FARMINGTON – A large, empty Wilton Road store may soon bustle with activity when property owners open The Mt. Blue Market Place on April 17.

The 36,000-square-foot space left vacant since Bob’s Discount closed at the Mt. Blue Shopping Center will become a showplace for local artists, craftspeople and businesses, said Renee Targett from Empire Property Management. Prior to Bob’s Discount, the site was used by Ames Department store.

Based on Florida flea markets, the market will lease 10- by 10-foot spaces at $20 per day for people to sell their wares, promote their businesses and on special days, take part in an indoor yard sale.

The market will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, she said. It will continue indefinitely.

Owners of Empire Property Management, who live in southern Maine, are encouraging businesses there to bring merchandise here, she said.

“The owners believe it’s a good addition to our area and good for the local economy while providing a way to fill the building,” Targett said.

Nonprofits like the Lions Club and community college have been asked to consider promoting their activities. Nonprofits are welcome to participate at no cost for the first two months, she said.

Participation can be for one day or three and more than one space can be used, she said.

“The concept is still growing daily. It’s something different,” she added.