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Roseboro Today
By the People, for the People
Roseboro Celebrates Renovation of Historic GC Thomas Building
The $1 million project was made possible through state grants and community support.
Published on Feb. 14, 2026
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The Town of Roseboro, North Carolina held a ribbon-cutting ceremony on February 5, 2026 to celebrate the completed renovation of the historic GC Thomas Building. The two-story, brick commercial structure was originally built in 1921 and has housed various businesses over the decades before falling into disrepair. The $1 million project was funded through an $825,000 Rural Transformation Grant and a $212,000 Rural Economic Development Grant, as well as support from the Town of Roseboro.
Why it matters
The revitalization of the GC Thomas Building is part of Roseboro's broader efforts to revitalize its historic downtown district. As a designated Small Town Main Street community, Roseboro has access to state resources and grants to help preserve its historic character and spur economic development. The project showcases how rural communities can leverage partnerships and persistence to breathe new life into their downtowns.
The details
The GC Thomas Building was originally constructed in 1921 after a fire destroyed much of Roseboro Street. Over the decades, it has housed a dry goods store, funeral home, and furniture store before falling vacant. In 2022, the Town of Roseboro purchased the building with plans to renovate it and attract new tenants. The $1 million renovation project transformed the 3,600 square foot building into two studio apartments and retail space. As a historic downtown, property owners in Roseboro can receive tax credits for preserving the building's historic character.
- The Town of Roseboro purchased 109-C Roseboro St. in 2022.
- The ribbon-cutting ceremony for the renovated GC Thomas Building was held on February 5, 2026.
The players
Alice Butler
The mayor of Roseboro, North Carolina.
Elizabeth Parham
The director of the NC Main Street & Rural Planning Center.
Tyler Wise
The director of Roseboro's Small Town Main Street program.
GC Thomas
The original owner and builder of the GC Thomas Building in 1921.
What they’re saying
“I often tell people that in government, things take time, perseverance and partnerships. When I talk about relationships and partnerships, this project is exactly what I mean. Renovating this building took teamwork at every single level.”
— Alice Butler, Mayor (BizFayetteville.com)
“We are absolutely thrilled to invest in Roseboro, to be a partner with Roseboro, to make a difference in Roseboro and Sampson County. This project, I think, is just the beginning for this community, and we're really looking forward to seeing new opportunities [here], as well as seeing new opportunities for us to invest.”
— Elizabeth Parham, Director, NC Main Street & Rural Planning Center (BizFayetteville.com)
What’s next
The Town of Roseboro is now focused on securing a grant to purchase and renovate the building next door to the GC Thomas Building, with plans to replicate the layout of apartments above retail space.
The takeaway
The revitalization of the historic GC Thomas Building in downtown Roseboro showcases how rural communities can leverage state resources, community partnerships, and perseverance to breathe new life into their downtowns and preserve their unique character.
