Neighbors press planning commission on traffic, stormwater and community character at Seabrook hearing

A sustained wave of public comment at the Beaufort County Planning Commission meeting focused on the Seabrook/Stewart Point proposal, with residents and stakeholders asking the commission to preserve lower density and to demand more study of traffic, stormwater and infrastructure before any change to the comprehensive plan or zoning.

Residents described the existing rural character of Seabrook and Stewart Point and argued the application — which would increase allowable intensity inside a hamlet overlay and create an S‑1 industrial parcel — risks catalyzing further development beyond the proposed footprint. Several speakers questioned the traffic‑management approach in the TIA and the projected turning movements at local intersections; one commenter said the recommended intersection treatment would make left turns effectively impossible and would force circuitous routes to regional highways.

Speakers also asked whether the developer’s commitments (trail construction, fire/EMS site dedication, rec‑center land) would be binding and timely. Multiple residents asked the commission to defer action until the applicant provides complete engineering and phasing commitments. The commission followed that path: it voted 6–2 to defer the items for 30 days.