Why are so many rest stops closed?
I'm heading west from NC on my way to Los Angeles along I-40. I've noticed that about 30% of the rest stops are closed. Why is that? Is it because of budget cuts, restoration, abuses by travelers? ...
Forum Discussion
RoyB wrote:
Its probably the lack of funds as wells... The states funding is really being hit now for roads and bridges... I suspect cheap gasoline really hurts alot of State's fundings it seems...
Roy Ken
Ironically, the recent drop in gas prices has helped increase taxes a bit. Fuel taxes per gallon not per dollar spent. The problem is we have gone thru a decade of fast rising gas prices that have driven efficiency up which means fewer gallon sold. Also with the economic downturn, there was a dip in miles driven. Funding from the gas tax has suffered particularly when inflation is accounted for.
In the end it's mostly funding and what the public demands. The public wants smooth roads without congestion. This has lead to state DOT management being rated on how smooth and congested the roads in their area are. Rebuilding a rest area doesn't help them meet their goals.
To the original question: Stop at a truck stop, mall, etc... if you just need a few minutes to figure out where you are going...or as we do...have a good idea of where you are headed in the morning and plug it into the GPS before you head out.
