New parking meters are troublesome

Oh, for those days when you parked your car, put the coin in the meter and went about your business.

I am a senior who normally has no need to go downtown. But I tried it out on a Friday at 5:45 p.m. I spotted a handicap parking spot on Second Avenue NE (near the tracks). I hung up my handicap 'card” and looked for the meter (to be legal I should pay for 15 minutes until 6 p.m.). Oh, yea, the new system! So, I walk a half block for the terminal. 'Enter your meter #”!

Well 'what was it”? After several tries, I walked the half block back to the meter post. Then back again to the terminal. Nope, I couldn't get it to work.

So, I said the heck with it all and risking a parking ticket, went for an adult beverage.

I limped across Second Avenue easily because a train was blocking the avenue. And later, when I went back to my car that train still was there.

Now if only I could have taken Third Street to the Interstate 380 north ramp and head north for home, but there is a building blocking the way.

Thinking back, why would you put a meter terminal half block from a handicap parking place? I think it's best I stay out of downtown, don't you?

Lee R. Overton

Hiawatha