i think part of the parking problem in places like the cbd (or even midtown/cass) is the aggressive ticketing. one time i parked in front of my b/f's place on second to pick up his recyclables for him and i got ticketed even with my trunk open, hazards blazing, and arms full of bags! therefore, this increases the value of parking very close to your destination so you don't have to walk blocks + blocks with your hands very full.
on the other hand- if they loosened parking restrictions you know people would abuse it. i probably would if i knew i could get away with it.
but i do agree- expecting to park right next door or refusing to walk a couple blocks is absolutely lazy.
