Drivers traveling along California’s scenic Highway 101 this summer will need to plan ahead after roadside rest areas in both directions of the highway closed because of a water shortage.
Rest Area Closures
The northbound and southbound Gaviota Roadside Rest Areas in Santa Barbara County closed July 1 and are expected to remain closed through Oct. 1, according to the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans). The closure affects both directions of Highway 101 near the Gaviota Tunnel, a heavily traveled stretch between Buellton and Goleta.
The shutdown leaves travelers with roughly 35 miles without a state-operated roadside restroom. The Gaviota rest areas serve one of California’s busiest coastal corridors, used by commuters, tourists and long-distance travelers moving between Southern and Central California.
Caltrans is encouraging travelers to plan ahead by identifying alternate places to stop for fuel, food, restroom breaks and rest before beginning their trip. The rest areas will remain closed until a reliable water supply is restored, with no reopening expected before Oct. 1.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
