The Beacon asked readers on social media what they would like to see replace the Hotel Putnam. In less than 48 hours, readers responded with 155 ideas. Here are a few of them:

An exact replica of the Putnam.

A four-story public parking garage for locals and tourists who want to shop and day drink. City of DeLand employees can golf-cart them Downtown and back for a small fee.

And, of course, charge $5 a day for parking.

That way some of us that actually work downtown will not have an issue finding a parking space when coming back from lunch.

Fix the parking issue, City of DeLand, please!

Lack of adequate downtown parking is deterring customers. I like the idea of retail and restaurants with a parking garage.

Please no enormous parking lots. DeLand is so beautiful and should continue to keep its walkability.

The worst thing would be another generic strip mall.

A rebuilt replica!

55-plus condos that look just as beautiful, with full amenities.

A mixed-use structure incorporating commercial and residential spaces while mimicking the original historic footprint and original architectural style and built atop a parking structure.

Chain dentist offices and mattress stores would be preferable.

A garden! Some fruit trees… vegetables. An edible garden.

Affordable apartments, but we do need a splash pad and another middle school.

A daycare for children of parents who work downtown