Nothing on Planet Earth can get in the way of having a really awesome Opening Day today, right? Wrong!
Here's a quick public service announcement for you: No more free parking! In the past, the city has offered free parking to fans on the most important day of the year for St. Louis, but apparently, a $72 million looming debt has inspired parking division officials to dump that policy this year...and ticket Cardinals fans who don't pay their meters.
St. Louis metro police also have some warnings for you baseball fans at Busch Stadium today.
Beware!
When Daily RFT saw this tweet below in our feed, we imagined the first sentence read in a cheery little girl's voice...and then the next sentence read by a deep, scary monster voice. We encourage you to do the same:Also, maybe try not to bring your guns to the game, guys:Let's go Cards! There will be heavy law enforcement presence in all areas surrounding Downtown and Busch Stadium to ensure a fun & safe day!
— St. Louis, MO Police (@SLMPD) April 8, 2013
We strongly encourage citizens to leave firearms at home. Baseball games with large crowds are no place for guns! #STL
— St. Louis, MO Police (@SLMPD) April 8, 2013
Why the Treasurer's Office can no longer offer free parking on Opening Day. Click here for details. stlouis.cbslocal.com/2013/04/08/no-...
— St. Louis Treasurer(@stltreasurer) April 8, 2013
"I'm not saying I'm not a baseball fan. However, my first obligation is to the taxpayers of the city of St. Louis," Jones tells the station. "You need to feed the meter and if you think you're going to be there longer than two hours, because the downtown meters are two hours, then you need to look at using one of the service lots or parking garages."
Makes sense. (And prior to Jones' arrival, the treasurer's office did apparently waste a lot of money via one pretty corrupt employee, recently sentenced for not showing up to work and stealing public funds).
Also worth noting that the ten-dollar parking ticket isn't that bad and may well be cheaper than a garage anyway.
Go Cards!
Send feedback and tips to the author. Follow Sam Levin on Twitter at @SamTLevin.
