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Things are looking up for the town of Belhaven. Known colloquially as the birthplace of the Intercoastal Waterway, new businesses and construction are increasing the economic development in the waterside town. 

Last week, the Belhaven Board of Aldermen approved a proposed plan by Beacon Street Development, the same company behind Moss Landing and the upcoming Moss East developments in Washington. The proposed plan is subject to change as development on the community moves forward and currently features 40 lots for single residence homes and the possibility of a small commercial property within the community. 

The proposed development will be built on the lot left vacant by the Pungo Vidant Hospital, which closed its doors in 2014 and was demolished in 2016. This new community would be located next to the public town dock at Wynne’s Gut and would provide future residents with a picturesque view of Pungo Creek and the greater Pamlico River. Permits for this new community are currently being worked on and Beacon Street Development hopes to begin work on this project by the end of the year. 

A flood of new businesses are also moving to the area. Dynamic Expressions, a store featuring customized gifts, recently opened on Pamlico Street and more businesses are set to follow in the next few months. 

In addition to these economic developments, the town is also throwing their annual Fourth of July event. This event is in its 79th year and will feature three days of festivities beginning with the Little Miss Independence and Miss Independence pageants at the Wilkins Center this weekend. Girls ages 4 through 20 will compete in five different divisions split up by age. The event dates back to the late 1950s and has long been a symbol of the Fourth of July holiday in Belhaven. 

The rest of the holiday festivities will be held on July 2 and 3. Attractions will be set up and ready to thrill guests in addition to vendors and concessions. The parade will be held on July 3 at 11 a.m. and live music will be performed both days. The celebration will culminate with a fireworks display over the Pamlico River on the evening of July 3.

Following the Fourth of July celebrations, the town is also currently planning an event celebrating the Intercoastal Waterway. Details are pending at this time and will be announced closer to the event. 

As more projects and businesses move to the area, Belhaven is sure to be a must-stop along the Pamlico River with its economic development and social activities in the works.