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TxDOT's safety rest area facilities are designed to blend with the natural
beauty of the diverse Texas landscape. The structures will feature designs that
incorporate local or regional themes, and wherever possible, the facilities will
be located at scenic or historical sites.
Scenic Locations
Program planners considered many factors when determining the placement of
safety rest areas, including traffic volume, accident statistics and proximity
of communities. To accomplish overall design goals, TxDOT also selected scenic
locations for the facilities. The site selections offer travelers many pleasing
vistas, including shady groves of trees, interesting rocky outcroppings and
breathtaking springtime wildflower displays.
Hardeman County Rest Area
Regional Flavor
Texas has been influenced by many different cultures that are sometimes
reflected in the local architecture. Wherever possible, rest area designs have
incorporated elements of the regions’ architecture or cultural influences. The
buildings will have the appropriate "look and feel" for the area.
Some locations feature colorful ceramic tile murals depicting regional
themes, such as buffalo soldiers, Native Americans, logging trucks or local
cattle brands. Some of these mural designs have been selected from local art
competitions in an effort to reinforce ties to the community.
Historic Preservation
When possible, safety rest areas will be placed in locations of historical
interest. Through project design coordination with local and state historical
societies, TxDOT hopes to incorporate items of historical significance in some
locations, such as old bridges, windmills or railroad cars. Some areas may
include plaques with local historical information to provide an educational
experience for the traveler.
Hale County Rest Area
Safety and Travel Information
TxDOT has a wealth of highway and safety information, and perhaps the most
suitable place to share it is at safety rest areas. Maps, weather and highway
conditions, driving directions and other travel/tourist information will be
available to motorists. In cooperation with local civic groups, visitors can
also learn about the area’s culture, environment, geology, history, industry,
plants, wildlife and nearby points of interest.
Pedestrian Features
Long, monotonous trips give drivers little chance to stretch. The new and
renovated rest areas will provide drivers with pedestrian features, including
playground equipment, exercise stations or walking trails with educational and
historical plaques describing the native plants, animals or archaeological
features.
Landscaping
Safety rest areas will feature landscaping materials native to the area. This
practice will lower maintenance costs while providing travelers an opportunity
to observe Texas’ diverse range of plant types. Whether observing the cacti of a
desert floor or bromeliads in a humid forest, travelers will be able to
experience the state's beauty at all safety rest areas.
Environmental Issues
TxDOT has carefully planned its rest area sites to harmonize with the
environment. Visitors will be able to capture a rare glimpse of nature at each
rest area because of our attention to habitat conservation. The designs
include water, wastewater and drainage systems that have minimal impact on the
environment. Some sites may include demonstration projects where travelers can
learn about solar power, wind power, alternate water/wastewater treatment and
disposal methods. When possible,
recycled or site-obtained construction
materials will be used, and some design elements may even provide the
opportunity to enhance or repair disturbed areas. |
