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DukeEngage study: Beaufort residents back more green space; parking is largely a perception problem
Summary
A Duke University Marine Lab study presented to the Beaufort Board of Commissioners found strong resident support for expanded downtown green space (survey of 190) and that peak parking pressure is concentrated on Friday nights and Saturdays, suggesting targeted management and signage could ease concerns.
Dr. Damadia of the Duke University Marine Lab told the Beaufort Board of Commissioners that her students’ year‑long study of John Newton Park and downtown Beaufort combined observational counts and a 190‑person in‑person survey and found strong interest in more green space downtown. "Over 90% of the folks who were surveyed wanted more green space in downtown," Dr. Damadia said, and student observations recorded about 5,000 visitors in 178 hours of observation.
The study found that parking occupancy peaks on Friday nights and Saturdays and that many lots are underused at other times. Dr. Damadia said event programming (for example, Thursday evening and Rock The Docks) increases foot traffic and spending downtown, which the students measured by observational indicators such as people carrying purchased items. Commissioner Spiegler praised the rigorous data collection and recommended beginning planning work with parks and recreation: "Having the data to back that up is really important," Spiegler said.
Board members asked whether the students surveyed businesses and about accessibility (handicap parking). Dr. Damadia said business interviews were not part of the short summer fieldwork and that the survey did not directly measure handicapped parking concerns, though free responses did not flag that issue. She also said shuttle or hotel shuttle services and improved signage to underused public lots could address perceived shortages without expanding supply.
The presentation closed with commissioners encouraging staff to consider planning next steps, including a fall semester service‑learning partnership if the town wants additional student support.
