Clayton Fitness to Become New Community Recreation Facility
The Town of Clayton is excited to announce the purchase of Clayton Fitness, a longtime community landmark, which will be transformed into a new Town intergenerational community facility.
The Town purchased the property at 1370 Cameron Way for $3 million as part of its ongoing effort to expand recreational opportunities and meet the needs of a growing community. The building will provide space for expanded senior programming as well as fitness and wellness activities for all ages.
This investment aligns with the Parks and Recreation Master Plan, adopted by the Clayton Town Council in 2024, which identified a significant need for more space for intergenerational and senior focused programming for residents. By repurposing an existing facility, the Town will be able to more readily address those needs.
A key piece of the project is a $1 million state funded grant awarded to Clayton through the North Carolina Office of State Budget and Management.
Both NC Representative Donna White and NC Senator Benton Sawrey were instrumental in securing the initial funding for the community and in updating the grant language to give Clayton greater flexibility while maintaining the state’s original intent.
“This is a tremendous opportunity for Clayton,” said Mayor Jody McLeod. “The purchase of Clayton Fitness, combined with state funding support, ensures we can deliver a space that serves both our seniors and the community at large. We are especially grateful to Representative White and Senator Sawrey for their leadership in making this project possible.”
Councilmembers also emphasized the importance of this project for the Town’s residents.
“With this opportunity, we have a chance to focus on our Parks and Rec 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.”
“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.
Joseph Stallings, Clayton’s Economic Development Director, played an integral role in making the deal a reality after connecting with the owners of Clayton Fitness.
“This was not something we had originally set out to pursue, but when the opportunity presented itself, it was clear this would be a worthwhile investment in the Town,” Stallings said. “Repurposing Clayton Fitness strengthens our recreation offerings and makes Clayton more attractive to families and businesses considering relocation. Investments like this speak volumes about our commitment to quality of life, which is one of the most important drivers of economic development.”
Todd Riddick, Interim Parks and Recreation Director, emphasized the impact this facility will have on all ages.
“This is more than just a building,” Riddick said. “It’s a place where our community can come together, stay healthy, and connect across generations. The size and layout of this facility give us the ability to expand programming for youth, adults, and seniors under one roof. It will truly be an intergenerational space where a grandparent might come for senior fitness, parents for a wellness class, and kids for recreation programs, all at the same time. That’s something our community has been asking for, and this facility gives us the opportunity to deliver in a way we’ve never been able to before.”
Clayton Fitness has been a cornerstone of the community for more than two decades, built on the vision of the Durham family. Pat and Larry Durham opened Toddlers’ Inn Daycare in Clayton in 1982, added a second location in 1992, and went on to open Clayton Fitness in 2004. Their daughter, Tammy Lee, and her husband, Blake Lee, have operated the gym in recent years, continuing the family’s legacy of service to the community.
“Mr. Larry always said that he would eventually be taking care of Clayton from babies to seniors,” said Pat Durham. “Mr. Larry would be so happy to know that in 2026, the Town of Clayton, by creating a space for senior citizens, will actually be making his vision come true.”
“From the start, Clayton Fitness was never just about fitness. It was about people,” said Tammy and Blake Lee. “From our incredible staff to our loyal members, we appreciate your unwavering support and contribution to creating a wonderful community within Clayton Fitness. You all made it a home. Thank you for showing up, for believing in us, and for creating something truly special together.”
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.
There is also a Community Open House planned at the Clayton Fitness building on October 29, from 4-7 p.m. Members of the public are invited to tour the facility, learn more about the site’s potential, and share feedback with staff and elected officials.
