An experiment in 30-minute parking

The Du Quoin city council next month will be handed a creative solution to a problem with parking around Jim Keller's Green Mountain Meat Market at the corner of West Main Street and North Walnut Street.

The meat market competes with Sacred Heart Church, Tae Kwon Do, Alongi's Restaurant, LB's Place Lounge and others in the area.

Mayor Guy Alongi had thought about leasing an eight-space city-owned parking area alongside the shop to Keller, but that could raise some eyebrows.

Instead, the ordinance will provide for 30-minute parking on the lot during Keller's open hours. Signs will be installed on his building. The change will not affect church parking on Sundays nor longer term parking for surrounding businesses that tend to be busier during the evening hours. The public's cooperation will be appreciated.