Visions for Vacancies: What Should Move to 7 Highland Place?

We know Maplewood Patch readers have strong opinions about what businesses should move into town.

So here's your chance.

In an occasional column, we present a vacant space and ask you to tell us what you think would be the best use. Let's call this a digital spin on community planning -- Patch's version of a charette, a digital drawing board where all ideas are on the table.

Forget any zoning rules and regulations, for now. If you had your way, what would you like to see there? What would be the best use for the community?

There is a prime, vacant location right smack in the middle of Maplewood Village at 7 Highland Avenue. Part of the building houses the Sirota and Sirota law firm and Weight Watchers. It is located on a thriving strip of downtown that also features local businesses including Highland Place/Crane's and Perch Home. 

The location contains two storefront offices (800 sq. ft. and 700 sq. ft.) that can be rented either separately or together. (So maybe TWO new businesses?)

So this is where you come in, Maplewood. What would you like to see in that space? A gift shop? A hardware store? A nail salon?

Next up in Visions for Vacancies: the PSE&G Building on Boyden Avenue and the Maplewood Post Office.