Governor and First Lady DeWine Celebrate New Muskingum County Rest Area
 Governor and First Lady DeWine join leaders in Zanesville to cut the ribbon on the new Muskingum County Rest Area.
(COLUMBUS, Ohio) – Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, First Lady Fran DeWine, state leaders, and local partners celebrated the opening of the new I-70 westbound rest area in Zanesville today.
“Our rest areas provide a much-needed service to travelers, and they are also a great opportunity to highlight the amazing attractions across our beautiful state that make Ohio, The Heart of It All,” said Ohio Governor DeWine.
The Muskingum County rest area includes information about Zanesville, Newark, and Lancaster. It features attractions like The Wilds, the Y-Bridge, Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks, The Works, two Underground Railroad sites, Hocking Hills, and other nearby state parks and nature preserves.
Pottery is also on display from the Zanesville Museum of Art to recognize the region’s legacy as the “Pottery Capital of the World.” The museum was founded in 1936 and features 18 galleries that display a diverse selection of art from its collection of 9,000 works, spanning 5,000 years.
Governor DeWine’s plan to upgrade Ohio’s rest areas will enhance the safety, experience, and accessibility for travelers. New buildings, such as the rest area in Muskingum County, include native Ohio plants, dog trails, rocking chairs, and Storybook Trails, which give kids and families the chance to read a Dolly Parton Imagination Library book along a short trail while stretching their legs.
|
“We love stopping at rest areas when we’re traveling with our grandkids, and Ohio’s re-imagined rest areas provide the opportunity to read a story, learn about the local area, and stretch our legs,” said Ohio First Lady DeWine. “Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library of Ohio includes 405,000 children under age 5 who receive a free book in the mail every month, and Storybook Trails give families more opportunities to read together.”
The Muskingum County rest area also features a universal changing station 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. Ohio plans to build 29 universal changing stations at rest areas by the end of 2026.
“By improving accessibility, safety, and convenience with a fresh, updated design, we’re giving travelers a better experience while showcasing everything Ohio has to offer,” said ODOT Director Pamela Boratyn.
As rest area visitors are encouraged to explore communities around them, local economies are strengthened. In 2024, Ohio generated a record-setting $57 billion in visitor spending, which supported more than 443,000 jobs. Ohio received 242 million visits, which is 3.5 million more than 2023.
|
-30-
|
