Future Land Use 2045

The plan establishes specific goals and policy recommendations for seven topic areas within the County. These recommendations are meant to guide decision-making and actions by the County and its partners. These topic areas are: Land Use and Development, Housing, Economic Development, Cultural Assets and Agriculture, Parks and Community Health, Transportation, and Natural Environment. The plan also provides a Future Land Use Map, which is consistently consulted when reviewing proposed development plans, particularly rezoning proposals. The map includes eight (8) color-coded Character Areas which describe the desired types of development, density recommendations, and design characteristics. A Comprehensive Plan is a tool used for guiding the growth, redevelopment, and overall improvement of the county over the next twenty (20) years. Major concerns and priorities addressed by the plan include managing growth, encouraging more investment north of the Tar River, protecting farmland, managing flooding, improving transportation infrastructure, and addressing lack of affordable housing.