(12/28/06) HARDING ? Drivers who frequently travel along Route 287 near the Morristown exit say they dread the prospect of using Porta-Potties ahead of a rest stop closure.

The state Department of Transportation is closing the rest stop near the exit to save money. According to transportation officials, the move will save New Jersey about $150,000 a year. They say the closure, which goes into effect Sunday, will eliminate the need for maintenance on the building.

Motorists, however, say the move stinks. Many drivers say they hate the idea of stopping to go to the bathroom in a dirty portable toilet. They also like the many conveniences the rest stop building offered, like the ability to wash their hands. Regardless of the complaints, the rest stop is going to close and the Porta-Potties will take over Sunday.