UPDATE: The rest area is now open.
GRAND MOUND – Travelers who use the northbound Interstate 5 Scatter Creek Rest Area between Centralia and Olympia will need to make other plans.
Beginning 8 a.m. Monday, Feb. 10, contractors working for the Washington State Department of Transportation will close the rest area around-the-clock until 5 p.m. Thursday, March 6.
The planned closure allows crews to update the facility’s water system. The work includes:
- Installation of new well pumps and pipes.
- New automated water management systems.
- Repairs inside and outside of the restrooms.
The work will reduce long-term maintenance costs and extend the service life of the system.
About the rest area
On average, approximately 2,284 vehicles a day use the Scatter Creek Rest Area. The facility opened 1969 and was rebuilt in 1988. Amenities include water fountains, restrooms, picnic areas, vending machines, a visitor information center, short term parking, and a recreational vehicle wastewater disposal area.
Alternate facilities
The nearest rest area with restrooms, short term parking and picnic areas is located three miles north near Maytown along southbound I-5 in Thurston County.
The nearest rest area with wastewater disposal for recreational vehicles is 32 miles west on State Route 8 at the Elma Rest Area in Grays Harbor County.
Travelers are encouraged to sign up for email updates about work on state roads and facilities in Thurston County. Real-time travel information is available from the WSDOT app and statewide travel map.