To the editor,
I wanted to thank you for highlighting the parking problem in downtown Rolla, specifically on Pine Street in your March 4, 2009 edition.
There is one thing that I would like to clarify concerning this issue. We believe that the focus of this matter may be lost, it is not just loss of business due to unavailability of convenient parking along Pine Street, it is the stifling of economic development in the downtown area.
We are working toward the day that all of the downtown store fronts are filled with thriving, interesting businesses that will attract customers for dining, shopping and entertainment.
How can  we as an association ask businesses to move downtown when they see current business owners and downtown workers parking for 6-8 hours a day in the designated 2 hour zones?
Imagine if you will a restored Route 66 (Pine Street) that would draw visitors from all around the world that would love to re-live the Golden Days of the Mother Road.
We see ladies coming from St. Louis, Springfield and Jeff City to visit our vintage shops and diners, then attending a play at Ozark Actors Theatre.
We have a lot of the elements in place, now we just have to all work together to make it better for everyone.

Thank you for your time,
— Kent Bagnall
Rolla Downtown Business Association