Thirteen Rest Stops Close
October 27, 2009 | AZPM
Story and photos by Robert Rappaport
The Arizona Department of Transportation has closed 13 highway rest stops across the state. ADOT calls the closures “temporary suspensions,” as the agency copes with the state’s budget problems. The closures are aimed at saving the state about 25 percent in highway funds, when they are added into plans to shut down 12 motor vehicle division field offices and deferring about $370 million in other highway costs.
The closures were first announced this month, but have just been completed. Five ADOT-run rest areas remain open, as do more than a dozen sites operated by private contractors. ADOT says the 13 targeted rest stops are now completely inaccessible, but there is a personnel presence by the agency and the Arizona Department of Public safety in those areas.
ADOT says it is working on a plan to partner with businesses near the highways to welcome travelers to stop and use restroom facilities free of charge.
You can find out more about the state budget’s impact on ADOT here.
