For 37 years my in-laws have lived in Park Rapids. Sixteen years ago I married into the family and have been visiting Park Rapids several times a year, in all seasons. The 4th of July is my favorite time to visit the area and experience the excitement of the parade, family, friends and of course great food. This year the 4th wasn’t the same, it was great to see family and friends, but not having the parade on the same route was very disappointing.
Not seeing everyone line the streets, greeting each other as they set up their chairs and the anticipation of the children waiting for candy was all missed. I understand the concern over road construction and the need for local government and the county to work together for the safety of its citizens and guests all too well, as I too work for local government. Hearing that the parade route may permanently change due to the crossing of Highway 34 was upsetting. For several years the route has crossed the highway, in Menahga the parade crosses Highway 71, in McGregor the parade stops traffic on Highway 169 and in Pequot Lakes they put signs out stating there is no access from County Road 11 to Highway 371 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. These are all examples of similar size cities not changing parade routes.
In every city, in every county everyone knows that traffic picks up during the 4th of July weekend. Getting across town is going to be difficult and grocery stores are busier, or so we all hope! We prepare for the change that comes with summer but we should not prepare for another year of disappointment when it comes to the parade route. I hope those in charge of the route will return it to the original route next year, staying with the parade tradition.
