The diverse economic and cultural hub of North Carolina’s coastal plain region bolsters its defense for community members against future flood and rainfall vulnerability.
Greenville, North Carolina: $3.45 Million
History
Greenville is the largest community in inland Eastern North Carolina, also known as the Tidewater and Coastal Plain region. Home of East Carolina University, the city boasts one of the state’s largest populations who have a bachelor’s degree, making it the economic and educational hub of the area. Located near the Tar River and the larger Tidewater Region, the community historically was a center for tobacco and agricultural production. From a demographic perspective, the Black population increased from 32% of the city’s total residents in 2010 to 40.94% in the 2020 U.S. census.
Project Description
The city of Greenville will construct stream restoration and stabilization improvements to reduce erosion and flood risks while also restoring and enhancing the floodplain, stream channel and riparian ecosystem’s natural function using nature-based solutions. The proposed infrastructure project aims to protect vulnerable public utility and municipal infrastructure as well as at-risk properties from heavy rain events and the growing impacts of climate change. The city of Greenville will continue to leverage existing partnerships with Pitt County, the town of Winterville, the town of Ayden, East Carolina University and Pitt Community College to minimize hazards and to educate citizens about hazards and how to appropriately respond. The Greenville Utility Commission will also serve as an important partner in enhancing activity outcomes.