What kind of business would you like to see more of in the Riverdale area?

In previous polling and reporting by The Press, a common theme emerged: locals have ideas about what should go in the area’s vacant storefronts.

In this week’s opinion poll, we asked respondents to share those ideas, and let us know what spaces, goods or services would make the Riverdale area even better. Participants in the poll chose between retail shops, convenience stores, restaurants, specialty grocers, pharmacies and third spaces, which can include community gathering spaces such as bookshops and cafes. Respondents could also choose “other” if they hope to see something different open nearby, and elaborate on their answers to provide a fuller picture.

Third spaces were a popular choice, earning 27.3% of the vote, while restaurants earned 18.2% and retail and specialty grocers each garnered 9.1%. A larger portion of voters opted for “other,” sharing that they would like to see a combination of the provided options. The breakdown of responses is illustrated in the graph below.

Respondents voiced that they would like a larger selection of stores in general, with several naming Trader Joe’s as a particularly attractive addition. A common theme among responses was a desire for diverse, healthy, affordable food options. Others noted they would like to see an independent bookstore open in the area.

Participate in the next poll

There is still time to submit responses to our next opinion poll, which will close at noon on Friday, Nov. 6. In previous polls, participants shared with The Press their concerns over vacant storefronts and the availability of certain goods and services in the area. Following a similar thread to this week’s poll on local businesses, we are now asking residents where they do most of their shopping.

With Thanksgiving right around the corner, do you stock up on groceries locally, or venture beyond the northwest Bronx to get the perfect treats? When in need of a cozy new sweater to keep you warm this fall, do you opt for online shopping, or a favorite local store? We’re eager to hear from you.

The poll can be accessed here.

Respondents will also have the opportunity to let us know what they would like to see covered or polled next.

Personal information collected in polls is for verification purposes only, and will not be published. Responses missing required information will not be included in the final data. Respondents are limited to one response per person.

For those who do not wish to take the polls, but would still like to submit their opinions or tips, our inboxes at letters@riverdalepress.com and newsroom@riverdalepress.com are always open as well.

Alexa Lewis is editor-in-chief of The Riverdale Press.