Neighborhoods - The Roanoke Rambler

Claytor Clinic Gains State Historical Marker, But Future of Gainsboro Property Unclear

Gainsboro's historic Claytor Clinic has gained statewide recognition, but breakdowns over city negotiations leave the property's fate uncertain.

Two Roanoke community advocates are asking a judge to decide who’s the proper owner of a building recently eyed by city officials for rehabilitation.

Owen McGuire, who lives beside the park, sued the city and a business run by Justin and Keri vanBlaricom in September.

The plan has prompted enthusiasm and skepticism among some residents, bubbling up fears about changes to the quiet, close-knit neighborhood.

The rejection marks an about-face by Roanoke city officials, who in 2021 began negotiating with Claytor family about buying the property.

Some who served in the position felt their advocacy for neighborhoods and residents conflicted with the city’s position on issues.

Owen McGuire and Freeda Cathcart of the Grandin Court Neighborhood Association were removed in a 63-25 vote.

Nearly two years after City Council earmarked American Rescue Plan Act funds for the idea, none has gone to a Gainsboro hub.

Residents expressed confusion and criticism over a report aimed at guiding the long-neglected neighborhood’s revitalization.

Over the last decade, Southeast Roanoke has experienced the steepest drop in population among any Roanoke neighborhood.

Negotiations broke down in recent months because of the property’s convoluted ownership model, the city said.

The effort marks a shift in city thinking from a focus on downtown to revitalizing neighborhood centers across Roanoke.

Last year, Roanoke inched above 100,000 in population for the first time in forty years. But not all that growth is spread evenly across the city.

Tensions over whether and how the neighborhood should change, cross generational, racial and class lines.