Visions for Vacancies: The old Blockbuster Video store

Patch is launching a new feature that’s a bit of a modern spin on community planning – a digital forum where all ideas are on the table.

Each week we’ll present a new vacant building and ask for readers to think about and then comment on what they would like to see develop there.

Don’t worry about what zone it’s in, ignore things like setback regulations and all the other zoning stuff the city has to deal with. If you had your say, what would you like to see there? What would be the best use for the community?

We launch this weekly series with the old Blockbuster Video store on 1575 Mt. Vernon Road that has been closed since April 2011.

Near the intersection of Mt. Vernon and Chamblee-Dunwoody roads, it’s in a prime location near Dunwoody Village. It's also a bit of an eyesore.

The property has been many things over the years, said Taylor Anderson, with Anderson Realty Advisors, which owns the property. Blockbuster occupied the space for 20 years, taking over for Turtle’s Records and Tapes. Before that it served as office space for a doctor’s office and a tailor.

While there has been a lot of interest in the property, there has been no deal finalized … yet. Well Street Urgent Care is in discussions to use the space, and has taken its plans to the Dunwoody Homeowners Association and is working with the city on plans.

What would you like to see there?

About this column: In highlighting vacant buildings in Dunwoody, we aim to help residents take a proactive role in planning and building their community. We'll take your feedback to public officials and property owners, to inform their decisions about future uses. Know of a vacant building we should highlight? Email jasonmassad@gmail.com