Governor Mike DeWine (R), First Lady Fran DeWine, the Ohio Department of Transportation, Ohio Department of Development, and local community leaders recently celebrated the opening of two new I-70 rest areas in Madison County.
[Above photo by Ohio DOT]
Those two new facilities are part of a larger statewide plan that includes building 36 new rest areas and upgrading more than 40 others by the end of 2026.
“We like to say you can have it all in Ohio, the ‘Heart of It All,’” the governor said in a statement. “We hope that travelers enjoy our modernized rest areas, take a break so they can remain alert on the road, and see something that inspires them to spend more time exploring all that Ohio has to offer.”
The two new I-70 rest areas feature universal changing stations in the family restroom, offering an adjustable table in a clean, safe, and private space to meet the personal care needs of individuals with disabilities and medical conditions. Truck parking has expanded at both Madison County rest areas, with parking slips nearly doubled on the eastbound side and more than doubled on the westbound side.
The two new locales also provide support to caregivers, with Ohio DOT noting that 29 rest areas across statewide will have a universal changing station by the end of 2026, increasing accessibility for all travelers.
“These rest areas are not only a safe place for travelers to recharge, but they are also a place to learn more about our great state,” said Pam Boratyn, Ohio DOT’s director. “We are providing cleaner, more accessible facilities with expanded truck parking, updated amenities, and features that highlight local attractions to inspire travelers to support local communities.”
Other state departments of transportation are also currently building new rest areas or upgrading current facilities.
For example, the Indiana Department of Transportation recently hosted a ceremonial ribbon cutting to mark the opening of the newly constructed Black River Welcome Center on eastbound I-64 in Posey County.
“The new Black River Welcome Center showcases the very best of Indiana, our history, our hospitality, and our commitment to serving travelers,” said Governor Mike Braun (R) in a statement. “Opening this facility as our nation approaches its 250th anniversary gives visitors a meaningful opportunity to connect with Indiana’s role in shaping America’s story.”
Other amenities at the welcome center include an adult recreation area, children’s playground, and dog park. Increased semi-truck parking will also be available, with 75 spaces in total, an increase of 60 spaces from the previous welcome center.
“INDOT is committed to providing safe, informative environments where travelers can rest and recharge through our Rest Area and Welcome Center Improvement Plan,” added Lyndsay Quist, INDOT’s commissioner. “Giving motorists a place to take a break is just another way INDOT is working to make our roadways safer.”
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