MONTPELIER — A panel of lawmakers is giving its blessing to a plan for a privately owned rest area and visitor center off Interstate 89 in Randolph.

Developer Sam Sammis detailed his proposal for the visitor center and Vermont products showcase Tuesday to the Legislature’s Joint Transportation Oversight Committee.

Administration Secretary Jeb Spaulding said the state closed the northbound rest area in Randolph several years ago and the southbound rest area is likely to be closed within the next couple of years.

Sammis’ proposed development would be off Exit 4 and would be accessible to northbound and southbound travelers.