This is an interesting topic. If their statement is true…”Safety rest areas are provided for a specific purpose related to highway safety and are different than public parks. The facilities meet a specific need, serving a narrow mission, and are not intended for use as public fora or as a destination for recreational or leisure activities.”…then why are there historical markers and other points of interest often found at rest areas? Are they not contradictory to this statement?
I think Ralph’s point on geocaching at rest areas being a natural extension of the safety use is spot on. Where available, these “pull off & grab” type hides encourage drivers to take frequent driving breaks. The few available along the I heading south and north in Indiana were a blessing during my late night drive just last year. They helped me stay focused and reduce fatigue by encouraging me to stop for a break. With out them I would have likely driven straight through which would have likely decreased my driving attentiveness (which occurred plenty of times on other long trips before geocaching entered my life).
