ENTRY CORRIDOR SMALL AREA PLAN
Preliminarily Adopted 12/9/24
Mission Statement:
The Entry Corridor Committee of Southern Shores, is committed to revitalizing and unifying the
entry corridor along Highway 158. Through evaluation and engagement we seek to establish
architectural standards rooted in unified design aesthetics, including landscaping and green
spaces, and incentivizing diverse development options. We aim to create a cohesive, modern,
and community oriented environment that reflects our heritage and values.
Goals:
1. Unified Architectural Standards and District Aesthetics
• Develop design guidelines that emphasize simplicity, harmony with the environment,
and functionality, honoring the vision that originally attracted Frank Stick to our town.
• Establish a cohesive visual identity for the corridor that enhances the town’s appeal to
both residents and visitors.
• Implement streetscape improvements such as consistent signage, lighting, and public art
installations.
• Incorporate educational signage and landmarks that tell the story of Southern Shores.
• Develop Aesthetic Narrative and Branding
2. Promote Biodiverse Landscaping and Green Spaces
• Promote the use of native plant species in all new developments to enhance local
biodiversity and reduce environmental impact.
• Promote sustainable landscaping practices that require minimal irrigation and
maintenance.
• Explore zoning regulations and incentives that promote “pocket parks” or other
greenspace gathering locations within the commercial development.
3. Diverse Housing Incentives
• Create attractive incentives for developers to include mixed use housing units within new
projects.
• Address housing needs of a diverse population, supporting economic growth and
community stability.
• Support housing diversity through varied development options and incentives.
4. Community Engagement and Collaboration
• Involve local stakeholders, including commercial property owners, in the planning
process to ensure developments align with community values and needs.
• Host public forums and workshops to gather input and foster a sense of ownership
among residents.
• Determine Key Local Stakeholders
5. Economic Development Aligned with Community Values
• Attract businesses that complement the town’s character and meet the needs of
residents.
• Support local entrepreneurs and promote job creation within the district.
• Develop incentive structure to support developer options in creating community centric
development.
• Explore options for the Town to support more event programming with commercial
district owners..
6. Enhanced Accessibility and Connectivity
• Improve pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure to encourage alternative transportation
modes.
• Ensure that public spaces are accessible to individuals of all abilities.
7. Implementation Review and Adaptation
• Establish a framework for ongoing assessment of the district’s development to ensure
goals are being met.
• Adapt policies and guidelines as needed to respond to changing community needs and
environmental considerations.