Marysville, Ohio – In an exciting push to improve travel across the state, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine proudly announced the opening of four new rest area buildings, celebrating with ribbon-cutting events in Union and Van Wert counties. These new stops are part of an ambitious eight-year statewide initiative aimed at making Ohio highways safer, more welcoming, and more engaging for travelers.
A New Vision for Rest Areas
Governor DeWine’s transformative rest area project goes beyond just adding bathrooms and picnic tables. It’s designed to enhance the safety, comfort, and experience of visitors while showcasing Ohio’s rich history, beautiful nature, and unique attractions. The new rest areas feature native Ohio plants, dog trails, rocking chairs, and charming Storybook Trails—fun, short trails where children and families can enjoy reading Dolly Parton Imagination Library books while taking a break from driving.
“A safe traveler is a well-rested traveler, so our goal is to provide a safe, clean space for visitors,” said Governor Mike DeWine. “While we have them here, we are sharing Ohio’s great story to hopefully spark curiosity and inspire more exploration in Ohio, the Heart of it All!”
Highlights From Union and Van Wert Counties
The day began with Governor DeWine, First Lady Fran DeWine, and local leaders officially unveiling the newly redesigned rest area on U.S. 33 westbound in Union County near Marysville. This rest stop celebrates nearby attractions like Grand Lake St. Marys State Park, Indian Lake State Park, Logan County History Center, Freshwater Farms of Ohio, Piatt Castle, and the Armstrong Air & Space Museum. On the eastbound side, travelers will find another upgraded rest area ready to welcome them.
Later, in Van Wert County, Governor DeWine joined community leaders to cut the ribbon at the new U.S. 30 eastbound rest area, positioned as a gateway welcoming travelers into Ohio. This site features highlights like Ohio’s Presidential Trail, Smiley Park, Niswonger Performing Arts Center, and the historic Brumback Library, known as the first county library established in the United States in 1901. There is also a matching rest area on the westbound side.
A Commitment to Accessibility and Community Impact
“Whether someone is new to Ohio or simply exploring a different region, these re-imagined rest areas offer a warm welcome and a lasting first impression,” said Lydia Mihalik, director of the Ohio Department of Development. “From hidden gems to well-known landmarks, we’re helping travelers discover what makes each corner of Ohio unique and inviting them to explore even more.”
An important feature at all four locations is the inclusion of universal changing stations in family restrooms. These stations offer adjustable tables in clean, private spaces, providing critical support for individuals with disabilities or medical needs, as well as their caregivers. By the end of 2026, Ohio plans to have universal changing stations in 29 rest areas, significantly boosting accessibility for all travelers.
A Boost for Local Economies
“The investment to upgrade the rest areas reflects Ohio’s commitment to traveler safety and tourism,” said ODOT Director Pam Boratyn. “These re-imagined rest areas not only provide essential services but also serve as a gateway to discovering more attractions in Ohio, the Heart of it All.”
Governor DeWine’s overall plan includes 36 new rest areas and upgrades to over 40 more by 2026. This initiative also ties into the bigger picture of strengthening local economies. In 2024 alone, Ohio recorded a record-breaking $57 billion in visitor spending, supporting more than 443,000 jobs. The state saw 242 million visits, an increase of 3.5 million compared to 2023, reflecting a growing interest in exploring what Ohio has to offer.
As these beautiful new rest areas open their doors, they symbolize more than just a place to rest—they invite travelers to slow down, explore, and experience the many treasures that make Ohio “The Heart of it All.”
