The Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT) is closing 10 rest areas around the state — including the facility in Greybull — as a way to save money.

The closures, prompted by state budget shortfalls, take effect Monday, June 15. WYDOT expects to save about $790,000 a year by shuttering the facilities.

“We took a hard look at all of our rest areas and came up with a list of those that we feel we can close with a minimal amount of impact to our travelers,” said WYDOT Director K. Luke Reiner. “It was a hard decision but one that we came to based on the needs of the public and to ensure we maintain a balanced budget.”

The rest areas that will close include Greybull on U.S. 14/16/20; Lusk on U.S. 18; Guernsey on US 26; Moorcroft on Interstate 90; Star Valley on U.S. 89; Ft. Steele on Interstate 80; Sundance on Interstate 90; Upton on US 16; and Orin Junction and Chugwater, both located on Interstate 25.

“This is a painful reality but a necessary step given our state’s fiscal situation,” said Gov. Mark Gordon. “This will have real impacts, not only for travelers, but for the custodial staff contracted to provide services to these facilities. These workers are our friends and neighbors in Wyoming communities around the state.”

Following the closure of the Greybull rest area, the Big Horn Basin will have two remaining facilities: one at Powell’s Homesteader Park in Powell and the Gooseberry Creek Rest Area, located south of Meeteetse.