The NYS Thruway Department has reopened the new Modena Service Area, located on the Thruway (I-87) southbound between exit 18 (New Paltz – Poughkeepsie – NY Route 299) and exit 17 (Newburgh – Scranton- I-84 – NY Routes 17K & 300). This marks the 27th and final service area to reopen as part of the $450 million private investment to redevelop and modernize all 27 service areas on the 570-mile Thruway system. The Thruway Department says no toll or tax dollars were used for construction.
The service area redevelopment project began in 2021 and included rebuilding 23 of the 27 service area restaurant buildings with significant renovations and upgrades to the remaining four.
As part of the project, 2,000 jobs were created with Applegreen, the service area operator. The project consisted of 1.5 million work-hours of construction.
“New Yorkers should be able to make a pit stop along the Thruway without breaking the bank –– that’s why we’re investing in service area redevelopments that give people affordable and convenient options to take a break from the road,” Governor Kathy Hochul said. “Whether you’re visiting family, checking out a State Park or just passing through, we’re committed to offering the best travel experience New York has to offer.”
Since 2022, when the first three service areas reopened to the public, more than 68 million customers have visited the service areas.
New York State Thruway Authority Executive Director Frank Hoare said, “We’ve reached an incredible milestone in the service area redevelopment project with the 27th and final service area reopening. Whether motorists are commuting, visiting one of New York’s many tourist destinations, or transporting goods supporting New York’s economy, the Thruway’s service areas provide a variety of amenities, restaurant options, as well as commercial trucking services, for every traveler. This project demonstrates the Thruway Authority’s commitment to modernizing our transportation system and enhancing safety and reliability for everyone who travels the Thruway.”
Applegreen Executive Chairman Bob Etchingham said, “The reopening of Modena Service Area marks the completion of a landmark public-private partnership between Applegreen and the New York Thruway Authority. Together, we’ve rebuilt or refurbished all 27 Service Areas along the 570-mile Thruway — creating modern, sustainable, and welcoming spaces for millions of travelers each year — and built a strong foundation for the future of travel and tourism in New York. We’re proud to have delivered on our commitment to redefine roadside hospitality and to have supported thousands of construction jobs along the way. Today, more than 2,000 dedicated colleagues operate our 27 plazas, delivering service 24/7, 365 days a year. We’re grateful to the Thruway Authority for their trust and partnership, and we look forward to serving the people of New York for many years to come.”
Work is ongoing at some service area locations, such as the installation of electric vehicle charging stations and the installation of high-speed diesel fueling facilities at select locations.
Modena Service Area Features
New restaurants include:
- Popeyes
- Burger King
- Pret (opening soon)
- Auntie Anne’s (opening soon)
- Dunkin’ (Drive-Thru)
- Applegreen C-Store
- Taste NY Food and Drink Products
Other amenities include:
- Playground
- Outdoor seating
- Dog walking area
- Private nursing area
- Digital tourism kiosk
- Four Level 3 high speed EV chargers**
**Available at a later date
