State officials seeking $2.85M study to see whether rest areas, Ohio Turnpike could be leased [View all]
COLUMBUS, Ohio — Ohio officials want to know whether the state's 101 rest stops could be leased to a private operator and how much a potential deal might be worth.
A legislative panel on Monday approved the state's use of $2.85 million in federal research money to pay a consultant to evaluate privatizing the rest areas along interstates and state roadways.
Gov. John Kasich (KAY'-sik) has said leasing rest areas might be a way to address a gap in the transportation budget.
Under the contract with Austin, Texas-based KPMG Corporate Finance LLC, consultants will also explore the idea of leasing the Ohio Turnpike. The 241-mile roadway is funded through tolls and the sale of gas and food at rest stops.
http://www.therepublic.com/view/story/5db2a1f0f4c1454f8ae5dcf82d2fd8bc/OH--Private-Rest-Stops-Ohio/
He not only wants to lease the Turnpike but rest areas on the remaining interstate highways as well. Are we going to have to pay to pee on the road now?
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