Strong Community Response to Help Shape New Rec Facility
More than 200 residents attended the Town of Clayton’s Community Open House to share their thoughts on the new intergenerational recreation facility.
The event offered residents a chance to tour the former Clayton Fitness building, meet with staff and elected officials, and share their ideas on how the space can best serve the community. Attendees explored the gym floor, studios, and common areas while providing feedback on potential programs, amenities, and activities they would like to see offered in the future.
“This turnout speaks volumes about how invested our residents are in the future of this space,” said Mayor Jody McLeod. “It’s exciting to see how much potential this project has to benefit our residents for generations to come.”
The building, located at 1370 Cameron Way, was purchased by the Town earlier this month for $3 million with support from a $1 million state grant secured through the North Carolina Office of State Budget and Management. Both NC Representative Donna White and NC Senator Benton Sawrey attended the event. They were instrumental in securing the initial funding for the community and updating the grant language to give Clayton greater flexibility while maintaining the state’s original intent.
“This is a great example of good planning and cooperation, because the town will be able to maximize $1 million in state funding for this unique intergenerational facility,” added Councilmember Andria Archer.
The investment aligns with the Town’s 2024 Parks and Recreation Master Plan, which identified a critical need for expanded senior and intergenerational indoor programming.
“With this opportunity, we have a chance to focus on our Parks and Recreation Master Plan and expand the programming that the community was seeking,” said Town Councilmember Porter Casey. “Plus, we also get to focus on our seniors in the community and enhance programming for them as well.”
During the open house, community members shared ideas ranging from senior fitness and wellness programs to youth enrichment, family recreation, and adaptive recreation opportunities.
“We heard a lot of creative and thoughtful feedback,” said Interim Parks and Recreation Director Todd Riddick. “Our residents are passionate about the direction of this facility, and their input will play a significant role as we move into the design and planning phase.”
The state funding must be used by June 30, 2026, giving the Town a clear timeline to advance the project. Planning and design efforts will move forward in the coming months, with the goal of having the facility renovated and open to the public by the end of next year.
