Portsmouth port region development study task I : assessment : final report

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WASHINGTON-CO UNTY
LAND USE PLAN

HD
211
-W33
W3
1980
ASTAL ZONE
ATION CEN ER
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211

FORM

Washington County Board of Commissioners

WASHINGTON COUNTY COURTHOUSE/P.0 BOX 1007/ PLYMOUTH, NORTH CAROLINA 27962
919/793-5823
August 20, 1980,

TO: Coastal Resources Commission

SUBJECT: CAMA Plan Update Submission

The Washington County (Roper/Creswell) Land Use Plan Update
had been prepared in accordance with the 1979 revised CAMA
Guidelines, and Agency-recommendations forwarded by the OCM
and public comments have been incorporated into the Plan where
applicable.

Those portions of the Plan that relate specifically to Roper
and Creswell have been prepared by the Towns which are de-
signated CAMA planning jurisdictions.

Authorization has been made to forward the Plan, complete and
ready for local and CRC approval, for your final review.

Mrs. Mayme Davenport, Chairperson
Washington County Board of Commissioners

Mayme Davenport, Chairperson/Joseph W. Foster/W.R. Sexton/C.M. Stokes/Jane P. Swain /
Members of the Board/Walter B.Hartman, Jr./county Manager/R. Wendel Hutchins/ County Attorney
Carlene Edmondson/Clerk

Washington County Board of Commissioners

WASHINGTON COUNTY COURTHOUSE/P0 BOX 1007 /PLYMOUTH NORTH CAROLINA 27962
919-793-5823

September 17, 1980

Mr. Kenneth Stewart
Office of Coastal Management
P.O. Box 27687
Raleigh, N.C. 27611

Dear Mr. Stewart:

The County of Washington hereby transmits one certified copy of
the Washington County Land Use Plan to the Coastal Resources
Commission.

On September 17, 1980, the Plan was formally reviewed at a
public hearing and adopted by the Board of County Commissioners.

Mrs. Mayme W. Davenport, Chairperson
Washington County Board of Commissioners

Ms. Carlene E. Edmondson
Clerk

Mayme Davenport, Chairperson/Joseph W. Foster/W.R. sexton/C.m. stokes/ Jane P. Swain/
Members of the Board/ Walter B. Hartman, Jr/County Manager/R. Wendel Hutchins/County Attorney
Carlene Edmondson/ Clerk

Town Of Roper
ROPER, NORTH CAROLINA 2.7970

MAYOR:
E.V. WILKINS
COUNCILMEN: August 29, 1980
M.B. WALLACE
A. ERVIN HASSELL
JAMES W. HAMILTON
EUGENE PAILIN

CLERK:
JUANITA H. OLIVER

Mr. Kenneth D. Stewart, Director
office of Coastal Management
P. 0. Box 27687
Raleigh, North Carolina. 27611

Dear Mr. Stewart:

We are forwarding to you the final draft
of our 1980 Land Use Plan Update in compliance
with the Coastal Area Management Act of 1974.

The final draft has been approved for
transmittal to the Office of Coastal Management.

Sincerely,

E. V. Wilkins
Mayor of Roper

R. Dalton Phelps
Mayor of Creswell

P.O. BOX 217 ROPER, NORTH CAROLINA 27970 PHONE: 919/793-5527

DOCUMENT

WASHINGTON COUNTY LAND USE PLAN UPDATE

1980

PREPARED FOR; WASHINGTON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS

MAYME W. DAVENPORT, CHAIRPERSON

C. M. STOKES JOSEPH W. FOSTER
JANE P. SWAIN W. R. SEXTON

WASHINGTON COUNTY PLANNING BOARD

PETER McNAIR, CHAIRMAN

JEANNIE ALLEN EDNA NORMAN
HAROLD BAUM ROBERT C. PHELPS
JESSE BOYCE GAIL RESPASS
ESTHER EVERETT NINA RICHARDSON
CHARLES LITTLE C. M. STOKES
T. C. MARTUS BENNETT WHITE

ADDRESS

WASHINGTON COUNTY COURTHOUSE
P. 0. BOX 1007
PLYMOUTH, NORTH CAROLINA 27962

Property of CSC Library
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE NOAA
COASTAL SERVICES CENTER
2234 SOUTH H0BSON AVENUE PREPARED BY:
CHARLESTON, SC 29 WASHINGTON COUNTY PLANNING OFFICE
&
IVANFIELD ASSOCIATES

WENDY MORRISON PAINTER, PLANNER
BOB SNAPP, CONSULTANT
BRENDA G. MOORE, FIELD COORDINATOR
CAROL J. STOWE, TYPIST

THE PREPARATION OF THIS DOCUMENT WAS FINANCED IN PART
THROUGH A GRANT PROVIDED BY THE NORTH CAROLINA COASTAL
MANAGEMENT PROGRAM, THROUGH FUNDS PROVIDED BY THE COASTAL
ZONE MANAGEMENT ACT OF 1972, AS AMENDED, WHICH IS ADMINI-
STERED BY THE OFFICE OF COASTAL ZONE MANAGEMENT, NATIONAL
OCEANIC & ATMOSPHERIC ADMINISTRATION.

T A B L E 0 F C 0N TIE N T S

INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
11. PRESENT CONDITIONS . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(A). PRESENT POPULATION AND ECONOMY . . . . . . . . . . . 3
(1) Population . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
(a) Seasonal Population . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . 10
(b) Roper . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
(c) -Creswel'l . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
(2) Economy . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
(3) Employment. . . . . . . . . . 18
(B). COUNTY LAND USE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
(1) Existing Land Use .. . . .. . . . . 25
(2) *Significant Land Use Compatibility Problems .. . . . . . . 30
(3) Unplanned Development . . . . . 30
(4) Existing Land Use in Roper and Cresweli 32
(C). CURRENT PLANS, POLICIES, AND REGULATIONS
(1) Washington County Plans, Policies and Regulations . . . . 34
(a) Regulations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
(b)'.Plans and Policies 35
(2) Roper Plans, Policies, and Regulations . . . . ... . . . . 38
(a) Plans and.Policies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
(b) Regulations . . . . .. . . ... . . . . . . . . . . . 38
(3) Creswell Current Plans, Policies, and Regulations . . . . 39
(a) Plans and Policies . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . 39
(b) Regulations. 4.0
(4) State Licenses and P@rm'it*s' 42
(5) Federal Licenses and Permits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 44
III. CONSTRAINTS

(A). LAND,SUITABILITY
(1) Physical Limitation for Development . . . . . . . . . . . 46
(a) Hazard Areas . . . . . . . . 46
(b) Soil Limitations . . . . . . . . . . . ... .. . . . . 53
(c) Water Supply Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
(d) Air Resources . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
(e) Steep Slopes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
(2) Frag 'ile Areas 66
(a) Public Trust Waters . . . .. . . . . . . . 66,
(b) Estuarine Waters . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . . 68
(c) Coastal Wetlands . . . 69
(d) Lake Phelps . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
(e) Pungo Lake . . . . . *.* ** * * * . . 73
(3) Area with Resource Potential . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
(a) Forest Land . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
(b) Agriculture 73
(c) Natural Habitat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
(d) Peat Resources . . . 76
(e) Recreational Resour@e; . .. . . . . . . . 80

(B). CAPACITY OF COMMUNITY FACILITIES
(1) Community Facilities . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . .82
(a) Solid Waste Disposal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82
(b) Public Sewer and Water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
(c) Fire Protection . . . . . ; . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
(d) Schools . . ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
.(e) Recreational Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
(f) Roadways 89
(C). FUTURE DEMANDS 95
T) Projected Population . ... . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . 95
(2) Future Economy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
(3) Future Land Needs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
IV. COMMUNITY ISSUES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(A). PUBLIC PARTICIPATION IN THE LAND USE PLAN UPDATE PROCESS . . . . . 102
(B), QUESTIONNAIRE ANALYSIS .. . . .. . . . . .. . . . ... . . . . . . . . 106
(C). WASHINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY ISSUES - , - * * ' * ' ** * * * * ' * * * 119
(1) County Growth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
(2) Industrial Development . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . . * 121
. . . . . . . . . . . . .
(3) 123
,Public Facilities and Serv 1 ce s -
(4) Housing Opportunities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125
(5) Drainage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127
(6) Environmental Quality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129
(7) Energy Resource's . ... . . . . ... . . . . . . . .. . .. . . . . 134
(8) Publ i c. Parti ci pati on . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . 136
(D). COMMUNITY ISSUES IN ROPER AND CRESWELL . . ... . . . . . . . . . . . 138
(1) Resources Protection Issues in Roper . . . . . . . . .. . . . . 139
(2) Resources Production and Management Issues in Roper - 4 . . . 141
(3) Economic and Community Development Issues in Roper . . . . . 143
(4) Continuing Public Participation in Roper . . . . . . . . . . . 147
(5) Special Issues in Roper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148
(6) Other Issues in Roper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... . ... . 149
(7) Resource Protection Issues in Creswell . . . . * ' " . * * 150
(8) Resource Production and Management Issues in Creswell . . . . . 152
(9) Economic and Community Development Issues in Creswell . . . . . 154
(10) Continuing Public Participation in Creswell . . . . . . . .. . . 157
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(11) Special Issues in Creswell 158
(12) Other Issues . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . ..... . . . . . . 159
(13) A Review of Roper and Creswell Objectives from the 1976
Land Use Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . 160

V. LAND CLASSIFICATION

(A). LAND CLASSIFICATION AND LOCAL POLICIES AND IMPLEMENTATION . . . . . 162
(B). COUNTY LAND CLASSIFICATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 164,
(1) Transition . . . . . . ... . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 164
-(2) Community . . . ... . . . . 164-
(a) Community @ervice @re-as . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 165
(b) Community Cluster Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 165
(c) Community Transitional . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 165
(3) Rural . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . 165
(a) Rural Resi@e@tia@ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 165
(b) Rural Natural Area . . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . 165
(c) Rural Forest Land . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 165
(d) Rural Agriculture . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . 166
Conservation . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 166

(C). ROPER AND CRESWELL LV :ISSIFICATION . . . . . . . . . . 167
(1) Developed . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 167
(2) Transition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 167
(3) Conservation . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . . 167

VI. DATA ANALYSIS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 168

VII. APPENDIX
(A). COUNTY LAND USE . . . . . . .. . ... . . . . . . . . . . 171
(B). COUNTY LAND USE CLASSIFICATION . . . . . . .. . . . . . . 172
(C). *CRESWELL LAND USE AND LAND CLASSIFICATION . . . . . . . . 173
(D)-. ROPER LAND USE AND LAND CL 'ASSIFICATION . . . . . . . . . . 174
(E). SLIDE PRESENTATION-TEXT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 175
(F).- BROCHURE . . . . 180
(G). *HISTORIC AND ARCHITECTURAL RESOURCES . . . . . . . . . . . 182

INTRODUCTION

Washington County, located on the Roanoke River and Albemarle Sound, is
a rural area primarily dependent on agriculture and the manufacturing of wood
products for its l1velihood. A link between Piedmont North Carolina and the
Outer Banks, the County offers much in the way of scenic, recreational, and

historic resources.

One of twenty coastal counties regulated under the Coastal Area Management
Act, Washington County is responsible for updating the.-countywide Land Use Plan
every five years. Data is to be updated, changes assessed and impact on natural

resources examined.

Public participation and local government involvement have been major ac-

tivities in the 1980 update process. The Land Use Plan is a framework that will

guide.local leaders as they make decisions affecting development. Private in-

dividuals and other levels of government will also use the Plan to guide their

land use decisions.

The involvement of these groups in the planning process ind their future

use of the Plan will hopefully lead to more efficient and economical provision

of public services, the protection of natural resources, sound economic develop-

ment, and the protection of public.health and safety.

Extensive efforts have been made to-provide a useful and practical tool

for Washingto.n.County in determining futureland use. A tool which can be used,

which can become a part of the local government's decision making process.

The Plan is divided into four sections which relate directly to one an-

other. Initially, base data was compiled'to reflect the population growth and

economic status of the County, inclusive of Roper and Creswell (Plymouth will

prepare an update in 1981), and the existing land use regulations in effect.

Combined with an assessment of land suitability and existing community facili-

ties, this information provides.a basis for future projections of population

and land demand.

Compilation.of public and local government attitudes concerning local land

use issues, in conjuction with base data provided in the first two.sections of

the Plan, provide the basis for final land use issues, policies, and implementa-

tion methods.contained in Section Three.

After gathering imformation and listening attentively, a plan of action

began to unfold whi,ch suggests how the County shoul.d develop in the future.

This is@where the actual classification of land comes in, which constitutes

the final section of the 1980 CAMA Land Use Plan Update.

PRESENT CONDITIONS

PRESENT POPULATION AND ECONOMY

Population

Approximately 44 percent of the County's population is

located-in the three incorporated towns within the County: 54

percent of the total County population lives.in or near Plymouth
(figure 1

Historical population trends reveal that the County has

experienced a continuous, steady growth during the past decade.
The County's rate of growth has been'ahead of that for the

surrounding five counties until recently (figure 2 ). Population

figu res in 1976.show only Beaufort and'Chowan Counties exceeding

the growth rate of Wash.ington,County with 1980 figures also

estimating a significant increase in population for Tyrrell County.

The Town of Plymouth has experienced a healthy growth rate
i.n the past few decades,,primarily due to the location of the

Weyerhaeuser plant just outside of town in Martin County. Plymouth

Township continues to ex perlence the most consistent and s@ignifi-
cant population increase of the County.s Townships (figure 3

Age distribution in the County shows a trend toward a stable

young adult population in.the age group from 15 to 24. Significant

changes in outmigration of adults in age range of 25-44 are apparent

in i.ncreased white and nonwhite population figures for 1980

(figure 4

Figure 1

PERCENTAGE OF POPULATION BY, TOWNSHIP

AND MUNICIPALITY

PERCENTAGE PERCENTAGE
01970 OF COUNTY X1980 OF COUNTY
POPULATION POPULATION POPULATION POPULATION

Washington County 14,038 1-5,345

Lees Mill Twsp. 3,407 24% 3,733 24%
Roper 680 (750)2 5% (5%) @890 6%

Plymouth Twsp. 7,512 .54% 8,213 54%
Plymouth 4,774 34% 5,405 35%

.Scuppernong Twsp. 1,733 12% 1,889 12%
Creswell 670 (50O)l 5% (4%) 530 3%

Skinnersville Twsp. 1,386 10% 1,510 10%

Notes: 1. The 1970 population of 670 for Creswell.was incorrect. A more realistic
estimate.would be 500 for 1970 and 530 for 1980 based on projections for
Creswell in the "201" Facilities Plan-.

2. The 1970 population of 680 for Roper hasbeen contested by the Town as an
underestimate.

SOURCE: o U. S. Census

-x 201 Wastewater Facilities Plan,

Figur6 2

COMPARISON OF POPULATION TRENDS IN SURROUNDING COUNTIES

COUNTY *1960 POP. 1970 POP. %CHANGE 01976 POP. %CHANGE '1980 POP. %CHANGE

Washington 13,488 14,038 + 4.1 14,900 6.1 15,345 2.9

Martin 27,139 24,730 - 8.9 25,200 1.9 25,354 .6

-Beaufort 36,014 35,9180. - 0.1 38,800 7.8 40,495 4.4

Chowan 11,729 10,764 - 8.2 11,500 6.8 11,763 2.3

Bertie 24,350 20,528 -15.7 21,000 2.3 21,090 .4

Tyrrell 4,520 3,806 -15.8 3,800 -.15 3,975 4.6

Hyde 5,765 5,571 3-.4 5,600 .52 5,688 1.6

SOURCE: o Profile Depart ment of Administration -Update 1978
x,NC Department of Administration Division of State Budget & Managment 1979

US Census 1960-1970

Figure 3

SUMMARY OF POPULATION TRENDS

BY COUNTY'TOWNSHIPS

CHANGE % CHANGE % CHANGE %CHANGE
x1940 1950 FROM '40 1960 FROM '50 1970 FROM '60 01980 FROM '70
Washington County 12,323 13,488 +10% 13,488 0% 14,038 + 4% 15,345 + 9%
Lee Mill Twsp. 3,229 3,435 + 6% 3,444 2% 3,407 1% 3,733 + 9%
Roper 716 793 +11% 171 -3% 6802(750)-12% 890 +30% + 1 8:@')
Plymouth Twsp. 5,237 6,294 +20% 6,948 +10% 7,512 + 8% 8,213 + 9%
Plymouth -211461 .4,486 +82%1 4,666 + 4% "4,774 + 2,% 5,405 +13%
Scuppernong Twsp. 2,019 2,244 +11% 1,629 1,733 6% 1 889 + 9%

Cherry 108 73 -32% 61 -17% No re ord
Creswell ..459 425 - 7% 467 +10% 530- -20% (+ 6-/0
Skinners.ville Twsp. 11838 -34% 11467 @+22% 1,386 5% + 9%

Notes: .1 .82% population increase for Plymouth from 1940 to 1950 due to annexation.

2. The 1970 population of 680 for Roper has been contested by the Town as an underestimate. The Town's
own estimate of 750 population, however, still indicates a slow population decline.
3 The 1970 population of 670 for Creswell was inco 'rrect. A more realistic estimate woul ,d be 500 for 1970
and 530 for.1980 based on projections for Creswell in "201" Facilities Plan.

SOURCE: x U. S. Census

o Department of Administration
201 Wastewater Facilities Plan
Bob Snapp
6

WASHINGTON COUNTY a w A N
NORTH CAROLINA Figute 3A

TOWNSHIPS

SULL &A r

4-J,

ww ww

--mm

sun ftm
Ld ff 9 p m 2 L p

I I A U F .0 1 T c 0 u IN I v
c 0 u od I

Figure 4,

WASHINGTON COUNTY POPULATION

BY AGE AND RACE

WHITE

x1970 01980
AGE GROUP POPULATION POPULATION % CHANGE

under 5 662 606 -8%

5-14 1648 1507 -8%

15-24 1285 1492 +16%

25-44 2.045 2958 +44%

45-64 1838 1903@ +3%

65 over 731 997, +36%

NON WHITE

AGE GROUP X1970 01980 %CHANGE

under 5 705 613 -13%

5-14 1587. 1263 -20%

15-24 1168 1267 + 8%

.25-44 1064 1223 -+15%

45-64 912 1024 +12%

65 over 384 492 +28%

SOURCE: x Census

o Department of Administration

WASHINGTON COUNTY TOTAL POPULATION

BY AGE

X19.60 X1970. 01980
AGE GROUP POPULA.TION POPULATION* %CHANGE POPULATION %CHANGE

under 5 1778 1367 -23% 1219 -10%

5-14 3375 3235 4% 2770 -14%

15@24 2453 +29% 2759 +12%

3161 3101 1% 4181 +35%

45@-64 2380 2750 +16% 2927, .+ 6%

65 over 906 1115 +23% 1489 +33%

SOURCE: x Census

o Department of Administration

Seasonal Population
One-factor of particular.importance to North Carolina Coastal

Counties is the impact of seasonal visitors on population projections,

@local economy and public faci-lities. These occasional visitors

are expected to grow in number and they wi,11 demand the same

services as the native residents, with the except.ion of schools.

If properly provided for, these people may become an asset, rather,

than a drain, on the,County's,development.

The figures shown on page 11 are estimates due to the

unavailability of tourist statistics for Washington County. Very

little has changed since the original. Land Use Plan was prepared,

however due to the ever increasing cost.of living some second

home owners have been forced to sell,to permanent homeowners. No

thang e has taken place in the number of overnight accommodations

within the County.

The method used to calculate'the figures was to assess.the

number of overnight accommodations pres ently available and multiply

that total by a reasonable number of persons who might be expected

to occupy these units at any given time--In this case'the "persons

per household" for Washington County from the 1970.Census. A
premise was made that tourism in Washington County is based

upon the County's proximity to the Dare County beaches.

The summer recreation traffic along Highway 64 is-the best

indicator to support this. Thus*projections of future tourism

can be made based upon Washington County's share of the estimated

tourist'grow,th in Dare County.

FIGURE 5

ESTIMATED SEASONAL.POPULATION

Motel/Hotel Units 60. 280
,Campsites 20 x, 4.66 persons 93
Vacation Cottages (1970) 100 per household 466
280 units 839 total
tourists at any
one time, 1970.

FIGURE

PROJECTED SEASONAL POPULATION

1. 1970 estimate of tourist population: 839

2. 1970 estimate of tourists, Dare County: 23,720

3. proportion of 1970 count, Washington
County to Dare County 1:28 Pr 4%

4. Tourist Forecast, Tourist.Forecast'
-Dare County Washingt6h*County (lt?�i

1980 35,106 .1242

1990 48,481 to 70,000 1,715 to 2,476

2000 68,067 to ? 2,408 to ?

SOURCE: Dare County Data from Stephens Assocfates,,1974
-Data, DNE.R esti'mates, 1975
Washington County

From the figures.shown, any esti'mate,of tourism in Washington County has

only represented a small impact on the local economy. A second i'ndicator is

travel spending. The higher esti,mate.s, however, are possible if growth along

the.Outer Banks occurs at the rate now experienced in areas such as Myrtle

Beach, Virginia.Beach or Ocean City.

Rope r
Roper, the second largest'municipality in the county, is now
experiencing growth at a moderate rate. According to the Town's
figures, Roper is recovering from a population decline that spans
20 years (figure 3-). Although Roper ha-s not experienced a signifi-,
cant,chan.ge in population due-to the absence of a significant

economic base and poor soils associated with septic tank failures,

upcoming factors,may'change past trends.

Some growth should result from the i,ncreased,agricultural

activity of corporate farming enterprises such as Tyson Foods

and First Colony Farms. Peat mining.may add to,.the growth

potential.

The construction of a municipal sewer system (completion
date May 1980) will eliminate the constraints caused by septic

tank, failures. Private residential construction and subdivision

activities'have increased because of this'project.'

Roper's population may also be increased,by the location

of Mid-East Regional Housing Authority developments within the
existing corporate limits. There are currently.twenty (20)

dwelling units operated by the Housing Authority in Roper.
Funding has been approved for the construction'.of.thir.ty (30)

additional units.

Since-poor soil conditions will continue to.impede.

construction in the areas around Roper, it can be expected that

most of the population growth in the area will occur within the

Town limits. Roper has adequate undeveloped land coupled with water

and sewer capacity to accommodate reasonable growth.

Creswell

Creswell's population growth, consistent yet slight
(figure 3 seems@to be the result of increased agricultural

activity. The large scale land clearing operations and agri-

.business construction should continue to support a gradual

growth rate.

Mid-East Regional Housing Authority developments may

also increase Creswell's'population.- Mid-East operates

fifteen (15) units within. the Town limits. An additional

twenty@(20.) units-are expected to be funded.

Like-Roper, Creswell's growth has been restrained by

septic tank failures caused by poor soil conditions and

fl.oodin,g. Plans to construct.a sewer system and a flood

prevention system should eliminate these constraints.''

Another factor that wi.11 probably result in an increase

in the population of Creswell is annexation. As,development

along the highway corridors leading into Creswell. increases,

there will be pressure on the Town to extend water,.sewer, and

other public services to these areas. The Town may want to

expand its tax base to compensate for the added cost of such

services.

Economy

Agriculture represents the largest segment of the County's economy,

showing continued increases in production,and.market sales. This trend is

projected to continue as corporate "super farms" and individual farmers

'continue the development of previously unusable land for agricultural use.

The number of farms has dropped by 50 percent during the 10-year

period between 1,960 and 1970, and between 1970 and 1978 from 800 to 350

farms, according to the Agriculture Extension Office. This can be

attributed to a decrease in small family farms, due to the consolidation

of small farmers into larger farm units and the larger land holdings

farmed by a,few corporate farms.

During the period of 1960-74,.harvested acreage rose 78 percent,
reaching 76@716 acres'in 1977. The continued increase in production of

soybeans and corn (figure 6) supports the potential for future contributions

to the economy.

Corn, soybeans, hogs, and lumber l.ead all other products in dollar,
sales (these figures are not available for publication). The influx
of major hog operations such as Tyson Farms and the subsequent increase

and modernization of local, operations has influenced these factors

as has the tremendous dependence on the production and processing of

wood,products in and around Washington.County.
Manufacturing production in apparel and wood products comprise the
seco6d,major component of the County's economy (figures 7 & 8).

Figure 6

CROPLAND UTILIZATION

PERCENTAGE
PERCENTAGE PERCENTAGE. PERCENTAGE PERCENTAGE ACREAGE OF
ACREAGE OF ACREAGE OF ACREAGE-OF ACREAGE OF OTHER
YEAR CORN SOYBEANS WHEAT PEANUTS (TOBACCO)

1960 42 42 8 8

1961 34 47 9 10

1962 32 51 8 9

1963 27 .56 8 9

1964 27 54 8 11

1965 29 .56 3 5

1966 29 59 6 6

1967 31 57 6 6

1968. 218 62 6 4

1969 30 59 6 5

1970 38 53 5 4

1971 43 45 5 7

1972 .42 46 .5 7

1973 42 49 4 5

1974 44 46 4 6

1975 45 47 4 3

1976 52 42 4 1

1977 46 47 4 10

1978 46 47 4 2

1979 46 47 4 2

SOURCE: NCDA Land.'Utilizatlion Survey, Washington County

WASHINGTON COUNTY
c 11
NORTH CAROLINA c

Figure
MAJOR AREA EMPLOYERS

C, 000

KTnGaw stArt ?Aft LEGEND
'U
L
L F ff

1-1 Q

C.rp.
2. True T-@per C@rp. .2747
37
3! c',.orgja-p;,,jfjc
)08
4- P]Y`01101 (;Ir,,,nt CO.
244
5. Pimouth Pallet CO.
Plymouth Fertilize r
c o u m T
31
7- WilliaMs Le,1,,, CO. loo
8. Firs, Col.n, rar.r
SOIURCE: Chamber Of CoMmerce

Figure 8

BUSINESS PATTERNS

Number of Taxable
Employees PayroTl Total
Mid-March Jan.-Mar. Reporting
Industry Pay-Period (1,000) Units

Washington County

Total 2,386 4,147 183

Agricultural Services, Forestry,
Fisheries (D) (D)' 1

Contract Construction 54 66 14

Manufacturing 1,463 3,049 22
Apparel & other textile prod. (D) (D) 1
Children's outerwear (D) (D) 1
Children's outerwear, NEC (D) (D) 1
'Lumber & wood prod. 323 482 15
Logging camps & logging contr. 85 76 11
Sawmills & planing. mills (D) (D) 2
Sawmills & planing mills, gen. (D) (D) 2

Paper &.allied prod. 987 2,400 3
Paper mills 'except bldg. paper (D) (D) 2
Paperboard containers & boxes (D) (D) I
Sanitary food containers (D) (D) 1

Transportation and Other Public
Utilities 28 52 4

Wholesale Trade 146 242 13

Retail Trade 426 477 75
Food stores 92 100 16
Grocery stores (D) (D) 15
Auto dealers & serv. stations 90 124 13
Misc. retail stores 56 88 ill

Finance, ins., & real estate 60 98 11

Services 169 136 37
Personal services 37 23 12

Unclassified establishments (D) (D) 6

Source: 1976 CAMA Land.Use Plan

Data on the value of products'manufactured.in Washington

County cannot be determined from the information available because

of figures withheld to avoid disclosure-of individual firms.

However, 1978 labor force estimates from the.Empl oyment Security

Commission for the County., indicate a total of 570 persons in

manufacturing, principally in the Town of Plymouth. This amounts

to 8 percent of the locally-employed labor force.'

A much larger segment of the manufacturing labor force lives

in the Plymouth area, but works at the Weyerhaeuser paper mill

adjacent to the County line, in Martin County. Work trips outside

of Washington County exceed those of surrounding counties to

a significant degree (figure 9

Retail trade in the County is primarily concentrated in the

Town of Plymouth. Retail sales, although up 263 percent from 1973

to 1976, suffer due to the County's smal,l population and the

proximity of Washington, Williamston,and Edenton. An estimate

of gross retail-sale s per person indicates that Washington County's

sales per,person is now above the average of the surrounding six

counties (figure 10).

Employment Findings

The largest number of employed persons in the, towns.and the

county are blue collar workers employed as operators (figure 11).

The second largest group,are skilled blue collar craftsmen and

foremen. From 1960 to 1970, the number of persons with skilled

white collar jobs has increased significantly (by 150 percen,t in the

Figure 9

WORK TRIPS OUTSIDE COUNTY OF RESIDENCE:

WASHINGTON COUNTY AND OTHER AREAS

Percent of County Labor Force
Working Outside County

1960 1970 % Increase Over 1960

Washington County 25% 44% +176%
Wake County .5% 14% +280%,
Mecklenburg County 4% 1.1% +275%
Pitt County @8% 21% +262%
'Beaufort County 8% 18% +225%
Bertie County 9% 31% +444%
Chowan County 8% 23%. +287%
Hyde County 6% 19% +416%
Martin County 7% 18% +257%
Tyrrell, County 9% 25% +277%

SOURCES: Washington County Land Use Plan, 1976

Figure 10

RETAIL SALES PER 1000 POPULATION (Estimate only)

1973 Gross .1970
Retail Sales' Population
Washington Co. $15,017,000. 14, 038 $1782.08/person

Martin Co. 50,499,000 .24,730 2042.00/person

Beaufort 92,615,000 35,980 95 74.06/person

Bertie .29,620,000 20,528 1442.90/person

Chowan 25,244,000 10,764 2345.22/person

Hyde 5,931,000 5,571 1064.62/person

Tyrrell Co. 5,890,000 @3s8O6 1547.55/person

.SOURCE: Washington County Land Use Plan,1976

1976-77 1976
Retail Sales -Population.

Washington Co. $54,544 801 14,900 $3660.70/person

@Martin Co. 93,249,272 25,200 .3700.36/pers.on

Beaufort Co. 177,794,659 38,800 4582.33/person

Bertie to. 43,818,867 21,000 2086.60/person

Chowan Co. 45,173,953 11,500 3928.16/person

Hyde Co. 12,521,008 5,600 2235.89/person
Tyrrell Co. 9,615,670 3,800 2530.43/pers6n

SOURCE: Dept. of Administration

Figure 11

OCCUPATIONAL BREAKDOWN OF EMPLOYED PERSONS
IN PLYMOUTH AND WASHINGTON COUNTY, 1960-1970

PERCENT OF TOTAL PERCEN7 OF TOTAL PERCENT CHANGE
'EMPLOYED, 1960 EMPLOYED, 1970 1960-1970
JOB TYPE PLYMOUTH/COUNTY PLYMOUTH/COUNTY PLYMOUTH/COUNTY

Professionals 8% 3% 12% 7% +150%/ +230%

Farmers 1% 13% 1% 6%. no change 50%

Managers 8%: 5% 10% 8% +125%/ +160%

Clerical 10% 4% 12% 8% +120%/ +200%

Sales 8% 6% 4% 3% 50%/ 50%

Craftsmen 16% 12% .13% .18% 20%/ +150%

Operators 21%. 20% 24% 25% +115%/ +125%

Housekeepers 7% 6% 4% 3% --'40%/ - 501%

Service Workers 7% 4% 9% 8% 1 1+130%/ +200%

Farm Labor 1% 11% 47% no change 60%

Common Labor @8% 5% 7% 8% 10%/ +160%

Total employed, Town of Plymouth, 1960: 1673; 1970: 1727.

'Total employed, Washington Co. outside Plymouth, 19601: 2415 1970: 4679

SOURCE: Washington County Land Use Plan, 1976

Note: Percentages shown have been.'rounded off. To get a close approximation of
the actual count of persons in a particular category, multiply the "total
employed" figure by the.percentage for the give year.

Town of Plymouth and 230 percent in the County for professionals

and technicians).

Whereas, in the past unemployment in Washington County has been

slightly higher than the average rate for the surrounding six

counties, it has now decreased. The majority of these counties

have seen a slight to sharp increase in unemployment since 1973
(figure 12)..

In the past Washington County has consistently averaged

higher than the rate for the'State at'any time, but.has been about

average for this region. Presently Washington County has one of

the lowest unemployment figures of the six surrounding counties

and is equivalent to the 1979 North Carolina unemployment rate.

Family median income in the County rose 205 percent to $7,177

in 1970,:or to a point two percent behind Plymouth's family median

income of.$7,313 (figure13 The county-wide average of median

family.income is ahead of that for the surroundi.flg six counties,

but behind that of the State.

Figure 12

RATES OF UNEMPLOYMENT FOR

WASHINGTON COUNTY AND OTHER AREAS

Average Rate For
+ Average Rate For OAverage Rate For Most Recent Year
Counties 1965-1973 1974-1977 of Record, 1979

Washington County 6.2% 6.2% 4.8%

Wake @ounty 2."3% 3.8% 3.1%

Mecklenburg County 2.1% 5.0% 3.19%

Pitt County 5.9% 5.9% 5.3%

'Beaufort County 3.8% 4.9%
Bertie County 6.3%, 8.Ot 5.91%
Chowan County 4@3%. 6.8% 4.4%
Hyde County 6.7% 7.6% 6.1%
Martin County 5.4% 6.2%
Tyrrell County 7.8% 10.0% 9.1%.

North Carolina 3.7% 6.3% 4.8%

SOURCE: + CAMA Land Use Plan 1976

o N. C. Statistical Abstract

N..-C. Employment Security Commission

Figure 13

MEDIAN FAMILY INCOME:

PLYMOUTH AND SURROUNDING TOWNS

1960 M.edian,Ihcome 1970 Median Income % Change
All Families
All Families Over 1960

Plym outh $4665 $7313 +157%
Edenton 3918 7250 +185%
Washington 4410, 6563 +149%
Williamston 3448 6510 +189%

MEDIAN FAMILY INCOME: WASHINGTON COUNTY

(NOT INCLUDING PLYMOUTH) AND. OTHER AREAS

Median.Family 1970 Median Family Change
Income Income Over 1960

Washington Co. $3495* $7177* +205%
.Beaufort Co. ..2409 @6435 +267%
Bertie Co. 2117 4829 +228%
Chowan Co. 27-14 63'97 +236%
Hyde Co. 1979 4478 +226%
Martin Co. 2366 5711 +241%
Tyrrell Co. 1927 +224%

North Carol,ina 3956 .7774 +197%

SOURCES: Washington County Land Use Plan, 1976
Note: *'Medi'an family income for all of Washington County in 100 was $7,182.
This includes the'.median family income for Plymouth.. Without Plymouth,
the median family income for the "farm" and "non-farm" families of
Washington County (i.e., those families outside Plymouth). was $7,177. The
1@60 statistic of $3495 was arriyed at by-the same m,ethod.

COUNTY LAND USE

Existing Land Use

Landuse mapping information was compiled from the 1980 Tax Revaluation
Field Survey in which each tract of landwithin the County was examined and

information recorded relative to land use. This information has been trans-

ferred onto planning maps at a scale of 1" = 1,000' and also on a generalized

land use map included in the appendix.-
Tax records show 113,091 acres in cleared farm real estate comprising 53

percent of the County's land-use. Forty one percent or 88,566 acres of forest

land, 4.0 percent water area and 5.6 percent of urban uses make up the 342

square miles of Washington County land area.

Of the urban tracts of land, including Roper, Creswell, and Plymouth, there

are 10 industrial units, 355 commercial uses, and 4293 residential sites.

Agriculture,the dominant land use throughout the, County, is concentrated
east of Highway 99 toward Lake Phelps in the southernly section of the County.

During the period 1960-1977, acreage in farms increased 44%, with productive
row crops equivalent to 56% of the 136,113,acres in farmland (Figure 14).
The dramatic increase in productive farmland is attributable to large

scale land reclamation activities of First Colony Farms. Land-clearing tech-

nology, made feasibl by such corporate farms, has allowed for the use of

previously unsuitable land for successful crop production.
The scale of First Colony's operation has raised-local hog production
(now under management by Tyson Carolina) to an all time, high, while greatly

increasing grain storage capacity in the County with its bonded commercial

elevator near Lake Phelps.

Figure 14

PERCENTAGE UTILIZATIONS OF FARM LAND

IN WASHINGTON COUNTY

Acreage of Percentage Percentage Percentage Percentage
Year All Land in Farms Row Crop Idle Crop Pasture Forest

1960 94,671 45 not reported 5 50
1961 95,297 6 5 50
1962 101,475 41 7 5 47
1963 100,150 43 6 4 47
1964 1.02,364 43 6 5 46
1965 102,765 43 6 4 47
1966 101,974 48 4 5 43
1967 104,015 50 4 42
1968 106,97-1 49 4 4 43
1969 109,666 49 7 3 41
1970 114,466 53 4 4 39
1971 113,238 56 3 3 38
1972 113,511 56 6 3 35
1973 121,887 55 2 4 39
1974 1:23,840 51 6 3 40
1975 146,786 47 7 5 40
1976 146,221 48 3 5 43
1977 136,113 56 2- 3 39

SOURCE: North Carolina Department of Agriculture,
Land Utilization and Crop Acreage Surveys

In 1973, First Colony's land holdingsequalled 32,900 acres. Since that

time, approximately 15,000 acres have been liq uidated to foreign and domestic

concerns. The-majority of the farmland sold to corporate.concerns is being

leased to local tenant farmers.

The significance of large investments, suitable soils.and the higher unit

prices farm products derive, reinforce the continuation of agriculture as the

future major land use in the area.

Forest land covers 41% of the County's land area. Ownership is divided

among public agencies, the forest industry, individuals, and corporate interests.

All large timber tracts within,Washington County are owned by corporate

interests (Figure 15), with only one sizeable tract, owned by Juniper Farms,

being converted to crop production.

Publicly owned forest lands include P.ungo National Wildlife Refuge,

Pettigrew Park, and a tract of land on the southeastern side of Lake Phelps.

Other forested areas are scattered throughout the County, primarily in the

northern sector.

WASHINGTON COUNTY
NORTH CAROLINA
Figure 15

TIMBER TRACTS

AV"&4r

LEGEND

sun mu ;Georgia Pacific
L A 9 9P N L P Weyerhauser

Weyerhaeuser

Juniper Farms ICA
Champion Internation

Union Camp/Weyerhauser

k@ Burrus Land Company
U F 0 a 1 0 U Iv

Commercial and industrial activities are concentrated tn or near the
Towns of Plymouth, Roper, and,Creswell. E lsewhere, business activity is
sharply limited, consisting primarily of small.grocery stores scattered--
along the County's rural roads.
The largestindustry in the County is the Plymouth Garment Company in
Plymouth. Outside of Plymouth, industry in the County is limited to.the
First Colony Farms grain elevator between Creswell and Roper on Newland
Road and the Williams Lumber Company at Mackey's, north of Roper.
With the proposed extension of water to a newly purchased industrial
site., the Colunty envisions an increase in industrial development within
the next ten years. The proposed site, located on highway 45 east of

Plymouth, is,60 acres in size.

Residential lan6use in the County consists of scattered-site single
family homes and mobile homes on individual lots of-reco.rd, fronting existing
roads. Subdivisions and mobile home parks are primarily located around

Plymouth and along the shoreline of the Albemarle Sound.

A 1980 tax revaluation survey of County land use estimated 4,293 single

family units in the County, inclusive of the Towns. The same survey revealed

862-mobile homes in mobile home parks and on individual lots, which reflects

an increase,of 107 percent since 1973. This increase is likely to continue

in the forseeable future until other'forms of housing are made available in a

price range that local families can afford, or until new industry with higher

wage rates settles in the area.

Second home development along Albemarle Sound is expected to continue
at a slow pace over the next ten years. The fors.eeable change in.th is seasonal
housing is the occupancy of existing summer houses on a year-round basis.

New subdivision development has.been minimal since the adoption of

County subdivision regulations i,n June of 1977. Existing subdivided lots

are being developed, with scattered new minor subdi'vi.sion of less than five
lots occurring throughout the rural areas, No.major s:ubdivisions, requiri,ng
the paving of roadways, have been developed in the last th.ree years.

Significant Land Use Compatibility Problems

At the present time, land use compatibility problems are limited in the

County. The best example of a compatibility problem are hog parlors in proxi-

mity to homes and churches.. Many times odor travels si.9ni.fi.cant distances and

is generally extremely offensive.

The,intermixing of mobile homes with single family dwellings along the

Albemarle Sound has been a reoccurring complaint. Mobile homes are many

times rented and are not as well kept as adjacent residences. Very few

respondents to the questionnaire wanted more mobile homes in the area im-

mediately surrounding the community where they lived, or in the County as.

a whole.

.DevelopmentIs increasing in closeproximity to the Plymouth Airport,

pri-marily*on Re no Road located along the southern boundary of the airport
property. Continued residenti'al construction close to the airport may perpe@

tuate future problems if airport expansion is necessary. The safety of

adjacent residents would also be in question if air traffic were to increase,

Unplanned Development
Thus far major impact has not been experienced due. to unplanned devel-
opment, but the potential for significant problems exists,

Highway 64, spanning the length of Washington County, and a major link
between the Piedmont and the Outer Banks, is becoming congested due to
commercial and residential development along its corridor.' As proven in
other localities, increased strip development promotes the-burden of exten-
sive roadway improvements such as the widenfng,of roadways and their

eventual replacement by bypasses.

Due to residential development along major roadways,speed limits have
been reduced, decreasing the utility of these roadways as thoroughfares, and
during the summer months, the.increased tourist traffic andfarm machinery

use makes, travel on the two - lane highway hazardous.

Increased development on paved roads has been encouraged by the adoption
of new roadway standards by the Department of Transportation in 1973, which
require that all new roads must be paved. Developers are usi.ng land on

existing paved roads due.to the expense of constructing new hard surface

roadways into interior property. Recent subdivision r.e gulation revisions

allowing for the subdivision of four lots on unpaved roadways have provided

an opportunity for the continuation of minor subdivisions.

Residential building along the Albemarle Sound has impacted access to the

shoreline. Traffic patterns are unplanned, promoting difficulty in optimum

land utilization. The majority of roads serving the Sound area are unpaved.

and run along the Sound at the depth of one lot. Emphasis is. on maximum

utilization of waterfront property, with no thought to future use of adjacent

land, nor potential erosion which may eventually destroy the-waterfront lots

and the road.

Another impact of unpla,nned.residential development.has been the malfunc-

tioning of.sewage disposal systems.in subdivisions located on.unsuitable soils.

Area subdivisions developed proir to the adoption of Subdivision

Regulations, are experiencing difficulty with disposal systems and/or approval

of lots for systems, according to the County Sanitarian. Although some

developments are in the early stages of development, others have a number of

homes with existing systems which creates a question as to the alternatives

available to property owners.

In most older subdivis,ions, adequate land is not available for the,in-

stallation of asecond system and many times public services are not available.

Widespread malfunctioning in subdivided a@reas may put pressure on munici-

palities to service these areas, causing random extension of utilities and

suburban sprawl. With careful site.analysis and Health Department approval,

new developments will hopefully be free of such problems.

The only areas subject to changes in predominant land use is the forested

area owned by Juniper Farms being cl.elared for agriculture, and approximately

9,000 acres of pocossin related shrub land south of Lake Phelps which will be

mined for peat.

,Existing Land Use in Roper and Creswell

In the Town of Roper, (.9 sq. miles) approximately 41 percent of the

area is devoted to harvested cropland. An additional 26 percent of the

town consists of forest and swamp which have no significant commercial value.
Residential land (approximately 18 percent of the town) is clustered around

the business di.strict, with only 4 percent of the area in Roper used for,

commercial.purposes.
Creswell ( .6 sq. miles has, only 7percent of the incorporated area,in
harvested cropland. More significant is' the 54 percent covered by non-commercial

foresiTand and swamp. Residential land consist of 19 percent of the area which

is clustered around the compact business district (approximately 5 percent). The

remaining area is used for public buil dings and utilities.

Public lands consist of about 35 acres in Roper and 27 acres in Creswell.

School grounds are the largest part of this acreage with smaller tracts used
for fire departments, municipal offices, storage areas, and other community

utilities and facilities.

Land use compatibility problems are limited in Roper and Creswell.

Both towns have minor compatibility problems with livestock operations

located near the corporate limits. If such operations continue to expand, a

signifi cant odor problem might arise. Both Towns are considering zoning'

regulations as a means to prevent compatibility problems with future

development.

The major problems which have resulted from unplanned development are

all centered around the drainage problem. Since both Towns expect a growth

in population and neither Town has the option of moving to higher elevations,

drainage plans are being developed to enhance future land use.

Land now used for agriculture in Roper and Creswell will tend to be converted

to other uses as growth occurs. Due to the use of chemicals and heavy

equipment in agricultural production this conversion of land use is desirable.

There are no areas of environmental concern within the corporate limits*

of Roper or Creswell.

Roper's AECs are the waters of Mill Creek and Deep Run. Since these water-

ways are bl.ocked to navigation between.Roper and the Albemarle Sound with

no solution in sight due to Federal Regulations, development is not likely.

In the event devel.opment occurs, appropriate uses are indicated on page 135 of this

plan.

WASHINGTON COUNTY PLANS, POLICIES AND REGULATIONS

The following land use plans, regulations, and policies have been

prepared for the Washington County Board of Commissioners, and where

noted, the Towns of Roper and Creswell. A complete list of plans,

policies, and regulations for the Town of Plymouth will be included in

their updated Land Use Plan.

Regulations

Washington County Subdivision Ordinance - Initially adopted in
June of 1977, subsequently amended in October 1977 and July
of 1979, the ordinance requires the platting and approval of
subdivided land in the County and Roper and Creswell. Minor
subdivisi,ons and major subdivisions are reviewed by either 'a
Subdivision Review Committee, the Planning Board or the Board
of Commissioners. The ordinance is administered by the County
Planner.

Mobile Home and Travel Trailer.Park Ordinance - This ordinance
regulates the planning and'construction of mobile home and
travel trailer parks throughout the County. The ordinance was
adopted in July of 1974 and subsequently amended in July of 1979.
The ordinance is enforced by the County Planner, Building Inspector
and the County Electrical Inspector.

Laws and Rules for Ground Absorption Sewage Disposal Systems
These. regulations control the use of sanitary sewage disposal
systems with 3,000 gallons or less design capacity serving a
single or multifamily residence, place of business, or place of
public assembly. The Washington County Health Department is
responsible for the administration of these regulations.

State Building and Electrical Codes - The codes call for the
inspection of new construction to assure conformance with
State standards. The County Electrical and Building Inspectors
are responsible for the permitting and inspection of such'
construction.

Flood Hazard Ordinance - A flood study for the county will be
prepared within the next 18 months (exclusive of Creswell).
Upon completion of the study a local Flood Hazard Ordinance will

be adopted which will address building requirements in flood
prone areas. The enforcement officer-will be designated upon
adoption of the study and ordinance. The County is now under
the emergency program.

Planned Unit Development Ordinance - An ordinance allowing the
construction of planned unit developments within the County has
been prepared for the Board of Commissioners. The ordinance,
proposed as a part of the Subdivision Regulations, has not been
adopted.

Plans and Policies

County Soil Survey A detailed soil survey containing maps, and
soils inforiiiation has been prepared by the Soil Conservation
Survey.

Housing Survey - The Department of Natural Resources and Community
Development inventoried the structural conditions of county
housing in 1973.

Community Development Program - Prepared by Williams and Works
in 1976, the Program is a documentation of the needs of low and
moderate income citizens in Washington County.

Washington County Community Development.Plan -This planning
document was developed in order to provide the citizens of
Washington County with an objective review of certain neighborhood,
community, and county-wide improvements that are necessary to
upgrade the overall quality of living. It is intended to be a
planning guide by which certain-actions and funds can be
directed over the next decade.

Washington County Housing Plan - Prepared by the Community
Development office and adopted in December of 1977, the Housing
Plan assesses the County's present and anticipated housing
needs and proposes means by which to insure that these needs
are met.

Implementation and Permit Enforcement Plan - The Plan is an
outline for Washington County to follow in their efforts to properly
guide.growth and development in Areas of Environmental Concerns.

Washington County Land Use Plan - The initial plan was adopted
in 1976 and included Roper and Creswell. The 1976.plan includes
statistical information relative to population and economy,
local goals and objectives concerning future growth, identification
of areas suitable for future development and a plan by which future
land use will be guided. Reasonable and careful use of our
coastal resources is the primary focus of the Coastal Area
M,anagement Plan.

@35

Washington County Land Use Element This document addresses
those requirements set forth by the Department of Housing and
Urban Development under section 701 guidelines. The purpose
of the element is to provide direction for addressing land use
con cerns of Washington County and its citizens.

Land Use Element Region R - The main purpose of this document
is to address, focus on and draw specific regional land use
goals, policies, objectives and implementation procedures
from the individual County CAMA Plans while leaving the more
traditional detailed analysis and projections in the individual
county land use plans. Ten counties constituting,Region R, are
addressed in this 1977 Plan.

Recreation Plans - Washington County Recreation Plan prepared
by the Washington County Community Development office; Outdoor
Recreation Potential for Washington'County, N. C. prepared by
Soil Conservation Service and U. S. Department of Agriculture;
Statewide.Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan for North Carolina
prepared by the State; An Appraisal. of North Carolina's Potential
for Outdoor Recreation Development prepared by USDA Soil
Conservation Service: and Open Space-Recreation Plan Region R
prepared by Albemarle Regional Planning and Development Commission.---
Each document assesses the recreational resources within the County,
projects future need in types of recreational uses and proposes
long range plans and goals. The plan prepared by the County is
more'explicit and detailed than Regional and State Plans.

Economic Development Plans - Washington County Overall Economic
Development Plans, 1962, 1971; and Regional Overall Economic
Development Plan, 1977--Each plan lists recommendations for
priority needs based.on available data. The regional plan
designates Plymouth aInd surrounding areas as a growth center and
provides comparative data for surrounding counties.

Solid Waste Planning Study - The report was prepared to assist
the County in evaluating the existing system of solid waste
disposal, to review the adequacy of the present landfill'site
that is serving the.County, and make recommendations concerning
the feasibility of alternative sites. Preparation of the,plan
in 1979 was a joint effort between ARPDC, Talbot and Associates
and the County Planning Office.

Water Feasibility Study For Washington County - The study, com-
pl'eted in 1975 includes information concerning groundwater
resources, existing water facilities, population projections and,
present and future water requirements. A construction schedule
prioritizing proposed projects is also included.

Albemarle Area Resource.Conservation and Development Plan of
North Carolina - The plan, prepared by the Albemarle Resource
Conservation and Development Council, provides guidance in the
use and development of our natural resources. It was completed
in 1977.

Shoreline Erosion Inventory - A study prepared by the Soil
-Conservation Service in 1975, the erosion inventory lists the
physical factors associated with shoreline erosion in fifteen
coastal counties, and attempts to assess the magnitude of the
problem.

Pettigrew State Park Master Plan - The Division of Parks and
Recreation has outlined plans for the expansion of recreational
facilities at Pettigrew Park along Lake Phelps.

Lake Phelps Lake Management Study - Also Prepared by the North
Carolina Division of Parks and Recreation, this 1980 report pro-
vides background information on the Lake Phelps area and
proposes a plan for the management of the lake level.

ROPER PLANS, POLICIES, AND REGULATIONS

Roper has prepared the following plans, policies, and regulations

in an attempt to effect good land use:

Plans and Policies

Community Profile 1978 East Carolina University Regional
Development Institute

Drainage Plan 1980 - U. S. Soil Conservation Service and
Ivanfield Associates

Capital Asset Inventory and Five-Year Projection of
Capital Improvements 1979 - Department of Natural
Resources and Community Development - DCA

Roper Sewer*System (Plans, Specs and Construction Documents)
1979 L. E. Wooten & Co.

Citizen Participation Plan 1978 Department of Natural
Resources and Community Development DCA

Washington County Land Use Plan 1976 Washington County
(Roper is a part of this plan)

Roper has an established policy for the extension of sewer lines.

.Open Space, Recreation and Transportation policies have not been

established.

Regulations

Subdivision Regulations 1978 Department of Natural Resources
and Community Development -.DCA

Mobile Home and'Travel Trailer Park Ordinance 1980 Ivanfield
Associates

Fair Housing Ordinance 1980 Ivanfield Associates

Zoning Ordinance (Draft Copy under consideration) 1979
Department of Natural Resources and Community Development DCA

N. C. Building and Electrical Codes are administered in the Town

by Washington County. Septic T6nk Regulations are administered by

the Washington County Health Department. Roper does participate

in the Federal Flood In'surance Program.

Local regulations for historic districts, dune protection,

sedimentation and environmental.i.mpact have not been considered as

areas of concern beyond the requirements of specific projects such as

.the sewer system.

Roper has established various nuisance regulations as a part

of the.Town Ordinances.

CRESWELL CURRENT PLANS, POLICIES AND REGULATIONS

Creswell has prepared the following plans, policies, and

regulations in an attempt to effect good land use:

Plans and Policies

Community Profile 1978 East Carolina University
Regional Development Institute

Flood prevention and Drainage Plan 1980 - U. S. Soil
Conservation Service and Ivanfield Associates

201 Sewer Facilities Plan 1979 - L. E. Wooten and Co.

Capital Asset Inventory and Five Year,Projection of Capital
Improvements 1979
Department of Natural Resources and Community
Development - DCA

Citizen Participation Plan 1978 Department of Natural Resources
and Community Development DCA

Washington County Land Use Plan 1976 Washington County
(Creswell is a part of.this plan)

Housing Assistance Plan 1979 - Creswell Community Development
Department

The Town has not prepared a Transportation Plan, however, as a

matter of policy the Town Council'. supports the widening-of U. S. 64.

In addition the Town has taken steps to alleviate its major traffic

problem by contracting for the widening, curbing, and paving of streets

near the East Carolina Bank.

As a matter of policy, the Town has extended water lines along

the populated corridors outside the town. According to the 201 Plan

for sewer construction, these areas will also be served by sewer lines.

Open space and recreation policies have not been established.

Regulations

Subdivision Regulations 1978 - Department of Natural
Resources and Community Development - DCA

Mobile Home and Travel Trailer Park Ordinance 1980 -
Ivanfield Associates

Fair Housing Ordinance 1980 - Ivanfield'Associates

Zoning Ordinance (Draft copy under con 'sideration) 1979 -
Department of Natural Resources and Community Development-DCA

The N. C. Building and Electrical Codes are administered in the Town

by the County. Septic Tank Regulations are administered by the Washington

County Health Department. Creswell participates in the Federal Flood

Insurance Program.

Local regulations for historic districts, dune protection,

sedimentation and environmental impact have not been considered as areas

of concern. These areas are treated on an individual basis as they

arise in relation to specific projects such as Community Development

Block Grant Projects and Sewer Plans.

Various nuisance regulations relating to livestock, noise., health

and safety are included in the Town.0rdinances..

STATL LICENSES AND PERMITS

Agency Licenses and Permits

Department of Na.tur.al Resources and C ommu n i t yP:ermits to discharge to surface
Development waters or operate waste water
Division of Environmental Management treatment plants or oil discharge
permits; NPDES Permits, (G.S. 143-
215)

Permits for septic tanks with a
capacity ove 'r 3000 gallons/day
(G.S. 143-215-3).

Permits for withdrawal of surface
or ground waters in capacity use
areas (G.S., 143-215.15).

Permits for air pollution abate-
ment facilities an.1 sources
(C.S. 143-215.108).

Permits for construction of com-
plex sources; e.g. parking lots,
subdivisions, stadiums, etc.
(G.S. 143-215.109).

Permits for.construction of a well
over 100,000 gallons/day (G.S. 87-
.88).

Department of Natural Resource's and Permits to dredge and/or fill in
Community Development estuarine waters, tidelands, etc.
Office of Coastal Management (G.S.. 113-229).

Permits to undertake development
in Areas of Environmental Concern
(C.S. 113A-118
NOTE: Minor development permiLS
are issued by the local
government.

Department of Natural Resources and' Permits to alter or construct a
Community Development dam (G.S. 143-215.66).
Division of Earth Resources
Permits to mine (G.S. 74-51).

Permits to drill an exploratory
oil or gas well (G.S. 113-381).

Permits to conduct geographical
exploration (G.S. 113-391).

Sedimentation-erosion control
plans for any land disturbing
activity of over one contiguous
acre (G.S. 113A-54).

Departniont of Natural Resources an4 - Permits to construct an oil refinery.
Coiwaunity Development
Secretary of NRCD

Departmont of Administ ration - Eas ements to fill where lands are
proposed to be raised above the
normal high water mark of navigable
waters by filling (G.S. 146.6(c)).

Department of Human Resources - Approval to operate a solid waste
disposal site or facility (C.S.130-
166.16).

- Approval for construction of any
public water supply facility that
furnishes water to ten or more
residences (G.S. 130-160.1).

FEDERAL LICE"NSI", AND PERMITS

Agency Licenses and @.ermits

Army Corps of Engineers Permits required under, Sections 9.
(Department of Defcnse) and 10 of the Rivers and Harbors
of 1899; permits to construct in
n4vigable waters.

Permits required under Section 103
of the Marine Protection, Research
and Sanctuaries Act of 1972.

Permits required under Section 404
of the Federal Water Pollution
Control Act of 1972; permits to
undertake dredging and/or filling
activities.

Coast Cuard Permits for bridges, causeways,
(Department of Transportation) pipelines over navigable waters;
required under the General Bridge
Act of 1946 and the Rivers and
Harbors Act of 1899.

Deep water port permits.

Geological Survey - Permits required for off-shore
13L,reau of Land Management drilling.
(Department of Interior) - Approvals of OCS pipeline corridor
rights-of-way.

Nurlear Regulatory Commission Licenses for siting, construction
and operation of nuclear power
plants; required,under the Atomic@
Energy Act of 1954 and Title II of
tile Energy Reorganization Act of
1974.

Federal, Energy .&egulatory Commission Permits for construction, operation
and maintenance of interstate pipe-
lines facilities required under the
Natural Cas Act of 1938.

Orders of interconnection of elec-
tric transmissi.on facl.lities under
Section 202(b) of the Federal Power
Act.

Permi6sion required for abandonment
of natural gas pipeline.and asso-
ciated facilities under,Section 7C
(b) of the Natural'Gas.Act of 1938.

Licenses for non-federal hydro-
electric projects and associated
'transmission lines under Sections
4 and 15,of the Federal Power Act.

CONSTRAINTS

PHYSICAL LIMITATION FOR DEVELOPMENT

The high water table and level terrain,lchaeacteri.stic of Washington

County makes the use of land difficult at times. Soils with.extreme

limitations, which, cover the majority of the County, also make development

impossible in many areas.

Massive drainage has improved the utilization of county and municipal

land for urban, agricultural, and forestry uses, yet many areas are still

undevelopable due to physical limitations. These limitations include hazard

areas, soil limitations,.water supply sources and excessive slopes.

Hazard Areas

Flood hazard and shoreline erosion areas are the two major natural hazard

areas which impact future development.

Potential flood hazard areas are shown on the Department of Housing and

Urban Development Flood, Hazard Boundary Maps, effective June 9, 1978. The

most populated areas designated are Creswell and Cherry, with large areas along
the Albemarle Sound also considered subject to flood conditions (Figures 16 - 18).

A more precise flood study will be completed.within the next eighteen months

And will more accurately reflect. the areas..within the County subject to periodic

inundation. The impact of flood.hazard areas on future development can better

be assessed when this accurate study has been completed.

A sho.reline erosion study was prepared by the Soil Conservation Service in

October of 1975 to determine the magnitude of the erosion problem, and to list
factors associated with erosion. Divided into eight reaches (Figure 19)

the County's shoreline erosion rate of 4.5 ft. per year ranks high compared

to other coastal counties (figure 20

Reach number one, spanning from Plymouth to the mouth of Conaby Creek,

has experienced no measurable change in erosion.over the last 32 years.
Ove r' the same period, a section of shore line from Cona by Creek to Al beillarle

Beach has lost an average width of 120.2 feet, from Albemarle Beach to

Mackeys Creek 85.4 feet, and from Mackeys Creek to Skinnersville area 78.6 feet.

Batemans Beach has lost an average of 116.8 feet to erosion and Leonards Poi-nt
approximately 60.5 feet. The Laurel Point area had the most dramatic loss,

208.7 feet, with the shoreline west of the point to the Albemarle Sound

bridge experiencing a loss of 111.4 feet.

A study conducted by ECU Geology Department attributes the majority of

shoreline erosion to high energy storms, with the amount of recession at

any specific location depending upon the storm frequency, storm type and.direction,

storm intensi.ty and duration, and resulting wind tides, currents, and waves.

Generally, Washington County's erosion is due primarily to the orientation of

the Albemarle Sound, coupled with an extreme fetch (average distance of open

water in front of shoreline) of upto 50 miles. The type of shoreline vegetation,

topography, and parent material also has a bearing on the amount of erosion.

-The shoreline a,long the Albemarle Sound consists of 43.9% Swamp Forest,

.32.3% Low Bank, and 23.8% High Bank. Swamp forest shorelines occur where
the topography is less than one foot above normal sea level, and are

characterized by a mixture of cypress, black gum, and atlantic white cedar.

Low Bank shorelines are sediment banks composed of clay, silt, and sand

mixtures which rise 1 to 5 feet above normal water level. High bank

shorelines are sediment banks consisting of clay, silt and sand mixtures

which.rise 5 to 20 feet above normal water level. The average

WASHINGTON COUNTY

NORTH CAROLINA
Figure 16

FLOOD PRONE AREAS

Vz,

sUTF

L A K 9 S L P

A u r o a I
c o u N I y
I c o

VIP

sl_

Figure 17
-FLOOD PRONE AREAS,

FLOOD PRONE AREA
ROPERY N.C.

UAU: 1Y.0 3/.o -4/10
)i
SOURCE: Federal-Flood Insurance Administration

j Figure 18
CRESWELL, N.-C.

L _L_
SCALC: 'V10 0 0 4ho 5/10
MILE FLOOD PRONE AREAS
SOURCE:_. Federal.Flood Insurance Administration FLOOD PRONE AREA
50

WASHINGTON COUNTY "o
NORTH CAROLINA
Figure 19

SHORELINE EROSION

tot

1-/lz

FmGkf. STAt[ wK
L A K x p m A Lp sl LEGEND-

-7- REACH

1 1 4' u F o -2 1 c o u N I v I
c o u N
o W A c

VC
liitiT @. ot
ntil ai Averl. x
0 -:Averape Verage K it t i,..\\ c, cn,, t i o i i
(;horc I i ne Shorel i ne Total Sedimew Sed i men t Aleight of Area 1:1*os ion :Shorel inc
Studied Eroding :Area Lost: Produced : Produced :of Bank Frodcd IL'I I e :Accreving, Stuav,
(Mi.) (Ac.) : (Tons) : (Ton.,,/Nl i . /Y r.).j__LFt. (Ft.) (N.. . (Yr.
011 118.1 .126.5 968.1 6,430,365 I.S88 3.4 53.8 1.7 32

Bertie 2b.7 19.4 9S.5 2,939,520 4.735 15.7 29.5 0.92 0 32

Camden .38.8 32.0 308.2 1,032,778 1.0 41 .2.1 65.6 2.1 0 @1

Carteret 178.89 146.63 891.31 7,097,700 2,689 4.1 2.79 (J. 13 18

Chowan 42.1 2S.0 147.9 1,SB3,664 2,043 S.S 29.0 0.94 0.S 31

Craven 47.41 46.s6 b84.41 15.40S,468 1D.-U0 11.5 121.0 3.8 0 32

Currituck 123.4 108.6 S14.3 3,410,625 1,013 3.4 3S.2 1.13 3.1 31

Dare 82.0 80.1 437.3 1,28S,841 730 1.5 44.0 2.0 0 22

Hyde 23S.0 23S.01 2,136.0 3,126,082 532 0.8 7S.6 3.0 0 -25

Onslow 64.S 26.0 .5S.0 1,000,736 2,138 9.3 17.5 Li S.7 Os
21

Pamlico S4.74 S4.25 738.16 8,164,S63 4,703 5.6 3.S 0 32,

Pascr iotank 29.0 24.8 .311.0 2,092.,SOS 2,722 3.4 88.3 2.9 0 31

Perquimans 5i.4 44.8 335.0 3,573,967 2,573 S.4 S1.8 1.7 0 31

Tyrrell 89.6 89.6 48S.6 1,S21,295 772 1.6 44.7 2.0 0 22

Washington 25.6 24.7 445.1 2,030,923 2.,569 4.5 143.S 4.5 0 32

*Weighted rate u,,ed for two periods of study: 1949 to 1970 and 1949 to 1964
SOURCE: Shof@eline Erosion Inventory 52
Figure 20 COUN7Y SUNNARIES

erosion rate for the North Carolina estuarine system for these catagories are:
.low bank 2.6 feet per year; high bank 1.9; and swamp forest 2.1 feet per year.

Increased bulk heading of shoreline property in the more developed areas has

decreased erosion somewhat, however when adjacent property is not protected

the erosion damage to this property is dramatically increased.

Soil Limitations,

Of the County's 214,690 acres, approximately 199,205 acres have severe

limitations for building foundations and septic tanks, according to the Soil

Conservation Service 1979 Soils Survey (figure 21). The unsuitablilty is at-

tributable to clay content, organic matter, and the height of the water table.

Generally, shallow soils are not a deterent to development in Washington County.,
Building foundations, are negatively affected by soils with lack of strength
and high shrink swell potential. Cracks and or major structural damage may

res ult from constructing foundation on poor soils.

The location of sanitation systems on individual-lots is directly affected
by soil type. The North Carolina Health Administrative Code is very specific
about the soil chaPacteristics suitable for placement of sewage disposal systems.
Each potential site is inspected and a soils boring made. The soil texture,
structure, depth and drainage are then assessed prior to determi-ning suitability.
Generally 2:1 (Montmorillonite) clays are unsuitable for installation of
sewer systems due to-texture, as are organic soils. Clay soils having blocky
and platy structure may hamper movement of sewage effluent.- Acceptable soil
depth is 48 inches when standard systems.are to be used. Any soil profile
that has the greyish colors indicative of high water tables, or that is subject
to tidal or periodic high water within 36 inches of the surface have generally
been,considered unsuitable as to drainage.

Although.the majortiy of County soils have severe limitations, the in-

stallation of modified systems and lot alterations involving elevating the

system site, or lowering the water table, have allowed for the use of marginal

land for residential use.

Soils suitable for building development are'located in the northern sector

of the County adjacent to Plymouth and Roper, and scattered along Mackeys Road

and the Albemarle Sound. (see soils study for specific areas)

Roper soil limitations are discussed on page 134 of this plan under
constraints to development.

Creswell soil limitations are discussed on page 143.

Figure 21

SOIL LIMITATIONS FOR
SYMBOL SOIL NAME DRAINAGE SEPTIC TANK FOUNDATION NUMBER OF ACRES

3 Altavista fine sandy loam Fair None None' 6,530
6 Arapahoe loamy sand Poor Severe Severe 9,500
9 Argent silt loam Poor Severe Severe 8,045
12 Augusta fine sandy loam Poor Severe Severe 6,610
15 Belhaven muck Poor Severe Severe 25,645
18 Bojac loamy fine sand Good None None 1,220
21 Cape Fear loam Poor Severe Severe 28,755
24 Conaby:muck Poor Severe Severe 3,600
28 Coneitoe loamy sand Good None None 3,365
35 Dogue fine sandy loam Fair Severe -Severe 2,650
38 Dorovan muck Poor Severe Severe 17,600
39 Dorovan mucky silt loam, Poor Severe Severe 2,255
41 Dragston loamy sand Poor Severe Severe 4,950
43 Fortescue silt loam Poor Severe Severe 720
51 Hyde silt loam Poor Severe Severe 5,010
94 Wehadkee silt loam Poor Severe Severe 2,115
57 Pettigrew muck Poor Severe .,Severe 6,310
60 Ponzer muck. Poor Severe Severe 1,120
63 Portsmouth fine sandy loam Poor Severe Severe 20,000
71 Pungo muck Poor Severe Severe 14,815
75 Roanoke loam Poor Severe Severe 15,550
78 Roper muck Poor Severe Severe 6,590
80 Scuppernong muck Poor Severe Severe 2,040
86 Tarboro sand . Good None None 945
88 Tomotley fine sandy loam Poor Severe Severe 3,825
90 Wahee fine sandy loam Poor Severe Severe 4,140
92 Wasda muck Poor Severe Severe. 7,360
98 Wickham loamy sand Good None None 3,425
TOTAL 214,690

Water Supply Areas

Ground,water Washington County is currently well-endowed with a more

than ample supply of water. Its surface waters fall within the Roanoke River
basin and the Albemarle Sound. 'Private and municipal water supplies draw upon

two aquifers underlying the County.

The Castle Hayne aquifer is highly productive and the principal source of

water supply in we,stern Washington County. The aquifer consists predominantly

of porous and permeable limestone and lies at depths ranging from about 120 ft.

in the Western part of the County to 400 feet in the eastern part. Yields of

several hundred gallons per minute are obtained from wells of four to eight
inches.in diameter that penetrate'only 15 to 30 feet of the aquifer.

The Yorktown aquifer, comprising all the confined water-bearing beds

above the Castle Hayne aquifer, has been developed extensively as sources of

domestic water supply.in the County, and is the chief source of supply in the

eastern part where it is about 300 to 350 feet thick. The aquifer offers a

shallower and less highly mineralized source of water supply than the Castle

Hayne aquifer. Yields from individual wells.range from 5 to 60 gallons per

mi nute.

Groundwater in Washington County, although not of uniform.quality, is

sati-sfactory for,most domestic uses. Water from the Castle Hayne limestone

is characteristically hard, high in iron and contains hydrogen sulfide.

Yorktown aquifer water ranges from hard to soft and generally contains iron.

Many county residents use water softners to generate palatable water for

domestic use, however the proposed provision of county water will relieve this

problem in many communi ties -(Figure 22).

WASHINGTON COUNTY C 0 W A M 0 U
NORTH CAROLINA - @ Xl@fj
Figure 22

COUNTY WIDE WATER SYSTEM

_74-

0 $AV

KT"Geny STAn wK
A K I P L P Legend

Proposed Service Areas

PU"

0 C 0 U N 7 V
C 0 U N T y

NOIE: PRELIMINARY MAP 57

Due to their braquish nature the Roanoke River and Albemarle Sound are not

feasible as potable water sources, but the waters of Lake Phelps may represent

a future water source for the County in years to come.

Surface Waters - The suitability of surface waters for various uses has been

categorized in North Carolina according to a system of water quality classifi-

cations which rank order fresh and tidal salt waters according to their levels

of pollution. Higher classifications which denote water for food processing

can include lower quality uses suchas waste disposal as well, but not without

degrading the higher classification to a lower standard. Lower water quality

classifications can only be raised-to higher classifications through control

and treatments of effluents. These nine classifications are depicted in the

form of' a pyramid and are discribed in Figure 23.

Figure 24 reveals that there are only four classifications for surface

waters out of a possible nine in Washington County. Of these four, Class SB

has the highest water quality. These Class SB waters designate all of Bull's

Bay. The quality of Bull's Bay water is attributed primarily to the undisturbed

natural areas surrounding the Bay.' Providing signifi.cant protection, this

forested wetland acts as a valuable buffer zone. Lack of massive-drainage of the

areas adjacent to the Bay have also promoted clean-water.'

The quality of Public Trust and Estuarine waters is being affected. Fish

disease such as red sore disease, and algae bloom are becoming more a Ind more

prevalent in the Albemarle system. The quality of surface waters had been of

major concern due to s.ignificant algae bloom development in the Chowan River.

Washington County has not experienced the extensive problems associated with

Chowan County, but pockets of low dissolved oxygen have been noted in the

Albemarle Sound according to NRCD Water Management personnel. These area

are many times responsible for fish diseases brought on by stressful reactions

Figure 23

CLASS DESIGNATIONS FOR WATER QUALITY STANDARDS

HIGHEST USES
AII SA
FRESH B SB TIDAL SA LT
WA.,..TERS C SC WATERS
LOWEST USES D SD

COMPARISON OF CLASS DESIGNATIONS

Fresh Waters

Class A-T Suitab,le as source of water supply for drinking, culinary, or.food
processing purposes after treatment by approved disinfection only,
and any other usage requiring waters of lower quality.

Class A-11 Suitable as a source of Water supply for drinking, culinary or
food processing purposes after approved treatment equal coagulation,
sedimentation, filtration, and disinfection, etc. and any o.ther
usage requiring waters of lower quality.

Class B Suitable for outdoor bathing and any other usage requiring waters
of lower quality.
Class C Suitable for @fishing and fish propagation,,and any other usage requiring
waters of lower quality.

Class D Suitable for agriculture.and for industrialcooling and process water
after treatment by the user as may be required under each particular
circumstance..

Tidal Salt Waters

Class SA Suitable for shellfishing for market purposes and any other usage
requiring water of lower quality.

Class SB Suitable for bathing and any other usage except shellfishing for
market purposes.

Class SC Suitable for fishing and any other usage except bathing and shellfishing
for warket purposes.

Class SD Suitable for navigation and any other usage except fi,shing, bathing,
and shellfishing for market purposes

Source: 1976 CAMA Land Use Plan

Figure 24

STREAM CLASSIFICATIONS

Classification
e of Stream Description Class Date Index No.

NOKE RIVER From 18 mile.market at C Sw 9/l/57 23-(53)
Jamesville to Albemarle
Sound (Batchelor Bay)
ad Creek From source to Roanoke C Sw 9/l/57 23-54
River
ch Creek From source to Main Line C Sw 7/1/73 23-55-(l)
SCL Railroad Bridge
:h Creek From Main Line SCL Rail- D Sw 4/1/71 23-55-(2)
road Bridge to Roanoke
River
aby Creek From source to Roanoke C 5w 9/l/57 23-56
,River
@marle Sound (Batchelor West of a line"extending B Sw 9/l/74 24
from a p*oint of land on
the southside of the
mouth of Black Walnut
Swamp in a southerly
direction to a point of
land on the east side of
the mouth of Roanoke
River
-most River From Roanoke River to C Sw 9/l/57 24-1-(1)
N. C. Hwy. 45
-most River From N. C. Hwy. 45 B Sw, 9/l/74 24-1-(2)
including cutoff be-
tween Eastmost River
and Middle River to
Albemarle Sound
Irick Creek (Mackeys From source to U. S. D Sw 4/1/61 .30-9-(l)
@k) @Hwy. 64 at Roper
.1rick Creek (Mackeys From U. S. Hwy. 64 at SC 7/1/73 30-9-(2)
@k) Roper to Albemarle
Sound
ier Dam Branch From source to Ken- C Sw 9/l/74 30-9-3
drick Creek
@30-9-3-1
.nners Canal From source to Beaver C Sw 9/l/74
Dam Branch
i Canal From source to Ken- C Sw 9/l/74 30-.9-4
drick Creek
ial B From source to Main C Sw 9/l/74 30-9-4-1
Canal
lal A From source to Main C Sw 9/l/74 30-9-4-2
Canal
iis Canal From source to Main C Sw 9/l/74 30-9-4-3
Canal

kers Swamp From source to Ken- CSw 9/l/74 .30-9-5
drick Creek
@!asant Grove Creek From source to Albe- CSw 9/l/74 30-10
marle Sound
,apel Swamp From source to Albe- CSw 9/l/74 30-11
marle Sound
iberry Ditch From source to Albe- CSw. 9/l/74 30-12
marle Sound
2ights Creek:., From Source to Albe- CSw 9/l/74 30-13
marle Sound
11 Bay Entire Bay SB 7/1/73 30-14
ull Creek From source to Bull Bay C Sw 9/l/74 30-14-1
eep Creek From source to Bull Bay IC Sw 7/1/73 30-14-2.
unton Creek From source to Bull Bay CSw 7/1/73 30-14-3
cuppernong River From source to mouth of CSw 4/1/61 30-14-4-1
Riders Creek (First Creek),
occasin Canal and From sources to Scupper- CSw 9/l/74 30-14-4"2
connecting canals nong River
estern Canal and From sources to Scupper- CSw 9/l/74 30-14-4-3
connecting canals nong River
en Foot Canal From source to Western CSw 9/l/74 30-14-4-3
Canal 1
ine Foot Canal From source to Ten Foot CSw 9/l/74 30-14-4-3
Canal 1-1
ountain Canal and From sources to Scupper- CSw 9/l/74 30-14-4-4
connecting canals nong River
hirty Foot Canal From source to Scupper- CSw 9/l/74 30-14-4-5
nong River
Id Canal 'From source to Scupper- CSw 9/l/74 30-14-:4-6
nong River
helps Lake Entire Lake CSw 4/1/61 30-14-4-6

to change in water conditions.

Extensive damage to water quality has not occurred to date, but non

point and point source pollutants.are slowly dama Ong the quality of our surface
waters. There are.two categories of pollutants point and non point, both
of.whi,ch are causing water quality degradation in the Albemarle System.

According to NRCD staffnon-point pollutants are the most difficult to

control and are. causing a significant amount of the problem. Two non-point

source pollutants prevalent in pritnarily rural agricultural areas are nutrients

and sedi ment.

Phosphorous and nitrogen are-nutrients that algae and other aquatic plants

require in order to grow. If le.vels of these nutrients are,too.h.igh, the plant

production in.a body of water is overstimulated and algae bloom may occur.

Excessive nutrient input may occur from wastewater.discharge septic tank

leakag e-and runoff from-agricultural areas. Streams draining agricultural

areas have higher nutrient con6entrations than those draining forested wet-

lands. Comparatively, average total phosphorus concentrations for agriculture

..were ten times greater, mean total nitrogen concentrations were about five times

greater than forested areas.

Pesticides and nutrients are used extensively in agricultureand may,

under runoff conditions, be trans,ported to streams, attached to sediment or

dissolved in the runoff water. These nutrients have the potentilal for

accelerating eutrophication and promoting algae blooms resulting in.oxygen

depletion.

Almost 80% of the total annual soil erosion in North Carolina comes from

agricultural land. Generally, 25% of the eroded soil is discharged to large

62.

rivers as'sediment, adversely affecting acquatic organisms and reducing the

carry capacity of streams and rivers, and is considered by,volume to be the

greatest potential pollutant.

Control of non-point source lies mainly with the property owner. Primary
efforts to reduce non-point pollutants will be those of education, technical'

assistance and monitoring.

Point sources operate under National Pollutant Discharge Elimination

System permits. Limits are derived for the level of pollutants that may be

discharged from a source and they are included-in.tte permit. A compliance

schedule is provided and the industry, or point source, must develop means for

'compliance within the specified ti'me period. Statewide totals from 1978 indicate

that 61% of discharging facilities are now in compliance with permit limits.
Weyerhaeuser Company is considered a point sourceand efforts are presently

underway to improve their methods of pollution control., The State Water Quality..

Staff has notifed them of needed improvements a nd Weyerhaeuser is developing

specific methods for d ealing with requested changes.

Point sources are regula ted by State and Federalagencies, and must conform

to emission standards, however agricultural and other non-point pollutants

have no regulatory controls. Efforts are now underway by NRCQ to identify

the sources of pollution affecting-our waters so that preventive measures may
be taken to protect the quality of our surface waters. The. general consensus

is that many of the sources are located as far away as Virginia due to the

location of 75% of the Chowan Watershed within Virginia. Upstream pollution-

of our waters is impossible to control on the local level, thus we must

depend on State agencies to assure the uptection of downstream users.

Major industries and farm operations may impact water supply on another.

level, by the removal of vast quantities of ground-water, directly affecting the

water table. Presently there are no industries within Washington County

drawing extensively on ground water, such'as Texas Gulf in Beaufort County,

but the impact of such activities is being carefully observed.* Farm drainage

may also have'long term effects on ground water supply, but presently no data
is available upon which to confirm assumptions and suspicions.

Air Resources

According to State Air Quality staff, ambient air quality standards are not

being exceeded in Washington County due to-the Weyerhaeuser Mill. A standard
is applied to each pollutant and. if ind.ustries exceed this ceiling, corrective

measures must be taken. Although samples have been taken in Plymouth, not

adjacent to the Mill, the major.:impact is from Weyerhaeuser.

How does this relate to development constraints? If our ambient air quality

is poor, there is the possibility potential new industry, which might push

the pollutant standards beyond an acceptable level, would be turned away. The

combination of Weyerhaeuser and another industry may discourage the

location of the new industry,or encourage the reduction of poll.6tant levels by

Weyerhaeuser,so our total figure would be acceptable.

The.North Carolina Administrat'lve Code suggests that an atmosphere in which

these standards are not exceeded should provide for the protection of the

public health, plant and animal life, and property. As of yet, the monitoring

.results do not exceed required standards, although nitrogen dioxide and sulfer

dioxide levels have increased over-the last three years. The particulate

figure of 49 micrograms per cubic meter a,nnually-is fast-approachingthe
3
standard of 60 ug/m (Figure 25
The purpose of ambient air quality standardsis to'establish certain

maximum limits on parameters of air quality,.ponsidered-desirable for the

preservation and enhancement of the quality of,the State's air resources,
according to State Environmental.Management @uldelines' Groundlevel con-
centrations of Pollutants are determined by sampling at,fi-xed locations in

,areas beyond the premises on which'a source islocated. "There have been two

areas, locations in Plymouth, where samples of air pollutants have been measured.

The three elements measured in Washington County includeparticulates,
sulfer dioxide,,and nitrogen dioxide. Below, is a brief'description of:the

standards which should not be exceeded.

,,@.The ambient air quality standards for sulfur oxides meas.ured as sulfur

dioxide are:

1., 80 micrograms per cubic meter (0.03,0.p.m.).annual arithmetic mean.

2. 365 micrograms per cubic meter (0.14-p.p.m.) maximum 24-hour concentration

not to be exceeded more than once a year, and

3. 1300 micrograms per cubic meter (0.5 p.p.m.) maximum three-hour

concentration not to be exceeded more than once per year.

The ambient air quality s@tandards for suspended particulate matter are:

1. 60 micrograms per cubic meter annual geometric mean, and

2. 150 micrograms per cubic meter maximum 24-hour concentration not to be

exceeded more than once per year.

The ambient air quality-standard for nitrogen dioxide is 100.micrograms

per cubic meter (0.05 p.p.m.) annual arithmetic mean.

Steep Slopes

No lands in the County exceed twelve percent slope except where highway

cuts and fills,are made and along portions of the shore a.long Albemarle Sound

weSL of Leonard's Point. At this location, Sound.erosion has created some

sharp cliffs rising to nearly seven feet in height*

Figure 28

Air Quality Data,
3
Annual Means, ug/M,

1972 1974 1976 1978 1979

Particulates #1 - - - 43 49
#2 38 49 49

Sulfer Dioxide #1 6 12
#2 6 5 5

Nitrogen Dioxide #1 18 17
.#2 21 12 12

FRAGILE AREAS

There are a number of natural areas throughout Washington County which

could easily be damaged by insensitive land development. Identification of

these fragile areas will help focus attention on these valuable resources

as the County grows. Included as fragile areas are public trust waters,

estuarine shoreline, estuarine Waters, coastal wetlands, and natural.areas

around Lake Phelps and Pungo Lake.
Public Trust Waters - By definition, these waters are described as all

waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the lands thereunder from the mean high

water mark,to the seaward limit of state jurisdiction;.all natural bodies of

water s'ubject to measurable lunar tides and lands thereunder to the mean high

water mark; all navigable natural bodies of water an d lands thereunder to the
mean high water level or mean water leve 1 as the case May'b6, except privately
owned lakes to which the public has.ho right of access; all waters in artificially
created bodies of water in which exists significant public fishing resources

or other public resources, which are accessible to the public by navigation

from bodies.of water in which the public has rights of navigation; and all

waters in artificially created.bodies of water in which the public has acquired

rights by prescription, custom, usage, dedication or any other means.

In Washington,..County these waters are those of Bull's Bay,.Albemarle

Sound, the Scuppernong River, Roanoke River, Lake Phelps, Pungo Lake, Welch's

Creek, Conaby Creek, and Mackey's*Creek. They are among the listing of streams

classified for water quality in figure 24.

The Scuppernong River, Welch's Creek, Conaby Creek and Mackey's Creek,

have been damaged for fishing and navigation through poor land clearing

practice. All of these streams exhibit poor water flow from siltation which

has settled in the streams to block small boats and enlarge the floodplains.

The finer silt remains suspended in these waters killing fish habitats

and diminishing waterfowl populations.

Specific effects of development in Washington County upon the Albemarle

Sound, the Roanoke River and Bull's Bay are inconclusive due to lack of data;

however, recent reports by th Center For Rural Resource Development have

pointed to farm drainage and sediment as one of many potential pollutants of

our surface waters.

The waters of Pungo Lake are.completely buffered by the federal government's

Pungo National Wildlife Refuge and consequently has littleadverse impact

from poor land development. Lake Phelps, however, has no such buffer and has

been subject to past and present abuse.

Estuarine Waters - By definition these waters are defined in G. S.113A-

113 (b) (2) as, 'all the Water of the Atlantic Ocean within.the boundary of

North Carolina and all the waters of the bays, sounds, rivers, and tributaries

thereto, seaward of the dividing line between coastal fishing waters and
inland fishing waters, as set forth in an agreement adopted by the Wildlife

Resources Commission and the Department of.Natural Resources and Community

Development filed with the Secretary of Stateentitled "Boundary Lines, North

Carolina Commercial Fishing - Inland Fishing Waters, revised March 1, 1965"

or as it may be subsequently revised by the Legislature.

In Washington County, estuarine Waters are the Albemarle-Sound,

Bull's Bay and the Roanoke River. Their principal value is for recreation,

particularly sport fishi.ng.

Bluegill, white perch and other panfishes such as the warmouth and

flier comprise over 70 percent of the catch. Cat fish, crappie and redbreast

are next in fisherman-take. Largembuth bass, although it ranks first in pre.-

ference as a game fish, comprises only about four percent of the catch, while

stripped bass makes up only about three percent. (Data form the N. C.

Wildlife Commission)

Coastal Wetlands By definition, coastal wetlands are "any salt marsh or

other marsh subject to regular or occasional fl-ooding by tides, including wind

tides (whether or not the tide waters reach the marshland areas through natural

or artificial watercourses), provided this shall not include hurricane or trb-

pical storm tides. Salt Marshland or other m arsh shall be those areas upon

which grow some, but not necessarily all, of the following salt marsh and marsh

plat species: Smooth or Salt Water Cordgrass (Spartina alterniflora),Black

Needlerush (Juncus roeme .rianus); Glasswort (Salicornia spp.); Salt@Grass

(Distichlis Spicata); Sea Lavender (Limonium spp.); Bulrush (Scirpus spp.);

Saw Grass (Cladium Jamaicense); Cat-Tail (Typha �_pp.); Salt-Meadow Grass (Spartina

Patens); and Salt'Reed Grass (Spartina cynosuroides)." Included in this statutory

definition of wetlands is "such contiguous land as the Secretary of NRCD.

reasonably deems necessary to affect by any such order in carrying out tile

purposes of this Section." (G. S. 113-230 (a)

In Washington County there are two small tracts of coastal.wetlands.

One is located at the mouth of Deep Creek where it empties into Bull's Bay. This

area is completely surrounded by swamp and is inaccessible by means of trans-

portation except boat. Little is known about the species of wildlife at this

site. Because of the extremely poor drainage and remoteness of this area, it

is very unlikely that any adjoining land use will.pose serious damage in the

foreseeable future. The other area is located just east of Batemans Beach.

Greater impact is expected here because the.adjoining land area is being deve-

loped for residential use@.

Lake Phelps - Lake Phelps, located in Scuppernong Township, covers

approximately 16,600 acres with 25 square miles of water surface. An integral

part of Pettigrew State Park, the Lake is the second largest,natural fre.sh

water lake in North Carolina.

The lake proper is connected to the Scuppernong River by a series of

canals dating back to 1787. Essentially there is no Qverland recharge of

the lake due to its high elevation, but comies primarily from precipitation

with a minimum amount attributed to underground acquifers. The average water

depth is five feet with the center of the lake reaching seven feet.

Pettigrew Park located on the north west border of Lake Phelps consists

of 167 acres including Somerset Place, a State Historic Site. Forty acres

of the park site, a cypress swanip, is a registered natural heritage area.
The pettigrew Cypress Natural Area ( figure 26). is an excellent example-
of a mature bald cypress-herb swamp.. The desirability of cypress as a timber
tree and general land clearing and drainage have resulted in the elimination
of most mature cypress swamps. The natural area is a significant represen-
tation of a coastal plain vegetation type. According to the North Carolina"

Natural Heritage Program the threatened peripheral spotted pipewort (Eriocauion

Pellucidum) occurs in shallow pools.within the site.

Endangered wildlife located in the Lake Phelps area includes the Waccamaw

killifish (Fundulus Waccamensis), and the Black bear (Ursus Americanus), con-

sidered of special concern, has been sited,also.
The major threat to this pa@ticular natural area is the, potential for

lowering the lake water level by a series of flood gates. If the lake level

is lowered for the majority of the growing season', hardwoods will invade the

.draw down. zone and the plant community type will gradually change.

Due to the ability of man to alter the water level at will by canal -gates,

there is concern for all vegetated areas surrounding Lake Phelps. This concern

culminated in the nomination of Lake Phelps and surrounding area as an Area

of Environmental Concern by the County Board of Commissioners.,

Increased vegetative alteration due to residential development and hints

of algae bloom in the Lake warned of potential irreparable damage to the Lake

area. These iss .ues, along with concern over the water level, served as a basis

for the,nomination, as documented in "Information for Nomi.nation of Lake Phelps

As An AEC" Developed by the County Planning Office.

Subsequent information relative to lake level managlement was produced by

the Division of Parks and Recreation and proposes varied lake levels according

,.to the time of year and local needs.

WASHINGTON COUNTY 0 C
NORTH CAROLINA
Figure 26

PETTIGRE14 PARK LAKE PHELPS

Legend

L A X Z P K 8 L P 8
Big Point Access Area
(proposed)
Cypress Natural Area

Somerset Place
f-7,
0 Evergreen Pocosin

1 0 1 V D. I C 0 T

Support f'or designation of'Lake Phelps as an AEC is still. strong..
The area included in the designation would be the Lake proper and,landward.

seventy five feet from the 11.2 feet,elevation. Within this zone, vegetation

removal, septic tan'k location, and building setbacks would be regulated by

CAMA permit requirements.

Development pressures will continue around the Lake as subdivided lots are.

improved and the Pettigrew Park expansion begins. Peat mining adjacent

to the Lake will also generate impacts, which will be assessed in the coming

months. With the institution of an AEC designation-, enforcement of County

Health Regulations, peat impact studies, and the implementation of the Lake

Level Management Plan, impacts on the Lake can hopefully be held to a minimum.

Pungo Lake The National W.ildlife Refuge,consists of 12,350 acres. The

2,800 acre Lake Pungo is'surrounded by a designated natural area 1,000 acres

in size.

This 1,000 acre pocosin, east of the Lake is a remnant of a large pocosin,

once typical of the flatlands of eastern N. C.. Extensive cypress and white.

cedar swamp forest were destroyed by prehistoric fires, leaving stumps and

logs and a depression now occupied by Pungo Lake. The pocosin area and lake

have been designated a s a natural area because of its "importance as a wild7

life habitat, its representation of a protected pocosin ecosystem, and its

illustration of geologic and geomorphic, processes."

According to the North Carolina Natural Heritage Program, endangered and

threatened species are located,i.n the Pungo Lake Area. They include: Haliaeetus

leucocephalus Bald eagle, Aquila chrysaetos Golden eagle, Falco peregrinus

Peregrine falcon and Ursus americanus Black bear.

Due to the valuable natural areas,, and the special character of the

plant and animal life the Pungo Lake area should be preserved in the future

for scientific, ecological, educational-and recreational purposes.

AREAS WITH RESOURCE POTENTIAL

Identification of areas with resource potential reflects natural

resources which should be used for their highest and best uses, and indicates

the possibilityof building industry and housing elsewhere on lands with less

potential for resource production. Many areas in the County represent

potential resource s which can have an impact on the way lands are used.

They i.nclude forestland, agricultural lands, wildlife Kabitat, peat resources

and recreation resources

Forest Land

There are five timber tracts located throughout the County of significant

size (figure 15). One wooded area is located-between Long Ridge Road and

Highway 32 and is owned by Georgia Pacific and Weyerhaeuser. This will

continue to be managed as timber land. A large area spanning between Highway

99 and Roper is owned almost exclusively by Weyerhaeuser. The primary large

timber.holding which will be converted to agricultural use is a tract owned by

Juniper Farms on Newland Road. A tract adjacent to this owned by Champion

International will be utilized as forestland, as will another forested area

close to Roper on Newland Road owned by, Union Camp and Weyerhaeuser. Bull's
bay is a forest wetland and is expected to continue as forestland.

As long as these areas are reforested and managed properly, they will

continue as renewable resource areas.

Agriculture

According to fi,gures from Soil Conservation Service and the Agricultural

Extension Agency, 53% of the County's land area is used for agriculture production.

The largest tracts in production lie in the eastern two-thirds of the County.

Soils in.this area are highly organic and until recently, virtually undrainable.

However, corporate land reclamation efforts have made these areas conducive to

agricultural production.

The Washington County Soil Survey identifies County-soils which are
conduc ive to high agricultural yields, with an&without management practices.

Capability of soils for agricultural use are based on the suitability of soils.
for'most types of field crops. The grouping of soils:is based on the limitations,

of the soils when used for field crops, the.risk of damage when they are used,

and the way they respond to treatment. Initial classification does not take

in to consideration major man4gement activities such as mass drainage and

expensive land forming.
Washing ton County soils which are considered to have few or,-.moderate limi-.

tations for agricultural use according to,the County Soils Survey are:
PERCENTAGE OF
SOIL TYPES COUNTY SOILS ACREAGE.

Al.taviata fine sandy'loam 3.0. 6,530
Bojac loamy sand 0..6. 1 220
Conetoe loamy sand 1.6 3:365
Dogue fine sandy loam 1.2 2,650
Dragston loamy sand 1.6 3,425

TOTAL 10.3 22,140

These soils are gener'ally.in small areas from 4 to 50 acres in size and

are located primarily in the northern sector of the County where the majority

of urban development is occuring. They make up only 1-0.3 percent of the

C'Dunty.'s land area.

The majority of soils within Washington County can be successfully used

fo'r agriculture with the aid of management techniques. Those requiring

management are located primarily south of Highway,64 and.make up 70.8 percent

of the County's soils and include the following:

PERCENTAGE OF
SOTL TYPES COUNTY SOILS' ACREAGE

Conoby muck 1.7 3,600
Cape fear loam 13.4 28,755
Argent silt loam 3.7
Hyde silt loam 1.0. 2,115
Fortescue mucky,loam, 0.3 720
Pettigrew muck 2.9 6,310:@
Ponzer muck 0.5 1,120
Portsmouth fine sandy'loam 9.3 20,000
Roanoke loam 7.2' 15,550
Roper muck 3.1 6,590
Scuppernong muck 1.0 2,040
Wasda muck 3.4 7,360
Tomotly fine sandy loam 1.9 3,825
.Belhaven muck 12.0 25,645
Augusta fine*sandy loam .3.1 6,610
Arapahoe:loamy sand 4.4 9,500
Wahee fine samdy loam 1.9 4,140

TOTAL 70.8 151 925

Natural Habitat.

Washington County contains a diversity of habitats.which support awide

variety of wildlife species'. The area is primarily rural and intensely

farmed, yet forested areas are intertpers.ed.with wetlands which are valuable

to wildlife.

Dorovan muck, Dorovan mucky silt loam and Wehadkee silt loam soils are

associated.with wetland, wooded swamp and drainage basin conditions. These

areas are important ecologically and productive as.wildlife, water fowl and

fish 'habitat areas. These soils consisting of 21,970 acres, are very sensitive,

and serve an important function as. natural environments and resource areas.

The intensive cropping operations on farmlands do not presently provide

optimum habitat for upl.and wildlife
.,-particularly small game. The potential

exists for a substantial increaselof most species in these areas through proper

habitat management according to the Regional Resource,Conservation and Develop-
ment Plan.

Waterfowl habitat areas in the County are located along the estuarine
system and adjacent to our lakes. The primary wintering area is Pungo Lake and
the secondary wintering area is Lake Phelps. Wood duck habitat, is scattered
along Conaby Creek, Mackeys Creek,.Deep Creek, Bull Creek and the Scuppernong

River.

White-tailed deer are common throughout the County but are abundant in the

Southwestern area of the Cou,nty.. Black bear occupy an area running along Long
Ridge Road from the Be"auf.ort,County linq,,adjacent to Plymouth along the
Roanoke River, between Lake Phelps and Pungo Lake and areas east and south-
west of Roper. Areas which are conducive to bear siting are Bulls Bay and

an area south of Plymouth.

.Peat Resources

,First Colony Farms estimates there are 146,090 acres of fuel grade'peat
spanning Washington, Dare, Hyde, and Tyrrell counti.es. (figure 26 A

According to a.recent Research Triangle Institute study, North Carolina's.

Coastal Zone holds peat energy reserves which could supply 24 years of North

Carolina's annual energy consumption at 1976 rates. There are approximately

3 billion tons of peat in coastal bogs or pocosins.

Peat is a material made up of partially decomposed.plant material and

inorganic minerals that have accumulated in a water saturated:environi-nent

over a'period of time, sometimes referred to as young coal.

Experimental mining activities by First Colony. adjacent to Lake Phelps,

have shown that the m1ning of the peat is feasible, and productive cropland

remains after the.removal of peat. A state permit has been secured by First

Colony to mine 15,000 acres of peat, approximately 8,688 acres of which are
in Washington County (figure 27), Generally peat'is harvested to an average

depth of 4 to'6 feet leaving a mineral soil.which.can be used for cultivation.-

The@*planting of these areas has,produced extremely good,.yields.

Due, to the mild year-r6und climate, in eastern North Carolina, the peat
harvesting season is 8 to 9 months, much longer than'Northern European
c.ountries which are using peat for fuel and other states with potential pe'at

resources.

Peat may be used in various ways. It may beburned as.fuel after drying,

processed into briquettes, pellets or coke before burning, or it can be, converted

into gaseous or liquid fuels. Animportant u.se relavent to' Washington

County is the direct combustion of field dried peat. Discussion has been

extensive, and studies have been made to'determine the feasibi.lity-of a peat

powered generating plant in the Washington, Dare, Hyde, and Tyrrell County area.

A more promising use for peat, now being discussed, is the conversion of

peat to methanol. -Economi'c studies are nowunderway and should soon reveal

the feasibility of producing methanol from peat. If First Colony Farms

proceeds'with the-idea, a-pilot plant one tenth-scale for a projected 35,000

BPD plant, will be built in close proximity to the peat resources.

The 3,600 BPD plant will use peat dried to 50% moisture and produce

3,600 bbl (500 tons) per day of methanol from 2,200 tons of,peat. It will take
a plant of this size 35 years to exhaust the -15,'200 acres of First Colony

Farm's Phelps.Field.

Major items of signifi,cance i6 the potential for cogeneration of electricity;
the almost total amelioration of the air quality impacts frornJugitive particulate

emissions; and the supply of fuel for farming, fishing and forestry.

Peat related environmental issues posed deal primarily with hydrology,

sediment.runoff, fire, airborne dust ar@d industrial pollution. The Reasearch

Triangle Institute briefly,addresses these issues, but detailed studies will

not be available until Coastal Energy Impact Program grants get underway and

First Colony Farms completes their own evaluation.

WASHINGTON COUNTY 4 0. 0
NORTH CAROLINA
Figur,,e

'WASHINGTON COUNTY
PEAT RESERVES

T,@ 4

Legend
sun
L A I F ff L p Permitted mining acreage

I I A U 1 0 2 T C @D u M I Y

Recreation Resources

The Pungo National Wildlife Refuge and Pettigrew State Park are the two

major public. recreation lands in Washington County.

'Presently the major emphasis in the Na.tional Wildlife Refuge is to pro-
vide'resting and feeding habitat for migratory water fowl. Recreational uses

are non.intensive and include primarily deer and waterfowl hunting and nature

study., Little or no fishing is done on the Lake and this will most likely
continue. Future potential uses'include wildlife observation towers, nature

trails and environmental education facilities.

Recreation potential on Lake Phelps.has been assessed during the Pettigrew

State Park Master Plan preparations.. The Plan reviews the existing park

facilities and proposes improvements and expansion.

Attendance figures for the Park for 1976 reached 53,919 people, of which

31,206 users were boaters and fishermen. W'ith the improvements,proposed in

the Master Plan,attendance will almost double to 85,000 visitors per year.
Pres.enfly all of the recreation facilities at Pettigrew State Park

are located on 30 acres of the State owned 167 acre Park. After evaluating

the existinn%site for future recreational development, it was determined

there were a number of deficiencies due to the size of the area and the

adjacent silted l.ake bottom.

An additional 82 acres will be purchased to add to the existing Pettigrew

access area to develop overnight camping areas and picnic facilities. A fishing

pier, expanded-boat launching and parking facilitieslare also planned.

Big Point located on the northern edge.of the Lake connected to the State
natural area has potential for recreational. activities (figure 26). Not

presently owned by the State, the 130 acre area has a san dy deep lake area

which would be ideal for water recreation.

The Natural Heritage designated nat.ura,1 area Joining Big Point with
@et.tigrew Park would be used primarily for.hature@study With the development

of interpretive trails.

The 500 acre site owned by Divi-sion. of, Parks and Recreation on the

southern end of the Lake is primarily a peat, evergreen pocosin. Only 50

acres of this@ area are suitable for recreational use, and include only the

rim.of the Lake. Due to the shallow nature ofthe shoreline,,it would be

....difficult to use for boat launching and swi i
mming.

'The County Recreation Plan identifies p0tenti'Al recreation areas and

.-access needs. For more information refer to this, Man.

COMMUN IT Y FACILITIES

An inventory of existing community facilities and'their desilgn capacities

will assist in the assessment of future needs. Are present facilities adequate?
-.Do.they affect our ability to grow? The following information is an indication

,of the capaci,ty of Washington County's public services..

Solid Waste Disposal

Presently the approved sanitary landfill sitein Washington County is a

9 acre site just northeast of Westover, approximately I mile north of State'

Road 1300. The site is maintained by a private contractor who leases the land

from the property owner. The site serves three counties with approximately

24,000 people.

Collection of solid waste within the landfill servi,ce area is done by a

private.contractor and municipalities.

fThirty-three dumpster sites are scattered throughout the County with a

capacity of 492. cubic yards, (figure 28). Severfty-nine commercial sites are

served twice.weekly. Plymouth provides collection service for residential areas,

and,Creswell and Roper service residential areasand commercial- waste.

Presently some si.tes are inadequate for the volume of waste. More

containers must be-provided or more frequent pickup must be instituted to

with.present overflow.

Expansion of the nine acre site is planned for an additional 14 acres.

The site is approximately 95% full-thus expansion will begin shortly. The

site is filling at the rate of 26 acre feet per year or about 1.1 acre per

1000 population.. Estimates suggest the. 14 acre expansion will be filled in

WASHINGTON COUNTY 1@ 0 ?lt@
NORTH C AROLINA
Figure 28

DUMPSTER SIGHTS

ft-oum

sun

L A X 9 B a L p s

.0
PU-

9 A U f 0 A T c 0 U
C 0 U

7 ye.ars. The report suggests the County review.and make plans for future

solid waste disposal.

Public Sewer and Water

Roper and.Creswell, have water service throughout alt'@of their incorporated'
limits.' Creswell water service also extends outside of its incorporated area
,to serve approximately 35 County resi-dents (figure 28A).
The Roper water system is at 50 percent of capacity with flow rates of

150 gallons per minute from two wells'. The capacity of this system is

restricted by the filtering system.'

,-3he Roper sewer system which is scheduled to go into operation in July

of 1980 will have a capacity of 85,0010 gallons per day. An expected peak

load of 85,000 gallons per day.is projected to meet local needs through the

year 2000..

Creswell proposed to construct a pressure sewer system Which,will serve

the needs of the town and adjoining areas through the year 2000. Construction,

is'expected to start in 1981.

Fire Protection

Fireprotection is provided by five volunteer fire departments within a
four mile radius of each other1or all areas of the County except the Wenona

area figure 29

Schools

Presently efforts are being made to assess the County's schools and out-

line a plan for improvi,ng them. The North Carolina State Building Code limits

the amo unt of alteration or repai@s that can be made to-a building to 50% of

the physical value. If more than 50% of the value is spent, then the whole

building must be brought up to current code requirements for a new building.

Figure 28A

PF r.:-P.

-W ftaw

LOCArION MAP
85 L E WOOIEN AND COMPANY

VAT"

3EWAIA
TREATww
ftA.T

F;oure 28A

TOWN OF @C
11 ItELL

...........
........... PLATE, rl
SEWER SYSTEM 8

L E WDOUN AND 00UPAKY

86,

WASHINGTON COUNTY 0 C
NORTH CAROLINA
Figure 29

VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARnIENTS
AND SERVICE AREAS

f
f@7

sun ocation of Volunteer Fire
L
L A I r ff9LP Departments
1. Plymouth
2. Roper
3. Skinnersville
4. Creswell
5. Lake Phelps

r
Fire Department Service Area-
4 mile radius
W A

t t u I a9 7 1Y SOURCE: Washington County
Manager's Office

This would include making all buildings ac.cessible,,,to the handicapped..-,
Each school has been examined by W. T. Doggett, AIA and the following
conclusions derived relative to handicapped ac'cessibilty and structural problems:

Creswell Elementary Because of the age of the bUil-ding, the wood
floor and roof system, the buildings poor condition, and it's small
si.,ze ( 7 classroom), this building is not recommended for long term
use. Even after the investment of bringing the building up to code,
it would be@suitable only for short term use.

_Roper Elementary To replace the two wood exit stairs, replace'the two
fire escapes with stairs, install a new.kitchen hood system, replace
'2 interior set'.,of steps with noncombustible steps, replace the mechanical
room ceiling and make the building atcess.ible to the handicapped, it.
wouldexceed 50% of the buildings value., The architects' recommendation
is thatthetuilding.shou.1d be removed from the school system as soon
..as possible and should not be used over 5 years.
Fourth Street Scho@i'- The main building is not recommended for long
range use due to the excessive cost of correcting the Safetyll-o@Life
Requi rements and modifying the building for handicapped accessibility.
Due to the small size of the site, 3.6 acres,.the Division of School
..'Planning.would not approve replacement of theMain Building or major
-expansion on this site. Due to the confining boundarys of the site,
a railroad and two streets, additional land would be difficu.lt to ob
tain at this location.. Without additionalland the site should not
be considered for long,range use.

Washington Street. School-The repl acement of the audi torium f 1 oor and
combustible stairs alone would exceed 50% of the building value thus
replacement of the building is@recommended.. Annex I and the Gym should
only be used for a short term but Annex 2 and the Band/Shop Building may
be-considered for long term use.

Washington County Union Future expansion is feasible on. this site
and the structure is offire resisitive construction and in generally
good structural condition.. The,school is considered suitable for long
term use.

Creswell High School Improvements can be made which wil.l@allow for
the use of the main building from 5 to 15 years. -Although the build-
ing has wood structural, systems for floors, roof and interior walls,
Ahis is acceptable in small one story structures. The Cafeteria/Shop
and Gym Buildings are also suitable for long term use with the correction
of minor problems.

Plymouth High School Considered in good structura *Icondition the
Main Building, Gymtorium, Library/ Classroom Building and shops are
suitable for long tenii use. Future expansion on the site will be
limited with any additions possibly being, two story.
Figure 30 provides an indication of the capacity of each school and the
adequacy of special facilities. This information, combined wi,th the Doggett
report,"gives some indication of where the County is, now and the Countys'
future needs relative to,s.chools. The culmination. of th,e,study will be a

long range plan for the replacement of and improvements to-educational

facilities-throughout the County. The intense local committment to better

education.will be the.impetus for instituting this plan.

Recreati onal Facilities

In June of 1977 a.Washington County Recreation Plan was developed to

asses,[email protected] facilities and.addres's future needs.

.,,The majority of recreational facilities are located at school sites

throughout the County, as shown in figure 31. Some community ball.fiel.ds

and play grounds a, Is.o are',used. Presently-a 13 acre County Recreation Park is

being constructO:.d.in the Pea Ridge Community on Highway 32. (figure 32).
Presentl' -nIofacilities in the County are available@solely for cultural
Y_'

recreation. With the initiation of the,Washington County Cultural Arts

Council, facilities are being sought for music-,, drama, art and fiterary

activities. Existing comunity facilities proposed for use in conjunction
.with Council's activities include the Library, Agriculture Extension Building,

Skills Training Center, High School Auditoriums, and local public parks. Efforts

are now underway to secure funds to build a Civic Center1which can be used.

by area citizens for cultural acitvities.

Roadways

Department of Transportation:traffic counts for 1979 (figure 33) indicate

that the average number of vehicles traveling over the streets in Roper and

Creswell and the major roads in the County, are well within design standards for

peak capacities. However, this capacity is gained at the expense of reducing

speed limits over sections of highway that cannot be widened economically, or

are not under consideration for widening at the present time, such as U. S.

Highway 64. So 45 miles per hour-speed limits become the rule over sections

that once were 55 miles per hour, and 25 miles per hour speed limits become

the rule over sections that once were 35 miles per hour.

FIGURE 30

FACILITY DATA FOR WASHINGTON COUNTY

PROFES CLASSPMS ADEQUACY OFSPECIAL FACILITIE!
SIONAL OR MO- CA- MEDIA AUDI GYM GYM CAFE
YEAR ADDI- PERSON TEACHING BILE PAC- ADM. OR TOR- TOR NA TE- MEMBER
SCHOOL AND GRADES ACRES BUILT TIONS _NEL _@STATIONS UNITS ITY* SPACE LIBRARY MUSIC AR-T IUM JUM SIUM RIA SHIP
Creswell Elem. (4-7) 16.1 1948 -- 10 7 1 175 1 1 A I 21E

9 520 1 1 A 1 452
53,59
-Creswel-I High (1-3, 8-12) 14.2 1939 1938, 32 22

Fourth St. Elem. 3.6 1930 1955, 16 1 400 1 1 A A 351
(1-2) T@F_T
Plymouth High (9-12) 21.5 1958 1960, 48 35 11 790 A A. A A 1 894
68,70
Roper Elem. (1-3) 7.2 1924 1942, 14 13 2 325 1 1 A A J 248
59
Washington St. Elem. (3-6) 9.1 1930 1943, 32 29 1 725 1 1 1 569
48,52
Washington Union Elem. (4-8) 21.2 1953 1945, 36 32 1 720 1 1 A A 695
60

Permanent facilities only

The capacity-for elementary pupils was computed on the basis of 25 pupils per classroom and the capacity for secondary pupils
was computed on the basis of 25 pupils and 90 percent utilization.

CODE: A Adequate; I - Inadequate

SOURCE: 1976 CAMA Land Use Plan
Membership updated 1980

WASHINGTON COUNTY

NORTH CAROLINA
Figure 31

A
"M' SCHOOLS
COI'h

W I-f'

-.4
-y

LEGEND
prnw@ sun

High Schools

Elementary
Schools
N-1

c Q

Figure.32

WASHINGTON COUNTY, NORTH-CAROLINA

Exhibit I
cx@
0- =D
CY
CC W Ln
UJ
U-J LU C)
V)
Ln

U-
:D CJ
cn -i C:) CD
UJ Of UJ Ln
cn UJ ca LD LD I--
F- 1z cz, >- >- -J Z-- C-)
U- LO C) UJ 21-: :z LU
CD < CD n -J = .UJ ly- a-
,EDUCATION FACILITIES V). m a- 0- V)

Plymouth High School X X 3 Multi-purpose football
of acres,, 21.5) Gym Softball Field

Washington St. Elementary X X
of acres, 9.1) Gym

4th Street' Elementpar Gym X
of acres, 3,.6)

Creswell High School Gym 2
of acres, 14. 2)
2 acres uncleared 15%
12.acres cleared 85%.,

Creswell Elementary@ X
(#.of acre's@ 16.1)
6 acres uncleared 63%
10.1 acres cleared 37%

Roper Elementary Gym X
of acres, 7.2)
7.2 acres cleared 100%

Washington County Union X Gym X 2 Park
of acres. 21-2) 5 g alsX'
12.2 acres cleared 57.:6%

NON-EDUCATIONAL FACILITIES

Sandh.ills Community X X
Jaycee Park X X X 3.
Pea Ridge @X X X

Wilson Street X X

ENCOIC X

Housing Projects X

+ under construction.
Unpaved outside basketball court
SOURCE. County,Recreation Plan
93

ji
WASHINGTON COUNTY "o tc: 0 0
NORTH CAROLINA
Figure 33

AVERAGE DAILY TRAFFIC COUNT
OA@O
(1979)

s 0

lp,

400

4
4170
170

976
36,10
270
va 4-

7TO

0-40

A K X P N 17 k p 5
,7

Ito
"Al

6 . A U, f 0 1 7 C 0 U N I y
y D
C 0 U

.FUTURE DEMANDS

Projected Population

P9pulation,projections.for the next ten years, suggest a moderate increase
in-County residents. This moderate growth rate is compatible with the wishes

of C-ounty citi.zens and governing.bodies. Based on'Department of Administration

figures and the Plymouth Roper 201 Waste Water Facilities Plan, these figures

reflect an increase in population for all Townships within the County except

Skinnersville (figure 34 Skinnersville Township is.the only township wi.thout@@

a' muni. ci pal i ty.

The major''constraint to growth identified in the 1976 CAMA Plan was, poor

Soils, incapable of supporting urban growth. These conditions create foundation

and septic tank problems in homes and businesses, where public facilities are
not avaJ I able., InstallatiO of public sewer facillities.in.Roper, and proposed
f a c i'l il.t,fe Sin C re s we.1 1 , w.i 11 assist-in alleviati-ng the problem -of malfunctioning

septic tanks and promote development.
The construction of multi-family housingin.Roper and Creswell will boost

population somewhat. The majority of units in Roper are expected to be filled

by Roper residents .. Aue-to the high numberof substandard dwelling units, however,

Creswell's units.should draw residents@ from the. County due to their hi.gh

percentage of standard houses.

With the expansion of public facilities in the incorporated areas of

the County much of the projected growth will occur adjacent to the Towns.

New homesites Jn the County must be 20,000 square feet in size thus will

hopefully provide adequate space for septictanks. Subdivision review in

conjunction with Health Department approval will assist in,.developing rural

areas.at a density and in-areas where onsite wells and-septic tanks can be

used successful ly.

Figure 34

FUTURE POPULATION ESTIMATES

1970+ 1980 .'.')Change 1990 -.Change

Washington County 14,038 .15,345 9%, 16,987 ill.,

Lee's Mill Township 3,407 3,733 90, 4,175 12"
Roper (750) 6800 850 (13%) 25% 890 5%

Plymouth Townsh,ip* 7, 512 8,213 9@'/ 9,227 12"
Plyinouth 4,774 5,405 13 5,515 2%

Scuppernong Township* 1,733 1,889 901 2,120 12%
0
Creswell (500) 670 530 (6/@O') -201, 650 230S

Skinnersville Township 1,386 1,510 9% 1,465 -YJ

Township population includes Town population

+ U- S. Census data

o Roper and Creswell have contested the 1970 census. Figures in

parenthesis represent the Towns' recommendations.

Seasonal population is not expected to be a large factor in Washington
County's growth since theI County is not a destination for tourist coming to the

region. The most lasting impact will be upon second home development, but again

the magnitude of impact will be small.

The 1976 CAMA Plan noted dwelling units along the Albemarle Sound had in-
creased from forty units in 1951 to one hundred in 1975. In the ensuing five
years, development along the Sound has increased by approximately fifty homes.
Beech Bay subdivision is the primary Sound development that has been platted

and recorded since 1975 and contains forty three lots. This development combined

with approximately fifty undeveloped lots of record constitute the available

waterfront homesites.

Any new subdivision along the Albemarle Sound will require paved roadways

sixty feet in width, and lots equivalent to 20,000 square feet.

Future Economy

County labor patterns continue to show a higher level of employment for

men compared to women. With increased financial pressures facing middle and

lower income familie s, the number of women in need of, and desiring jobs, is

increasing. There is a great need for industry in the County which can utilize

the female work force, although some progress has been made.

Continued efforts to draw food processing and other agri-business related

industries will hopefully be successful. The foundation has been laid with the

increase in the capacity of coinmercial grain storage facilities associated with

First Colony Farms and the productive hog operation owned by Tyson Carolina.

Dependence on wood products and agriculture as the basis for the County's

economy is expected to continue. The emergence of peat mining and subsequent

farming of the mined land should have a significant impact on the local economy

as well.

Future Land NueJs
In general, future trends suggest a continued increase in land under

cultivation and increased urban developwent in 'the County. No large scale

clearing efforts are expected, other than the Newland Road tract ovined by

Juniper Farms presently undergoing transformation from forestland to agriculture.

Small average tracts will be logged and put into cultivation but not to

the degree experienced on First Colony lands and those areas immediately west.

Demand for waterfront lots will continue, possibly at a rate of double

the 1980 figures by 1990. Sufficient homesites are presently available to

accomiiiodate this increase.

Land demands in figure 35 for the 1990 population are based upon

ten year population projections for each County Township. These acreage

deiiiands are only for residential housing and are shown only for areas with

a projected increase in population.

Actual developiiient could occur on less land than the amounts shown,

but the iiiaxiiuum acreage indicates the land that should be available for

development throughout each jurisdiction. More than enough land is available

in Lees Mill, Plymouth and Scuppernong Townships to facilitate projected growth.

Agricultural land within Plymouth Township will eventually be converted

to urban uses, especially acreage close to the Town of Plymouth. Rolling Pines

and Liverman Heights are the primary subdivisions in the Plymouth area which

have accoiimiodated new residents in the past. A small number of lots are

vacant in Rolling Pines, with adjacent acreage available for expansion, and

Liverman Heights has fifty four vacant lots. The approximate thirty acres

this provides would not facilitate the 244 households projected, but lands

with j-loquate soils are available throughout Plymouth Township to inake up

the difference.

Figure 35

Future Land Demand

Number of Number of
1980 1990 People Households

Washington County 15,345 16,987 1,642 443

Lees Mill Township 3,733 4,175 442 119
Roper 350 890 40 10

Plymouth Township 8,213 9,227 1,014 274
Plymouth 5,405 5,515 110 30

Scuppernong Township .1,889 2) , 12 0 231 62
Cre swe 11 530 650 120 32

Skinnersville Township 1,510 1,465 -45 -12
*One household is estimated to equal 3.7 persons.

New Density Ma x i mum
Households Per Acre Land Deiiiind

Lees Hill Township 119 1hsehld/I acre 119 acres
Roper 10 3hsehld/1 acre 3.3 acres

Plymouth Township 274 1hsehld/l acre 274 acres
Plymouth 30 3hseh I d/ I acre 10 acres

Scuppernong Township 62 1hsehld/l acre 62 acres
Creswell 32 3hsehId/l acre 10@6 acres

The Town of Plymouth has sufficient area adjacent to public utilities

to meet the thirty acre demand over a ten year period, but future annexation

will be necessary to iiieet future economic needs. Urban renewal and community

developinent activities have assisted Provision of new cominercial and residential sites

by removin-j substandard structures.

Lec-, Mill Township includes a good percentage of developable soils

located along the Albemarle Sound and on the periphery of Roper. Subdivisions

containing undeveloped lots are limited to Albemarle Beach and the Merlin Chesson

tract just north of Roper. Of the one hundred lots, sixty eight are inhabited.

The balance of these lots, coupled with developable land along Mackeys Road,

the Albeiiiarle Sound and adjacent to Roper will be more than sufficient to

accommodate 116 households.

The Town of Roper (.9 sq. ini.) also has a more than adequate reserve of

vacant land to satisfy its urban land demand. The principal kinds of existing

land use N town are residential, 18 percent; coinmercial, 4 percent; government

and semi-public, 7 percent; forest and swamp, 26 percent; row crop, 41 percent;

and barren dreas not under cultivation, 4 percent. The 41 percent of land

for cropland equals approximately 236 acres which is more than an ample

stock of land for the estiniated 3.3 acres of urban land demand by 1990.

The major constraint on future development in Creswell (.6 sq. mi.) is

the ldck of an adequate method of drainaqe from swampy and flood prone areas.

Floodprone areas presently constitute about 56 percent of the town's incorporated

limits. Cleared and drained cropland only comprises seven percent or about

27 acres of the total land area within the existing town limits. This acreage

is JJeLJIIIte for the estimated 10.6 acres needed for growth.

The mijority of hoiiiesites in Scuppernong Township, outside of Creswell,

are suattered and vary in size. The sixty acres required to meet future

100

demands can be accommodated on suitable soils which surround Creswell and

Cherry. With proposed extension of water and sewer in the County, by Creswell,

smaller lots can be used for homesites thus reducing the acreage demand.

101

COMMUNITY ISSUES.

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION IN THE LAND USE PLAN UPDATE PROCESS

Public participation in the Land Use Plan Update process was extensive alld

beneficial to the developinent of land use issues, policies and implelilentation

methods. Efforts were.made to not only obtain information from the public, but
also to inforiii theni of the planning process and suggest County land use issues

to be considered.

Initially, a meeting @-.,as held with the Board of Commissioners, Planning

Board and representatives of the Office of Coastal Management to acquaint County

officials with OCM's objectives and the iiiiportance of the Plan Update.

Subsequent meetings were held to de termine iiieans for obtaining public illpUt.

Various ways of involving the public were discussed. A steering coimnittee simi-

lar to that utilized during the preparation of the Plan was considered, but due

to the existence of an active Planning Board, fawdliar with planning issues,

and also sufficiently representative of the public, they were designated as the

advisory body which would work with the Planner. The Board of Comwissioners,

faiiiiliar with the resources of the County and the feasibility of proposed actions,

were also recognized as a vital participant in the process.

@ Different techniques were considered for involving the public inclusive

of questionnaires, brochures, radio spots, newspaper articles, public ii1eetings,

and organizational meetings. All of the methods discussed were used in some fol-111.

The meeting format was decided upon after concern was voiced over general

lack of participation by the citizenry in public hearings. Controversial issues

generally bring Out crowds but speculation was that the Land Use Plan would [lot

be a drawing topic, thus efforts would be made to convince people of its

ifi@iportance.

102

An alternative iiieans for getting people together was meeting with existinq

groups where a guaranteed number of persons would be present. Although interest

in planning issues was not guaranteed, it was hoped vie could generate interest

once we had the attention of the group.

Plans were made to meet with existing county organizations, present an

educational slide presentation on land use issues and the planning process,

and issue a questionnaire to determine public opinion, needs and desires.

Development of participation materials began at this point. A fifteen
fflinu@e slide presentation, explaining th e update process and suggesting county-

wide land use issues, was prepared (see appendix). In addition, a

questionnaire was developed to deterinine public attitudes on land use issues.

This was riot a scientific survey or random sample. Approximately six hundred

(600) questionnaires were disseadnated with a 3Y@'. return rate.

A joint iiieeting was held at the invitation of the Board of Commissioners

with Roper, Crest-jell, and Plymouth Town Council members. The slide presentation

was shown and questionnaires handed out for review and comments. Plans were

made for- a meeting of special interest groups, Councils, and Comiiiissioners to

identify County land use issues.

The following groups or organizations were notified and/or- represented at

a special interest group meeting: Weyerhaeuser Company, First Colony Farms,

Plymouth Garment Company, Ulilliatils Lumber Collipany, Georgia Pacific, Tyson Farms.'

local banks and realty coiiipanies, contractors, Carolina Telephone and Telegraph,

VEPCO, Department of Transportation, Agricultural Extension Agency, Soil Conser-

vation Services, Chamber of Commerce, Hospital, Health Departinent, Tax Supervi-

sor's Office, School Board, Social Services, County Water Manageiiient, local farmers,

103

Wildlife Cowmission, Roanoke Beacon--the local newspaper, and WPNC radio.

Approximately forty (40) people attended the Land Use Plan session.

Four group leaders were trained to implement the Nominal Group Technique

as a means for acquiring input from each ten meinber group. Each group generated

a list of prioritized issues which were then voted on by the entire group to

deterwine the top five County issues. Six issues were identified as primary

concerns: drainage, environmental quality, industrial expansion, school expan-

sion and improvement, energy use and housin(j. These issues incorporated

land use issues specified in the CAMA guidelines.

Subsequent meetings with County professionals such as the Sanitarian, Tax

Supervisor, Soil Conservation Agent, County Manager, Agriculture Extension Agents,

Water Hanageirient Supervisor and the Board of Comiiiissioners and Planning Board,

arid discussions with Industrial Development Coamiission members, Environmental

Management staff, CAMA Periflt Officer and others, led to the developwient of

specific policies arid impleiiientation methods.

Concurrently, efforts were launched to obtain input from the general public.

Phone calls were made to organization presidents and program chairpersons to

schedule ii-jeetings over a two-month period. Radio announcements were made and

newspaper articles written to request groups in need of a speaker to contact

the Planning Office.

Churches, Community Organizations, Ruritans, Jaycees, Jaycettes, Home

Extension Clubs, Senior Citizens Groups and PTA's were contacted. Due to

conflicting meeting dates, not all organizational meetings were attended.

Approximately 250 pet-sons were reached through these meetings.

104

In addi tion , two public nieetings were lield , one in Creswell and another

in Plyiiouth. Meeting dates were advertised by radio and newspaper, one

hundred ( 100) brochures (see appendix ) were mai led randomly to county

property owners, and 150 were distributed door to door. Attendance was

poor.

105

PUBLIC QUESTIONNAIRE ANALYSIS

The f o I I owi ng i n f Drwat i on wa s c,. %d from questionnaires distributed to

the general public. It should be rem, -,,ed when looking at the tabulation of

responses on the following pages that this was not a scientific survey or random

sample. Responses were tabulated according to County Townships and include

municipal residents.

TABLE A

AGE AND SEX OF RESPONDENTS

AGE SCUPPERNONG SKINNERSVILLE PLYMOUTH LEE'S MILL

Less than 20 1 1 1 1
20 - 29 3 10 18 3
30 - 39 2 12 18 10
40 - 49 3 4 5 5
50 - 64 4 13 12 7
65 and over 7 5 24 14

20 35 78 40

SEX

Male 11 21 34 27
Fema I e 8 27 45 11-

19 48 79 38

From the above Table, one can see that the respondents were equally divided,

male and female, with the wiajority between the ages of 20 to 39 and 50 and over.

TABLE B

OCCUPATION

SCUPPER11ONG SKINNERSVILLE PLYMOUTH LEE'S [,1ILL

Fa rme r 2 2 2 6
Student - ? - -
Unemployed 2 10 4 -
White Collar job 3 10 31 7
Blue Collar job 5 6 19 6
Homemaker 1 5 4 1
Retired 3 4 22 14
Other' 3 5 6 4

106

TABLE C

RELATIONSHIP OF RESPONDENTS TO LAND AND HOUSING

SCUPPERNONG TOWNSHIP

I own property in Washington County 6 Creswell __2_ Roper __ Plymouth

I own my home _11

I own rental property in Washington County 2 Creswell __1_ Roper - PlYmouth

I own a farm in Washington County which I farm myself 1

I own a farm in Washington County which I do riot farm myself 1

1 rent my home, which is in Washington County Creswell 2 Roper Plymouth

I own more than ten acres of land in Washington County Creswe 11 Roper
Plymouth_ -

own my own business in Washington County Creswell Roper - Plymouth

I live in: _19 A single family house
- A duplex
I An apartment
- A mobile home
- A hotel , motel , boarding house

107

TABLE (continued)

RELATIONSHIP OF RESPONDENTS TO LAND AND HOUSING

LEES MILL TOWNSHIP

I own property in Washington County 18 Creswell Roper 11 Plymouth

Iown my home 26

Iown rental property in Washington County - Creswell Roper 1 Plymouth

Iown a farm in Washington County which I farm myself 6

1own a farm in Washington County which I do not farm myself _2

1rent my home, which is in Washington County _1_ Creswell - Roper I Plymouth

Iown more than ten acres of land in Washington County 4 Creswel 1 - Roper
Plymouth

I own my own business in Washington County 3 Creswel I Roper - Plymouth

Ilive in: 35 A single family house
- A duplex
2 An apartment
A mobile home
A hotel , motel boarding house

108

TABLE (continued)

RELATIONSHIP OF RESPONDENTS TO LAND AND HOUSING

PLYMOUTH TOWNSHIP

I own property in Washington County 13 Creswell I Roper 4 Plymouth 36

1 own my home 41

I own rental property in Washington County 4 Creswell Roper 4 Plymouth

1 own a farm in Washington County which I farm myself 1

I own a farm in Washington County which I do not farm myself 2

I rent my home, which is in Washington County 4 Creswell - Roper Plymouth 20

I own more than ten acres of land in Washington County 3 CreSwe 11 Roper
Plymouth--

I own my own business in Washington County I Creswel 1 Roper I Plymouth 1

I live in: 61 A single family house
1 A duplex
9 An apartment
4 A mobile home
- A hotel, motel, boarding house

109

TABLE (continued)

RELATIONSHIP OF RESPONDENTS TO LAND AND HOUSING

SKINNERSVILLE TOWNSHIP

I own property in Washington County 24 Creswell Roper - Plymouth -

I own my home 11

1 own rental property in Washington County 2 Creswell Roper Plymouth

I own a farm in Washington County which I farm myself 2

1 own a farm in Washington County which I do not farm myself I

I rent my home, which is in Washington County _4 Creswell Roper _1_ Plymouth 1
1 own more than ten acres of land in Washington County 2 Creswell -- Roper
Plymouth _-_

I own my own busineSS in Washington County2 Creswell Roper Plymouth

I live in: -31 A single family house
1 A duplex
1 An apartment
15 A mobile home
- A hotel, motel, boarding house

110

Table E deals with the popularity of various types of development. This
is based on responses to a question which listed a number of types of develop-
ment and asked the respondents which types they would like more or less of in

the area iiiiiiiediately surrounding their community, and the County as a whole.

In many cases, the respondents left a number of spaces blank, preferring to

check only those they felt strongly about one way or the other. In the follow-

ing Table, the number who checked less for a particular type of development has

been subtracted from the number who checked moreJand the types of development

listed in rank order according to their scores.

TABLE E

POPULARITY OF VARIOUS TYPES OF DEVELOPMENT

LEL'S MILL TOWNSHIP

Near My omnu!iLty In Washington County

Public recreation and parks +20 Industrial +17
Single family houses +19 Public recreation " parks +15
Shopping centers +12 Shopping centers +14
Industrial + 8 Single family houses +14
Commercial recreation + 8 Small businesses +10
Small businesses + 7 Commercial recreation + 8
Apartments 5 Apartments + 5
Condominiums 5 Condomi ni ums - I
Mobile homes -10 Mobile Homes -10

PLYMOUTH TOWNSHIP

Single family houses +47 Public recreation and parks +41
Shopping centers +42 Shopping centers +38
Public recreation and parks +38 Commercial recreation +37
Comwercial recreation +30 Single family houses +32
S(Tldll businesses +30 Industrial +32
Industrial +28 Small businesses +30
Apartments +26 Apartments +22
Condomi n i uiiis + 3 Condomi n i ums + 4
Mobile hopies -25 Mobile homes -16

ill

TABLE (continued)

SKINNERSVILLE TOWNSHIP

Near My Conwiuni.@y In Washington County

Public recreation and parks +31 Small businesses +15
Single faadly houses +28 Shopping centers +14
Industrial +24 Public recreation and parks +14
Small businesses +21 Apartments +13
Shopping centers +21 Single family houses +12
Commercial recreation +13 Industrial +12
Apartments +13 Commercial recreation +10
Mobile homes + 7 Mobile homes + 7
Condominiums - I Condominiums 0

SCUPPERNONG TOWNSHIP

Single family houses +12 Industrial +11
Commercial recreation + 9 Small businesses + 9
Public recreation and parks + 8 Public recreation and parks + 9
Industrial + 8 Apartments + 9
Small businesses + 7 Shopping centers + 8
Apartments + 7 Commercial recreation + 6
Shopping centers + 6 Condominiums + 5
Condominiums + 2 Single family houses + 5
Mobile homes - 8 Mobile homes - 9

112

lab16 D shows the reSUItS of questions, which asked the respondents to

decide what they think population trends in their area will be over the next

ten years and what they would like them to be.

TABLE D

POPULATION TRENDS

THINK POPULATION WILL: SCUPPERNONG SKINNERSVILLE PLYMOUTH LEE'S MILL

Increase greatly 9 31 28 18
Increase moderately 5 16 33 20
Remain the same 1 2 9 1
Decrease slightly 2 - 5 -
Decrease greatly 1 - 2 2

WOULD LIKE POPULATION TO:

Increase greatly 8 27 30 I'll
Increase moderately 9 15 37 22
Remain the same - 1 5 5
Decrease slightly 1 1 1 -
Decrease greatly 1 - -

The majority of respondents in all areas felt the population would increase

and also wanted it to. Skinnersville Township would like for their population

to incipEse greatly whereas the other Townships wish for moderate growth. Thi s

supports the growth policies adopted by the Board of Commissioners and is re-

flected in future population projections.

113

From Table E it is clear that the majority of-County residents prefer

single family housing and recreation facilities in their community and would

like more businesses and industrial uses in the.County as a whole. Mobile holnes

and multi-faiiiily housing is riot popular in the immediate community or the County

as a whole. Adopted policies relative to industrial development and housing

needs were based on the results of Table E.

Respondents were asked who should pay for needed services associated with

growth in the County. Table F reflects the opinions of each Township.

TABLE F

FINANCING OF IMPROVEMENTS

SEWER LIIJIS SCUPPERNONG SKINNERSVILLE PLYMOUTH LEPS MILL

Developer 7 14 33 16
Local Govermilent 11 35 41 25

SCHOOLS AND PARK SITES SCUPPERNONG SKINNERSVILLE PLYMOUTH LEPS 1-11LL

Developer 1 11 11 6
Local Governiiient 18 36 57 39

Local governitients policies and implementation methods reflect their desire

and intentions to improve public facilities.

114

TABLE G

RESPONSES TO SPECIFIC ISSUE QUESTIONS

The following responses were to questions asking specific attitudes about

development density and patterns.

Do you feel that different types of land uses such as residential, commercial,
and industrial should be:

74 separated as much as possible
26 allowed to develop unrestricted
73 located where public services are available

Do you feel dense residential development should be allowed to occur where
individual septic tanks and wells are used?

yes 41
no 137

Would you rather:

1. Limit growth 27
2. Promote the development of additional services such as public
water and sewer systems in areas where development could not
take place without such services 84

The general attitude here appears to be in favor of dense development where

services are available.

In order to develop a list of issues to be addressed in the CAMA Plan Update,

along with MMA guideline issues, respondents were asked to identify the biggest

problems facing their communities, as shown in Table H.

115

TABLE H

BIGGEST PROBLEMS FACING YOUR COMMUNITY ARE:

SCUPPERNONG

Improper functioning of septic tanks 9
Unemployment 9
Substandard housing 7
Deteriorating water quality (lakes, sound) 6
Inadequate residential sites 6
Flooding 5
Urbanization of faniiland 3
Quality of drinking water 3
Environmental degradation due to development 2
Residential development along major highways 2
Poor air quality 2
Excessive seasonal traffic I
Commercial development along major highways I
Incompati,ble uses I
*No recreation 1

SKINNERSVILLE

Quality of drinking water 37
Unemployment 36
Substandard housing 30
Commercial development along major highways 29
Improper functioning of septic tanks 27
Poor air quality 27
Deteriorating water quality (lakes, sound) 26
Residential development along major highways 26
Excessive seasonal traffic 24
Underemploy-nent 24
Incompatible uses 24
Urbanization of farmland 23
InadeQuate residential sites 22
Flooding 21
Environmental degradation due to development 12

116

TABLE (continued)
IN

BIGGEST PROBLEMS FACING YOUR COMMUNITY ARE:

PLYMOUTH

Unemp 1 oymen t 37
Substandard housing 32
Quality of drinking water 24
Poor air quality 22
Inadequate residential sites 17
Commercial development along major highways 17
Deteriorating water quality (lakes, sound) 17
Undereinployment 15
Excessive seasonal traffic 14
Flooding 13
Improper functioning of septic tanks 12
Incompatible uses 10
Environmental degradation due to development 10
Residential development along major highways 9
Urbanization of farmland 8
*Schools 2

LEE'S MILL

Unemployment 14
Improper functioning of septic tanks 14
Substandard housing 13
Incompatible uses 9
Deteriorating water quality (lakes, sound) 8
Flooding 8
Underemployiiient 7
Excessive seasonal traffic 7
Quality of drinking water 7
Commercial development along major highways 6
Inadequ@te residential sites 6
Urbanization of farmland 5
Poor air quality 5
Residential development along major highways 4
Environmental degradation due to development 3
written in by respondent

Unemployment, substandard housing, improper functioning of septic tanks,

quality of drinking water and poor air and water quality, were all concerns

which led to the establishment of the community issues addressed by the Board

of Commissioners.

117

Table I reflects the need for more funds to be expended on public set-vices.

Respondents overwhelmingly wished for more funds to be spent on all set-vices.

TABLE I

EXPENDITURES ON PUBLIC SERVICES

MORE LESS SAME AMOUNT
Crime prevention and control 124 4 33
Drug control 136 -3 25
Animal control 99 14 33
Traffic offenses 55 13 60
Assistance to elderly 118 6 26
Assistance to low income people 89 19 32
Industrial recruitment 95. 8 26
Public recreation programs 112 7 25
Purchase of new park land 96 16 26
Fire protection 108 2 39
Civil defense 86 9 49
Rescue squad 107 2 37
Library 81 4 42
Cultural activities 98 10 27
Historical preservation 82 10 38
Public transportation 104 8 24
Road construction 122 5 22
Street paving 103 5 26
Maintenance of existing streets 108 4 26
Public sewer facilities 101 6 29
Curb and gutter 82 9 42
Traffic signals 82 5 49
Sidewalks 85 5 40
Street lighting 103 4 32
Drainage 116 -3 23
Junk c4r removal and control 126 10 19
Removal of abandoned buildings 119 9 20
Building code enforcement 83 5 39
Provision of low and moderate
Income housing 92 22 -27

118

WASHINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY ISSUES

ISSUE: County Growth

Washington County has experienced slow growth to date with population

concentration primarily in Plymouth. Creswell and Roper also are population

centers but growth has been basically nonexistent in recent years. Future

population projections suggest growth throughout the County, inclusive of the

three Towns. Scattered rural growth will continue throughout the County

due to dependence on agriculture,but dense development in the majority of

our rural areas would be impossible due to the lack of public sewer and water.

Septic tanks and wells can be used in the County on individual lots of

at least 20,000 square feet in area. Due to the high water table and poor

soils, septic tank peri-iiits have been refused in some areas and many existing

systems malfunction. The proposed provision of water by the County will ease

present problems somewhat and allow for future growth in service areas.

Guiding development to areas which are served with water and/or sewer will

confine the majority of growth to Roper, Plymouth, Creswell and areas adjacent

thereto, thus preventing massive septic tank failures and/or water contamination

which might occur in rural areas.

According to the Land Use Plan questionnaire, residents expect and want

moderate growth in the County. Although growth is-desired, preference has

been v'oiced for an increase in population and development at a rate and in

a manner such that the rural character of the County can be protected. How-

ever, if measures are not taken to proitiote growth, present trends of slow to

stagnate growth will continue.

Successful promotion of industry will hopefully generate desired growth.
Small'industry, located in proximity to the municipalities will create new

119

jobs to keep our young workers in the y, and promote an influx of new

workers. The promotion of agriculture coilimercial uses will not significantly

impact population growth.

It is the attitude of the Board of Commissioners that growth should be

encouraged, but, at a rate and in a pattern which can be efficiently and

effectively handled by the County's facilities and resources.

Specific policies include:

1. Allowing development to occur in an orderly manner according to
the County's Plans.

2. Insuring development will occur in a manner which will continue
our present quality of life, and

3. Permiting intense development to proceed from presently served
areas, or areas planned to be served, in a compact and oi-derly manner.

In order to grow, yet retain a quality of life inherent in a rural area,

we must carefully evaluate steps which will promote growth and examine where

we want @xowth to occur.

Means for implementing policies include:

1. Establish a Land Development Plan by which development proposals
may be reviewed for consistency therewith.

2. Conform to the State's Balanced Growth Policy.

3. Extend public water in accord with the County's Water Feasi-
bility Study, and

4. Support the development of utility extension policies by
Roper, Creswell and Ply@iiouth.

Primary responsibility for these activities will lie with the Board of

Commissioners, the Planning Board, and the County Manager. Support for acti-

vities in Roper, Plyiiouth, and Creswell can only be in the form of suggestions

and letters of support.

120

ISSUE: Industrial Development

The lack of industry in Washington County is a primary issue recognized by
the professional community and the general citizenry. Not only would incoming
industry reduce the tax burden on the citizens of the County, but would assist
in alleviating unemployment and underemployment.

There is a demand for more jobs, better paying jobs. The future of the

young people in the County must be considered. An outmigration of young adults

noted in the 1976 CAMA Plan emphasizes the need, as does present economic con-

ditions. The number of women forced to enter the working public due to economic

necessity and/or by choice would also benefit from increased employment oppor-

tunities.

More realistic is the potential for bringing in a number of smaller indus-

tries, possibly agri-business related. Food processing facilities were discussed

by the Boards, as were industries dependent on wood products. The recent purchase

by the County of an industrial park site just outside of Plymouth will go far in

the realization of such a prospect.

The mining of peat in Washington County and surrounding areas poses a very

real possibility for additional industry with the county.

The present County tax base of $160,000,000.00, with a moderately high tax

rate of $.94, suggests the need for more taxable resources. An increase in any

use o-kher than industry will not bring the necessary increase in jobs or taxable

resources, thus there are few alternatives.

One option is to not seek industry, which will perpetuate our existing

problems, or there is slight potential for expansion of existing industry. The

increase would however be in production, not necessarily in employment.

121

More unreasonable would be the promotion of all industries, no matter what

the type, causing potentially irreparrable damage to our resources. and incoinpat-

ibility with the Washington County community.

The Board of Commissioners feel in order to provide increased employTlient

opportunities for present and future residents of Washington County and an im,

proved tax base, industry should be encouraged to locate in the County.

Proposed policies reflecting an interest in the impact of industry are:

1. Encourage industry that is compatible with the surrounding
community,and will not require variance from State and Federal standards.

2. Support improved public facilities as inducement for locating
industry in the County, and

3. Evaluate the impact of new i-ndustry on the County's resources.

The County needs industry. Despite this intense need, industry will be

evaluated so that the environmental quality and standard of community life can

be iiiaintained.

Methods for implementing policies include:

1. Developing an evaluation criteria for new industry.

2. Continuing financial support of the Industrial Development
Commissior-@ and

3. Identifying potential industrial sites throughout the County.

A joint effort between the Board of Commissioners and the Industrial Deve-

lopnient Commission will be an effective means for developing an evaluation cri-

terial to be applied to prospective industries. County taxes are the primary

funding source for the Industrial Development Commission. Funds for an indus-

trial site study may be secured through HUD 701 Planning Funds or CAMA Funds.

This activity would priiiiari.ly be the responsibility of the County Planner.

122

ISSUE: Public Facilities and Services

The expansion and improveiiient of public facilities and services is a major

issue identified by the general public and County officials.

Public services could be reduced but public sentiment supports expansion.

Past efforts to reduce services to prevent tax increases has not been totally

successful. The majority of services disbanded were reinstated due to strong

public sentiment. Attempts to maintain services at their present level will

also demand cutting programs due to inflationary program costs. Land Use Plan

questionnaires suggest support for increased expenditures for almost every County

service.

A tax increase is the most available means for subsidizing service improve-

ment and expansion. Grant funds are also used to finance particular County pro-

grams and will be pursued in the future. Public opinion is with tax reduction.

which would affect both means of program support, yet response to the CAMA Plan

questionnaire demands improved services.

Public services and facilities should be expanded and improved to meet the

needs Of County residents within the capabilities of our resources,according to

Board sentiment.

County policies are:

1. Develop services and facilities in concert with expected growth,and

2. Locate facilities and services where they may best serve the County's
population.

In order to provide required services, and facilities, the needs and desires
of the public must be determined and the capability of County government to fi-

nance them evaluated.

123

Accepted means for accomplishing specific policies are:

1. Prepare and administer a citizen survey periodically to determine
service needs. The County Manager and County Planner would be
responsible for the preparation and distribution.

2. Address service needs identified through public participation in
the Land Use Plan Update process.

a. Undertake measures with an overall goal of reducing crime
in the County. Evaluate and study our existing control
methods by 1983 and implement study recommendation by
1987. FUNDS: Law Enforcement Assistance Administration,
Coastal Plain Resources Commission, HUD 701 Planning Funds.

b. Promote improvement of our transportation network in order
to foster economic development. Continue to promote the
widening of Highway 64 and 17, paving of secondary and
primary roads, bridge improvements, improved channelization of
the Roanoke River, and the extension of a railway spur into
the eastern part of the County. FUNDS: Department of Trans-
portation, Corps of Engineers, Railway Company, private industry.

c. Continue to improve the quality of our recreational facili-
ties. Complete Bureau of Outdoor Recreation site on Highway
32, continue support of County Recreation Commission, and pro-
mote expeditious implementation of the Pettigrew Park Master
Plan. FUNDS: County taxes, B ureau of Outdoor Recreation Funds.

d. Improve the structural quality and capacity of our educational
facilities. Evaluate our existing facilities and make recom-
mendation by 1983. Prepare an implementation plan by 1985.
FUNDS: County Bond Referendum.

e. Provide water service to industrial sites and homes with
inadequate water supply. Complete revised Phase I of the
proposed countywide water system by 1985 and Phase 11 by 1990.
FUNDS: Farmers Home Administration, HUD-CDBG, Coastal Plain
Resources Commission, State Clean Water Sond, County Bond
Referendum, Economic Development Administration.

3. Develop an evaluation criteria for the location and future construc-
tion of County facilities by first studying the growth patterns of
the County to determine the best location for facilities by 1985
and second, develop a facilities plan to identify needed facilities
and a capital improvements plan by 1990. A combination of County
Funds, CAMA Funds and HUD 701 Planning Funds would be used.

124

ISSUE: Housing Opportunities

Housing opportunities in Washington County are in need of great improvement.

The Washington County Housing Plan, adopted in December of 1977, provides a de-

tailed andlysis of the County's housing needs. The Housing Plan reflects an

unmet need of 824 housing units based on population projection for 1980. A

continued increase in population will magnify this lack of resources.

Even if Washington County's population continues to grow at a slow rate,

adequate housing will not be available for- its' citizens. Presently, 47,,) of

our housing is Substandard, and in 1970, over half of the residents in the County

were effectively priced out of the home buying market.

These factors will place increased demand on rental property located in

the County, and generate increased purchases of mobile homes. Compounding the

probleiii is our lack of surplus housing. As reported in the 1970 Census, 32'1-

or 56 out of 165 vacant structures for sale or rent are structurally substandard.

Few alternatives are available aside from single family homes other than

wiohi le hoii)es arid mul ti-faiiii ly rental units. Multi-family housing must have

public water arid sei,-,-er, thus the County residents have to rely on the municipali-

ties for- placement in apartments and subsidized housing. Placeillent of mobile

homes in the County have more than doubled since 1973 and most likely will con-

tinue to increase as housing costs soar.

Washington County has deiiionstrated its committment to the redevelopment of

communities throughout the County with the use of Housing and Urban Development

funds. Two deteriorating areas have been revived due to the foresight of County

leaders. Funds will he sought in the future to assist low and moderate income

families in preserving their COIT1111unities and revitalizing the County's housing

resources.

125

Continuation of housing improvements with HUD-CDBG monies becomes more
bleak each year as HUD designates more funds for municipalities and less for
rural counties. If we do not seek further grant-funds for rehabilitation of
low and moderate income housing units, they will soon be beyond repair, thus

intensifying our housing inadequacies.

Present and future residents of Washington County should have the opportunity

to be housed in a comfortable and safe environment.

The policies which reflect this attitude are:

1.'. Encourage the development of various housing types, built to
quality standards, and

2. Support efforts to improve the living environments of Washington
County residents.

Implementation tools for improving new housing include:

1. Supporting multi-family dwelling unit projects where utilities
are available.

2. Adopting a Planned Unit Development Ordinance by 1990.

3. Continuing to enforce the existing State Building Code with
Building and Electrical Inspections, and

4. Continuinq to actively enforce County Subdivision and Mobile
Home Regulations.

Methods for improving existing comriuni ties are:

1. Continue to seek funds such as Community Development Block Grants
to improve housing and public services.

2. Serve dense developmentexperiencing water quality problems,with
the proposed County water system according to feasibility study.

3. Continue enforcement of health and sanitation regulations.

4. Seek more Section VIII rehab units for the County.

5. Organize a seminar with the Agriculture Extension Agency and Social
Services for local residents on housing maintenance and preservation
by 1985, and

6. Continue drainage activities in and around residential areas.

126

The lack of Comriiunity Development funds will disperse the present Comiriunity
Development staff, thus, responsibility for housing activities will lie with the
County Manager- and Planner. Funds for housing,programs would come from Farmers
Home Administration and the Department of Housing and Urban Development, as in
the past.

ISSUE: Drainage

Due to the level terrain and high water table characteristic of Eastern

North Carolina, drainage is a major problem in Washington County. Drainage

directly affects the capability of much land to be used for urban, agricultural

and forestry activities.

Even with drainage, many areas of the County are subject to frequent flooding

due to the high water table and improper outlets. AcCDrding to the Center for

Rural Resource Development, only 23c"- of the Coastal Area does not require drain-

age. APproxiiiiitely 32"', has already been drained with 45" J potentially drainable.

The majority of agricultural land has been drained but 73',, of our forestland is

potentially drairtable, as is 32'1. of our wetlands. If 45',.'@ of Coastal lands are

drained, many problems experienced due to past drainage may reoccur.

Massive dr-ainage has caused the clogging of streams and rivers with sediment,

increased water pollution due to pesticides and fertilizers, and damage to our,

acquatic nut-series due to increased fresh water entering streams. Human life,

health and property are directly influenced by drainage activities. Future r1las-

sive drainacie would no doubt have significant impacts on our natural resources

and human resources.

Various polic-ies were discussed relative to drainage. The need for protect-

ing County residents while allowing utilization of our land was a major concern.

127

Methods to prevent flooding were considered, such as flood control structures,
flood hazard ordinance,discouraging development in flood areas, and maintenance

of drainage outlets. County plans for coping with hazards associated with flood-

ing such as hurricanes, were reviewed and considered adequate. An Emergency

Management Coordinator is retained by the County and a Hurrican Evacuation Plan

was adopted in June 1977.

Concern was expressed over problems encountered due to massive farm drain-

age. As the water table is lowered, potential for salt water intrusion into our

drinking water supply is increased.

Water that took months to filter through to the estuarine system, now flows

more rapidly into our creeks and rivers , carrying with it insecticides and fer-

tilizer from productive fields. This influx of fresh water into our sensitive

aquatic nurseries has taken its toll on fisheries production.

The dicotorily is, drainage represents some negative impacts, yet provides

buildable land and increased crop production, two essentials for Washington County.

The long term effects of no drainage would be to basically stop growth, increase

flood hazard, and encourage the use of farmland for urban uses. It is accepted

that drainage must continue, but should be implemented with careful evaluation.

Policies adopted by the Board of Commissioners include:

1. Promote activities which will assist citizens in preventing
damage by flooding.

Promote alternative means for drainage which will diminish
negative impacts from pollutants and

3. Evaluate the long term effects of mass drainage.

Means for implementing these policies are:

1. Institute flood control measures by adopting a County Flood Hazard
Ordinance upon completion of our County flood study -- target date
1985.

2. Study the possible adoption of a water shed ordinance by 1985.
This effort would involve Soil conservation Service, the County
Water Management Supervisor and the County Planner.

128

3. Seek funds for the completion of the Scuppernong Rivet-, Conaby
Creek and Mackeys Creek Watershed projects in the next ten years.
County funds and Department of Human Resources are potential
financers.

4. Prouiote the preparation of Environmental Impact $tatements for
the Beaver Dain and Conaby Creek projects.

5. Continue the local Hosquito Control Program.

6. Promote further study of the impacts of mass drainage, and

Support the drainage permitting prograin of the Corps, CANA and
State Fisheries.

Funds@ for proposed drainage projects will come primarily through the

Department of Hujuan Resources and Washington County. The County Water Management

Supervisor, the Corps of Engineers and the Board of Commissioners will be respon-

sible for the projects.

ISSUE: Environinental Quality

It is difficult, actually impossible, to put a value on our natural environ-

Plent'. Many tfines daniage is irreparable. The County is sensitive to this value,

but is also sensitive to the desire for growth which means niore development,

more people. The more growth we have, the greater the potential for damaging our

resources and destroying the rural character of the County.

There are three alternatives available. Ne can stop all development, which

will assure protection of the natural environment, however the consequences would

be damaging to the County's economy. A wore reasonable alternative would be to

develop our County with sensitivity to the existing built environment and the

natural environiiient. Growing at a rate our resources can handle will hopefully

promote preservation Of Our rural character. A third option is to promote any

type of growth, any where. The potential damage to our natural environment could

129

be irreversible, the pressure applied to our public resources irreconcilable.

The Board's attitude relative to environmental quality reflects their, feel-

ing that vie should utilize our resources according to their constraints, value to

the public: and greatest potential use.

This attitude of concern for our resources is reflected in the following

policies.

1. Encourage the use of prime farm land for famuing.

2. Encourage the careful development and use of our forestry resources.

3. I.nsure the quality of our water resources for recreational purposes
and commercial and sport fishing.

4. Assess land constraints prior to location of a particular use to
determine feasibility , and

5. Protect areas of historical value from encroachment of incompatible uses.

Impleinentation of these policies will hopefully ensure the conservation

and protection of the natural and manmade environments and harmonize the

relationship between the two.

Implementation riiethods includes such activites as:

1. Using soil survey in evaluating soils capability for proposed
development.

Preparing a flood study and adopting a County Flood Hazard Ordinance.

:3. Developing an evaluation criteria to be used when industries are
proposed for location in the County.

4. Promote viater quality standards which will insure the protection
of our aquatic resources.

S. Developing improved access to public waters by encouraging the
North Carolina Wildlife Commission to locate a boat landing on
Deep Creek, and the Department of Parks and Recreation to improve
and expand boating access on Lake Phelps, and

6. Supporting our existing forestry management progranis.

The protection of our Areas of Environmental Concern and other environillen-

tally sensitive areas is the second policy adopted by the Board of Coinnissioners.

130

Each A17-C within the Estuarine System will be discussed and appropriate uses

identified below.

A. Coastal Wetlands. In Washington County, nonforested wetlands are
present at the mouth of Deep Creek where it enters Bull's Bay, and
east of NC Hwy. 32 near Bateman's Beach. Suitable uses shall be
those consistent with the CAMA management objective relative to
wetlands. Highest priority shall be the conservation of the existing
CoEistal wetlands. Second priorty shall be given to those activities
which require water access and cannot function elsewhere. Rural uses
exclusive of building development such as piers, utility easements,
docks and agricultural uses shall be allowed.

B. Estuarine Waters. Estuarine waters in Washington County consist of
the Albeinarle Sound, Bull's Bay, and the Roanoke River. Proposed
USE@S shall be consistent with management objectives outlined by CAMA.
Conservation of the waters and its vital components is of upmost im-
portance. Uses shall be allowed which require water access or uses
which cannot function elsewhere such as access channels, erosion
control structures, navigational channels, boat docks, marinas, pears,
wharfs, mooring pilings and bridge abutments.

Public Trust Waters. These waters include the Albemarle Sound,
Bull's Bay, Lake Phelps, Pungo Lake, Welch's Creek, Conaby Creek,
Roanoke River, Mackey's Creek and the Scuppernong River. Proposed
uses shall be consistent with management objectives. Uses which do
not impair access or cause biological or physical damage to the estuary
are allowed, such as navigational channels, drainage ditches, erosion
control devices, piers, wharfs, marinas, and bridge abutments.
Uses should be monitored to assure navigation will not be hindered,
erosion will not be perpetuated, and water quality will not be
degraded.

D. Estuarine Shoreline. A strip of land 75 feet wide from the normal water
level of Albemarle Sound, Bull's Bay and the Roanoke River. This area
should be managed to ensure shoreline development is compatible with the
nature of estuarine shorelines and the values of the estuarine system.
Uses allowed should primarily consist of recreational and rural uses.
Low density housing development and commercial uses which will not
perpetuate severe erosion shall be allowed.

Other Valuable Natural Areas within Washington County which should be pro-

tected include:

A. Lake Phelps. The County's cornmittment to protect its valuable natural
resources is evidenced by attempts to nominate Lake Phelps as an Area
of Environmental Concern. Information relative to the value of the
Lake Phelps area is in the Land Suitability Section. Concern over

131

increased residential development may be quieted as committment to
enforcement of the septic tank regulations has been made. Much of
the border surrounding the Lake is primarily organic soils which
are unsuitable for septic tanks. Peat mining south of the Lake has
generated concern as to the impacts on the Lake area. Funds have been
secured through the Coastal Energy Impact Program to study the impacts
and develop a mitigation plan. The Board is committed to seek
further funds to study the impact of peat mining on the Lake through
the Coastal Energy Impact Program and to pursue their nomination
of the Lake area as an Area of Environmental Concern.

B. Pungo Lake. Recently named in the North Carolina Registry of Natural
Heritage Areas, 4,000 acres of the Pungo Lake Refuge has been identified
as a valuable natural area. Presently under State and Federal controls,
the Lake is adequately protected by a wide natural buffer.

C. Forested Wetlands. Located throughout the County along the Scuppernong
River, Bull's Bay, Conaby Creek, Pungo Lake, Lake Phelps, Mackey's Creek,
and Chapel Swamp Creek are forested wetlands, these areas are presently
under the controls of the Army Corps of Engineers. Wetlands are sensitive
areas which should be watched carefully as the County develops.
Presently the County plans to take no specific measures relative
to forested wetlands other than to recognize their sensitive
nature and encourage the Corps of Engineers and the Office of
Coastal Management to require careful analysis of the impact of
actfilities prior to permitting.

D. Historical Areas. Historic resources are listed in the Appendix.
Historical areas should be preserved and protected from encroachment
of ipiconipatible uses. The Division of Archives and History is
responsible for the preservation of such significant areas as Somerset
Place. Past efforts by local citizens to preserve such landmarks as
the Latham House in Plymouth have been very difficult. Initial funds
have been secured through a Historical Preservation Grant to assist
in the rehabilitation of the home but much more is needed. Frankly,
the only successful efforts have occurred where Archives and History
have taken an interest in a particular site. Efforts should continue
to involve Archives and History, as Washington County does not have
the resources to finance such projects. '
Few means are available to protect historic landmarks from incompatible
development other than the purchase of adjacent land by local government
and concerned citizens, or zoning.
Again, our monetary resources are few, thus vie much depend on private
citizens or grant funding. Zoning is not feasible at this time due to
its inability to resolve problems relative to agricultural uses. Future
review of new development in accordance with the Land Use Plan by the
Boards may assist in encouraging location of uses not compatible, away
from listorical areas. The Board will continue to support the interest
and activities of the local Historical Society and individual citizens.

132

Implementation methods for the protection of our AEC's and other sensitive

areas are:

1. Continue to support our local CAMA Permit Officer.

2. Support careful evaluation and required permitting of activities
in our environmentally sensitive areas by the Corps of Engineers,
State Fisheries and the Office of Coastal Management.

3. Enforce the health regulations relevant to septic tank placement.

4. Protect areas by guiding the location of new development in accor-
dance with the CAMA Plan.

5. Seek CEIP and CAMA Fonds to evaluate and protect our resources, and

6. Request a Countywide Natural Heritage Survey.

133

ISSUE: Energy Resources

A local issue, as well as a national issue, is the need to conserve our

existing energy resources and to identify and develop new resources. Continued
dependence on fossil fuels will significantly hamper growth and possibly reduce

local crop production due to fuel cost.
Easily identifiable energy resources throughout the County include peat,

wood, corn, chicken and swine manure, and garbage. All have reasonable poten-

tial as alternate energy resources, but feasibility of development cannot be
determined without further study. Studies conducted by the Research Triangle
Institute and First Colony Farms do recognize peat as valuable and developable.
Development of alternative energy resources to reduce dependence on fossil
fuels appears to be the primary action that can be promoted on the local level.
With reduced energy cost and a plentiful supply of resources, Washington County

may be more appealing to industry.
AnOthE!r consequence of rising energy cost mentioned was the impact on
agricultural production. The extensive amount of fuel used to harvest and
transport agricultural products, and the rising cost, may eventually reduce
production. Hopefully, locally produced alternative fuels at a reduced cost,
can providE- the needed impetus to continue increased crop production.
The County's policies relative to energy resource development include:
1. Evaluate our energy resources so that we may plan for effective
utilization,

2. Evaluate the impact of the development of our energy resources
on the surrounding environment to ensure future quality, and
Promote the development of locally produced alternative fuels.

134

Future action relative to these policies will be similar to present acti-
vities involving peat mining within the County. The Board supports the develop-
ment of such resources, but not unrestricted development. When there are
146,000 acres of peat deposits spanning four counties, the best approach is a

conservative one.

Washington County supports the careful evaluation of the mining activities,

and recently has received a grant to assess the impact of peat mining on Lake

Phelps as an Area of Environmental Concern. The attitude of the Board of Commis-

sioners as specified in the Coastal Energy Impact Program grant application is;

through careful and persistent analysis, we can protect a valuable and unique

resource, yet provide for the increasing'energy needs so necessary for the future.

Implementation methods are:

1. Seek grant funding for an evaluation of our developable energy
resources.

2. Support the preparation of an Environmental Impact Statement for
energy development projects, and

3. Seek funds to assess the impact of proposed energy projects on the
County's socioeconomic and environmental resources.

The Department of Energy Programs and the Coastal Energy Impact Program

would be the primary funding sources for such activities. The County Manager,

County Planner and the Board of Commissioners would be responsible for initiation

of projects.

The necessity of educating the public as to the need and means for energy

conservation has been discussed as a policy. Present educational programs

through the Department of Energy and the Agriculture Extension Agency are con-

sidered valuable to the County. No new programs are planned on the County level,

but an energy coordinator will be identified to collect and retain information

concerning energy programs for public use. The County will also continue its

135

insulaticn permitting procedure through the Building Inspections Program.

Plans are to assess the County's energy assets and liabilities and develop

a strategy for improving the energy efficiency of County government, an activity

coordinated by the County Manager.

The final energy related policy is to encourage residential and light

industry in close proximity to support facilities. This can be achieved through

locally adopted water and sewer policies and by the eventual designation of

areas adjacent to Roper and Creswell as growth centers.

ISSUE: Public Participation

Public participation has played an important role in planning issues in

the past and will continue in the future.

Education is an important aspect of this involvement, although difficult

in a rural area with a scattered population. Dissemination of educational

brochures and radio and newspaper coverage are the most generalized method for

reaching the largest number of people. Materials placed in the library, or

other public places, also provides an opportunity to become enlightened on

County issues. The distribution of a questionnaire periodically to request public

needs and desires can also be used as an effective educational tool.

Requesting the public's involvement, personally contacting individuals by

mail or phone, can many times encourage citizens to gather for public meetings

where they may receive information and become involved. Legal advertisements,

for public hearing located in a noncentral area, are not viable means for in-

volving the public. Whenever possible, holding meetings in a community that

will be affected by a particular issue, or addressing organized groups in an

area are more valuable and effective.

136

Without a coiiipetent staff person to provide advice and expertise, public

education and participation activities may not be successful. A responsible

party who does not understand the importance of. citizen involvement will lack

the enthusiasm and interest needed to develop an effective program.

The County recognizes the direct relationship of planning issues to the

public,and feels the need to create better communication between citizens and

local government.

The Board of Commissioners consider the following as feasible means for

implementi ig this policy:

1. Assure citizens representation on decision-making boards.

2. Inform the public of County issues on a reqular basis by the
use of radio announcements, newspaper articles, letters, brochures,
slide presentations and personal contact, and

3. Support a qualified planner to coordinate and develop effective
educational and participatory activities.

137

COMMUNITY ISSUES IN ROPER AND CRESWELL

Public participation in a comprehensive.planning process for Roper and

Creswe-11 began in 1978 when cormiunity development workshops were held in

each town. Forty-three citizens provided the input for establishing a list

of noeds, goals, and strategy for each of the towns. In addition, the

concept of working together and pooling resources was adopted.

Since that time, the Town Councils of Roper and Creswell have held

period@c joint aieetings. They have shared planning and management resources

while pooling support for mutual projects.

ThE! preparation of this docunien.t provided an opportunity to validate

and revise previous efforts. Several public participation processes were used:

1. A joint public hearing was held in Creswell for citizens of
both towns.

2. A Land Use Plan Questionnaire was distributed by the Washington
County Planning Office. Those questionnaires returned by Creswell
and Roper residents were tabulated and analyzed.

3. Creswell used a resource allocation process called the Creswell
Money Game. This process involved the placing of a large list of
local government issues in the Tax Listing Office. Each issue
had an envelope attached to it.

During the tax listing period (January 1980) each tax lister was
given an opportunity to participate. They were given a limited
amount of fake money to spend on the various issues. Limited
resources combined with numerous needs forced them to establish
priorities.

4. Roper distributed a questionnaire to each family in town as an
attachment to their water bill in 1979. This input was considered
current for this plan.

5. Various organizations were provided with programs on the Land
Use Plan Update by either Washington County or Town Planning
officials.

138

f1l d0diLion, all Tot-in residents were afforded the same opportunities as
County residents to participate in the County's public participation process.
The input generated by these various processes was considered in

establishing issues, goals, and policy.

Resource Protection Issues in Roper

ISSUE: Constraints to Development

Roper's major constraint to developilient has been the health hazards

caused by septic tank failures. This problem should be eliminated during the

sumwer of 1980 when a new municipal sewer system is placed into operation.

Poor drainage and soil conditions represent severe limitations for

developnient. Most of Roper's soils are Wahee fine sandy loam which is

poorly drained, has slow pernieability, and moderate shrink-sviell potential.

Flood prone areas are restricted to the areas directly adjacent to Mill

Creek and Deep Run. Most development has occurred above the flood area. The

exception being mill related businesses which used water as a source of power

and a inedns of transportation. These operations have been terniinated.

GOAL: The elimination, reduction or avoidance of constraints to development.

POLICIES:

1. The Town's governing board will operate and niaintain a municipal sewer
system to prevent the discharge of sewage into the surface and sub-
surface waters of Roper. The operator for this system has been hired
and is in training.

2. The Town Council and Washington County Health Departnient will enforce
regulations requiring all structures containing toilet facilities to
connect to the municipal sewer system.

139

3. The Town Council will seek funds to implement the proposals contained
in a comprehensive drainage plan being prepared for the Town. U. S.
Soil Conservation Service, Albemarle Resource Conservation and
Development District, and Washington County are being investigated
as sources of funding.

4. Utilize existing resources such as CETA employees, local government
employees, local equipment and Powell Bill funds to implement minor
drainage projects such as cleaning ditches and tiles.

5. Encourage all property owners to use good soil conservation and
drainage practices on their property.

6. Participate in the National Flood Insurance Program.

7. Promote floodproofing of structures which are located in areas
subject to flooding. This will be implemented by the Roper Planning
Board through regulations such as the Mobile Home Ordinance and
Subdivision Regulations.

Alternate policies considered while selecting the above policies were:

1. Do nothing and let development occur or not occur without direction
of regulation. This was rejected as not being in the best interest
of the public at large or individual citizens.

2. Install a storm drain system for the entire town with all streets
curbed and guttered. This was rejected as not being within the
forecastable resources of the town during the planning period.

ISSUE: Are3s of Environmental Concern

The Town of Roper does not have any designated AECs other than the public

trust waters of Mill Creek and Deep Run. Appropriate uses shall be those

which do not impair access or cause biological or physical damage to the

estuary such as drainage channels, erosion control devices,piers, wharfs,

marinas, bridge abutments, and utility crossings. Uses should be monitored

to assure erosion will not be perpetuated and water quality will not be de-

graded.

ISSUE: Other Hazardous Fragile Land Areas

There are no hazardous or fragile land areas which are being considered

140

for nomination as areas of environmental concern within Roper's jurisdiction.

Freshwater swamps and marshes, maritime forests, and man-made hazards were

not identified as issues of concern.

CUltUral and historic resources were not identified as specific issues

in Roper.

ISSUE: Hurricane and Flood Evacuation Plans

Roper will participate in hurricane and flood evacuation planning with

the County. Local resources such as public buildings and equipment would be

available to the County Civil Preparedness Office to help with any influx of

people evacuating the Outer Banks. As a matter of policy, the Town Council has

gone orl record as supporting and encouraging the funding of a County Civil

Preparedness Officer. When funds for this function were cut from the County

Budget in 1979,the Town Council instructed the Mayor to ask that they be rein-

stated.

RESOURCE PRODUCTION AND MANAGEMENT ISSUES IN ROPER

ISSUE: Productive Agricultural Lands

Farming, with its use of large equipment and chemicals, represents a

compatibility problem in a compact residential area like Roper. The size of

plots and proximity to housing will probably make the use of existing

agriculture land unfeasible for long range crop production.

Since the County has adopted policies for the preservation of prime

aqricultural land, Roper's existing farmland could best be used for development

which might otherwise locate on prime rural farmland.

GOAL: To reduce compatibility problems caused by farming operations inside

Roper's Town Lfidts.

141

POLICY: Encourage the conversion of agricultural land in Roper to other

uses such as residential, commercial, industrial and institutional

in order to preserve prime fannland in the county.

ALTERNATE' POLICY: Since farming in rural tolqns is common, don't get

involved with the issue.

Commercial forest lands, mineral production, fisheries, and off-road

vehicles were not considered relevant.

142

ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ISSUES IN ROPER

Virtually all of the input received from the various public participation

processes dealt with economic and cominunity development issues. The following

information is ranked in the order of priority established from public input:

ISSUE: Streets and Related Drainage

Due to the very limited financial resources of Roper, streets and

related drainage have been neglected for many years. Most areas next to the

streets are higher than the streets. There are very few graded ditches to

carry water to the outlet ditches. Large trees on the sides of streets

are damaging the streets with their roots. In addition, the installation of

graded ditches will be impossible without removing these trees.

GOALS: To upgrade the streets and drainage system.

POLICIES:

1. Prepare a comprehensive drainage plan which will include street related
drainage.

2. Request technical assistance from the U. S. Soil Conservation Service
in deteriiiining elevations and drainage patterns, etc.

3. 6-Jhile the sewer system is being constructed make very few repairs
to streets. This will allow for the accummulation of Powell Bill
Fn,, 1: foc ir i- irl --11 -r 1111-Ifl, f Cli

I I u I LL I L1L111U1j,- U111 UWU IWU1 L LL-J.

4. Utilize repair and replacement funds included in sewer grants to
upgrade streets and drainage.

5. Seek Community Development Block Grant Funds to improve draindye
and access to designated areas.

ALTERNATE POLICIES:

1. Let individuals take care of draining their property.

2. Accept the condition as natural and unsolvable.

143

ISSUE: Police Protection

Roper has used its very limited resources to provide a part-time police

officer. This level of service is inadequate in view of rather serious crime

problems. Residents are concerned with increased drug traffic and vandalism.

GOAL: To increase the amount of police protection offered in Town.

POLICIES:

1. Implement an agreement with the County to combine Roper, Creswell,
and Washington County police services.

2. Seek grant funds to allow the Washington County Sheriff's Department
to expand set-vice in the Town.

3. Support the Crime Watch Program which is being sponsored and
organized by the Roper Ruritan Club.

ALTERNATE POLICY: Reduce other services and use local funds to increase
police protection.

ISSUE: Economic Development

There are very few employment opportunities in the Roper area. This is

a severe problem for young people and women seeking primary or second family

i ncomes.

GOAL: To provide additional employment opportunities in the at-ea.

POLICIES:

1. Encourage new industry to locate in or near Roper. The most
needed type of industry would be environmentally clean companies such
as clothing-manufactures, electronic assembly companies, and
ayricultural processors which employ unskilled and semi-skilled
women and young people.

2. Support the Washington County Economic Development Commission in
its efforts to secure a site for an industrial park and to attract
industries to the County.

144

3. Promote efforts to improve the qualifications of unskilled workers.
4. EnCOUrage owners of land which is suitable for business or industry
to make sites available. Several sites have been identified as
suitable and available.

5. Utilize the Comprehensive Education and Training Act to provide jobs
in Roper. The Town has worked with Washington County and the Albermarle
Regional Planning and Development Commission to secure several positions.

ALTERNATE POLICY: Let the county worry about economic development.

ISSUE: Housing

Roper has a pressing need for improved and expanded housing. Housing for

the elderly, handicapped and low-income presents a particular problem which

must he met with housing assistance programs. The U. S. Department of Housing

and Urban Development has recognized Roper's need for additional assisted housing.

Tile most desired type of housing from tile governing body's point of view

is privately awned taxable property.

GOAL: To improve the housing situation in Roper.

POLICIES:

1. Prepare Community Development Block Grant Application for housing
related projects. Roper has been unsuccessful with this program
in the past years. As each new funding period comes up, the Town
Council will investigate the chances of using this reSOUrce.

2. Continue to work with the Mid-East Regional Housing Authority to
meet the assisted housing needs of the town.

An architect is now working on plans for 30 units of housing which
will be funded by HUD. A site has been located and construction is
expected to start in 1930. Mid-East will operate these units. This
project should meet the present assisted housing needs. If additional
needs are identified, they will be addressed by the Planning Board in
cooperation with the Mid-East Authority.

145

Encourage local property owners to develop lots for residential
construction. The Town Council has worked with several property
owners to have sewer lines provided to vacant lots as an inducement
to development.

4. Provide public with information about funding sources for residential
construction. Through personal contacts, news letter articles and
public hearings, the Town Council will provide information about
such programs as Farmers Home Administration home loans.

5. Enforce regulations which control and improve the quality of housing.
Subdivision Regulations along with various building codes are enforced
in Roper by Washington County. A Mobile Home and Travel Trailer
Park Ordinance has been prepared for the Tot-in which will also be
enforced by both the Roper Planning Board and Washington County Officials.

ALTERNATE POLICIES:

I. Allow growth to occur without direction or regulation.

2. Let individuals provide for, their housing needs without help.

ISSUE: Public Services

During the next ten years, Roper will offer most of the public services

normially found in larger urban areas. The level of service along with the

ability to provide service for new development will be limited by the small

local tax, base.

GOAL: To provide adequate services to the existinq population while providing

the required services to encouraqe and support a moderate growth rate.

POLICIES:

1: Water and sewer will be available to virtually every property line
within the corporate limits. Both systems will have enough excess
capacity to provide for a moderate rate of growth for residential,
commercial, industrial and institutional users.

2. tentative agreement has been approved by the Town Council to
provide municipal water service to areas outside the corporate limits.
If sewer services are needed outside the corporate limits, a similar
agreement could be arranged.

146

3. Sanitation, police, transportation and other public services will be
provided to the highest level possible within local resources.

4. Roper's commitment to redevelopment of developed areas has been
demonstrated by the use of Economic Development Administration funds
to deinolish dilapidated buildings. This commitment has and will
continue to cause the Town Council and Planning Board to investigate
sources of funds for redevelopment projects. Some of the sources
being considered are Community Development Block Grants and Farmers
Floine Administration Business Loans.

Poper endorses the county's efforts to study energy facility siting
and development. The town may seek grant funds to study energy
siting and impact if future developments warrant such studies.

ALTERNATE POLICIES:

1. Forget about future services until they are required or deii-ianded
Ly the public.

2. Concentrate on service to encourage new development at the expense
c,f existing population.

3. Let the County worry about areas outside the corporate limits.
the Town Council recognizes the mutual needs of the County and Town
and is committed to working together to find solutions.

ISSUE: Re cre at i oil

Roper residents expressed a great deal of concern for additional re-

creational opportunities. The Town Council did not feel that local revenue

will allow the town to provide programs beyond what the County offers. A

donation was made to the Comli-iunity Schools prograiii to'provide additional

cultural and recreational activities.

CONTINUING PUBLIC PARTICIPATION IN ROPER

The Roper Town Council is committed to seeking the widest possible

public input in all areas of public decision making.

ISSUES: Public Education On Planning Issues

GOAL: To fully inform the public oil planning issues.

147

POLICIES

1. Roper will follow its adopted Public Participation Plan in
preparing notices and holding public hearings.

2. The Town Newsletter will be used to provide information about
planning issues.

3. All citizens are encouraged to attend Planning Board and Council
meetings.

ISSUE: Continuing Public Participation In Planning

GOAL: To involve as many people as possible in planning Roper's future.

POLICIES:

1. 'In appointing meiiibers of boards-and committees, the Town Council
will seek a cross-section of persons to represent all segments of
the population.

2. Use the Town Newsletter (which is mailed to all water, customers
monthly) to keep the public informed about planning efforts.

3. Provide public service releases to the local media.

ALTERNATE POLICIES:

1. Let the public find out for themselves about planning issues.

2. Only involve those persons who are perceived to know what they are
doing in planning work.

3. [)oil' t confuse tile publ ic wi th facts.

SPECIAL IS-SUES IN ROPER

Tile Coastal Resources Coinilission has specified that Roper address the

issues of septic tank suitability and a central water and sewer system.

Roper has operated a central water systeiii for many years. The systeiii

was upgraded recently and service is available to all residents.

148

Septic tank failures were so common in Roper that various agencies declared

the lown to have a health hazard. Local citizens approved a bond issue of

$180,000.00 to be used as the local match for over one and a half million dollars

in State and Federal grants for constt'LICtiOrl OF a central sewer system. The

system is expected to be in operation as of June 1980. Due to the extent of

health hazards associated with septic tanks, regulations are expected to be

enforced which will require tile elimination of all such tanks within the corporate

I imi ts.

OTHER ISSUES IN ROPER

Types of urban growth desired were discussed under housing and economic

development issues. The Town has not established policies to direct growth

in a particular pattern.

Relevant federal and state regulations were listed on pages 42-45.

Roper is comn@iitted to and endorses those state and federal programs which

promote and regulate tile best interest of the Town. The Coastal Area f-lanage-

ment Act has been most valuable to the Town in developing plans and projects

which iiiipr-ove the quality of living in Roper.

Beach nourishment,channel maintenance,waterfront access, beach access and

tourisiii were not considered relevant. While tourism may have soiiie irnpact on

.local sales, no specific policies were established to promote it.

149

RESOURCE PROTECTION ISSUES IN CRESWELL

ISSUE: Constraints to Development

Crewell's major constraints to development are health hazards caused

by septic tank failures, flooding caused by wind tides and/or soil conditions.

The Washington County Health Department has estimated that over 80%, of

the septic tanks in Creswell are failing. A "201 Facilities Plan" has been

developed to address this problem. A solution in the form of an innovative

pressure sewer system is expected by 1984.

Flooding and poor drainage relates to the fact that two-thirds of the

land area wiithin the Town is below elevation 3 msl. During high yearly tides,

51 homes are flooded and a daily wind tide elevation exceedinq 15 feet mean

sea level will flood 25 years and most drainage channels.

Creswell's soils are in the AuguSta-Altavista-Wahee series which are

poorly drained with slow permeability and moderate shrink-well potential.

These soils are affected by tidal fluctuations which raise the water table to

the ground surface.

GOAL: To reduce the impact of constraints to development.

POLICIES:

1. The Town Council will continue to pursue funding for a municipal
sewer system. The first phase of a "201 Facilities Plan" has been
funded and is near completion. Grant applications are beinq prepared
which seek $1,500,000.00 for construction of the system in 1981.
Creswell citizens approved a $200,000.00 local bond issue for sewer
work by a vote of 91 to 12. L. E. Wooten and Company and Ivanfield
Associates, Creswell's consulting and engineering firms,have been
instructed to develop this project as the Town's number one priority.

2. Creswell has prepared (with the help of the U. S. Soil Conservation
Service, Albemarle Resource Conservation and Development District and
Coastal Area Management Act) a plan for flood prevention and drainage.

150

Much of the detailed survey and engineering work has been started by
'-he Soil Conservation Service. The project has been approved by the
U. S. Department of Agriculture under their Small Watershed Program
(PL-566) for work as resources are available.

3. Participate in the National Flood Insurance Program.

4. A Mobile Home Ordinance which requires floodproofing of units placed
in flood prone areas will be implemented during 1980. In addition
the county has been authorized to enforce it's building codes inside
Creswell's limits.

ALTERNATE POLICIES:

1. Let development occur without direction or regulation.

2. Encourage development to locate elsewhere to avoid local constraints.

I SSUF :Areas Of Environmental Concern

Lres@-jell does not have any designated Areas of Environmental Concern

within its jurisdiction. Since there are no plans for future designation,

this i'ssue was not considered.

ISSUE: Other Hazardous Fragile Land Areas

There are no hazardous or fragile land areas which are being considered

for nomination as areas of environiiiental concern within Creswell's jurisdiction.

Freshwater swawps and marshes, inaritfifle forests, and man-made hazards were not

identified as issues of concern.

Cultural and historic resources were not identified as specific issues

i n C re swe I I .

ISSUE: Hurricane And Flood Evacuation Plans

Creswell considers hurricane and flood evacuation planning to be a

function of the County. As a matter of policy, the Town Council has qone on

record as supporting and encouraging the funding of a County Civil Prepardness

151

Officer. When funds for this function were out from the County Budget in 1979,
the Town --ouncil instructed the Mayor to ask that they be reinstated. Local

resources such as public buildings, equipment and town employees would be used

to help the County Civil Preparedness Office with an influx of people evacuating

the Outer Banks.

RESOURCE PRODUCTION AND MANAGEMENT ISSUES IN CRESWELL

ISSUE: Productive Agricultural Lands

Farwring, with its use of large equipment and chemicals, represents a

compatibility problem in a compact residential area like Creswell.. The size

of plots and proximity to housing will probably make the use of existing

agricultural land unfeasible for long range crop production.

Since the County has adopted policies for the preservation of prime

agricultural land, Creswell's existing farmland could best be used for

development which might otherwise locate on prime rural farmland.

Productive agricultural and forest lands outside of Creswell are the

most important economic factor for the town. As stated under the economic

development section, growth of those industries related to agriculture and

forestry -is the town's first priority. While attemp@s will be made to expand

economic activities, there is no desire to shift to a new economic base.

GOAL: To reduce compatibility problems caused by farming operations inside

Creswell's Town limits.

POLICY: 17 ncourage the conversion of agricultural land in Creswell to other

uses such as residential, commercial, industrial and institutional

-in order to preserve prime farmland in the County. This encouragement

will take the form of providing services and reducing constraints

to development.

152

ALTERNATE POLICY: Since farming in rural towns is common, don't get involved

with the issue.

Commercial forest lands, mineral production, fisheries and off-road

vehicles were not considered relevant to the Creswell Plan. Peat mining

was discussed as a specific mining issue which might affect Creswell, based

on past experience with the First Colony Operation, it was felt that the

possible impact did not justify planning and policy statements at this time.

The Town iflay seek funds to study this issue if activity increases.

153

ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ISSUES IN CRESWELL

Virtually all of the input received from the various public participation

processes dealt with econon-iic and comiiiunity developii-ient issues. The following

information is ranked in the order of priority established from public input:

ISSUE: Wastewater Treatment

As a result of citizen concern with this issue and the probleiiis related

to building a conventional gravity sewer system, a plan has been prepared for

an innovative pressure system. This system utilizes septic tanks for collection

and storage of waste. A smip pump is installed for each customer to pump liquids

from tile tank to a central lagoon system for treatment.

Policies and qoals related to this issue were addressed under constraints

to development.

ISSUE: Flooding and Drainage

This issue was considered by many citizens to be as important as

wa.stewater treavient. A plan to install dikes, floodgates and pumps is

being developed.

Poli--ies and goals for this issue were also addressed under constraints

to developii-tent.

ISSUE: Housing

SubsLandard housing and a shortage of assisted housing has been and is
a severe problem in Creswell. The Solution for a majority of these problems

have been initiated by the Town Council.

GOAL: To reduce substandard housing and increase the assisted housing stock.

154

POLICIES:

I The Town Counci I through the Creswel 1 Communi ty Devel opment Department
ui I I comp I ete a Comwuni ty Deve I opment B I ock Grant Program during 1980-81

CDBG funds of $264,000 are being used to rehabilitate 16 substandard
units. Ten dilapidated houses will be demolished. Several families
are being relocated to mobile howes.

2. WDrk with the Mid-East Regional Housing Authority to ineet the assisted
hou s i rig need s i n C re swe 11 .Funding by the U. S. Departii-ient of Housing
and Urban Development has been approved for the construction of 20 units
of low income housing to be operated by the Mid-East Authority.
Planning for this project should be coinpleted in 1980 with construction
to start in 1981.

3. Adopt and enforce regulations which improve the quality of housing.
Subdivision Requlations, a Fair Housing Ordinance, Mobile Home Ordinance,
and Building Codes are enforced in the Town.

Because of the I imited resources of Creswel I , iiiuch of the enforcement
prograiii must be provided through cooperative agreements with Washington
County Officials.

ALTERHATE POLICIES:

1. Let individuals take care of their own housing needs.

2. Do riot infringe on the private use Of property.

ISSUE: Economic Development

CreSWEWS priwiary concerns are new jobs to stop the forced out-illigration
of young people and second fainily jobs for women. . Citizens have.indicated a
preference for preserving the good qualities of a rural life style.

GOAL: To provide additional employment opportunities in the area,while

preserving the present environment.

POLICIES:

1. The Creswell Town Council will promote a moderate growth I-ate for the
area. New industries related to agriculture or forestry which can
il-,aintain existing air and water quality standards are the first
priority.

155

By removi.ng the physical barriers such as septic tank failures and
flooding, it is believed that a moderate rate of growth will occur-.
2. Support the activities of the Washington County Economic Development
Commission to attract new industry. Their efforts to develop a
county-wide water system has very strong support from the citizens,
organizations, and governinq body of Creswell. The Town has agreed
to expand its system and provide water and related services for, such
,a county systeiii. In addition, proposed sewer services will be
extended beyond the corporate limits.

ALTERNATE POLICIES:

1. Leave the entire burden of econoniic development to the COUnty.

2. Promote any kind of economic development without concern for the
quality of living.

ISSUE: Police Protection

Creswell enjoys a relatively good situation in teriiis of existing crime

problems. Because of the lack of adequate police services, this situation

could change very fast. The increase in efforts of surrounding area to iiiiprove

their police services may tend to shift criminal activities to Creswell. The

Town Council recognizes a real need to improve law enforcement set-vices as a

P )'i@ C a U t i 011.

GOAL: To iniprove law enforceiiient and crime prevention services.

POLICIES:

1. Iiiipleiiient existing agreement with Roper and Washington County to
zombine police set-vices.

2. -Join with Roper in seeking funds to expand the Washington County
)heriff's Departriient.

3. :ontinue to involve citizens, employees, and Town officials in
crime prevention activities. While not participating in a foriiial
Crime Watch Program, local citizens and Town employees have provided
a very effective night watchman.service when paid police officers were
not available.

156

ALTERNATE POLICY:

1. Ignore the issue until it bec.- major problem.

ISSUE: Public Services

Even though Creswell is not adjacent to a developed urban area the Town

has taken on the character of a transitional area. Services will be required

to support a relatively high density which resembles a developed area.

GOAL: To provide a quanity and quality of public services which will promote

a moderate rate of growth.

POLICIES:

1. To continue to make municipal water service available to all property
owners within Town and where density justifies,areas outside the
corporate limits. Approximately 15',0' of existing water users are
located beyond the corporate limits.

ALTERNATE POLICIES:

1. Only provide those services demanded by the public or required by
law.

2. Leave the question of services outside the corporate limits to the
County.

ISSUE: Recreation

While town residents did express concern for the lack of recreational

opportunities, the TDwn Council was not able to provide resources to fund

such programs as a Town function. A donation was made to the Community Schools

program which will help with recreation.

CONTINUING PUBLIC PARTICIPATION IN CRESWELL

The Creswell Town Council will seek the widest possible public input in

all areas of public decision making.

ISSUE: Public Education On Planning Issues

GOAL: To fully inform the public on planning issues.

157

POL IC I ES :

I. Creswell vjill follow its adopted Public Participation Plan in
preparing notices and holding public hearings.
2. Public notices will be posted and distributed to provide information
about planning issues.

3. All citizens are encouraged to attend Council meetings.

ISSUE: Continuing Public Participation In Planning

GOAL: To involve as many people as possible in planning Creswell's future.

POLICIES:

1. In appointing members of boards and committees, the Town Council will
seek a cross-section of persons to represent all segments of the
population.

2. Provide public service releases to the local inedia.

ALTER 14ATE POLICIES:

1. Let the public find out for themselves about planning issues.

2. Don't confuse the public with facts.

SPECIAL ISSUES IN CRESWELL

Crest-jell has been requested by the Coastal Resources Commission to address

the specific issues of septic tank suitability, central water and central sevier

sys tenis.

The Town now operates a central water system with service available to

every structure within the corporate limits. -Approximately 35 County residents

are also Connected to the system. Health hazards associated with shallow wells

on the same lots with septic tanks, caused the Town to adopt regulations

requiring all occupied structures to connect to the central systeill. These

regulations have been enforced.

158

An estimated 80ii' of al-1 septic tanks in Creswell are failing. The Town

Council -is committed to solving this problem with the construction of a central

sewer system. When this system becomes operational, regulations will be

adopted to eliminate the use of septic tank drain fields.

OTHER ISSUES IN CRESWELL

Types of urban growth desired were discussed under other sections such

as housing and economic development. The provision of public services is

directed toward serving all section s of town. No attempt has been made to

use policies to direct specific types of development to specific areas. The

town has not established any particular patterns for development.

159

A REVIEW-OF ROPER AND CRESWELL OBJECTIVES FROM THE 1976 LAND USE PLAN

In 1976 both Creswell and Roper set objectives relating to zoning and

subdivision regulations. Both Towns have adopted subdivision regulations

and have a zoning ordinance written which is being considered for adoption.

Since establishing housing related objectives in 1976, both Towns addressed

the issue. Roper has completed a demolition project of substandard buildings

and a 30 unit'public housing project is scheduled for construction in 1980-81.

In addition several new privately owned homes are under construction because

of the towns efforts to build a central sewer system.

Creswell will complete a Community Development Project in 1980 which will

result in the demolition of 10 delapidated houses and the comprehensive re-

habilitation of 16 homes. This project is now 700/0' complete with many families

occupying standard housing for the first time. In addition,Creswell has

received funding and selected a site for 20 units of public housing. The

Mid-East Regional Housing Authority will construct and operate the public

housing units in both Roper and Creswell.

Roper has met its-1976 objective of securing a central sewer system and ini-

proving the water system.

Creswell has conipleted a sewer facilities plan which calls for the con-

struction of an innovative pressure sewer system by 1983.

In 1976 both towns agreed to petition the county for increased police

patrol set-vice at night. While some improvement has been achieved, the problem

remains a high priority in the goals established in this plan.

Even though Roper has worked toward the 1976 objective of improving storm

drainage within the town, this problem continues to be of major concern. A

160

CAMA funded drainage plan has established goals and strategy for dealing wi th the

problem.

Creswell's 1976 objectives to expand and publicize library and health

care has resulted in the establishment of a weekly story hour conducted by

the Pettigrew Regional Library. The Washington County Health Department is

conducting a very successful Blood Pressure Clinic in Creswell.

161

LAND CLASSIFICATION

Now, for discussion of the land classification system which is the means

by which we use statistical data, population projections, development constraints,

and community policies. Developed as a tool for guiding future activities, the

classification system consists of five classes to be applied to geographic areas.

Deve@loped - Lands where existing population density is moderate to
high and have necessary public services.

Transition - Lands where local government plans to accommodate moderate
to high density development during the next ten years and where public
services will be provided.

COMInUnity - Lands where clustered mixed uses occur in rural areas and
public sewer is not required.

Rural - Lands identified as appropriate for resource management and
allied uses.

Conservation - Fragile, hazard and other lands necessary to maintain
a healthy natural environment.
the Washington County Land Classification is in accord with the CAMA

requi rements and is shown on the Land Classification Map in the Appendix. To

provide a more tailored system of classification for the County, the five land

clas ses have been subdivided further, as discussed on Page 154.

The relationship between County policies and the Classification system

is a very important one. Classification of areas should reflect County poli-

cies adopted by the governing boards.

Land Classification and Local Policies and Implementation

County policies promote dense development where public services are avail-

able. Consistent with this policy, the location of all developed and transition

areas will be within the jurisdiction of the municipalities, with one exception.

Creswell plans to service two areas adjacent to the Town and will probably

162

extend their jurisdiction to include these areas. The majority of the County's

projected population within the next ten years can be provided for within the

three iiiunicipalities of Roper, Creswell, Plymouth and surrounding areas, yet
scattered residential developiiient will continue to take place throughout the
County. This is primarily due to the rural character of the County which the
Board of Coiniiissioners is comiiiitted to protect as reflected in their adoption

of policies.

Preservation of existing communities is supported by the County's poli-

cies to seek housing assistance, and to service areas experiencing problems

with public water. The communities designated as service areas and cluster

areas will continue as moderate density mixed use areas in the future. With

the installation of public water in designated community service areas, resi-

dential development may increase in these communities.

Industrial development in close proximity to the Towns is being encouraged

by the purchase of an industrial site by the County on Highway 45, close to

Plymouth. This sixty acre site, designated community transitional, can be

utilized by several small industries. With the use of land close to our Towns

for industrial use, County policies addressing energy and industrial develop-

ment will be compatible.

Protection of undeveloped natural areas, designated rural natural areas,

is supported by the County's efforts to ensure the conservation and protection

of the natural and manniade environments and harmonize the relationship between

the two. Natural areas adjacent to Lake Phelps, Albemarle Sound, and Bull's

Bay are recognized as sensitive areas which should be protected. Development

is expected to occur in these areas but the County has outlined parameters for

this development within the classification system.

163

Concern for surface water quality expressed in the Community Issues Sec-

tion is reflected in the classification of all surface waters as conservation.

Past efforts by the Board of Commissioners to have Lake Phelps designated as

an Area of Environiiiental Concern emphasizes their commitment to protect our

Areas of E-nvironmental Concern and other environmentally sensitive areas.

County Land Classification

Transition

The purpose of the transition class is to provide for future intensive

urban developi)ient within the ensuing ten years on lands that are most suitable

and that i,,,ill be scheduled for provision of necessary public utilities and

services. The transition lands also provide for additional growth when adequate

lands in the developed class are not available, or when they are severely

limited for development.

The only transition areas within the County's jurisdictions are along

State Roads 1142 and Highway 64 east, emanating from Creswell. Future plans

are to service these areas with sewer and water, according to Town representa-

tives. Installation of a proposed sewer system in Creswell should begin in

1981. Other transition areas are located within the Town limits of Creswell

and Roper.

Community

The purpose of the community class is to provide for clustered land deve-
lopment to help meet housing, shopping, employment, and public services within

the rural careas of the County.

164

Cominunity service areas - Designated service areas are in need of public
water primarily due to poor water quality. These areas are moderately
well developed and are proposed for water service by the County. These
communities will be served in sequence acco-rding to the density, construc-
tion cost, and the number of residents requesting service.

Community cluster areas - These rural areas are characterized by a small
(Irouping of mixed land use and are suitable for small clusters of rural
developnient not requiring sewer service.

Conimunity transitional - These areas connecting rural uses and community
areas are lands which will eventually be converted to mixed use develop-
ment. Characterized as rural, these areas have potential for development
as community areas and are located in the northern sector of the County
and around Creswell. Due to suitable soils and access to major roadways,
they are potential industrial sites. Chances are these areas will have
residential development in the years to come and more likely, some
industrial development in the near future.

Rural

The purpose of the rural classes is to provide for agriculture, forest

management, mineral extraction and other low density uses.

Rural residential - Areas with scattered residential development are
located throughout the County. The majority of these rural residential
.areas are along State Roads and generally do not have commercial or
industrial uses intermixed. Homesites range from 20,000 square feet
upward and have onsite wells and septic tanks. Density to be encouraged
in this area is one household per acres.

Rural natural area - Undeveloped shoreline areas within the County are
considered sensitive and should be protected. Building development
will most likely occur in some of these areas,.but should take place in
a manner which will preserve as much vegetation as possible. Lot size
should be 20,000 square feet or larger to promote low density development,
thus the inipact on the natural environment and providing adequate space
for onsite water and sewage disposal facilities.

Rural forestland - Lands with high potential for forestry resource manage-
ment are included in this category. Large timber tracts which have signi-
ficant value as renewable resources are shown in this rural classification.
In general, the soils in these designated areas are poor for urban deve-
lopnient, and in the case of the Conaby Creek and Bull's Bay tracts, the
soils are saturated with water.

165

Rucal agriculture - These designated areas include lands which are
presently in agricultural production and will continue as such indefinitely.
Areas to be mined for peat and then put into agricultrual production are
also included in this classification.

Con servati on

The purpose of the conservation class is to provide for effective long-

tem iiianagement of significant limited or irreplaceable areas. This manage-

ment is needi?d due to natural, cultural, recreational, productive and scenic

values.

ArE!as designated conservation include surface waters such as Lake Phelps,

Pungo Lake, Albemarle Sound, Scuppernong River, Mackeys Creek, Welch Creek,

and Conoby Creek, coastal wetlands, swamp forest lands, historic sites,

and gOVE@rnment holding, such as Pungo National Wildlife Refuge and Pettigrew

State Park. The Roanoke River is also a conservation are'a.

166

Roper and Creswell Land Classification

Developed

The purpose of the developed class is to provide for continued intensive

development and redevelopment of existing municipalities.

Areas designated developed include the central areas of Roper which are

densely developed and served by public sewer and water.

Transition

The transition class is for future intensive urban development within the

next ten years, which will be provided necessary public services. When adequate

land is not available in the developed class for additional growth, transitional

areas are designed to provide for additional development.

Other than small conservation areas, the entirety of Creswell is considered

transitional in nature. The northeast and southwest edges of Roper are also

designated transitional. These are areas which are proposed for public services.

ConservatiDn

The purpose of the conservation class is to provide for effective long term

managejuent of significant limited or irreplaceable areas.

School sites in both Towns and Kendricks Creek in Roper are designated con-

servation.

167

I
11
. I

DATA MALYSIS

APPENDIX

DATA ANALYSIS

Data C011CE-rning the Washington County area was collected from a number of
sources, including various publications and indirect sources, such as con-
versations or meetinqs with staff members of many organizations and agencies,
or other contacts concerning information about the area.

PRESENT UNDITIONS

1970 and 1960 and Subsequent U. S. Census Publications

N. C. Department of Administration, Office of State Planning, Population Branch,
Washinoton County Population Estimate by Age, Color and Sex, 1980, 1990

McGarrity, John, Washington County Land Use Plan, Play 1976

N. C. Department of Agriculture, Washington County Land Utilization and Crop
Acreage S rvey, 197 -1979

Chamber of Com-gerce, Plymouth, North Carolina

ARPDC, Overall Economic Development Plan, 1977

Washington County OEDP Committee, Overall Economic Development Plan, Washington
County, 14 July 1971

Employment Security Commission, Federal, State and Local Government Insured
Employmen and Wage Payments By County, 1979

Employment Security Commission, Washington County Average Labor Force Estimates,
1970-1978

Division of State Budget and Management, Research and Planning Services, North
Carolina State Government Statistical Abstract, 1979

Washington County Tax Office and Revaluation Staff, 1980

Daniel, Charles C., III, Land Use, Land Cover, and Drainage of the Albemarle
Pamlico Peninsula, Eastern N. C., 1974

Brockett, Samuel R., Washington County Land Use Element, July 1978

Brockett, Samuel R., Zoning Considerations and Land Development Conflicts for
Washingto County, 1977

CONSTRAINTS

P. S. Dept. of HUD, I.-.1ashington County Flood Hazard Boundary Maps, June, 1978

East Carolina University Geology Dept., Shoreline Erosion and Accretion: A
Process - Response Classification of the Shore Zone Environments of North Carolina,
M @yI9@78_

168

USDA - Soil Conservation Service, Soil Survey Maps and Interpretations for
Washington County, N. C., 1978

County Sanitarian, Washington County Health Department

North Carolina Department of Human Resources, Division of Health Services,
Laws and Rules for Ground Absorption Sewa2e Disposal Systems of 3,000 Gallons
or less Design Capacf-ty, July 1977

Heath, Ralph C., Hydrology of the Albeinarle-Pamlico Region, N. C., May 1975
Jim Mulligan, Regional Supervisor, Division of Environmental Management, NRCD

Division of Environmental Management, NRCD, Water Quality Management Plan,
January 1979

Center for Rural Resource Development, NCSU, Overview: Agricultural and Forest
Land Drainage-in North Carolina's Coastal Zone, June 1978

North Carolina Administrative Code, Ambient Air Quality Standards, 1976

North Carolinj Ad,,JnisLraLive Code, Subchapter 7B - CAMA Land Use Planning
Guidelines, September 1979

Division of Parks and Recreation Natural Heritage Program, NRCD, Pungo National
Wildlife Reguge and Pettigrew Cypress Natural Area, 1979

Division of Parks and Recreation, NRCD, Lake Phelps Lake Level Managei,ient Study,
1980

Division of Parks and Recreation, NRCD, Pettigrew State Park Master Plan,
November 1977

Painter, 1-1,@ndy H., Information for Nomination of Lake Phelps as an Area of
Environmencal Concern, August 1979

Caliipbell, R. N., Jr., First Colony Farms, Inc. Peat for Energy Program,
February 1979

Research Triangle Institute, Impact and Feasibility of Wood arid Peat - Fired
Electric G,@nerating Plants in the Coast-a7 Zone of N. C., Decem5-er--1-9-7-9-

Floyd 1.1illiams, Regional Engineer, Division of Land Resources, 11RCD

Jdines D. Simons, State Mining Specialist, Land Quality Section, NRCD

The Albemarle Resource and Conservation Council, Albemarle Area Resource
Conservation and Development Plan of North Carolina, 1977

Talbot and Associates, Solid Waste Planning Study for Washington County,
September 1979

ARPDC, Open Space - Recreation Plan Region R, May 1975

169

USDA Soil Conservation Service, Outdoor Recreation Potential for Washington
County, N. C. , January 1973

Brockett, Samuel R., Washington County Recreation Plan, 1977

N. C. Department of Transportation, Average Daily Traffic Count, 1979

John Everett, Business Manager, Washington County Board of Education

Bill Hartman, Washington County Manager

Guy Whit-Ford, Agriculture Extension Agent, Washington County

COMMUNITV ISSUES

Pelbecg, Group Techniques for ProQram Planning, 1975

Washington County Planning Department, Land Use Plan Questionnaires, 1980

Doggett Architects, 'Washington County Schools Report, 1980

James F. Smith, Methanol Conversion: Probable Fate of First Colony's
Phelps Field Peat, 1980

170

WASHINGTON COUNTY
6-W

.0
NORTH CAROLINA

RESIDE14TIAL
COMMERCIAL
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RECREATION, CULTURAL,
ENTERTAI NMENT
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WASHINGTON COUNTY
NORTH CAROLINA W A N c

TRANSITION

COMUNITY

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CRESWELL
NORTH CAROLINA
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1980 1980
LEGEND LEGEND

TRANSITION RESIDENTIAL INSTITUTIONAL
CONSERVATION COMMERCIAL AGRICULTURE
UNDEVELOPED LAND
FORESTLAND
CULTURA L, ENTERTAINMENT UTILITIES a
a RECREATION COMMUNICATION

ROPER
NORTH CAROLINA
JULY 1980 SCALE: I"= 1000'

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ell

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A KI r% t% I A Q 42 1 C' I t% A T I f% KI U A D F Y IRT I N G LAND URE MAP
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1980 1980
LEGEND LEGEND
DEYELOPED CULTURAL, ENTERTAINMENT TRANSPORTATION
a RECREATION WiNUCCATION a
TRANSITION UTILITIES
CONSERVATION FROM RESIDENTAL
FOREST LAND
COMMERCIAL GOVERNMENT a
INSTITUTIONAL
UNDEVELOPED LAND AGRICULTURE

LAND USE PLAN
SLIDE PRESENTATION TEXT

Land development generally takes pl,ace as the result of a series of
decisions by *private individuals and *government. If left entirely to
chance, the *resulting pattern of development in a locality may well not
be in the best overall coi-nmunity,interest.*

In order to promote community intefest for *both present and *future generations,
a *Land Use Plan was developed and adopted by the Washington County Board
of Commissioners in 1975. According to the Coastal Area Management Act
this plan must be updated every 5 years.

The updated plan will consist *of four primary segments:
1. Data Collection
2. Community Goals
3. Land Use Projections
4. Land Use Classification

*bata collection includes the compilation of information relative to
present population, land use, and econoinic trends'

Although generally ahead of most rural areas, *Washington County has
experienced a small percentage of growth in the last 10 years. The
majority of growth has occured *around Plymouth, with *Roper and *Creswell
experien.cing a decline due to outmigration of young adults.

*Agriculture represents the largest part of the,Countys economy and
also is the major land use. *Although agricultural production has in-
creased , *1 ess f arm 1 abor i s requi red due to mechani zati on. (Pause)
*First Colony Farms represents the second largest single employer'in the
County. *Large scale land clearing technology make feasible by such
corporate farins has contributed to increased farm production over,,
the ,past 10 years. The significance of *large farm investments, suitable
soils, and the higher unit prices derived, reinforce continuation of
agriculture as the major land use in the area.
*Manufacturing production of apparel and wood products is the second
major contributor to the County's economy with *Weyerhaeuser as the number
one employer, *Plymouth garment #3-*Georgia Pacific and Williams Lumber
Co. rank #s 4 and 5 as area employers.

Retail*trade located primarily in the*urbanized areas of the County, and*
also scattered along major highways, comprises only 1% of the County's
land use. Below the average oft6 surrounding counties, County sales
suffer due to the close proximity of Washington, Williamston,and
Edenton.

175

*Residential land use in the County consists of *scattered single famfly
homes and *mobile homes on individual homesites. Mobile homes have greatly
increased in',number in the last 10 years-the trend may continue until
other affordable housing alternatives occur. The housing stock within
the County is primarily standard but there are areas scattered through the County
with *concentrations of substandard housing.

Second home development along the *Albemarle Sound and Lake Phelps
is expected to continue as is the present *trend of the clustering of
single family units around Roper and Creswell.

1,1ehave discussed the existing use of land, now we must address the land
which may be developed in the future. When thinking about the future
development of Washington County an analysis of *undeveloped land must
be made. Four factors which may determine whether land can be developed are:
lst - physical constraints
2nd - fragile areas
3rd - a.reas of resource potential
4th - availibility of pub,lic facilities

*First let's look at physical conditions which will affect future
developments; for example *inadequate. drainage-this is a problem which
plaques the majority of Eastern North Carolina.Due to *the level terrain
sur@ace water runoff has no-where to go at times Awithout man made
drainaye canals.

*Washin(iton County has a large flood plain area where,*Federal Flood
insurance is required and in some instances certain uses may be prohibited
or must be built at higher elevations.

*Many soils in the County pose development constraints due to their
,*limitations. Building on these poor soils will many times *cause cracking
foundations.and malfunctioning septic tanks.

The only alternatives are to:
1. not build
*2. or use public utilities where available

*New development must have *water. Ground water is the exclusive source
of water.for *municipalities, *farms and domestic use in the County.
Although abundant the groundwater is generally hard and in need of
treatment before consumption.

*The second factor which may *inhibit developemnt are *fragile areas.
These areas were recognized in the Land Use Plan as areas which are
important and should be protected.

176

*The A l betilar I e Sound and Bull's Bay, defined as estuarine waters,
are among the most productive *natural enviroments in North Carolina.

*Historic places such as Somerset Place, Rehobeth Church, and the Cypress
trees near Lake Phelps are also considered fragile areas.

*Lands such as Pungo National Wildlife Refuge that support *native plant
and *animal communities should.remain unchanged to support these natural
processes.
PLA)IiC Haters such as lake Phelps, Albemarle Sound and local creeks
throuqhout the County should be carefully considered before development
occurs in order to protect the *interest of the general public.

*Thirdly an identification will be made of areas with *resource potential
which could easily be damaged or destroyed by inappropriate or poorly
planned development. These can include *productive and unique agricultural
lands; potentially valuable mineral sites and *publicly owned forests or
parks.

*A 4th constraint which will significantly affect development is the
capacity of *community facilities.

Roper, Plymouth and-Creswell have existing* sewer and water service.
These systems were designed for a specific capacity thus they will only
be able to handle a certain amount of *growth wJthoutImaking additions
to these systems.

The number and capacity *of schools must be reviewed and a determination
made as to their life span. I

*R oadways are designed fora 'certain amount of traffic-when this
capacity is exceeded, plans must be made for *construction of new road-
ways or *existing roads must be improved.

We have outlined the proposed assessment of *present land use, *pop ulation,
*economic trends, and the* constraints relative to.development; Now
we must look at the demand that will be placed on the County's resources
within the next 10 years. Will we be able to handle projected population
and economic trends?

When looking toward the *future in providing adequate space and facilities,
*population is a primary consideration.

Projected population figures for a.10 year period were included in the
original plan suggesting a moderately slow growth rate for Washington
County.

*Seasonal population which affects* many other Coastal Counties more
severly than Washington County is of the *"pass through" variety and
does not contribute greatly to.the Co.unty's economy.

*Expanded use of land reflects growth in population. A continuing trend
in the County appears to be the *i ,ncrease in land under cultivation. The
use of *agricultural land for homesites is increasing somewhat, with
the demand for waterfront property intensifying development along the
Albemarle Sound *and Lake Phelps.

Future demand for *public services will be dependent upon the capacities
of existing facilities in Roper,' Creswell and Plymouth due to the widely
scattered population of the County. This suggests several issues: should
future development be guided to *Roper, Creswell and.Plymouth? Can
*they handle'expected growth? What are the alternatives to *expanding
public facilities within the Towns?

Future *growth may place great demands on *recreational facilities, *natural
resources, *transportation network, and *.public facilities. *1n,order to
determine the capability of government to provide for the demands discussed,
local governments will issue statements of local policy on those land use
issues.which will affect the.community during the 10 year planning period.
These policies will be.a very.important portion of the Plan. Three topics
which governments are to address include:
1. AEC's
2. Resource Production & Hanagoment
.3. Citizen Participation

CAM A.regulations state that local governments are to discuss each of
the *Areas of Environmental Concern located within its jurisdiction and
are to list the types of land,uses whic.h it feels are appropriate:

1. What types of land uses should be all 'owe d to develop along the
*Albemarle Sound, Lake Phelps, Bulls Bay?
2. Should development occur in the *floodplain or on poorly drained
soils?
3. Should industrial or commercial uses be allowed to encroach.on.
sites of historical value?
4. How will mining peat d-irectly adjacent to Lake *Phelps affect it? (HOLD)

After de teriiiining the types of land use to be encouraged or discouraged
they must explain *what methods they will use to protect sensitive areas.

*The discussion of Resource Production and Management shall include the
importance of *agriculture, *forestry, *fisheries, *and recreational
resources to t4ashington County. How valuable are these resources? Is it
important to protect them? How can they be protected?

178

*Thirdly, local governments must determinehow they will *involve the public
in the land use planning process and how they will *continue to solicit
public input on land use issues.

*This is the reason for my being here to solicit your comments and
concerns on the issues discussed tonight. What types of
residential, commercial, *industrial and.institutional development
should be encouraged? Where should they be located? Is it more
beneficial to *redevelop older areas or to *develop new subdivisions
or industrial parks? Are *existing facilities capable of servicing new
development? If.not what is the potential for establishing *new public
support facilities? Should urban growth continue to develop around
*existing urban clusters or *throughout the County? How important are our
natural resources?. Last of all, what are *your family needs for the future?

*The culmination of this information gathering will be a *plan for future
development in Washington County - a guide which will assist *local
government and the *citizens of Washington in guiding future development.
Hopefully, your input this evening will make this plan represent,the needs
of the residents of Washington County.

179

As a resident of Washington
County, you have a responsibility
to yourself and to your family to
take an interest in the future de-
velopment of the County. The
update process is designed to as-
sure the public an opportunity to
voice concerns and desires relative
to growth.
.The County Planner is available
to clubs and organizations to dis-
cuss this topic, share a slide
presentation, and administer a
questionnaire throughout February.
Two public meetings will also be
held on:

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 26 1980
IN CRESWELL AT 8:00 PM AT THE
CRESWELL MUNICIPAL BU-ILDING

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 1980
IN PLYMOUTH AT 7:00 PM IN
THE COURTROOM

Growth is occurring: as citi-
zens we can let it continue on an 0
unguided path, or we can try to
steer it in a way that creates civic
pride and requires less tax money to
service. The choice and responsi- '---WA f H I N GTO N
bility for good growth management
is.ours. It takes work--and revi-
sions--but is almost always a good
investment in time and money.
Attend and 'participate in the public landufe
meetings. We.hope you will help
when you can--please 'participate. -plan
update

and devetop@ in the next ten yewt/s? coastal area and provide guidance to -to assess the effectiveness of
Shoutd gtowth occut adjacent to state and federal governments making the existing land use and its
exist-4"ng muni'cipaUties, ot thkough- public investment decisions that im- implementation-,
out the County? 1.6 it app&opAiate pact population growth and economic -to further explore implementation
6m commeAciat, industtiat and tm- development.. procedures; and
identiat usez to exist side by side? Each county and the municipalities -to promote a better understanding
How can we ptotect out natutat within the coastal counties are en- of the land use planning process.
Ae,souAca and continueto allow the couraged to develop a plan which re-
County to gtow? As a uzident o6 flects the desires, needs and best WHAT IS THE RESPONSIBILITY OF LOCAL
W"hington County, you have the judgement of its citizens. GOVERNMENT?
tight to expkess yout conceAm and The existing Plan for Washington
nee" %etative to Zand uze deveP-op- County inclusive of Roper and Creswell Very simply, local government has
ment. Thi-6 oppoAtunity is now was prepared in 1975 and adopted by a responsibility to plan. Elected
avaifabte duxing the updating 06 local governments in 1976. The text officials bear a responsibility to
the W"hington County CAMA Land Use includes: plan and budget. the County's resources
Ptan. -present land use, population for health services, drainage, and
and economy. police and fire protection. All of
WHAT IS CAMA? -constraints which may affect these are a part of Washington County's
future development such as public interest, and we expect our
In 1974, the N.C. General Assem- physical conditions, fragile elected officials to define that
bly passed the Coastal Area Manage- areas, areas of resource poten- interest and protect It.
ment Act, designed to protect the tial and availability of public Without a scheme to develop the
most sensitive and-productive of facilities. County in an orderly fashion, the
North Carolina's coastal resources -desc.ription of the land classi- very features which make this area
and to assist local areas with using fication plan which will guide attractive may disappear under the
these resources wisely. development. kinds of growing pains now experienced
CAMA authorized the development., .-a list and description of areas along the Outer Banks. Clearly, more
of land use plans in 20 coastal considered Areas of Environmental jobs, better services, an attractive
counties. Twenty coastal counties Concern. community in which to live, and the
and 34 municipalities have written efficient use of taxes--these needs
and adopted land use plans. of the people--will demand better
WHY IS THE PLAU BEING UPVATED? planning and management in the future.
WHAT IS THE CAMA LAND USE PLAN? The State guidelines require-the So this Plan is intended to be used
Land Use,Plan be updated every five in the future by the Board of County
The CAMA of 1974 establishes a years. The major purpose of pe Iriodic Commissioners, members of Town Councils
cooperative program of coastal area, updating of the local land use plan and others in government, as a guide
management between local governments is to identify and analyze emerging for making policy and adopting pro-
and the state. community issues and problems. The gra .ms.
. Land use planning lies at the following objectives will be of major
center of. local government's involve- importance in the plan update:
ment, as it gives the local. leaders
an opportunity and responsibility @-to further define and refine
to establish and enforce policies to local polici.es and issues;
guide development of their community. -to further examine and refine
These plans serve as a blueprint for the land classification map and

181

Information taken from:

HISTORIC and ARCHITECTURAL RESOURCES
of the
TAR-I@EUSE RIVER BASIN
APPENDIX
for
REGION Q &.R

Prepared By

North Carolina Department of Culcural Resources
Division of'Archives and History

14ASHINGTON COU14TY

1. Alexander House. Ili. end of SR 1319, Skinnersville VIC.
Two-story Federal era house with'double-shoulder
chimneys.. Private.

2. Arnold House. N. side SR 1310 at jct. with NC 32.
Leonard's Point vic. Early nineteenth century.
Two-story frame durelling, three bays wide and
two deep. Exterior end chimney, front shed
porch and rear addition, Federal interiors,
flush sheathing under porch. Private.
3. Avres Farm. W. side SR:1329, 1.2 mi. S. of jct. with
SR 1300, Westover vic. CA. 1892. Two-story
frame building, L-plan. Exterior chimneys,
six-over-six sash, eave returns, beaded tongue
and groove sheathing. Entrances with sidelights.
Private.

4. Belgrade-1q. side of SR 1158, 0.3 mi. E. of jct. with
SR 1159, Creswell vic. One-and-one-half-story
frame Federal style house with gable roof and
double exterior chimneys of Flemish bond; built
about 1800; original simple interior trim
remains intact; was home of"Parson" Pettigrew
who was elected first bishop of the Episcopal
church in North Carolina(but never consecrated).
.Private. SL.

5.. Blount House. Faces Albemarle Sound,,'1.5 mi. N. of SR
1324, Westover vic. Fine two-story frame center-
hall plan Federal style dwelling with two
exterior chimneys, built about 1800;.wide porch
on south side bf house.and ell constructed during
Victorian era; interiors intact., Private..SL.

6. Bower Farm. E. side NC 32 2.6 mi. S. of jct. with SR
1101, Plymouth vic. Two-story gable roof frame
nineteenth century house., Exterior end chimneys
one rebuilt, six-over-6ix sash with casement
windows in gable end on righ side. Private.

7. Chesson House. At N. end of SR 1320, Skinnersville vic.
Nineteenth century. One-story frame dwelling;
center-hall plan twa room deep with later wing;
.original nine-o-ver-nine window sash; interesting
interiors include do.ors withr,unusual painted
designs., Private.

183

.8. J. A. Chesson House. W. Side of SR 1301F 1.0 mi. of N.
of jet. with SR 1331, Roper vie. Two-story frame
Federal dwelling with.single-shoulder chimney
with tumbled weatherings at each end; hall-and-
parlor plan with late Victorian two-story ell
added; stairway enclosed and attic floored.
Private.

9. Will Chesson House. On N. side of US 64, 1.0 mi. W. of
jet. with SR 1136, Skinnersville vie. Fine, large
scale center-hall plan Federal era house built
about 1820 by sea captain; vernacular interior.
Private.

10. Joshia P. Davenport House. W. side SR 1141, 0.2 mi. S.
of jet. with US 64, Scuppernong vie. Two-story
frame Greek Revival farmhouse, threq bays wide
and two deep- Exterior end chimney, central
entrance, front shed porch and rear addition.
Private.

11. Furlough House. N. side of US 64, opp. jet. with SR 1119,
Roper vie. Two-story frame dwelling built during
the Federal era;.unusually small windows at the
second level; first floor altered. Private.

12. Garrett's Island Home. S. side SR 1112, 1.8 mi. E. of
jet. with SR 1113, Plymouth vie. Built about,
1750, probably by Daniel Garrett; small frame
house with gambrel roof, shed dormers, and
exterior brick chimneys; interior contains fluted
mantel with paneled overmantel. Private. SL.

13. Harrison-Blount House. SE. corner of.jct. of SR 1119
and 1122, Roper vie. Federal style-center-hall
plan dwelling with Victorian alterations. Probably
built by James J. Harrison. Nearby is site of
Lee's Mill, begun in 1702 by Capt. Thomas Blount,.
operated until 1921. Private. SL.
14. Holly Grove Plantation. Long drive on E. side of SR 1310,
0.1 mi. S..of jet. with SR 1311, Creswell vie.
One-story cottage with gable roof and front-shed
porch. Hine-over-nine sash on first level,
six-over-six on second Exterior end chimneys,
Federal and Greek Revival elements in interior.
Private.

184

15. Homestead Farm (Hassell House). SW. corner of jct. of
US 64 with SR 1120, Roper vic. Original two-
room frame Federal style farmhouse built about
18.00, later two-story front portion Private.

16. House. Private road on'.W. side of SR 1137, 0.3 mi. S.
of jct. with SR 1136, Pleasant Grove vic. Two-
story frame mid-nineteenth century house, three
bays wide with gable roof. Front hip roof porch,
interior chimneys, six-over-six sash, central
entrance. Private.

17. Jackson House. W. side SR 1100, 0.5 mi. N. of jct. with
SR 1101, Hoke vic. Main block is a two-story
center-hall weatherboarded frame dwelling, three
bays wide and two deep. Gable roof on main house,
shed porch along front, two exterior end double-
shouldered and stepped brick chimneys., Kitchen
had exterior end single-shoulder mud and stick
chimney, now gone, one of very few known standing
recently in North'Carolina. Private.

18. Johnson-Swain House. S side of SR 1111, 0.7 mi. E. of
Jct. with SR-1113, Plymouth vic. Two-.story frame
house with large double-shouldered brick chimney.
Private.

19., Mockingbird Hill Cottage. S. side of end of SR 1151,
Cherry vic. One-story and attic frame cottage,
mid-nineteenth century. Gable roof with full
length shed porch, replaced.end chimney. Private.,

20. Morattuck Church. N side of SR 1106, 0.8 mi. E. of jct.
with SR 11,05, Plymouth vic Congregation estab-
lished in 1785. first building burnedand was
replaced by the present structure built in 1865,
one-story frame gable roof building, two bay-s wide
and four deep Abandoned and deteriorated. Private.

21. Nichols-Vale House N pide of Sk 1111, 0.8 mi..SW. of
jct. wi.th US 64, Plymouth vic. Ca. 1800. Two-
story frame Federal style house, center-hall ;Ian-,
exterior double-should'ered chimneys. Private.

22. Ephram Pritchett House. E. side-SR 1303, at jct. with
SR 1308, Creswell vic. Two-story frame dwelling
with doubleltier front porch with-shed roof. Three
bays wide, two deep, exterior end chimneys, later
rear addition. Second half-nineteenth century.
Private.

185

23. Rehoboth Church. S. side of US 64, 0.4 mi. W.*of jct.
with SR 1317, Skinnersville vic. One-story
frame temple:-'forrn church completed in 1853;
said to have been constructed and -finished by
slaves of J.S. Norman who donated the land.
Private. NR.

24. St. David's Chapel. SE corner jct. of SR 1158 and 1159,
Creswell vic. Original portion of this frame
church was, built in 1803 by the Reverend Charles
Pettigrew of Belgrade and known as Pettigrew's
Chapel; building altered in 1857 after a design
by Richard Upjohn and in 1858 reorganized under
the name of St. David's Chapel. Private. SL.

25. Somerset Place State Historic Site. N. side of Lake
Phelps, just S. of jct. of SR 1167 and 1168,
Creswell vic. The plantation itself was
developed in late eighteenth century with a
vast system of canals, draining swampland and
providing irrigation for early rice crops. The
machinery there, very advanced for the period,
was widely admired. Slaves brought direct ' from
Africa late in eighteenth century retained their
African culture to a remarkable extent. House,
outbuildings, much of canal system remain. The
house, built for Josiah Collins III about 1830,,
is one of the best extant examples of coastal
plantation houses of the period. State Historic
Site. Public. NR.

26. B. F. Spring Farm. N. side SR 1126, 0.3 mi. E. of jct.
with SR 1149, Cherry vic.* One-story frame
cottage with gable roof.and engaged front shed
porch and rear shed. Beaded sidin,g,. brick
exterior end chimneys. 'Typical small nineteenth
century dwelling. Private.

27. Dewey Spruill House. Long Drive on S. side of SR 1163,
.0.1 mi. E. of jct. with SR 1162, Cherry vic.
Two-story mid-nineteenth frame dwelling three
bays wide, six-over-six.-sash. Exterior end
chimneys, single-stepped shoulders. Much
original interior fabric intact,.deteri6rated
condition. Private.

186

28. Winfield Spruill House. N. side SR 13,00, 0.2 mi. W.
of jet. with US 64, Pleasant Grove vic. Two-
story frame dwelling, three bays wide and two
bays deep. Central entrance, gable roof, two
exterior stepped double-shoulder chimneys,
nine-over-six sash. Enclosed stair, much
original fabric. Deteriorated. Private.
29. Swanner-Lamb House'. Jet. of SR 1318, 1319, and 1320.
Skinnersville vic. Mid-nineteenth century
two-story frame house, wide shed front porch
and enclosed rear shed. Private.

30. Thompson House. SE. side SR 1119, 0.5 mi. SW. of jet.
with SR 1120, Roper vic. Simple two-story frame
Federal house; unusual.i.s the New Engl'and type
saltbox form, rare in North Carolina. Private.
SL.

31. Walker House (Harrison House) .On E. side SR 1119, 0.4
mi. N. of jet. with SR 1120, Roper vic. Saltbox
type dwelling with exterior chimneys and unusually
high water table; said built by retired New
England sea captain. Private.

32. Westover Plantation. S. side SR 1300, 0.3 mi. W. of jet.
with SR 1329, Westover vic. A two-story, three-
bay frame structure in the Greek.Revival style.
A one-story porch covers the center bay. Numerous
outbuildings. Private. SL.

CRESWELL

33. Creswell Commercial Buildings. Creswell. Cohesive group
of late nineteenth century, early twentieth .
century commercial structures, mostly frame with
gable fronts. SL.

34. Houses. Collection of mid-through late nineteenth
century and early twentieth century frame structures
showing Greek Revival and Victorian influences.
Many ornamental porches-. Private.

PLYMOUTH

35. Armistead House. 3'b2 W. Main Street, Mid-nineteenth
century. Iwo-story frame dwelling, five'bays
wide with exterior end chimneys, Greek Revival
interior detail. Private.

187

36. Addie Brinkley House. 201 E. Main Street. Handsome
two-story Victorian house with bracketed eaves,
other ornament. Private.

37. Dave Brinkley Cottage. 212 Jefferson Street. Mid-
nineteenth century. One-story frame cottage,
central entrancewith transome and side-lights.
Front shed porch with turned posts, interior
end chimney, later addition at rear. Private.

38. David Clark House. 219 Jefferson Street. Built ca.
1811. Two-story frame side-hall-plan Federal
style dwelling. Private.

39. Fort Williams. N. side of 1325, opp. jct. with SR 1342..
Site ofiConfederate fort captured by Federal
troops early in Civil War and recaptured by
Confederate forces in April 1864. Private.

40. Grace Episcopal Church. SW corner of Madison and Water
Streets. Established 1837; constructed after
plans drawn.by Richard Upjohn; brick Gothic
Revival structure completed 1861. Private. SL.

41. Hampton Academy. Across from 109 E. Main Street. Two-
story brick building with hip roof and front
cross gable, round arched window surrounds.
Private.

42. Hornthall House. 108 W. Main,S,treet. Two-story frame
house with hip roof intersected by cross gables
with sawn bargeboards and finials. Recent
two-story porch and altered central entrance.
Late nineteenth century. Private.

43. Latham House. 311 E. Main Stree't. Ca. 18-50. Two -story
center-hall plan frame dwelling; Greek Revival
style with bracketed cornice., Built by Charles
Latham, lawyer, state legislator and sheriff.
Private. SL,

44. Nichols House. 220,Washington-Street., Ca. 1804.
Two-story center-hall plan frame Federal style
dwelling. Altered. Private.

45. Plymouth Depots(Passenger and Freight). Four one-story
gable roof-structures,, two of brick and two of
frame.' Typical early twentieth century railroad
buildings. Private.

188

46. Plymouth United Methodist Church. SW. corner of 3rd
at Adams Street. One-story brick veneered
gable end church, orie-by-five-bays. Two-story
central bay tower. Built ca. 1832, brek veneered
1932. Congregation founded in 1832. Private.

47. Spruill House. 326 Washington Street. Late nineteenth
century, story-and-a-half cottage urnee. Frame
structure with a hip roof intersected by cross
gables. Sawnwork, interior. chirtineys and an
ornate finial. Private. SL.

48.. Stubbs House. Winesett Circle. Ca.. 1830. Large two-
story Greek Revival frame dwelling. Porch recent.
Private.

ROPER
49. Roper Commercial District. Small late nineteenth-early
twentieth century commercial district with brick
and frame structures. Similar perio'd frame
houses, forming a homogeneous townscape.

50. Downing-Spruill House. N. side US 64, 0.1 mi. 14. of jct.
with SR 1301. Two-story Federal period house
with hip roof. Private.
51. -Hebron Methodist Church. N. side Buncombe Avenue, opp.
Jct. with Bunk Street. Greek Revival era
structure built in 1842. Private.

52. Mizell-Lewis House. NW. side of Buncombe Avenue, just
Sw. of Deep Creek. Greek Revival era dwelling
constructed about 1850 by Anson Mizell; interior
chimneys, pedimented gable ends. Private.

53.. -St. Luke's Episcopal Church.. E. side Bush Street between
John Street and Buncombe Avenue. Early twentieth
century. Small frame church with pointed arch
windows, entrancetower wiLh belfry. Private.

Note: N.R.-National Register Properties

S,.L.-Cultural Resources Study List

189

DATE DUE

GAYLORYINo. 2333

3 6668 108 7116