Businesses Patch Readers Want — And Don't Want — To Open In Crofton

CROFTON, MD — Is there a certain kind of business that is missing in Crofton? A type of restaurant you can't find in town? Is there another specialty store you could use? Or do you agree with many readers who said development is out of control in Crofton, traffic on Route 3 is a nightmare, and the community needs nothing else?

Crofton Patch recently asked our Facebook followers which businesses they want to see open in town. Lots of you suggested a locally owned hardware store, a Walmart, Hobby Lobby and other stores that could alleviate the need for a drive to Bowie.

With dozens of readers comments on the topic, Trey Keller voiced the opinion of many when he wrote, "NO MORE, FOR THE LOVE OF GOD!"

Added Scott Cochrane with a touch of snark, "Maybe a restaurant. There has to be at least 10-15 feet of undeveloped frontage along Route 3 somewhere."

Venues that earned a scornful thumbs down included: a fourth Dunkin Donuts and all fast-food restaurants.

(Sign up for real time alerts and a newsletter. iPhone users can download the Patch app in the App Store. Plus, like Crofton Patch on Facebook.)

You told us, and we rounded up the most popular responses. In no order, here’s what readers said:

• Walmart
• Top Golf
• Hotel
• Trader Joe's
• Seasons 52
• Joe and the Juice
• Cava Grill
• Mellow Mushroom
• Container Store
• World Market
• Wegmans
• Orange Theory Fitness
• Cracker Barrel
• Michael's
• AC Moore
• Long John Silver's
• P.F. Chang's
• Costco
• JoAnn Fabrics
• Apple Store
• Two Rivers Steakhouse
• Fresh Market
• Texas Roadhouse
• Sky Zone

Readers also shared ideas on what might fit the village green, such as a "Bean Rush-like cafe, ... a small family owned ice cream parlor at the village green and a great old style pub at the old Sly Horse Tavern," wrote Kristin Ickrath Krotz.

Many commenters bemoaned the increased traffic in Crofton, one even said that's why her family is leaving the area.

"How about the business of improving the roads to handle the congestion we already have, yet alone the increase we're going to get after all these new buildings go up across Rt 3 and on Reidel," said reader Debbie Brown. "Reidel is already a parking lot by the library every evening during rush hour. And Rt 3 is absurd near Waugh Chapel."

Another reader said "we are so congested already. Increased traffic, accidents, pollution, wildlife displaced and killed, more stress for commuters...."

Did your choice make the list? Let us know on Facebook or in the comments below.