I read an article recently about the Lakeside Amusement Park, and it got me thinking... Wouldn't having a local amusement park do wonders for the local economy? Or am I completely backwards and wrong? Would that cause higher crime, more tourism, or do both go hand in hand?

I'd like to see Roanoke grow in many aspects, but not necessarily getting any more overpopulated than it already is. I'd like to see more good places to eat, more places to shop, more entertainment, etc. It seems like we're headed in a decent direction after I saw everything they've done with Valley View Mall recently, or if you take note of any of the additions in that area within the last 2 years or so. Lots of new things!

If I was even around when the amusement park was there, I would have been too young to remember it. I think it was gone by the time I moved here, but either way, I'd like to see something big--and something fresh! Am I alone on that? What are your thoughts?