Travelers who frequently use rest areas along Interstate 5 between Everett and the Canadian border will need to plan for long-term closures.
Staffing needs ahead of the busy winter season and growing safety concerns prompted the difficult decision to close these rest areas for an extended period, the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) said.
In recent months, there have been numerous issues with some visitors who are not using the facilities for their intended purpose. This includes those who extend their stay beyond the posted limits, illegal disposal of trash and waste, vandalizing the buildings, verbally abusing and even threatening WSDOT employees.
The three rest areas affected:
- Custer rest area (north of Bellingham) – northbound closure for at least three months.
- Smokey Point (north of Marysville) – northbound and southbound closure for at least three months. We are working to open access for the RV dump stations at the northbound rest area in the next few weeks.
- Silver Lake Rest Area (south Everett) – the southbound rest area is indefinitely closed, including dump stations. The weigh station will remain open. There is no northbound rest area at this location.
WSDOT said it will reevaluate reopening all rest area facilities early next year and will make a decision based on crew and resource availability.
Another STUPID State decision that affects travelers. I can see a lot of people pulling over to the side of the road to relieve themselves and creating unsafe travel for everyone. The few are creating hardships for the majority of people who do not violate the law. Do NOT punish a majority of citizens for the sake of relenting to offend those that vandalize and destroy property. Sadly, that seems to be the position the current government adheres to follow.
Martin, I totally agree with you. It seems idiotic to punish the many for the sins of the few. It’s like saying hey lets close downtown because some buildings were painted with graffiti and people litter there.