5.4 Retail Distribution

This picture was taken right when you pull into the heart of Mt. Laurel. The lefthand side of the photo shows one side of the "main square." In order from near end of the block to far end, we have The General Store, Jimbo's Burgers & Shakes, and The Mt. Laurel Grocery Store. There were tables and benches in front of these establishments, along with flowers and other greenery. They all also had very open store fronts with large bay windows which was very appealing and inviting. Each establishment was made to look as though it's forty years old on the inside. In reality they're about ten years old, tops. But it gives you a great smalltown feeling of connection with the people around you. The benefit of the proximity of the General Store and Grocery Store is huge. To have almost everything you need within walking distance of your home is incredibly convenient, and a major component of New Urbanist ideas. Only time will tell how successful the design of the village will be, but I suspect that the members of this community will support their community.