New Hanover County Commissioners and the Planning Board have received an update on the progress of the county’s comprehensive plan during a joint session in Wilmington. This meeting marked the first review of Phase 1 in the ongoing update of the 2016 comprehensive plan, termed Destination 2050. The comprehensive plan aims to serve as a roadmap for current and future development initiatives within New Hanover County. The initial phase involved engaging with residents through surveys, open houses, and meetings to gather insights into their priorities.
Rebekah Roth, the county’s Director of Planning and Land Use, emphasized that the upcoming phase will play a crucial role in identifying key focus areas such as stormwater management and green spaces. Roth highlighted the intricate balance of considerations involved, citing competing interests related to housing, environmental concerns, transportation, and infrastructure. The analyses conducted in the subsequent phases will provide valuable insights into community needs and assess potential impacts should development strategies take different directions.
Roth outlined the timeline for finalizing the comprehensive plan, aiming to have a completed version by the conclusion of the next year. The diligent efforts and collaborative approach taken in the comprehensive planning process are geared towards ensuring sustainable and well-informed development decisions that align with the community’s needs and aspirations.
