Connecticut rest areas to resume around-the-clock operations

HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) - Gov. Ned Lamont says Connecticut’s seven state-operated highway rest areas will soon resume around-the-clock operations.

The Democrat announced Friday the buildings, including indoor restrooms, will open to the public beginning July 1. That’s thanks to about $1.7 million in funding included in the new, two-year state budget.

Staffing levels at the facilities were reduced in 2016 to only daytime operations to help save money. While the rest areas were technically open 24 hours a day, the indoor facilities were closed in the evenings and overnight.

Lamont says the move was “well-intentioned,” but “penny wise and pound foolish,” noting how Connecticut needs to make the state attractive to visitors and residents.

Four of the rest areas are on Interstate 84. Two are located on I-91 and one on I-95.