Two organizations get approval for their expansions in Brunswick County

BRUNSWICK COUNTY, NC (WWAY)– Sounds of cheer, as Whispering Pines Nudist Resort received their approval to expand their campsite.

Located on Sun Street, the nudist resort is one of the biggest businesses in ocean isle, and on Thursday evening, they got their wish to expand their campsite from 57 recreational vehicle sites. The campsite is located on 35 acres and now they will add a dozen more new sites for a total of 69 sites. The site will also include two off street parking spaces, as well as water, septic and electrical service.

It was a worry at first, as only 4 members were present at the time of Whispering Pine’s hearing, so the decision could have been postponed. Owner John Frick decided to go ahead with it and even make a slight joke.

“Can I select someone from over here?” said Frick, referring to the other members of Whispering Pines Nudist Resort.

It wasn’t just a celebration for them, as Hope Harbor Homes, got a yes for their development project from Brunswick County to rebuild their shelter.

Hope Harbor Home, located on Old Ocean Highway in Bolivia, is a non-profit organization that provides shelter and resources for domestic abuse victims, is looking to replace its current shelter with a new 20 bed facility.

The shelter, who help women and children, goal is to help more residents and give them more time to get back on their feet, especially during a time where housing prices have increased in Brunswick County.

Cliff Braam, Civil Engineer for the project, says the approval for the project is something the facility needed, as the building has been in use since 1988.

“It’s about 40 years old. For these ladies to come from where they are coming from, to a nicer modern facility, is fantastic,” said Braam.

Hope Harbor Home is the only domestic violence shelter in Brunswick County, and with the new building being approximately 3205 square feet, Karmen Custer, Executive Director of Hope Harbor Homes, says the approval from the county is a great step forward and is excited to show what they can provide to people in need.

“If you have a child with sensory needs, we’re going to make sure that the colors of the room are a way that’s not going to be triggering or over stimulating. If you’re a mother and you’re cooking dinner, but you’re also expected to watch your children, we’re going to put a half wall in the kitchen overlooking the playroom so you can cook dinner and still watch your kids while they play,” said Custer.

The shelter is hoping to open the new building within the first two months of 2027 but will keep operating during the meantime.