Princeville, North Carolina, a historic town founded by formerly enslaved people, has been facing a cycle of disaster and disinvestment for decades. Situated below the banks of the Tar River, the town has experienced numerous devastating floods throughout its history, with the most recent ones occurring in 1999 and 2016. After Hurricane Matthew submerged the town under more than 10 feet of water in 2014, residents of Princeville were faced with the difficult decision of whether to stay in their historic location, relocate individually with government buyouts, or move the entire town to higher ground.
Unfortunately, internal disagreements and a lack of funding hindered the town from moving forward with any of these options in a comprehensive manner. As a result, Princeville saw a decline in population and businesses, highlighting the challenges faced by rural and low-income communities in the aftermath of natural disasters. However, nearly a decade later, the town’s fate is beginning to take shape, with new funding from FEMA paving the way for a large-scale relocation to higher ground.
The decision to relocate the town emerged after the state of North Carolina assisted Princeville in purchasing 53 acres of vacant land following Hurricane Matthew. With additional funding from FEMA, the town is now set to build a new site on higher ground, complete with stormwater infrastructure and new residential and commercial developments. This new development aims to create a vibrant town center for Princeville, offering hope for a more resilient future.
While the relocation project signifies progress for Princeville, it also highlights the challenges and complexities of adapting to climate change. The town’s original levee, which was meant to protect it from river flooding, has faced setbacks and delays, leaving residents uncertain about the future of their historic location. The Corps of Engineers’ decision to review the levee project due to potential impacts on neighboring towns adds another layer of complexity to the situation.
Despite the setbacks, the new development on higher ground offers a path towards long-term resilience for Princeville. However, the process has come at a great cost, with many displaced residents having already moved on for good. The promise of a new and improved Princeville may not be enough to entice them back, underscoring the challenges of rebuilding and recovery in the face of climate change.
As Princeville navigates its path forward, the town’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of community resilience and adaptation in the face of environmental challenges. The town’s journey towards a more sustainable future is a testament to the strength and determination of its residents, who continue to persevere in the face of adversity.