FL Turnpike Plazas To Get $162 Million Makeover

WEST PALM BEACH (CBS4/AP) — Florida's eight turnpike service plazas are getting a much needed makeover.

Turnpike spokesman Chad Huff told the Palm Beach Post the service plazas are being renovated or replaced to meet the changing needs and expectations of the 30 million people who use them every year.

Renovation costs are expected to be about $162 million. One hundred million dollars of that will be paid by Miami-based Areas USA for the right to operate the plazas' restaurants and retail stores. The rest will be paid from turnpike tolls.

Huff says the Turnpike's gas stations were built between 1959 and 1963. Restaurants were included in the late 80s.

The plazas will also provide Wi-Fi access and enclosed areas for pets.

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