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• <br /> t _ <br /> 110 <br /> Land Use Distribution and Infrastructure <br /> The predominant land use in Bingham Township is <br /> agricultural, with limited low density commercial and rural <br /> residential development scattered throughout. The proximity <br /> of the township, however, to the expanding towns of Carrboro <br /> and Chapel Hill represents a growing source of development <br /> pressure. NC54, which runs east-west across the central <br /> portion of the township, functions as a connecting link <br /> between Bingham Township and Chapel Hill/Carrboro to the east <br /> and Burlington/Graham to the west. This corridor and its <br /> intersections provide a visible demonstration of the <br /> increasing impacts resulting from the urbanization in <br /> adjacent townships. Commercial uses locating along this <br /> route, particularly in areas closest to the towns, elicits <br /> concern about the potential for strip development. <br /> The Township's accessibility not only to Chapel Hill and <br /> Carrboro but also to Durham and Research Triangle Park is <br /> attracting new rural non-farm development. In 1985 Bingham <br /> Township accounted for 20% of all new housing unit permits <br /> and 13% of all building permits issued by the county, while <br /> accounting for less than 12% of the County's population <br /> outside the jurisdiction of Chapel Hill and Carrboro. It is <br /> apparent that development activity in the township is <br /> disproportionately high in comparison with the existing <br /> population. <br /> These trends are a matter of concern to Bingham Township <br /> residents. As with many rural residents of the county, this <br /> new growth is perceived as a disquieting element to those who <br /> have chosen a rural residential or agricultural lifestyle. <br /> Cane Creek Reservoir has created a very specific focus for <br /> this concern. It pinpoints the conflict between two valuable <br /> and necessary land uses; agriculture, an income producing and <br /> life supporting land use; and a drinking water supply <br /> impoundment, also a life supporting land use. The resolution <br /> of land use issues facing Bingham Township need to be <br /> addressed in a manner which balances all competing uses in a <br /> way, that least disrupts current residents and land use <br /> patterns and most enhances the public benefits gained by all <br /> residents of the county. <br /> The township is not currently served by pubic sewer and <br /> water systems. It is not anticipated that such service will <br /> be provided during the twenty year plan period. <br /> 3.11-2 <br />