The Ohio Department of Transportation (DOT) has announced that all rest areas along Interstate 75 (I-75) will be closed until summer 2026. This closure affects travelers using one of Ohio’s busiest highways. The decision is part of a major plan to renovate and upgrade these rest stops for better safety, comfort, and services. While the project will cause inconvenience, it aims to improve travel experience for everyone in the long run.
Why Are the I-75 Rest Areas Closing?
The Ohio DOT said the current rest areas along I-75 need significant repairs and updates. Many of these facilities are old and no longer meet modern standards. The closures will allow for major construction work, including rebuilding restrooms, improving parking lots, adding better lighting, and upgrading security features.
Officials explained that patchwork repairs done over the years were no longer enough. The goal is to create safe and welcoming rest areas that serve the needs of all travelers, including truck drivers, families, and tourists. With this closure, workers can complete the project efficiently without having to keep parts of the rest areas open.
When Will the Rest Areas Be Closed?
The closures are effective immediately and will last until summer 2026. This means travelers will not have access to any I-75 rest areas in Ohio for over a year. The Ohio DOT has asked motorists to plan accordingly and use alternate stops for breaks, food, and fuel during their journeys.
What Are the Alternatives for Travelers?
Because I-75 is a major north-south route through Ohio, many people rely on rest areas for quick breaks. With the rest areas closed, travelers need to find other options such as:
- Truck stops and travel plazas: Many private businesses along I-75 offer restrooms, food, fuel, and parking for trucks and cars.
- Fast food and gas stations: Plenty of fast-food chains and gas stations are located near I-75 exits. These can serve as convenient stops for restroom use and meals.
- Local towns and cities: Smaller towns along I-75 also provide public facilities and restaurants where travelers can take breaks.
The Ohio DOT recommends drivers check maps and apps ahead of their trip to find the best places to stop. Planning breaks in advance will help reduce stress caused by the closures.
Safety and Comfort Will Improve
One of the biggest reasons for this long closure is to improve safety at the rest areas. Older rest areas had issues with lighting and security, which made some travelers uncomfortable, especially during nighttime stops.
The new rest areas will feature better lighting, surveillance cameras, and emergency call boxes. The parking areas will be redesigned for smoother traffic flow, and the restrooms will be modern, clean, and accessible for all users.
The Ohio DOT is also adding better landscaping and signage to make the rest areas more inviting and easier to find from the highway.
Impact on Truck Drivers
Truck drivers, who rely heavily on rest areas for mandatory rest breaks and parking, will feel the impact the most. The Ohio DOT is coordinating with private truck stops and local authorities to ensure enough parking is available.
Truckers are encouraged to plan routes carefully and use apps designed to find available truck parking spots. The state is also looking into temporary solutions during construction to avoid dangerous roadside parking.
Timeline and Project Details
The Ohio DOT plans to complete the renovation by summer 2026. The project includes:
- Full demolition and rebuilding of restroom buildings.
- Repaving parking lots and improving drainage.
- Installing new lighting, surveillance systems, and emergency services.
- Adding electric vehicle charging stations at select locations.
- Improving accessibility for people with disabilities.
Once finished, these upgraded rest areas will provide a safer, cleaner, and more comfortable place for all travelers on I-75.
What Travelers Should Do Now
Travelers planning to use I-75 should keep the following tips in mind:
- Check your route ahead of time to find alternate rest stops.
- Keep extra water, snacks, and a charged phone for emergencies.
- Use truck stop apps or GPS services to locate restrooms and parking.
- Allow extra time for travel since you may need to detour for breaks.
- Stay alert for construction zones near rest areas as work progresses.
The Ohio DOT is committed to sharing updates during the project and encourages everyone to follow their social media channels and website for the latest information.
Conclusion
While the closure of I-75 rest areas in Ohio until summer 2026 will create challenges for drivers, this important renovation project promises to deliver safer, cleaner, and more modern facilities. By planning ahead and using available alternatives, travelers can still enjoy smooth trips along this busy highway.
Ohio DOT’s investment in rest area upgrades is a step toward improving road safety and traveler comfort for years to come.
