In The News

Permanent closure planned for I-70 rest area

CENTERVILLE, Ind. – The Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) plans to close the I-70 eastbound rest park at mile marker 144 in late January as part of its strategic plan for similar facilities around the state. The plan also calls for the westbound rest area, which will remain open, to be replaced with a modernized welcome center within the next few years. 


“Indiana’s rest parks and welcome centers give the Hoosier state an opportunity to put its best foot forward,” said INDOT Greenfield District Deputy Commissioner Brandye Hendrickson. “INDOT aims to maintain a high level of service to motorists while making smart choices about taxpayer money.” 


When Indiana’s interstates were first constructed, state-operated rest areas provided services to long-distance travelers amid expanses of undeveloped land. Since that time, private companies have opened truck stops, gas stations and restaurants along the way that cater to today’s motorists. INDOT regularly evaluates the state’s 30 rest areas and six welcome centers based upon customer demand, maintenance costs and proximity to similar public or private facilities. 


INDOT will set a specific date after crews post highway signage notifying motorists of the impending closure. INDOT anticipates an annual savings to taxpayers of $147,132.