Pine Knoll Shores is collaborating with the North Carolina Coastal Federation and other organizations to develop a watershed restoration plan aimed at addressing polluted stormwater runoff. This plan could be adopted by the town in December, joining other coastal communities like Wilmington and Wrightsville Beach.
The watershed plan is essential for improving water quality by treating stormwater before it reaches local water bodies. Current flooding issues during heavy rains will be assessed to apply effective solutions. The plan seeks to reduce runoff and its associated bacterial pollution, which has led to shellfish area closures.
The proposed strategies include community outreach and environmentally-friendly retrofitting projects, such as rain gardens and pervious pavement. The ultimate goal is to revert to 1993 levels of water discharge to mitigate flooding and enhance water quality. Town officials anticipate improvements once implemented, despite acknowledging gradual progress.
Public comments on the draft will occur during a meeting in November, with state approval expected in the spring of 2019, allowing for potential funding applications to initiate projects by late 2019 or early 2020.
