The post office

Just as Cape Girardeau's renovated main post office goes back into service two years after closing for repairs, it's good news that the U.S. Postal Service is interested in locating a satellite office on the city's west side.

Selwyn Epperson, new manager of the postal service's Midamerica District, has told Mayor Jay Knudtson and U.S. Rep. Jo Ann Emerson the office would be in the vicinity of West Park Mall.

Knudtson and Emerson had lobbied for a new post office on the west side instead of spending money to rehabilitate the old post office on Frederick Street. But Knudtson said last week that he now understands the decision was a financial one. The renovation cost $1.5 million, compared to a projected price of $7 million for a new building.

Knudtson also said communication between the city and the postal service has improved with the new manager.

The renovated main post office is getting high marks from customers, but some complain that the location is still inconvenient. Hint: Fans of the Bi-State convenience store satellite office on North Kingshighway say there's rarely a line.