LAKE PROJECT NEEDS NEW FOCUS

There is little question that a major recreational lake near Cape Girardeau would be a welcome development. It is this keen interest that keeps alive the prospects for such a lake near Millersville on the line that divides Cape Girardeau and Bollinger counties.

The hurdles in making such a costly -- estimates range well over $1 billion -- dream a reality are many: landowner opposition, lack of unanimous support from county commissioners in both counties, an unwieldy state law that would grant control of property around the lake and, certainly not least, the huge cost.

Supporters of the lake project have butted heads against what seems like an immovable stone wall for a number of years. Perhaps the time has come to think more creatively: a project that doesn't cross county boundaries, fills a distinct need for flood-control and/or water supply, has the support of landowners and has widespread enthusiasm from residents who likely would be asked to fund the project through taxes.

A tall order? Certainly. But concentrating on a single idea that has produced mostly negative feelings isn't likely to accomplish the goal. If a lake's benefits are clear and the economic pluses are realistic, the rest will fall into place.