AAA asks Kaine to keep rest areas open

RICHMOND, Va. (AP) - A prominent motorist assistance organization is asking Gov. Tim Kaine to rethink the decision to close 19 interstate rest areas in Virginia.

AAA Mid-Atlantic issued a statement Wednesday citing concern that drivers who are fatigued or trying to get to their destination without a bathroom break will compromise highway safety.

Spokeswoman Martha Meade says a growing number of motorists have expressed alarm about the planned closings Tuesday.

Transportation officials facing a $2.6 billion budget shortfall expect the closings to save about $9 million a year.

Meade asks officials to look again for other options to trim the transportation budget.

Transportation Department spokesman Jeff Caldwell says the agency has cut all its programs and $2 billion in road construction projects. It will lay off 1,000 workers.