SALTER PATH, N.C.-
For decades, campers and trailers on Bogue Banks have served as getaways for North Carolinians of lesser means.
But those days are fading. The humble dwellings are leaving, forced out by new condos and other high-rise developments along the 26-mile barrier island in Carteret County, according to The News & Observer.
Atlantic Beach has been known for its cottages and a small business area surrounding a water tank. Eventually, three 15- to 18-story condominium buildings will rise as part of a commercial and residential complex planned for the Circle, which used to have a pavilion, restaurants, clubs, arcades and amusement rides.
Public parking and piers have also dwindled. There were eight piers along Bogue Banks 10 years ago. After Sportsman's pier is dismantled, only two major piers will remain: the Bogue Inlet pier in Emerald Isle, which is under contract to be sold, and Oceanana in Atlantic Beach.
The condo boom has already claimed Jungleland, a small amusement park a few miles from the Circle. Beyond the posted "no trespassing" signs, the fake lagoons where visitors rode water bumper boats are drying up, and the miniature golf course is empty.
Also, the former Holiday Inn in Atlantic Beach and the Royal Pavilion motel in Pine Knoll Shores are to be converted into private housing.
New projects also will displace campgrounds and mobile homes in Indian Beach, a small town near the middle of the island, and Sea Breeze Mobile Home Park will become "The Grand Villas" with about 90 units.
