Duck, NC Wins 2024 Marvin Collins Planning Award for Sustainability

The Living Shoreline and Resiliency Project in Duck, NC, promoting sustainability and community engagement.

News Summary

The town of Duck, NC has received the prestigious 2024 Marvin Collins Planning Award from the North Carolina Chapter of the American Planning Association for its Living Shoreline and Resiliency Project. This project highlights innovative strategies for coastal resilience, showcasing community collaboration and sustainable design. Offering improved infrastructure and natural shoreline management, Duck sets an example for other coastal towns aiming to tackle environmental challenges while preserving their natural beauty.

Exciting News for Duck, NC: A Beacon of Sustainability and Resilience!

If you haven’t heard the buzz yet, the charming town of Duck, NC is making waves in the realm of coastal resilience with its remarkable achievement—the 2024 Marvin Collins Planning Award. This prestigious honor comes from the North Carolina Chapter of the American Planning Association and celebrates the town’s exceptional Living Shoreline and Resiliency Project in the “Sustainability and Resilience” category.

An Award Worth Celebrating

The award is a testament to the innovative design and execution of the Living Shoreline and Resiliency Project, serving as a shining example for not only soundfront property owners but also for coastal communities across the state. This project, which stretches along a quarter-mile stretch of N.C. Highway 12, is a visible reminder of Duck’s commitment to sustainability. It’s not just a pretty view; it’s a chance for residents, visitors, and travelers to observe how the community is tackling coastal challenges over time.

What is a Living Shoreline?

Now, you might be wondering, what exactly does a Living Shoreline mean? Essentially, it’s a natural approach to managing coastal edges—think of it as an eco-friendly alternative to hardened bulkheads. This project showcases how property owners and communities can replicate these features. From restoring coastal marshes to significantly reducing shoreline erosion, the benefits are not just physical; they’re about preserving the beauty and function of our cherished coastline.

Building for the Future

The Living Shoreline and Resiliency Project isn’t just about aesthetics; it is a forward-thinking solution that makes the area even safer for everyone. New sidewalks and bike lanes have been added, promoting alternative transportation options and ensuring that residents and visitors can enjoy the stunning surroundings without the worry of traffic dangers. Plus, by elevating parts of N.C. Highway 12 and constructing a durable stone revetment, the project significantly mitigates flooding and erosion concerns, allowing the community to stand strong against nature’s challenges.

Community Involvement at its Best

At the heart of this impressive project is a collective effort. The Duck Town Council, local residents, design engineers, and construction teams came together with a shared vision for the future. This community collaboration not only facilitated the planning and execution of the project but also created a sense of ownership among residents. After all, when the community rolls up its sleeves to get involved, the results can be phenomenal.

Replicable and Sustainable

What’s truly exciting is that many of the stormwater management features integrated into the project can be duplicated by local governments and private property owners alike. This means that the hard work put into the project can inspire other communities to adopt similar sustainable practices. Imagine a network of coastal towns that emulate Duck’s stewardship of their shorelines!

The Future Looks Bright

As Joe Heard, the Town of Duck’s director of community development, once noted, this initiative is not just a project but a significant investment in the community’s future. The recognition from the Marvin Collins Planning Awards underscores this commitment to creating a resilient environment. It’s fascinating how achievements like this draw attention and appreciation for the thoughtful planning that goes into protecting both our landscapes and our lifestyles.

What Lies Ahead?

As we look to the future, it’s crucial to remember that sustainability and resilience don’t just happen overnight. They require ongoing effort, innovation, and collaboration among community members. With the Living Shoreline and Resiliency Project, Duck has set a benchmark that other towns can aspire to reach. So whether you live here or are just visiting, be sure to take a stroll down N.C. Highway 12 to witness the beauty of a community committed to thriving in harmony with nature.

Keep your eyes peeled for more remarkable developments from Duck, NC, as they continue to transform and inspire coastal living!