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Comp_Plan_BrochureN E W S NEW HANOVER COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN SUMMARY Strategic Plan Objective: Promote a strong diverse economy and high quality growth Goal I: Support business success. Desired Outcome: A vibrant economy for New Hanover County based on business success. Implementation Strategies Implementation Guidelines A. Streamline permitting process for targeted industries.I.A.1 Encourage target industries in Employment Centers, Commerce Zones, and Growth Nodes. B. Advocate for and develop a realistic and sustainable incentive policy for New Hanover County.Guidelines are not part of this strategy. C. Align county zoning ordinances to encourage targeted business in appropriate areas. I.C.1 Develop performance controls to address odor, noise, lighting, and other impacts on surrounding uses. I.C.2 Develop strategies for encouraging office, retail, and other light intensity nonresidential uses within existing residential areas to provide community level service. D. Increase communications with small business by creating a resource link on the county webpage for new business and an ongoing process to shepherd new businesses through the development process. I.D.1 Explore updating existing zoning regulations to assist in streamlining the commercial review process. E. Support provisions for providing public free, high-speed internet access throughout New Hanover County.Guidelines are not part of this strategy. Strategic Plan Objective: Create and support a vibrant and culturally diverse community that encourages private investment Goal III: Promote fiscally responsible growth. Desired Outcome: Growth patterns that achieve efficient provisions of services and equitable distribution of costs between the public and private sector. Implementation Strategies Implementation Guidelines A. Coordinate infrastructure from a regional perspective including water, sewer, and transportation.III.A.1 Encourage the expansion of water and sewer infrastructure to provide orderly and efficient development consistent with CFPUA’s plans and policies. III.A.2 Provide connectivity between transportation modes, in growth nodes outlined on the Future Land Use Map, and within new development where practical. III.A.3 Ensure all traffic calming devices and gated areas accommodate emergency service delivery and interconnectivity. III.A.4 Encourage street connections to adjoining undeveloped property and connect existing streets to improve accessibility and safety to development sites. B. Coordinate regional facilities such as community colleges and workforce training as they support targeted industries (as identified in County approved Economic Development strategies).III.B.1 Encourage the development of educational facilities and transportation infrastructure in Employment Centers and Commerce Zones as identified on the Future Land Use Map. C. Encourage infill development on vacant or blighted pieces of existing communities by providing incentives such as grants, but not limited to; density bonuses, and/or a reduction of parking requirements and/or setbacks. III.C.1 Encourage a mixture of uses that create opportunities for shared parking and setback requirements to serve the overall community. D. Encourage the redevelopment of single uses into mixed-use developments where appropriate.III.D.1 Encourage incremental transformation of single uses into compatible mixed use centers that are compatible with the surrounding neighborhoods. E. Encourage redevelopment of aging corridors to support and strengthen adjacent neighborhoods.III.E.1 Encourage revitalization and redevelopment of blighted infill sites into compatible mixed uses that enhance nearby residential areas through incentives such as density bonuses, shared parking, and/or innovative buffering. F. Encourage development where existing infrastructure is available.III.F.1 Encourage increased density in Urban Mixed Use areas within close proximity of City of Wilmington jurisdiction and Growth Nodes as identified on the Future Land Use Map (Porter’s Neck/Kirkland, Monkey Junction, and I-40/I-140 Interchange) in an effort to create densities that can support future infrastructure. Goal IV: Use public infrastructure improvements to leverage private investments. Desired Outcome: Coordinated efforts of public and private investment to maximize improvements. Implementation Strategies Implementation Guidelines A. Work with CFPUA on a targeted long range plan for water and sewer infrastructure.Guidelines are not part of this strategy. B. Work with MPO on a targeted long range plan for transportation infrastructure.IV.B.1 Coordinate with NC DOT, WMPO, and property owners to complete a collector street network plan for unincorporated areas. IV.B.2 Encourage driveway standards to promote better traffic flow in the county. IV.B.3 Continue to require street connectivity and discourage cul-de-sacs and gated communities that impede connectivity and emergency response. C. Consider revising zoning ordinances to support mixed uses and holistic approach to development. IV.C.1 Encourage new development to consider allocation of space for new community services such as fire stations, schools, libraries, and museums. IV.C.2 Encourage public investments to consider locating near existing communities. D. Consider strategies to encourage increased private sector investment in the provision of infrastructure.Guidelines are not part of this strategy. Goal VI: Conserve and enhance our unique sense of place to attract individuals, companies and organizations. Desired Outcome: Enhance our reputation as a desirable community to live and operate a business based on New Hanover County’s rich history, natural environment, and unique features. Implementation Strategies Implementation Guidelines A. Focus in the public spaces and opportunities for formal and informal social gathering places. Increase, enhance, and manage public access to water and natural resources. VI.A.1 Encourage the development of public shorefront access areas and boat access areas that do not adversely affect estuarine resources or public trust waters. VI.A.2 Encourage the development of public spaces in mixed use developments through public, private partnerships. VI.A.3 Allow uses of estuarine and public trust waters that provide benefits to the public and satisfy riparian access needs of private property owners while encouraging shared boating facilities instead of individual boating docks. VI.A.4 Consider including Form Based Code elements in development regulations to enhance or create community focal points. B. Consider creating a strong place-based economic development strategy.Guidelines are not part of this strategy. C. Make a case for sustainable funding sources to improve the County’s economic development infrastructure and identify opportunities to leverage the funds effectively. Guidelines are not part of this strategy. D. Encourage conservation and enhancement of the unique environment, character and history of the county.VI.D.1 Update New Hanover County inventory of historic places. VI.D.2 Encourage preservation and conservation of historic sites identified in the county’s historic sites survey. VI.D.3 Encourage preserving the character of the area’s residential neighborhoods and quality of life by supporting development that is consistent with adopted Small Area Plans and enhances existing land uses. Strategic Plan Objective: Support a planned environment that enhances community and preserves and protects our natural resources. Goal VII: Promote place-based economic development in the region that is tied to our natural resources. Desired Outcome: Coordinate economic development efforts with New Hanover County’s naturally bio-diverse region and unique features. Implementation Strategies Implementation Guidelines A. Create and promote a network of greenways, blueways, and trails highlighting environmental assets. VII.A.1 Identify the environmental assets and locations where greenways, blueways, public access, and trails would enhance economic development while not diminishing the resource. VII.A.2 Provide for the protection and development of public shorefront and boat access areas. B. Coordinate and partner with various agencies to develop future public water access points. Guidelines are not part of this strategy. C. Revitalize waterfront parks and public spaces to encourage opportunities for formal and informal social gatherings.Guidelines are not part of this strategy. D. Preserve, conserve, and/or maintain coastal infrastructure features including natural and man-made; which are critical to our quality of life, economy, and coastal environment.VII.D.1 Development or expansion of marinas (as defined herein) in primary nursery areas, outstanding resource waters, or open shell fishing waters may occur when the following conditions exists: • There exists a previously permitted channel which was constructed or maintained under permits issued by the State or Federal Government. If a natural channel was in use, or if a human-made channel was constructed before permitting was necessary, there shall be clear evidence that the channel was continuously used for a specific purpose; and • Excavated material can be removed and placed in an approved disposal area without significantly impacting adjacent nursery areas and beds of submerged aquatic vegetation; and • The original depth and width of a human-made channel or natural channel will not be increased to allow a new or expanded use of the channel. VII.D.2 Develop guidelines and standards for community boating facilities and other water dependent uses through updated ordinances. (Marina: Any publically or privately owned dock, basin, or wet storage facility constructed to accommodate more than 10 boats and providing any of the following services: permanent or transient docking spaces, dry storage fueling facilities, haul out facilities, or repair services. Excluded from this definition are boat ramp facilities allow access only, temporary docking that includes none of the previous listed services, and community boating facilities.) Goal VIII: Integrate multi-modal transportation into mixed land uses that encourage safe, walkable communities. Desired Outcome: A community with a mixture of land uses that allows for individuals to perform daily tasks without the use of an automobile. A community where individuals can safely walk, bike, and access transit. Implementation Strategies Implementation Guidelines A. Review existing design standards and apply best practices to ensure transportation infrastructure is safe for all multimodal users.VIII.A.1 Encourage bicycle friendly design treatments such as wide outside lanes, signage, dedicated routes, bike lanes, and shared use paths into new developments. VIII.A.2 Encourage “complete streets” consistent with NCDOT complete streets design guidelines and adopted plans. B. Educate and promote all users to safely share the transportation infrastructure.Guidelines are not part of this strategy. C. Work with school district and DOT to allow and encourage students to walk to school safely.VIII.C.1 Continue to require sidewalks in new development and redevelopment in accordance with the recommended Place Type descriptions. D. Review existing parking lot design standards to determine if changes are needed to encourage safety for all users.VIII.D.1 Review, and if needed, consider updated performance design standards in new parking lot design to ensure driver, pedestrian and bicyclists’ safety. VIII.D.2 Encourage/permit shared parking between compatible land uses to reduce development costs, impervious surfaces, and reduce/minimize access locations on roadways. E. Encourage provision of transit supportive land uses and infrastructure where appropriate.VIII.E.1 Encourage pedestrian, bicycle, and public transportation circulation and infrastructure considerations (such as cross walks, bike lanes, shelters, pedestrian islands, and others that promote safe havens for alternative transportation). VIII.E.2 Concentrate development in nodes and high growth areas depicted on the Future Land Use Map to ultimately produce densities that can support multi modal transportation and Transit Oriented Development. VIII.E.3 Provide alternatives to automobile transportation by encouraging new development, redevelopment, and transportation improvements to include provisions for a network of bicycle and pedestrian facilities, including pedestrian causeways, bridges, and crossings on collector streets and major arterials. Goal IX: Promote environmentally responsible growth. Desired Outcome: Development that accommodates population growth while minimizing negative impacts on natural resources. Implementation Strategies Implementation Guidelines A. Promote a mixture of uses where appropriate in an effort to cluster development and minimize impacts on natural resources.IX.A.1 Encourage mixed use development that rewards development practices which exceed minimum standards. IX.A.2 Establish open space criteria that encourages preservation of natural areas, buffers, trees, and wildlife habitats, while working in harmony with the built environment. IX.A.3 As part of the development ordinance, include mixed use district guidelines that achieve the intent of the Community and Urban Mixed Use place types and are consistent with City of Wilmington districts. B. Adopt and implement a green infrastructure plan that identifies a network of natural lands and open spaces and provides ecosystem conservation as well as alternative transportation modes through trails and greenways. IX.B.1 Encourage best management practices that enhance development and minimize adverse environmental impacts of the built environment. IX.B.2 Use incentives to create flexible guidelines as well as outreach and education to encourage the use of native vegetation in landscaping and discourage invasive species. IX.B.3 Identify and promote access opportunities to existing open space and incentivize these spaces for active and passive recreation. IX.B.4 To enhance recreation, conservation, and transportation infrastructure, consider prioritizing connections of open space, parks and greenways as identified in the Parks Master Plan. C. Partner with regional governmental agencies and nongovernmental organization to acquire and protect environmentally sensitive land (eg. Establish a regional land bank).IX.C.1 Provide opportunities to legally transfer density and impervious surfaces out of areas where exceptional resources may be impacted. IX.C.2 Encourage the use of best management practices through education and incentives to protect environmentally sensitive areas. IX.C.3 Continue promotion of New Hanover County as a “no discharge zone” and promote the Clean Marina Program. IX.C.4 Prohibit floating home development where pump-out facilities or sewer connections are not available in order to protect public trust and estuarine areas and to minimize risk of loss to persons and property. D. Strengthen and direct development toward existing communities through encouraging infill and redevelopment.IX.D.1 Encourage incremental inclusion of mixed uses into areas that are single use dominated where the uses are compatible with the surrounding neighborhoods. IX.D.2 Encourage infill development to maximize use of previously developed sites for highest and best use. Strategic Plan Objective: Support a planned environment that enhances community and preserves and protects our natural resources. (continued) Goal X: Conserve environmentally critical areas. Desired Outcome: Utilize environmentally critical areas for outdoor recreation, healthy watersheds, and maintenance of critical habitats. Implementation Strategies Implementation Guidelines A. Partner with governmental and nongovernmental organizations to acquire and protect environ-mentally sensitive areas.X.A.1 Encourage development patterns that preserve natural areas, buffers, and significant trees. X.A.2 Ensure the protection and preservation of undeveloped barrier and estuarine system island by pur-chase or dedication in order to restrict development, support research, and encourage passive recreation as their primary uses. B. Discourage development in wetlands, flood plain, and other flood prone areas.X.B.1 Encourage connection to public water and sewer in environmentally sensitive areas to minimize potential contamination from failing septic systems. X.B.2 Encourage lower density development and/or alternatives to development (ie. acquisition through clean water trust funds and grants) in ocean erodible areas, inlet hazard areas, high hazard flood areas, coastal and federally regulated wetlands. X.B.3 Encourage lower density development and/or alternatives to development (ie. acquisition through clean water trust funds and grants), and minimal impervious surface coverage within the 100-year flood-plain (1% annual chance floodplain). The following applies: • Development projects may be allowed within the floodplain where adverse impacts to the estua-rine system can be shown to be negligible. • Low intensity uses on a site, such as open space and passive recreation, may be appropriate in the floodplain. • Projects should comply with hierarchical principles of impact avoidance, minimization, and mitigation for unavoidable impacts. • Evaluate the need to develop standards for the protection of environmentally significant areas during development and redevelopment. X.B.4 Encourage preservation of existing natural wetlands and constructed wetlands as a stormwater mitigation technique where practical. X.B.5 Encourage preservation of existing natural buffer areas for conservation resources to preserve their natural functions. X.B.6 Incentivize, through the development process, the use of Best Management Practices such as Low Impact Development where possible to ensure environmentally critical areas are conserved. X.B.7 Encourage the use of native vegetation in landscaping. C. Educate the public on the value of protecting ecosystems.Guidelines are not part of this strategy. Goal XI: Conserve open space for long term agricultural and rural uses. Desired Outcome: Provide opportunities for locally sourced food and contribute to the overall rural character of locations within the County defined on the Future Land Use Map. Implementation Strategies Implementation Guidelines A. Allow developments to have urban farms to satisfy open space requirements.XI.A.1 Incentivize the inclusion of urban farms and community gardens as amenities or open space in development proposals. XI.A.2 Identify opportunities for preservation of open space in new development projects. B. Encourage voluntary preservation of agricultural land.XI.B.1 Support voluntary preservation of agricultural lands in the portions of the County where in demand. Goal XIII: Preserve and protect water quality and supply. Desired Outcome: Accommodating anticipated growth in a manner that is sustainable to New Hanover County’s water supply and water quality. Implementation Strategies Implementation Guidelines A. Continue to enhance a regional water quality program to include ocean, river and estuarine water quality monitoring in cooperation with UNCW and others.XIII.A.1 Continue efforts to preserve and restore shell fishing to SA waters and restore the water quality of non-supporting surface waters to levels necessary to support their use designations. B. Continue to identify watershed specific indicators of water quality degradation, establish base-line measures, and establish watershed development practices to achieve goals.XIII.B.1 Dredging activities in Primary Nursery Areas (PNA), Outstanding Resource Waters (ORW), and Shell fishing Waters (SA), should be avoided except for the purpose of scientific research, projects designed for the purpose of protecting and enhancing water quality, and where supported by sound scientific and technical knowledge. Limited exceptions may be allowed for the urban waterfront and Wilmington’s ports, consistent with the goals and objectives of the Cape Fear River Corridor Plan (1997), the Wilmington Vision 2020 Plan (2004), and other adopted plans and for inlet management projects as permitted by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Maintenance dredging may occur when the following conditions exists: • There exists a previously permitted channel which was constructed or maintained under permits issued by the State or Federal Government. If a natural channel was in use, or if a human-made channel was constructed before permitting was necessary, there shall be clear evidence that the channel was continuously used for a specific purpose; and • Excavated material can be removed and placed in an approved disposal area without signifi-cantly impacting adjacent nursery areas and beds of submerged aquatic vegetation; and The original depth and width of a human-made channel or natural channel will not be in-creased to allow a new or expanded use of the channel. C. Consider establishing water quality improvement goals for the County.Guidelines are not part of this strategy. D. Identify and prioritize water quality improvement projects, including wetland and stream resto-rations, which will improve water quality. Guidelines are not part of this strategy. E. Identify and pursue funding sources for priority projects. Guidelines are not part of this strategy. F. Explore the value and benefits of reestablishing the Watershed Management Advisory Board. Guidelines are not part of this strategy. G. Continue to develop drainage systems and design standards that reflect the natural carrying capacity of the watershed.XIII.G.1 Encourage stormwater management systems that mimic the predevelopment hydrology of the site. XIII.G.2 Continue to ensure drainage from land use activities has rate of flow and volume characteristics as near to predevelopment conditions as possible. H. Continue to participate in the development of state standards and advance the adoption and imple-mentation of local best management practices to ensure the retention, acquisition and management of natural vegetation and riparian buffers to preserve, maintain and protect water quality. XIII.H.1 Encourage the retention, acquisition, and management of natural vegetative buffers to preserve, maintain, and protect water quality. I. Continue to participate in the development of statewide regulation of subdivision design stan-dards and advance the adoption and implementation of local best management practices to protect and improve water quality in sensitive areas. Guidelines are not part of this strategy. J. Continue to develop and update educational and other strategies to deal with point and non-point source impacts on water quality. XIII.J.1 Encourage subdivision design that protects and improves water quality. K. Identify, evaluate, and prioritize an inventory of retrofit opportunities to reduce water quality impacts from stormwater runoff on receiving waters. Guidelines are not part of this strategy. L. Identify water specific sources of pollutants to help direct protection and improvement mea-sures. XIII.L.1 Protect surface water quality by prohibiting new and eliminating existing collection systems that directly discharge storm water to surface waters. XIII.L.2 Ensure that stormwater runoff from roadways does not directly discharge to surface waters. M. Promote expansion of water and sewer system to protect and enhance water quality.Guidelines are not part of this strategy. N. Consider establishing a groundwater and aquifer protection ordinance.XIII.N.1 Explore methods to protect groundwater aquifers. XIII.N.2 Research and develop appropriate performance metrics for uses that may have adverse im-pacts on ground water aquifers. O. Consider removing barriers in codes/ordinances that hinder and prohibit low impact development.XIII.O.1 Encourage low impact development and other best management practices. Strategic Plan Objective: Prepare all students to be successful in a 21st century world Goal XIV: Actively promote high quality education and diverse cultural opportunities for New Hanover County residents and visitors. Desired Outcome: High quality education and diverse opportunities that sustain the economic vitality of our community and enrich the lives of current and future residents. Implementation Strategies Implementation Guidelines A. Work with New Hanover County Public Schools as well as community stakeholders and institutions to support high quality pre-K, primary, and secondary educational opportunities to meet current and future needs of County residents. XIV.A.1 Encourage schools to locate in areas where they provide the maximum benefit to adjoining neighborhoods. XIV.A.2 Plan and locate schools to allow for future expansion and to ensure better and shared use of the facilities and campus. B. Form diverse partnerships to maximize utilization and improve access to recreational and cultural opportunities and assets for New Hanover County residents and visitors. XIV.B.1 Where development projects include protected cultural resources, encourage promotion of the resource as an asset to the development. C. Partner with New Hanover County Schools, UNCW, CFCC, and economic development stakeholders to develop and promote educational programs that support the full range of skill sets employers need and target specific economic development opportunities within New Hanover County. Guidelines are not part of this strategy. Strategic Plan Objective: Enhance the self-sufficiency of individuals and families Goal XV: Provide for a range of housing types, opportunities, and choices. Desired Outcome: Citizens are not overburdened with the costs or availability of housing, but have a diverse range of options that are affordable at different income levels. Implementation Strategies Implementation Guidelines A. Enhance and update incentives to reduce development costs to private developers such as density bonuses when work force housing is included in development proposals. XV.A.1 Explore an ordinance allowing accessory dwelling units that are compatible with existing neighborhoods. XV.A.2 Encourage a mixture of uses in an effort to provide diversity of housing choice. XV.A.3 Review zoning regulations where appropriate to accommodate populations with special needs such as the elderly and disabled. XV.A.4 Incentivize, through the development process, the inclusion of diverse housing choices and opportunities in urban and community mixed use areas so that safe and conveniently located communities are available regardless of age or income. B. Consider creating an affordable housing task force to define affordability and work with private sector to provide it.Guidelines are not part of this strategy. C. Strategically work with developers experienced in providing affordable and subsidized housing through federal and state programs and locate affordable housing developments in areas of highest need. XV.C.1 Encourage a mixture of housing types near employment centers. Strategic Plan Objective: Reduce and prevent crime and increase the safety and security of the community Goal XVI: Increase public safety by reducing crime through the built environment. Desired Outcome: New development patterns that focus on increased public safety. Implementation Strategies Implementation Guidelines A. Encourage best practices and design strategies in the built environment to help reduce crime.XVI.A.1 Encourage best management practices for reducing crime such as Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design, Firewise, etc. B. Encourage a walkable community that creates more human interaction between neighbors (eyes on the street/ social space).XVI.B.1 Incorporate multiple points of access to the existing transportation network to ensure safe traffic operations. XVI.B.2 Ensure transportation facilities are designed to accommodate the proposed development and are consistent with the place type in which they are located. Goal XVIII: Increase physical activity and promote healthy, active lifestyles. Desired Outcome: A built environment that encourages active life styles and increased health through walking and biking. Implementation Strategies Implementation Guidelines A. Encourage a mixture of uses in developments that allows individuals to walk rather than rely upon vehicles.XVIII.A.1 Provide sidewalks and/or multi-purpose paths within development projects. XVIII.A.2 Encourage the inclusion of areas for physical activity in the design of residential open space areas. B. Encourage siting of schools into the community allowing for students to walk or bike to shcool, while considering traffic impacts.XVIII.B.1 Provide sidewalks or multiuse paths within close proximity of schools and other community facilities. C. Connect walkways, parking lots, greenways, and developments to encourage pedestrian activity.XVIII.C.1 Encourage dedication or provision of easements for multi-use paths consistent with the Greenway Master Plan and other adopted plans. XVIII.C.2 Allow payment in lieu for recreational facilities. Goal XXI: Ensure NHC remains in attainment for air quality, in support of clean air and improved public health outcomes in support of continued growth. Desired Outcome: New Hanover County to remain in attainment for air quality to protect public health and retain and attract quality development and industries. Implementation Strategies Implementation Guidelines A. Promote compact development, mixture of uses, and infill that minimizes trips and vehicle miles traveled. XXI.A.1 Promote compact development and infill with a mix of integrated community uses (e.g. housing, shops, workplaces, schools, parks, and civic facilities) within walking or bicycling distance that minimizes vehicle trips and vehicle miles traveled. XX1.A.2 Encourage development be located and designed to be convenient for access to public transit, thereby bringing potential riders closer to transit facilities and increasing ridership. B. Encourage development patterns and neighborhood street designs that are conductive to pedestrian and bicycle use. XXI.B.1 Encourage “complete street” design to accommodate all users and encourage alternative modes of travel. XXI.B.2 Promote street, sidewalk, and greenway designs that support and enhance access between neighborhoods and to neighborhood-based commercial developments. C. Discourage open burning of yard waste and trash in densely populated areas. XXI.C.1 Discourage open burning in densely populated areas. D. Consider a program for NHC staff to work with NCDENR to review air quality monitoring site data and stay abreast of current and proposed Clean Air Act Requirements that could affect the Non-Attainment status of New Hanover County. Guidelines are not part of this strategy. Strategic Plan Objective: Reduce health risks and diseases Goal XVII: Increase recycling and reduction of solid waste. Desired Outcome: Divert solid waste to eliminate constraints of future development. Implementation Strategies Implementation Guidelines A. Work with private sector and other regional jurisdictions to implement a countywide recycling program including construction demolition debris and consumer product packaging material.Guidelines are not part of this strategy. B. Work with private sector entities to identify recycling and other innovative strategies to divert material from the landfill. (Composting, gasification, anaerobic digestion, etc.)Guidelines are not part of this strategy. C. Encourage adaptive reuse of building to limit construction and demolition waste production.XVII.C.1 Encourage adaptive reuse for vacant or dilapidated structures and sites rather than demolition when practical or fiscally responsible. D. Encourage consumer based responsibilities for waste reduction, recycling, and reuse.Guidelines are not part of this strategy. Goal XIX: Increase access to affordable and convenient healthy foods. Desired Outcome: Increased community health. Implementation Strategies Implementation Guidelines A. Ensure zoning and land use regulations encourage and allow for community gardens and urban agriculture.XIX.A.1 Allow agricultural uses in open space areas. B. Build on health gaps analysis report, target strategies to promote location of farmers markets, grocery stores, and other venues that have healthy food offerings.Guidelines are not part of this strategy. Goal XX: Support health promotion and disease prevention while minimizing debilitating effects of mental and physical disabilities. Desired Outcome: A built environment that supports citizens with mental and physical disabilities through the location of services, integration of land uses, and sensitivity to the disabled population. Implementation Strategies Implementation Guidelines A. Encourage public spaces and health related facilities (Gyms, pharmacies, physician offices, etc.) to be smoke free.Guidelines are not part of this strategy. B. Promote awareness of physical and mental disabilities and disease prevention.XX.B.1 Sidewalks, pedestrian amenities, and residential common areas should be designed to be inclusive of persons with limited mobility. Goal V: Revitalize commercial corridors and blighted areas through infill and redevelopment. Desired Outcome: Strong existing neighborhoods and corridors where the highest and best uses are promoted in an effort to increase economic revitalization. Implementation Strategies Implementation Guidelines A. Implement a program to identify and dispose of vacant or abandoned buildings that cannot be redeveloped. Guidelines are not part of this strategy. B. Facilitate programs to encourage reuse, rehabilitation, and redevelopment of existing residential, commercial, industrial buildings and properties where appropriate.V.B.1 Incorporate reuse and rehabilitation of existing structures when feasible and cost effective in new developments. V.B.2 Continue to maintain standards for landscaping and tree protection for parking lots, sidewalks, and in street rights-of-way for both public and private projects. Goal II: Support workforce development and economic prosperity for all. Desired Outcome: Retain and attract businesses and companies with workforce talent that is aligned with our targeted industries. Implementation Strategies Implementation Guidelines A. Partner with educational facilities to provide opportunities for training in targeted industries. Guidelines are not part of this strategy. B. Continue to enhance educational programs, facilities, and offerings.II.B.1 Encourage clustering of educational facilities and employment centers in the built environment. Goal XII: Link major natural habitats. Desired Outcome: Connected open space and recreational opportunities that promotes biodiversity and provides continuity for wildlife through corridors. Implementation Strategies Implementation Guidelines A. Identify and prioritize natural areas for acquisition, preservation, and conservation to promote linkage opportunities.XII.A.1 Encourage the provision of open space that protects our natural environment and wildlife habi-tats, and provides educational and recreational opportunities. B. Consider developing a conservation land acquisition strategy.Guidelines are not part of this strategy. C. Review and update incentives for development to dedicate land and or easements to achieve habitat linkages.XII.C.1 Encourage new developments to work together on connecting open spaces in a manner that creates efficient and cohesive natural areas in an effort to provide greater benefit. © OpenStreetMap (and) contributors, CC-BY-SA, Esri, HERE, DeLorme, MapmyIndia, © OpenStreetMap contributors, Esri, HERE, DeLorme, TomTom, MapmyIndia, © OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS usercommunity 2 Miles The Future Land Use Map is not legally binding like the New Hanover County Zoning Map. It is intended to be a general representation of the 25 year vision for New Hanover County, created by the citizens who were involved with Plan NHC, and will be used to guide future development decisions. Provides areas for employment and production hubs,predominantly composed of light and heavy industrial uses, though complementary commercial uses are also allowed. Residential uses are discouraged. Commerce Zones require arterial or major collector road accessconnecting them to areas outside their boundaries. URBAN MIXED USE Developement Intensity Massing/Scale Recommendations Desired Uses - Commercial- Office & Institutional- Industrial Types Zoning CategoriesTypes of Uses/Projects- Light Industrial- Heavy Industrial- Office- Recreational COMMERCE ZONE Promotes development of a mix of residential, office, and retail uses at higher densities. Types of uses encouraged include office,retail, mixed use, small recreation, commercial, institutional, single-family, and multi-family residential.Desired Uses Types of Uses/Projects - Retail - Office - Mixed Use - Small Recreational Developement Intensity Massing/Scale Recommendations - Single & Multi-FamilyResidential Types Zoning Categories - Mixed Use - Commercial- Office & Institutional - Moderate to High-Density Residential Serves as employment and production hubs where office andlight industrial uses predominate. Can include residential, civic,and recreational uses, but should be clearly delineated from rural and conservation areas. Commercial uses designed to servethe needs of the employment center are appropriate. Developement Intensity EMPLOYMENT CENTER Desired Uses - Commercial- Office & Institutional- Industrial- Low & Moderate Types Zoning CategoriesTypes of Uses/Projects- Office - Industrial- Single-Family Residential- Multi-Family Residential- Commercial/Retail- Recreational Density Residential GENERAL RESIDENTIAL Focuses on lower-density housing and associated civic and commercial services. Housing is typically single-family or duplexes. Commercialuses should be limited to strategically located office and retail spaces, while recreation and school facilities are encouraged throughout. Developement Intensity Massing/Scale Recommendations Urban Design Recommendations Street Pattern:Warped Grid &Limited Cul-de-sacs Urban Design Recommendations Setbacks:Residential: Near sidewalkNon-residential: Far from sidewalk Street Pattern:Grid or radial Urban Design Recommendations Pedestrian Amenities:Sidewalks, street furniture,street & shade trees, lightingbike racks, crosswalks, plazas, pedestrian malls Street Pattern:Arterial & local;grid or partial grid Block Length:200 - 800 ft Massing/Scale Recommendations Desired Uses - Low Density Residential- Medium Density Residential- Office & Institutional- Planned Unit Development Types Zoning CategoriesTypes of Uses/Projects- Single Family - Light Commercial- Low-Density Multi-Family Residential- Civic-Recreational Setbacks:Varies CONSERVATION Covers areas of natural open space and is intended to protect the natural environment, water quality, and wildlife habitats thatserve the public through environmental education, low impactrecreation, and in their natural beauty. Protection may also extend to important cultural or archaeological resources and to areaswhere environmental hazards are known to exist. Increased densitywould be discouraged, and low impact development methods would be required. Such requirements place limits on development to ensure the protection of resources. GROWTH NODES Growth nodes are intended to be focus areas of development,encouraging high-density developments that promotepedestrian activity and alternative transportation options.The growth nodes pertaining to the Future Land Use Mapare individualized focus areas within the unincorporatedcounty that have seen and/or are seeing expenential growth.The intent is to cluster growth in these areas so that publictransportation connections can be accomplished. · Urban Design Recommendations Street Pattern:Grid or radial RURAL RESIDENTIAL Focuses on rural areas where new development occurs in a manner consistent with existing rural character, while also preserving theeconomic viability of the land. Residential uses are the predominant,but not exclusive, use. Agricultural and rural recreational uses areintermixed with large-lot residential areas. Desired Uses - Very Low Density Residential- Agricultural- Recreational Typical Zoning CategoriesTypes of Uses/Projects - Single-Family Residential- Small-scale Agricultural & Forestry- Recreational - Open Space Developement Intensity Massing/Scale Recommendations Urban Design Recommendations Street Pattern:Organic &Sparce Block Length:0.5 - 5 miles Setbacks:Residential: Away from streetPedestrian Amenities:Recreational trails,open space, shade trees COMMUNITY MIXED USE Focuses on small-scale, compact, mixed use development patternsthat serve all modes of travel and act as an attractorfor county residents and visitors. Desired Uses - Moderate Density Residential- Commercial- Office & Institutional- Mixed Use Typical Zoning CategoriesTypes of Uses/Projects- Office - Retail - Mixed Use- Multi-Family Residential- Single-Family Residential- Recreational Urban Design Recommendations Street Pattern: Setbacks: Pedestrian Amenities: Grid or radial Residential: Near sidewalkNon-residential: At sidewalk Sidewalks, street & shade trees,street furniture, bike racks Block Length:200 - 500 ft Developement Intensity Massing/Scale Recommendations Block Length:300ft - 0.5 miSetbacks:Residential: Near sidewalkNon-residentialin: At sidewalkPedestrian Amenities:Sidewalks, street & shade trees,street furniture, bike racks Block Length:300ft - 0.5mi Pedestrian Amenities:Sidewalks, bike racks,street & shade trees,street furniture Pedestrian Amenities:Sidewalks, open spacestreet & shade trees Setbacks:Residential: Away from street orin line with existing developmentNon-residential: Away from the street Block Length:1000 - 2500 ft New Hanover County is a vibrant, prosperous, diverse coastal community, committed tobuilding a sustainable future for generations to come. With this in mind, citizens, electedofficials, appointed officials, stakeholder groups, and planning staff have developed the firstComprehensive Land Use Plan for New Hanover County, titled Plan NHC. The plan is morethan a document that provides land use policy recommendations. It is a series of reports,including statistical and historical information that incorporates extensive community input andprovides a detailed implementation plan that will help achieve the overall vision for thefuture of New Hanover County. New Hanover County is expected to experience a high level of employment and populationgrowth. By 2040, population is projected to grow to 337,000. This represents an increase of123,000 (57%) from current population levels. With growth comes the need for responsibledevelopment and redevelopment of land, as well as thoughtful consideration concerning theCounty’s infrastructure and natural resources. HISTORIC POPULATION GROWTH:NEW HANOVER COUNTY POPULATION FORECASTS FOR NEW HANOVER COUNTY Population 20102040 BaseLow Growth High Growth New Hanover County202,667249,026337,054 Unincorporated85,973105,639152,157 Wilmington 106,476130,832167,904 Beach Towns 10,21812,55516,993 0 50,000 100,000 150,000 200,000 250,000 1940195019601980199020002010 +32%+13%+16% +25% +33% +26% Use Number of StoriesIdeal Density Office 1-2Moderate Retail 1-2Low/Moderate Mixed Use2-3Moderate Multi-Family Residential 2-3Moderate (12-15 du/acre) Single-Family Residential 1-3Moderate ( 8 du/acre) Use Number of StoriesIdeal Density Office 1-2 Low Retail 1-2 Low Planned Development 1-3Medium Low- Density Multi-Family 1-32-6 du/acre Single-Family Residential 1-31-6 du/acre Use Number of StoriesIdeal Density Office 3-7Moderate/ High Retail 1-3Low/Moderate Planned Development 2-7Moderate/ High Residential2-5Moderate/ High Commercial/ Mixed Use 2-7Moderate/ High Use Number of StoriesIdeal Density Office 1-7 Low-to-High Industrial 1-3Low/Moderate Single-Family Residential 1-3 Low Multi-Family Residential 2-3Moderate (12-15 du/acre) Use Number of StoriesIdeal Density Office 1-7 Low-to-High Industrial 1-3Low/Moderate NEW HANOVER COUNTY FUTURE LAND USE MAP N E W S