Readers, Tell Us What Should Go Here: Former Gottschalks Department Store

Do you ever drive past a vacant building and wonder if anything will ever go in there?

You're not alone.

That's why today, Lakewood Patch is starting a feature in which we can discuss what should go in these empty spots around town. There's nothing scientific about this, nor do our opinions have any bearing on what will eventually go in these locations. But there's nothing wrong with dreaming.

First up: the former Gottschalks Department Store in Lakewood Towne Center.

The large, two-story storefront originally opened in 1989 as Frederick & Nelson. When the company went under in 1992, the store was redeveloped as Gottschalks, a Fresno, Calif.-based middle-tier department store that sold clothing, household goods, cosmetics and more.

The Northwest flagship on Main Street featured a cafe, salon, bridal department and discount area called "The Attic," and was especially popular with women and seniors.

When the Lakewood Mall was torn down in 2001, only Gottschalks, Target and the movie theater remained. But the store struggled to fit into the new Lakewood Towne Center, which features such big-box tenants as Bed, Bath and Beyond and Old Navy.

The store closed in 2009, and has been vacant since.

So, Lakewood Patch readers, what do you think should go in the former Gottschalks Department Store?