Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
The rest stop on U.S. 30, about 2.5 miles west of Ind. 15, will close March 11, according to the Indiana Department of Transportation.
The decision to close the park was made because of undesirable activities reported by police, according to Roger Manning, INDOT public relations officer.
Seven men age 42 to 71 were arrested last July for a variety of charges, including public indecency, public intoxication, battery and criminal trespass during an undercover operation led by the Indiana State Police.
In September 2000 another undercover operation led to the arrest of two men who also were charged with public indecency.
"The situation has grown worse in the last year," said Kosciusko County Sheriff Aaron Rovenstine this morning. "While the ISP conducts the undercover operations, we chase 'em off."
Central dispatch receives a constant string of complaints about the roadside park. Semi-tractor trailer drivers, who use the area as a sleeping stop, have complained that men bother them through their break asking for sexual activities.
Rest stops were developed at the beginning of the interstate highway system. At the time, long stretches of road were envisioned and a place to stretch and use the restroom facilities was considered essential for long-distance travelers.
"The nature and need of rest areas is undergoing a change," Manning said, "as time has gone by and more and more interchanges with convenient stores, service stations and the like."
Many grew into opportunities for local communities and the state to feature area attractions and other information.
With the establishment of convenience stores and service stations at most intersections, however, the comfort provided by these rest stops has come to an end.
Motorists who wish to use rest facilities in the area may now use the full-service Arcola rest park. The park is 35 miles east on U.S. 30. Commercial truck stops are 12 miles west and 20 miles east on U.S. 30.
