NEW LIGHT, BIG HELP

Sometimes it is a little change that makes a big difference. Take the new street light at the entrance to the Cape County Park where there are nearly 150 sparkling holiday displays. Concerns that the dark entrance was a safety problem didn't go unheeded.

The street light, which was installed by the Cape Girardeau County Commission in a cooperative effort with the Missouri Highway and Transportation Department, vastly improves visibility at the intersection. That is important to the thousands of motorists who turn into and out of the park at night while the holiday displays are there.

For the most part, these motorists have used extra caution because of the inherent dangers at the intersection. The divided lanes of U.S. 61 carry fast-moving traffic between Cape Girardeau and I-55 and Jackson. More than a few motorists can recall some close calls in that area during the holiday season. Cape Girardeau police, who patrol that stretch of highway, say the intersection hasn't been considered dangerous, because there haven't been that many serious accidents. But too many motorists felt it was just a matter of time.

The new light shines like a bright star -- appropriate for the occasion, don't you think? -- over the turn-in to the park. Motorists can see much better where the park drive is, plus they have a better view of the U.S. 61 lanes even if there is no traffic.

The creative displays in the park during the holidays are a big draw for the area. The tour can take as long as half an hour on busy nights, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. But it is well worth it. And with the new light at the entrance to the park, it also is a bit safer.