits current and future generations. The
ideas and aspirations of current residents and other
stakeholders are expressed as a “Vision,” which is
described in more detail in this section. It is a vital and
necessary component of the plan. Determining the path
forward—the direction and the steps along the way—
requires agreement on the destination.
The “Vision” for the future of Brunswick County is
expressed in terms of goals and objectives as well as the
Future Land Use and Conservation Plan map. In support of
the goals and objectives, the map depicts an arrangement
of places that are a reflection of the types of development
and conservation areas the community desires in the
future. The places shown are also described in the
subsection that follows the map to further convey the
community’s aspirations. All have been established with
input from the citizens and other stakeholders of the
county and refined with assistance from the Advisory
Committee. Together, the various components of the
Vision help bring the future into focus.

LAND USE COMPATIBILITY & GROWTH MANAGEMENT GOAL: Brunswick County and its participating
municipalities will direct growth in a manner that ensures activities associated with the development or
preservation of land are consistent with the suitability of the land.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCE CONSERVATION GOAL: Brunswick County and its participating
municipalities will ensure that the use of land and resources minimize direct and secondary environmental
impacts while avoiding risks to public health, safety, and welfare.
• NATURAL HAZARD AREAS GOAL: Brunswick County will protect the public health, safety, and
welfare by maintaining its floodplains, shorelines, and other natural features for their storm protection
functions.
• WATER QUALITY GOAL: Brunswick County will maintain, protect, and enhance surface and
subsurface water quality throughout the County, including all coastal wetlands, rivers, streams, and
estuaries.
INFRASTRUCTURE CARRYING CAPACITY GOAL: Brunswick County will provide an infrastructure sys-
tem that meets its citizens’ present and future needs, supports a vibrant economy, protects the environ-
ment, and adds to the overall quality of life.
• TRANSPORTATION GOAL: Brunswick County and its participating municipalities will support a safe,
connected multi-model system to accommodate future growth and a diverse population in terms of
geographic location, age, income levels, and abilities.
• UTILITES (WATER & WASTEWATER) GOAL: Brunswick County and its participating municipalities
will provide for continuous and sustainable growth of the water supply, storage and distribution sys-
tems, and wastewater collection and treatment systems.
• COMMUNITY FACILITIES & PROGRAMS GOAL: Brunswick County and its participating municipali-
ties will seek regional cooperation by all local governments to maximize service delivery while mini-
mizing duplication of facilities and services.
• EDUCATION GOAL: Brunswick County and its participating municipalities will promote quality
education and lifelong learning opportunities.
• PUBLIC SAFETY GOAL: Brunswick County and its participating municipalities will ensure the
delivery of effective and efficient public safety services.
• RECREATION GOAL: Brunswick County and its participating municipalities will work together
to provide a safe, connected system of parks and recreation facilities that meet the needs of a
diverse population in terms of age, income levels, abilities, and interests.

69
PUBLIC ACCESS GOAL: Brunswick County/and its participating municipalities will maximize public access
to their shorelines and public trust waters.
HISTORIC, CULTURAL, & SCENIC AREAS GOAL: Brunswick County will encourage efforts to protect
cultural and historic resources to preserve their cultural, educational, and aesthetic values and qualities.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT GOAL: With a focus on job creation, Brunswick County will continue to
maintain a diversified local economy, while at the same time protecting the natural and manmade
environment and improving the area as a more attractive community in which to work, live, and play.
HOUSING GOAL: Brunswick County and its municipalities will provide opportunities for a broad range of
housing types that enable living in the county that is safe, affordable, and consistent with lifestyle and
housing preferences given the diversity of residents’ ages, abilities, household sizes, and income levels.
DEVELOPMENT QUALITY & PLACEMAKING GOAL: Brunswick County will encourage quality
development to improve the sense of place, belonging, and safety while protecting or increasing property
values, attracting desired investment, and enhancing the quality of life.
HEALTH & WELL-BEING GOAL: Brunswick County will support the provision of services/programs and
facilities that enhance the health, safety, and quality of life for Brunswick County residents.
GOVERNMENTAL COORDINATION: Brunswick County will collaborate with all municipalities for
more consistent approaches to the management of natural and cultural resources, infrastructure,
community facilities, and planning for growth to ensure seamless transitions across jurisdictional
boundaries.
The statements of goals and objectives build on those expressed in the plan adopted in 2007. Consistent with the
statements prescribed by the Division of Coastal Management, the first five are tailored to respond to the specific
needs and desires of the Brunswick County community. The other five goals are similar to those presented in the
earlier plan and have been updated to express more current expectations. Used as guideposts in the formulation of
the plan, the goals and objectives will continue to provide direction for the future of the planning area, guiding
decisions of the County and its partners as they manage change over the next two decades for the benefit of the
community.

The Future Land Use and Conservation Map (Figure 3.1) graphically depicts the future development pattern
envisioned by the community. It represents the culmination of ideas and input received throughout the planning
process tempered with market realities, the constraints of the environmental conditions and infrastructure
availability, and other factors affecting the suitability of land for various uses (refer to Section 2). It is
aspirational. It suggests an arrangement of development types that align with the stated goals and objectives.
Displaying “Place Types,” which are the land use classifications described in the subsection that follows, the map
indicates the preferred locations for future development as well as the type and intensity of such development.
The Place Types can generally be grouped into the following categories:
The map is meant to provide a framework for future land use decisions, and as such,
supports written policies and offers additional guidance with respect to the application of
land development regulations (i.e., zoning and subdivision), the provision of services, and the
prioritization of capital investments in support of the future development pattern. Reflective
of citizens’ and stakeholders’ expectations, this proposed pattern will likely evolve over the
20 years following plan adoption as the plan is implemented.

71

Areas for Commerce – Different types of centers
are suggested for key locations across the county.
A mix of uses, predominantly commercial, service,
office, and civic uses, are anticipated. Larger
centers may include healthcare, hospitality, and
attached residential units, placing residents within a
reasonable walking and biking distance of retail
uses and services. The scale of and mix of uses
within each is dictated by the service or trade area
(population served) as well as the availability of
infrastructure. Proximity to concentrations of
residential and employment uses can ensure
convenient access while bolstering the viability of
each center. (Refer to areas designated Community
Center, Neighborhood Center, Crossroads, and
Commercial.)
Areas for Living – A range of residential products
as well as various neighborhood types are
accommodated in the proposed development
pattern. Where infrastructure is available or likely,
neighborhoods with more housing density are
supported. (Refer to areas designated Medium
Density, Medium Density-Mixed, and High
Density.) The map also delineates areas adjacent to
sensitive areas, such as natural resources and viable
farmland, where lower density development would
be more compatible and therefore more
appropriate. (Refer to areas designated Rural-
Agricultural and Low Density.)

73
Areas for Industry, Employment, and Education –
Investments have been made in several locations
for a wide variety of industrial, institutional, office,
and other employment uses. These areas are
situated to take advantage of access to existing and
planned infrastructure, particularly the
transportation network. With additional
investments, these areas will be the locations of a
high percentage of the jobs in the county. (Refer to
areas designated Institutional, Employment Center,
Industrial-Light, Industrial-Intense, and Military.)
Conservation Areas – Outside of areas deemed
suitable for most of the future development are
areas where little or no development would be
supported. By directing growth away from these
areas, the County can more effectively conserve
land valued for the natural resources and cultural
significance, protect the military mission, minimize
property damage from flooding, support the
continuation of agriculture, expand recreation, and
strengthen the tourism economy. The map
delineates areas where important open space areas
exist and should therefore be the targets of future
conservation efforts. (Refer to areas designated
Open Space-Conservation 1, Open Space-
Conservation 2, Open Space-Recreation, and
Military Mission.)
Municipal Areas – The County encompasses 19
municipalities. Each are represented as
components of one category to distinguish them
from the unincorporated areas. (Refer to areas
designated Town Center.)

Place Types are classifications of development (and conservation). The use of such classifications instead of
land use categories is a modernized approach to describing existing and future development and
distinguishing each area from others. In addition to land use, each place type can be described in terms of
scale and density of development (lot sizes, building heights, and building setbacks). Street types,
connectivity, and resulting block patterns are sometimes noted to describe the circulation networks for
various modes of transportation to be supported in each area. Since open space is a key component of any
development pattern, the appropriate amount as well as the variety of types defined by purpose, size,
typical location, and level of improvement (a formal green versus a natural area) may also be specified.
Open Space —
Conservation 1
These areas consist primarily of
undisturbed open space: floodways
and floodplains, high-risk flood
areas, publicly protected lands (e.g.,
state-maintained sanctuaries),
CAMA setbacks, privately
protected lands (i.e., conservation
easements), NC Natural Heritage
Conservation Program areas, and
historically or culturally significant
areas/properties. Though some
development exists in these areas,
new development is unlikely. New
uses are associated with access to
protected open space (i.e., game
lands for hunting, nature preserves
for education and passive
recreation) and natural resource
management. Maintaining
environmental integrity or historic
value are major considerations in
land-disturbing activities.

75
Open Space —
Recreation (Improved,
Active)
These areas may be developed
as public parks. Though various
types of active recreation
spaces are suitable uses in
other place types, these areas
are typically large, publicly-
maintained facilities, including
community and regional parks,
golf courses, arboretums, etc.
Open Space —
Conservation 2
These areas are developed parcels that, due to
natural or cultural value, will not likely support
new, more intense uses over time. They
consist primarily of passive parks, accessible
nature preserves, privately-managed open
space, private conservation easements with
some development (i.e., Orton Plantation,
farms), and federal or state historic districts.
Though some new development can be
supported in these areas, most is very low-
density residential development (<1 unit per
acre) or uses associated with access for passive
recreation, educational programs, and resource
management. Conservation design, which
preserves more natural open space in
exchange for smaller minimum lot sizes, is
encouraged to achieve a higher level of
environmental and cultural sensitivity with
new development. This may be a preferred
approach to conventional residential
development, especially if higher gross
densities can be achieved.

Low-Density
Residential
This area is characterized
by low-density residential
development. Single-
family detached homes
on ½-acre lots or larger
are common. Smaller lots
are accomplished by
keeping the gross density
of the development at 3
units per acre or less.
Improved open spaces
include golf courses,
neighborhood parks and
recreational amenities,
and greenway trails.
Rural / Agricultural
This area is characterized by the
relatively undeveloped land and
working lands (pastures, crops,
timberlands). It is intended to remain
rural while allowing residential uses
at very low densities (2 to 3 units per
acre, gross). New residential
development is sensitively
integrated, avoiding encroachment
on agricultural operations or valuable
natural and cultural features.
Agricultural support uses, home-
based businesses, and seasonal and
temporary uses are part of the mix.
Most of the open space is privately
maintained. Conservation design,
which preserves more natural open
space (or agricultural land) in
exchange for smaller minimum lot
sizes, may be a preferred approach to
conventional residential
development, provided utilities are
available

77
Medium-Density
Residential
This area consists of—or can
support—single-family detached
homes on varying lot sizes. The
gross density can range from 2 to 6
units per acre. Improved open
spaces in the form of neighborhood
parks and recreational amenities
are interspersed. Greenway trails
within provide links to greenway
trails in the area. Maximum
impervious coverage limitations
help preserved green space.
High-Density
Residential
This area accommodates
attached single-family
and multi-family units at
densities above 6 units
per acre. It appeals to a
variety of age groups and
lifestyle preferences. It is
intended for locations
where access to the
transportation network
and services is high.
Improved open spaces
include pocket parks and
green spaces that
support neighborhood
gatherings and some
recreational activities.
Maximum impervious
coverage limitations help
preserved green space.

Community Center (Activity
Center 1)
These areas are intended to be centers of
activity that include a mix of retail,
restaurant, service, office, and civic and
institutional uses (including senior centers,
healthcare facilities, etc.) in addition to a
variety of residential housing types.
Combined, the nonresidential space
exceeds 100,000 sf. The mix of uses can
be horizontal as well as vertical where a
change in use can occur between floors of
the same building. Buildings of two or
more stories are common, and connected
streets include short block lengths and
pedestrian facilities. Open space is
integrated in the form of community
parks, large and small formal greens,
plazas, and courtyards. Designed to
facilitate access via walking and biking,
mixed-use areas should be located where
access via the road network, sidewalks,
greenways, and/or local shuttle/circulator
service is feasible.
Mixed Residential Living
This area is characterized by moderate-
density residential development (4 to 8
units per acre, gross). It is comprised of
predominantly single-family detached
homes but may include attached single-
family units, such as townhomes and
duplexes. The mix of housing types are
intended to create intergenerational
neighborhoods. Improved open spaces
in the form of pocket and neighborhood
parks are interspersed, and greenway
trails within are located to connect such
parks as well as provide links to
greenway trails and walkways in
neighboring development. Maximum
impervious coverage limitations help
preserved green space.

79
Neighborhood Center
(Activity Center 2)
This area encourages the
blending of complementary
commercial, office, and service
uses flanked by a mix of
residential housing types. These
areas typically offer a horizontal
mix of uses where changes in
use occur between adjacent one
-and two-story buildings. With
up to 100,000 sf of local-serving
uses that are supportive of a
neighborhood (i.e., grocery and
drug stores, coffee shops, dry
cleaners, branch banks, and
restaurants), these centers may
be located within walking/biking
distance of and complement
surrounding residential
neighborhoods. Open space is in
the form of small greens,
courtyards, and pedestrian/bike
paths.
Crossroads (Activity
Center 3)
These areas are the small
concentrations of commercial uses in
rural areas. Serving a small
population across a large geography,
they can be found at intersections of
state and federal highways. Uses
typically include convenience retail,
food outlets, restaurants, fuel
stations, agriculture support uses
(e.g., feed stores), etc. and typically
have less than 25,000 sf in
nonresidential space.

Employment Center
These mixed-use areas are targeted as
a primary location of job-generating
uses in settings that meet today’s
workplace expectations. The mix of
uses include light industrial, office,
and/or institutional uses. These areas
offer traditional workspace and can be
supplemented by unconventional,
collaborative workspace where
innovation and education can
intersect. Supporting businesses, retail,
restaurants, services, and recreation
are also part of the mix. Portions of
this area may be suitable for higher
density residential uses (i.e.,
multifamily). Open space, designed to
enhance the quality of the setting and
to be enjoyed for passive recreation, is
in the form of formal and informal
parks and green spaces connected by
trails. Flexible open space that can be
programmed for gatherings of various
sizes and purposes are also integrated.
Town
Municipal centers are the
established centers of commerce
in the County. They are the local-
serving areas of economic
activity and community-focused
gatherings and entertainment.
Characterized by the broad range
of uses and higher intensity
development, these centers are
the more urbanized areas of the
County.

81
Institutional
Campus
Another type of mixed-use
center, the collection of
buildings in this area
houses functionally related
and complementary uses.
Typically devoted to
education (e.g., college
campuses) and healthcare
(e.g., hospitals, medical
centers), these campuses
are organized around a
system of green spaces
linked by a highly
connected network of
pedestrian paths. Parking is
clustered and vehicular
access is minimized.
Commercial
(Retail & Office)
These areas are devoted
to small-scale complexes
or individual sites with
stand-alone buildings
developed for retail,
office, or service uses.
Open space is integrated
in the form of small
greens and courtyards.
Such establishments are
located to take advantage
of highway visibility and
access, but may include
higher density residential
uses (i.e., multifamily and
upper floor units).

Industrial—Intense
This area generally accommodates
manufacturing and production uses,
including heavy manufacturing, light
manufacturing, warehousing, distribution,
assembly operations, water and sewer
treatment plants, major power plants, and
landfills. They are found close to major
transportation corridors and are generally
buffered from surrounding development
by transitional uses or landscaped areas
that shield the view of structures, loading
docks, or outdoor storage from adjacent
properties. Typically, both parcels and
building footprints are large. Most of the
open space is on site, privately managed,
and intended for use by the building
occupants. Most streets are private,
designed for truck access, and access is
limited by security mechanisms (gates,
etc.).
Industrial—Light
This area is intended to support a
mix of innovative businesses that
can benefit from the collocation of
related complementary industries.
The mix of uses range from light
industrial operations and
makerspaces to supporting office,
retail, and service uses. The
presence of incubator and
accelerator spaces, coworking
spaces, and educational facilities
can expand the mix and foster an
environment of collaboration.
Open space is comprised mostly of
informal green spaces, plazas,
trails, and special use areas (e.g.,
demonstration garden) that can
serve as an amenity within the
district, a learning space, and/or a
buffer to surrounding
development. Portions of this area
may be suitable for residential uses

83
Military
A unique place within the
County, this area is devoted
to Military Ocean Terminal
Sunny Point (MOTSU).
Primary uses include
storage. Access is
restricted, though the
facility serves to connect
various modes for the
purposes of transporting
supplies and equipment in
support of the military
mission.
The corridor that leads to
the transfer facility in
Leland to MOTSU is
devoted to mostly
nonresidential uses. Future
residential development is
discouraged/prohibited.

It is important that Brunswick County understands that merely completing the land use plans and illustrating
the county’s vision for the future does not ensure that its objectives will be met.Brunswick County must
continuously work at accomplishing plan implementation and maintainingan effective planning program.
Significant changes to Brunswick County’s management of growthshould occur. In contemporary planning,
the most discussed concept is “smart development.” In reality, this concept is not a new idea. It is simply the
blending of many existing ideas. Where feasible, such as within Planned Developments and subdivisions, the
County will aim to incorporate smart growth principles. Additionally, the County has incorporated some of
these concepts into the adopted Unified Development Ordinance. Smart development adheres to five basic
principles which are described as follows:
Principle 1: Efficient Use of Land Resources
Smart development supports the preservation of land and natural resources. These benefits result from
compact building forms, in-fill development, and moderation in streetand parking standards. Compact
building patterns preserve land for town and neighborhood parks as well as local woods, floodplain, and
wetlands. Furthermore, compact development shortens trips, lessening dependence on the automobile and
minimizing vehicular traffic, thereby reducing levels of energy consumption and air pollution. It also creates
valuable communities in that it accommodates a range of housing options in close proximity to retail,
services, and employment, which bolsters economic viability. Finally, a compact developmentpattern
supports more cost-effective infrastructure than does low-density fringe development.
Principle 2: Full Use of Urban Services
The same frugality of land development supports efficient use of public and private infrastructure. Smart
development means creating neighborhoods where more people will use existing services like water lines and
sewers, roads, emergency services, and schools. Inefficient land use, whether within or outside urban areas,
places a financial strain on communitiestryingtoprovidefortheconstructionandmaintenanceof
infrastructureneeds.
Building compactly does not mean that all areas must be densely developed. Rather, the goal is an average
density for the area, at a level that makes full use of urban services. Averaging allows for areas to have a mix
of low-, medium-, and high-density development. Mixing densities to encourage efficient use of services also
means requiring a high level of building and siting compatibility, encouraging neighborhoods to have both
character and privacy.
have little through traffic are best served by slower, narrower streets; while
major transportation corridors that move countywide traffic need wider travelways that accommodate
pedestrians and bikes.

85
Principle 3: Mix of Uses
Locating stores, offices, residences, schools, medical offices, and recreation spaces within walking distance
of each other in compact neighborhoods with pedestrian-oriented streets promotes:
• Independence of movement, especially for the young and the elderly who canconveniently walk,
cycle, or ride transit;
• Safety in commercial areas, through around-the-clock presence of people;
• Reduction in auto use, especially for shorter trips;
• Support for those who work at home, through nearby services and parks;
• A variety of housing choices, so that the young and old, singles and families, and those of varying
economic ability may find places to live;
• Enhanced sense of community;
• Bike- and pedestrian-friendly destinations; and
• Preservation of undeveloped, agricultural, or environmentally sensitive land elsewhere.
Mixed-use examples include a corner store in a residential area, an apartment near or overa shop, and a
lunch counter in an industrial zone. Most codes prohibit the co-location ofany residential and commercial
buildings. This prohibition is based on the functional and architectural incompatibility of the buildings.
Using design standards, in tandem with mixed-use zoning, overcomes incompatibility. Additionally,
limitations on commercial functions, such as hours of operation and delivery truck access, may be
necessary. More fundamentally, to gain the full benefits of a mix of uses, buildings must be conveniently
connected by streets and paths. Otherwise, people will still be inclined or required to use cars, even for
the shortest trips.

Principle 4: Transportation Options
Transportationmustbesafe,convenient,andinteresting. Theseperformancefactorsaffect sidewalk and street
design, placement of parking, and location of building fronts, doors, and windows. Well-designed bike lanes
and sidewalks protect people from vehicle accidents and allow emergency vehicles clear access. Orienting
windows and doorways to the sidewalk increases awareness of streetactivity and the safety of the
streetscape.
Convenience begins with a connected network of streets that provides alternative routeswithreasonable
walking distances between destinations. A properly designed network also promotes neighborhood safety
with connectivity, limited cul-de-sacs, and limited driveways on heavily traveled neighborhood roads.
networks of streets
and paths promotes:
• Walking, cycling, and transit as viable, attractive alternatives to driving;
• Less traffic congestion and air pollution;
• The convenience, density, and variety of uses necessary to support transit;
• A variety of alternative routes, thereby dispersing traffic congestion and providing connectivity; and
• Traffic calming (lower traffic speeds), making neighborhoods safer.
The images reflect the
principles of design that
contribute to walkable
communities, including
complete streets, building
placement that provides a
“street wall” to enclose
the public spaces of the
street, and site and
architectural details that
reinforce a human scale in
the built environment.

Brunswick County's Blueprint for the Future

Brunswick County's Blueprint for the Future

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