Pinehurst leaders are voicing concern over proposed changes to the Moore County Highway Corridor Overlay, a zoning tool designed to control development along major highways throughout the Sandhills.
The debate centers around whether Moore County should significantly reduce or completely remove portions of the overlay district, which currently applies added development standards along roads including U.S. 1, U.S. 15-501, N.C. 211, N.C. 22, and N.C. 690.
Village leaders in Pinehurst say the Moore County Highway Corridor Overlay has helped preserve the area’s scenic character, tourism appeal, and overall quality of development for decades.
What Is the Moore County Highway Corridor Overlay?
The overlay district was originally adopted in 2000 to provide stricter design and development standards along major transportation corridors in Moore County. The goal was to prevent visual clutter, uncoordinated access points, and excessive strip-style development.
According to Moore County planning documents, the overlay was created to “protect the rural character and natural environment” while maintaining attractive gateway corridors into local communities.
Current regulations extend roughly 400 feet from the highway right-of-way in affected areas.
Pinehurst Leaders Push Back
At a recent work session, Pinehurst officials discussed a formal resolution encouraging Moore County commissioners not to weaken or eliminate the current standards.
Village leaders argue the Moore County Highway Corridor Overlay has successfully protected major entrances into the community, especially along N.C. 211, one of Pinehurst’s busiest corridors.
The resolution warns that once development protections are loosened, it may be difficult or impossible to restore the original character of the area.
Officials also expressed concern that removing the standards could lead to fragmented commercial development that negatively impacts the Sandhills region long-term.
County Leaders Divided
Some Moore County commissioners and planning board members believe the overlay creates unnecessary layers of regulation for landowners and developers.
County Commissioner Chairman Nick Picerno questioned whether additional zoning standards are needed beyond existing zoning rules.
Others argue businesses need easier highway access and fewer restrictions to encourage economic growth.
Still, planning experts working with the county say the larger concern is preserving a unified look along major travel corridors instead of allowing piecemeal development.
What Happens Next?
No final decision has been made, but current discussions include shrinking the overlay buffer from 400 feet down to 50 feet and removing many existing building standards.
The issue is expected to continue generating discussion across Moore County communities including Pinehurst, Aberdeen, Southern Pines, and surrounding areas.
As growth continues throughout the Sandhills, the future of the Moore County Highway Corridor Overlay could shape how residents and visitors experience the region for decades to come.
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