Page 22 - AAA Every Day – AAA Hudson Valley – January/February 2022

TRAVELER’S GUIDE
Transforming Thruway Service Areas for Enhanced Travel Experience
The New York State Thruway Authority and the Some of the upgraded amenities that will be available
private investment group Empire State Thruway Partners are enhancing the traveler experience for drivers with a major redevelopment project to modernize all 27 service areas on the Thruway system.
Empire State Thruway Partners’ $450 million investment project began in the summer of 2021. The plan features the rebuilding of 23 of the 27 service area buildings and provides significant renovations and upgrades to the remaining four. The project is entirely funded through a public-private partnership and no toll dollars or state tax dollars are being used.
“Millions of customers visit the Thruway’s 27 service areas every year,” New York State Thruway Authority Executive Director Matthew J. Driscoll said. “They provide motorists with essential travel services, such as a variety of restaurant options, tourism information, fuel and more. Travel needs have evolved over the past few decades and this project will incorporate important environmental initiatives, tourism information, healthy food choices at diverse restaurant options and enhanced commercial trucking amenities.”
The Thruway’s service areas were originally built in the 1950s, with the last significant redevelopment taking place in the 1990s. When complete, the enhanced
modern facilities will feature upgraded amenities to meet the needs of all travelers, including commuters, visitors and commercial truck drivers alike.
at the redeveloped service areas include:
• Diverse, healthy food options and meals from
nationally recognized restaurants
• Exterior seating with access to Taste NY farm
markets, picnic areas, play areas and pet walking
areas with comfort stations
• Virtual welcome and tourism centers
• EV charging stations at all service areas
• Commercial driver services including increased
truck parking, showers, laundry facilities and fitness centers at select locations
The amenities at each location were prioritized based on the results of a 2018 customer survey that gathered information directly from Thruway travelers.
What to Expect During Construction
To limit disruptions to Thruway customers, no two consecutive service areas in the same direction will be closed for renovations at the same time. Fuel services will be available at all locations throughout the project.
Phase one of the project began with the temporary closure of 10 service areas that are expected to be rebuilt and open between March and October 2022.
In 2022, work will begin on six additional service areas. Renovations on the remaining 11 service areas are scheduled to begin in 2023 with all service areas expected to be open by May 2025.
Customers can view the full schedule of the project, along with renderings of the new service areas and more, on the Thruway Authority’s website, thruway.ny.gov/serviceareaproject.
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