could you add a "Local" map view as default?

I'd like to see an additional map: area view to zoom in on local friends without trying to "aim" google maps. I am lucky enough to have friends all over the US but most of the time I want to use the map to see those within 10 to 20 miles of my current location. Since the map now defaults to the entire country, I end up spending lots of time zooming in on the Chicago area. This takes enough time that I am beginning to avoid the map all together.
Thanks for considering it!