In the heart of Kalispell, a battle rages between the preservation of a cherished tradition and the need for safety and respect. The Downtown Forward Coalition, a group of dedicated community members, is at the forefront of this struggle, seeking to restore the essence of classic car cruising while addressing the reckless behavior that has marred its reputation. Personally, I find this situation particularly fascinating as it highlights the delicate balance between tradition and progress, and the power of community engagement in shaping public spaces.
The crux of the matter lies in the desire to revive the true spirit of cruising, one that celebrates classic cars and fosters a sense of community. Lorraine Clarno, president of the Kalispell Chamber of Commerce, emphasizes the importance of this tradition, stating, 'We don’t want to stop cruising. We want it to be safe, family oriented and not harm or impact the businesses downtown.' This sentiment resonates with many, as cruising has long been a beloved pastime, bringing people together and creating a sense of camaraderie.
However, the reality is that the current state of cruising in Kalispell has taken a toll on downtown businesses and nearby residents. The disruptive behavior, such as speeding, burnouts, and rolling coal, has become a source of frustration and concern. The Kalispell Police Department has had to step up its presence, with three to four patrollers stationed downtown on Friday nights to address these issues. This raises a deeper question: How can we preserve the tradition while ensuring the safety and well-being of our community?
One proposed solution is to entice muscle car drivers to return to the weekly events, as many have been driven away by the reckless behavior of others. This idea, suggested by Jodie Cross, a real estate agent and advocate for cruising, could be a signal to these drivers that the community values respectful cruising. However, it is not without its challenges, as some residents remain dissatisfied with the efforts to prevent dangerous driving. Joseph Biby, a resident of First Avenue East, criticizes the council for abandoning an effort to change city code, arguing that the proposed ordinances were geared toward limiting the number of times a vehicle can pass a certain point.
The crux of the matter lies in the tension between the desire to preserve a cherished tradition and the need for safety and respect. Councilor Jed Fisher argues that most motorists are respectful because they take pride in their vehicles, and laws should be enforced to punish illegal behavior. This perspective highlights the importance of personal responsibility and the role of law enforcement in maintaining order. Councilor Kyle Waterman, who represents Ward 3, which includes downtown, acknowledges the issue but also enjoys the experience, trying to idle his car quietly as he passes by residents.
The situation in Kalispell raises broader implications for community engagement and the role of local government in shaping public spaces. It also highlights the psychological and cultural aspects of cruising, such as the sense of camaraderie and the impact on young people. The challenge lies in finding a balance between preserving tradition and ensuring the safety and well-being of the community. As the discussions continue, it is crucial to consider the perspectives of all stakeholders and work towards a solution that respects the past while embracing the future.
In my opinion, the key to resolving this issue lies in fostering a sense of community ownership and engagement. By involving cruising enthusiasts, downtown businesses, and residents in the decision-making process, we can create a solution that is inclusive and respectful. This may involve creating sanctioned events, implementing guidelines for respectful behavior, and providing education and awareness campaigns. Ultimately, the goal is to restore the true spirit of cruising, one that celebrates classic cars and brings people together in a positive and safe environment.
