The Sloatsburg Travel Plaza, a crucial rest stop for northbound travelers on the New York State Thruway between Exits 15A and 16, has temporarily closed its doors for an exciting renovation project that commenced on Tuesday, right after the Labor Day holiday. This closure is part of a significant system-wide initiative to modernize and enhance the service areas along the Thruway.
For those accustomed to stopping at the Sloatsburg northbound plaza, it’s important to note that eateries including Sbarro, Burger King, and Auntie Anne’s have already ceased operations at this location. As of September 5th, the convenience store is also closed. However, the Sunoco fuel station remains open to serve motorists needing fuel. It’s crucial to be aware that restroom facilities are currently unavailable at the Sloatsburg Travel Plaza during this renovation period.
Exciting New Dining Options on the Horizon
Travelers will have a lot to look forward to when the Sloatsburg Travel Plaza reopens. The revamped plaza is set to feature a diverse range of popular food and beverage brands. Confirmed new additions include Chick-fil-A, Shake Shack, Panda Express, Dunkin’, and Starbucks. For quick stop needs, an Applegreen C-Store will also be available.
The inclusion of Chick-fil-A has sparked some discussion, given the restaurant’s past controversies regarding contributions to organizations with anti-LGBTQ+ stances and its policy of being closed on Sundays – a significant travel day, especially during holidays. Despite these considerations, Chick-fil-A will be among the new vendors at the Sloatsburg Travel Plaza.
Reopening Timeline and Southbound Updates
According to the New York State Thruway Authority, the Sloatsburg Travel Plaza is anticipated to reopen in the second quarter of 2024. Signage at the location indicates a summer 2024 reopening. Motorists planning their journeys should factor this timeline into their travel plans.
Simultaneously, the Ramapo Travel Plaza on the southbound side of the Thruway, situated between Exits 16 and 15A, has been undergoing a similar complete rebuild since its closure in January. Travelers passing by can observe the steel framework of the new plaza taking shape. The Ramapo Travel Plaza is also projected to reopen in the second quarter of 2024.
Upon completion, the Ramapo Travel Plaza will offer a Panera Bread, Panda Express, Shake Shack, and a Starbucks drive-thru, along with an Applegreen C-Store. A Sunoco fuel station is currently operational at the Ramapo site, but restroom facilities are not available during construction.
System-Wide Modernization of Thruway Service Areas
This extensive renovation of the Sloatsburg Travel Plaza is part of a larger $450 million investment to overhaul rest stops across the 570-mile New York State Thruway system. This ambitious project includes the complete reconstruction of 23 out of 27 service area restaurant buildings, with the remaining four receiving significant renovations and upgrades.
The Thruway Authority has partnered with Empire State Thruway Partners, now part of Applegreen, for this 30-year contract. Applegreen will manage the restaurants, shops, and facilities at these plazas until 2053, ensuring that travelers along the NY Thruway will benefit from modern and enhanced service areas for decades to come. This modernization effort promises to significantly improve the travel experience for millions who use the New York State Thruway each year.
