Finding a Permanent Fix at the Route 10 Tavern

Let's call this a modern spin on community planning - Patch's version of a charette, a digital drawing board where all ideas are on the table.

Each week we'll present a new vacant building and ask you to tell us what you think would be the best use. Forget what zone it's in, ignore setback regulations, dump lot coverage rules and all the other zoning jargon that puts people most to sleep. If you had your way, what would you like to see there? What would be the best use for the community?

Located on the busy Route 10 corridor known as Queen Street, just 1/4 mile from the on and off ramps to Interstate 84, there lies a former (and future?) restaurant building that appears to be in the perfect location.

Yet the building has had trouble filling up and clients have come and gone quicker than the chicken wings at happy hour.

We are talking about the site of the former Ponderosa Steakhouse, and Route 10 Tavern at 264 Queen St. For a location that has had several good reviews and lies directly across from plaza, there is still a lot of potential despite the recent lack of success.

Today we are asking a question in two parts - the first, what has gone wrong at the former restaurant?

The second, and more appropriate question at this point, what business or type of business can reverse the trend? Your thoughts could make a difference, so share your input now!