The Ontario Ministry of Transportation (MTO) has identified the White River Bar & Grill as the preferred location for a new rest centre in White River, Ont.
The rest area will have accessible, 24-hour heated washrooms with potable water, flush toilets, and phone-charging outlets. Parking will be available for 16 tractor-trailers and 38 passenger vehicles, according to a news release. It will also have a picnic area.
The proposed layout will aim to integrate the existing White River Bar & Grill. MTO retained Egis to complete a preliminary design study and class environmental assessment.

The site was selected for the following reasons:
- High visibility to the travelling public and proximity to local landmarks
- Strong sightlines and location within the built-up area near the Highway 17/631 intersection
- Shortest anticipated construction timeline
- Flat topography, simplifying construction
- Existing access to hydro and telecommunications infrastructure
- Connection to municipal water and sanitary services
- Most cost-effective option overall
A transportation environmental study report is available for public review until Aug. 17.