The traffic is terrific

I recently had a week off and found myself two days in a row having lunch mid-afternoon at a restaurant that shall remain nameless along Highway 15 in Fairmont. This down time offered me a new insight, or reminded me, that Fairmont is quite a busy little town. The traffic up and down Highway 15 (State Street) is tremendous. This strikes, I believe, a contrarian tone to the cynical notion that Fairmont is a sleepy little nowhere. It also should serve as renewed realization that two of the biggest opportunities this town has are its major roadways, namely the state highway and Interstate 90.

This concept may seem like a no-brainer, but I wonder if it's as positive an attribute in the minds of many as it should be. This confluence of transportation is like having another major industry in town. There is not a giant plant with smokestacks, but there is plenty of bricks and mortar at the various gas stations, restaurants, hotels and other stopping points that attract travelers. One can imagine the number of local workers involved in these businesses numbering in the hundreds.

I hope the owners of these businesses are stressing to their employees the importance of customer service. Those who enjoy a good meal or good night's stay here will stop again on a return trip. They'll also tell their friends. Friendly smiles and fair deals can serve Fairmont well for decades to come.