Located in the heart of the Crystal Coast, the Center for Coastal Protection and Restoration will be a focal point for environmental sustainability in the region, welcoming visitors to four gathering spaces in the heart of the campus and providing access to coastal habitats and Bogue Sound. Originally slated to become a housing development, more than half of the area will now remain natural, including more than 24 acres of conservation easement that will never be developed.
Highlights
- The centerpiece of a 77-acre master project in partnership with Carteret County including nature trails and a public boat ramp
- Environmental demonstrations, including rain gardens, stormwater management, and a living shoreline
- Recreation and learning opportunities including nature trails, access to Bogue Sound, and programs for students and adults.
- A conservation approach to development, focused on preservation of habitat and water quality, and sustainable design, including a Dept. of the Navy easement that restricts further development on all 77 acres, and a conservation easement on more than 24 acres that conserves those areas in perpetuity.
- An education and event center hosting community events, hands-on student learning, and continuing education opportunities for adults.
- A communications studio supporting multi-media content for CoastalReview.Org as well as virtual engagement opportunities for students and adults.
A Community Resource
The Center for Coastal Protection and Restoration will include four public spaces nestled within the landscape: The Coastal Resource Center, the Education and Event Center, the Community Courtyard, and the Coastal Terrace. Together, these core components will provide indoor and outdoor gathering spaces, opportunities to explore habitat and resilience demonstrations, and collaborative workspace for coastal experts and community leaders.
A Sense of Harmony
The Center for Coastal Protection and Restoration will feature environmentally-friendly and resource-efficient design and building strategies providing a model for responsible and resilient growth for the future.
Vision
- Develop in harmony with the environment
- Demonstrate energy and water conservation strategies
- Showcase hurricane resilient construction techniques
- Integrate energy efficiency, green design, Low Impact Development and habitat restoration
