◆ WYDOT and state looking to cut expenses.
The Star Valley rest area, located on U.S. Highway 89 just south of Thayne, will be among 10 rest areas around the state to close. The WYDOT rest area closures will take effect June 15.
The rest area closures were prompted by a need for WYDOT to reduce costs “due to budgetary shortfalls.” The closures were approved by the Wyoming Transportation Commission during a recent special meeting.
“This is a painful reality but a necessary step given our state’s fiscal situation,” Governor Gordon said.
“This will have real impacts, not only for travelers, but for the custodial staff contracted to provide services to these facilities. These workers are our friends and neighbors in Wyoming communities around the state.”
The list of rest areas around the state that will close include:
• Lusk on U.S. 18;
• Guernsey on U.S. 26;
• Greybull on U.S. 14-16-20;
• Moorcroft on Interstate 90;
• Star Valley on U.S. 89;
• Ft. Steele on Interstate 80;
• Sundance on Interstate 90;
• Upton on U.S. 16;
• and Orin Junction and Chugwater, both located on Interstate 25.
“We took a hard look at all of our rest areas and came up with a list of those that we feel we can close with a minimal amount of impact to our travelers,” said WYDOT Director K. Luke Reiner. “It was a hard decision but one that we came to based on the needs of the public and to ensure we maintain a balanced budget.”
According to WYDOT, the rest area closures will result in a savings to WYDOT of approximately $197,453 from June 15 through Sept. 30 (the end of WYDOT’s fiscal year). After that, the department will save about $789,812 per year, by having the rest areas closed.
“Although these rest areas will close, motorists will still have access to facilities in neighboring communities,” Reiner said. “Each of the rest areas that are closing are within a reasonable distance of a town that has facilities for the public.”
