Jun 27, 2019

New Thomas Edison Service Area Greets New Jersey Turnpike Motorists

Newly reopened service area features exciting new food and beverage choices

WOODBRIDGE, N.J. (June 27, 2019) – Road tripping on the New Jersey Turnpike is getting a makeover with the new Thomas Edison Service Area now officially greeting travelers. The completely rebuilt Thomas Edison Service Area, at milepost 92.9 southbound, showcases the latest service area amenities, innovative sustainable design, and exciting new food, beverage and retail choices that fuel motorists’ journeys.

The Thomas Edison Service Area reopening is part of a 25 year agreement between global restaurateur HMSHost the New Jersey Turnpike Authority to redevelop service areas on the New Jersey Turnpike and Garden State Parkway areas over the coming years.

A grand opening celebration took place with representatives from the New Jersey state government, the New Jersey Turnpike Authority, Sunoco, and HMSHost. Among those celebrating the grand opening was a Thomas Edison descendant who highlighted his great-grandfather’s legacy.

“Thanks to our strong partnership with HMSHost and Sunoco, we are able to provide our patrons on the Turnpike and the Garden State Parkway with bright, friendly, comfortable service areas where they can refuel and refresh during their travels,” said New Jersey Turnpike Authority Executive Director John Keller. “We look forward to cutting a ribbon at more than a dozen other rebuilt and refurbished service area facilities over the next few years.”

Among the new food and beverage options greeting travelers includes: Auntie Anne’s; Burger King; Chick-fil-A; Pret A Manger; and Starbucks Coffee. The Thomas Edison Service Area also includes Z Market where travelers can quickly pick-up snacks and beverages, freshly prepared salads and sandwiches, as well as retail needs from convenience items to local souvenirs and apparel. A seasonal food truck area will include a rotation of local food favorites based on availability.

“With the Thomas Edison Service Area opening, we’re investing in the reimagining of motorway service areas to bring travelers the latest amenities and outstanding food choices that enhance their trip,” said HMSHost Vice President of Business Development Amy Dunne. “HMSHost’s partnership with the New Jersey Turnpike Authority reinforces our commitment to innovating service areas along both the New Jersey Turnpike and Garden State Parkway to continue to enrich the traveler journey of tomorrow.”

Paying homage to its namesake, the Thomas Edison Service Area incorporates designs that speak to past and present modern-themed elements around the Edison Bulb inventions. The newly built 25,420-square-foot building accommodates seating for more than 220 guests inside, with outdoor patio seating available for more than 50 guests. Electronic charging outlets are available throughout the seating areas to keep busy road travelers charged and connected.

The rebuild focused on sustainability, with the design incorporating elements intended to reduce resource consumption including LED lighting along with maximized use of natural light, recycled building materials, as well as waterless and high-efficiency restroom fixtures.

Each year, approximately 3.5 million travelers visit the Thomas Edison Service Area. To accommodate the rush of travelers this summer and beyond, there is an expanded parking area with an enhanced commuter lot and a dedicated bus area.

HMSHost employs more than 2,400 associates throughout New Jersey including along the New Jersey Turnpike and Garden State Parkway. As part of the ongoing HMSHost enhancements, the Monmouth Service Area on the Garden State Parkway recently opened in May, and the Alexander Hamilton Service Area on the New Jersey Turnpike is scheduled to reopen later this year.