Clayton, North Carolina Development News

Renovation Concepts for Clayton Wellness and Activity Center Presented

The council discussed and reviewed concepts for the renovation of the Clayton Wellness and Activity Center, located at 1370 Cameron Way (former Clayton Fitness Building). The presentation included proposed concepts, finishes, costs, and timelines for the renovation. HH Architecture and the Parks and Recreation Department presented various options, focusing on optimizing the existing 19,630 sq ft building on 1.69 acres. The proposed renovation aims to accommodate intergenerational programming and address community needs identified in previous master plans. Several floor plan options were presented, with a combined option favored for its efficiency in utilizing existing infrastructure. The discussion included potential programmatic uses such as fitness classes, social clubs, a demonstration kitchen (with options for residential or commercial upgrades), and multi-purpose rooms. Cost estimates were provided for low, medium, and high-end finishes and systems, with renovation costs significantly lower than new construction. Funding strategies, including the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), debt, fund balance, grants, and corporate partnerships, were discussed to address potential overages. Council members raised points about senior programming, accessibility, site circulation, and the repurposing of the racquetball court for potential future uses like indoor pickleball. Next steps include further exploration of specific areas like the riparian buffer, potential partnerships with county and other organizations, and refining cost estimates.