Wow... didn't the state close the rest areas during the Dean Administration? Wasn't it found that closing them was a negative with regard to tourism? Shortly thereafter the rest areas were opened again?
My family and I have done considerable traveling through VT, CT , MA, NH & NY. During our travels in Vermont we have often had to stop at exits on the interstate to use a rest room for our children our ourselves, when we are not near a rest stop. On several occasions we have stopped at a store to use the bathroom only to be told that it is not public. At this point we rush outside go to the dumpster area, back of the store etc and find a place for our kids to go. Nice story huh? I have come to expect this so am not surprised anymore. I have also created a mental Rolodex for businesses that will not let me use the restroom and refuse to give them any business.
Most recently we were in NH. We got off the Highway at the "Flume Gorge", the rest rooms were clean and OPEN. The inside was well lit and staffed. There was a restaurant, gift shop, free movie featuring the White Mountains, brochures detailing NH attractions. The most amazing thing was that they were selling tickets for the Flume Gorge attraction. Payments were taken with cash or credit. The rest stop was not only a place to releave ourselves but a place to tour and spend money. Nice place. We saw the attraction hiked the two miles and had a nice time looking at the natural wonder.
New York also has figured out the rest area thing. Areas south of Albany have full service gas stations complete with a vast array of fast food.
Both of these states also have toll booths.
If I were a member of the Vermont Department of tourism, I would be concerned about the shift in tourism to other states. We just finished a week in NH on Vacation. I can tell you that NH is very nice. Great fishing, excellent attractions, great food, beautiful White Mountains, Ocean, Lakes, etc The rest areas are also open.
I will send a picture to Henry and maybe he will post it for me in this message. Picture is of the NH rest stop exit 34 Fraconia Notch.
