New land purchase supports Carolina Beach’s long-term growth plans

CAROLINA BEACH, NC (WWAY) — The Carolina Beach Town Council has approved the purchase of more than an acre of land on Bridge Barrier Road as part of a long-term plan to expand utility operations and create more space for future recreational amenities.

During a special meeting Tuesday, the council voted to purchase 1.13 acres on Bridge Barrier Road for $935,000, according to a town news release.

Town officials said the property acquisition supports the town’s long-range facilities plan by expanding an existing municipal site where utility operations are expected to grow in the coming years.

The town already owns and operates a facility on Bridge Barrier Road, and a facilities study identified the location as the future home for additional utility operations. However, officials said the current property alone does not provide enough space to accommodate all planned improvements.

By acquiring the neighboring parcel, the town will have room to relocate Public Utilities staff and equipment from its main campus, a move officials say will also create opportunities to expand recreational amenities for residents.

Currently, Public Utilities and Public Works staff, along with much of the town’s equipment, operate from the main municipal campus. Relocating those operations to Bridge Barrier Road would free up land for future parks and recreation projects.

The purchase also positions the town to reduce its reliance on leased property at the Military Ocean Terminal Sunny Point (MOTSU), where Carolina Beach currently leases space from the U.S. Army for wastewater and water treatment operations, as well as utility storage.

Officials said the additional property will allow some equipment and supply storage currently housed at MOTSU to be relocated to town-owned land.

According to the town, the acquisition will be funded through reserve funds from the Utility Fund, meaning no property tax revenue from the General Fund will be used for the purchase.

Town officials described the acquisition as a strategic investment that will improve operational efficiency while creating opportunities for future recreational improvements that benefit the community.

The newly approved purchase is expected to play a key role in Carolina Beach’s long-term planning efforts as the town continues to address infrastructure needs while preserving space for public amenities.