PROPOSAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT ITEMS FOR THE “QUALITY OF REST” PROVIDED AT EXPRESSWAY REST AREAS

Abstract

Expressway rest areas in Japan are being improved to provide better customer satisfaction.
Because rest areas are facilities for the general public, quantity rather than quality was pursued to satisfy technical standards. Our challenge is to improve the “quality of rest” provided at rest areas, so that they become not only a place to take a break from travel but where people of all ages and nationalities can enjoy and feel comfortable.
A multi-facet assessment index integrating scientific, facility operator and user viewpoints will be developed, because currently, there are no quality-of-rest assessment standards for rest areas in Japan.