New York State Thruway Authority Issues Request for Proposals to Modernize 27 Thruway Service Areas

RFP is Next Step in Plan to Redevelop Service Areas
RFEI and Customer Survey Results Used in Drafting RFP
 

The New York State Thruway Authority today announced that a Request for Proposals (RFP) has been released to redevelop the Thruway’s 27 Service Areas through public-private partnerships.

The RFP is the next step in the initiative to modernize the facilities, which are located across the 570-mile system. The redevelopment will bring a larger and more diverse selection of food and beverage concepts, upgraded exterior, interior designs and restrooms to the service areas. The new facilities will incorporate LEED principals and utilize energy efficient building systems and alternative sources of energy. Electric Vehicle (EV) charging stations will also be available at all service areas. To better support the transport industry, the program will seek to expand truck parking and amenities for commercial drivers.

The RFP was issued after a Request for Expressions of Interest (RFEI) was released earlier this year. The RFEI attracted responses from a wide spectrum of interested parties in the fields of hospitality, tourism, travel, logistics, architectural design, engineering, construction and finance. Information gathered from the RFEI was used in finalizing the RFP.

A customer survey was also distributed to gather information from patrons and gain fresh insight into consumer preferences, best practices and appropriate business models.

More than 2,600 travelers submitted feedback on the current offerings at the service areas, along with amenities and services they’d like to see in the future. Commercial drivers were given a separate survey.

Across the board, patrons responded that the service areas are safe places to stop. Many suggested upgraded interiors at the facilities, and for the service areas to be more authentic and connected to the community in which they are located. Other top recommendations included additional outdoor activities and expanded food options.

Commercial drivers cited additional parking as a top priority at the service areas as well as more amenities. View all the results from the customer survey.

The Thruway Authority's  27 Service Areas are accessible to the 250 million vehicles that travel on the Thruway system every year. Thruway Service Areas are open 24 hours a day and offer motorists unique food and retail options and a fueling site. Taste NY Farm Markets and Tourism Information Centers are also available.

RFP submissions are available for download from the Thruway Authority’s website, with responses due by February 11, 2019.

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