Planning staff pitches vision for commercial outdoor recreation overlay and possible boardwalk

Deputy planning director Joe Costello presented an existing-conditions analysis for the Commercial Outdoor Recreation Overlay District Sept. 3, showing opportunities for mixed-use, walkability improvements and enhanced sound-side access.

Costello said the district—largely the Whalebone area—could support recreation and commercial uses not allowed elsewhere in town such as adventure parks and mini-golf, while remaining grounded in the town’s comprehensive plan goals for a walkable, mixed-use activity node. He presented an animation that illustrated potential interconnectivity between an outlet mall, the sound-side event site and other destinations and said staff had gauged property-owner interest but plans require broader stakeholder engagement.

Costello and planning staff recommended inviting the Outer Banks Visitors Bureau and property owners to the planning board’s September meeting for stakeholder discussion and to explore options such as boardwalk connections, public art, and flexible principal uses to support local businesses and access. Commissioners expressed support for further conversation and suggested university studio involvement to develop conceptual visuals for community discussion.

What happens next: Staff has sent letters to property owners and will return with the results of stakeholder outreach; the planning board will continue discussion at upcoming meetings.