Visions for Vacancies: What Should Take the Place of Dale and Thomas Popcorn?

A few vacancies have been sprouting up around Livingston Town Center.

The center, right on the corner of Livingston and Mount Pleasant avenues, is home to a plethora of shops and eateries. Unfortunately, Dale and Thomas Popcorn, who were known for their popcorn drizzled with chocolate, white chocolate and peanut butter are no longer occupying the space at 4145 Town Center Way.

The question is: What will be there next?

But more importantly: What do you think should be there next?

We want to hear from Livingston residents to see what you want, need and crave from this location. Do you want a new store? A new restaurant? Or something completely unique?

You tell us!

Each week we’ll present a new vacant building and ask you to tell us what you think would be the best use of the vacant space.

Here's the fun part: Forget what zone it’s in. Ignore setback regulations, as well as dump lot coverage rules and all the other zoning jargon that puts most people to sleep.

Our bottom line: If you had your way, what would you like to see there? What would be the best use of the space for the community?

To make this work, this can’t be a one-sided conversation. We want to hear from you in our comments section. And, please, let us know if there’s a vacant space/building you know of as well we can feature in a future column.

Send emails about vacant buildings or stores to Essex County Associate Regional Editor Jack Durschlag at jack.durschlag@patch.com.