Service plazas in Massachusetts are slated for a substantial upgrade, with the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) confirming the next phase of a $750 million investment to revitalize 18 highway service plazas across the state. According to a statement obtained by MassDOT, this extensive project is set to kick off in early 2026, creating 750 new jobs and providing a serious facelift to the facilities.
The overhaul will be spearheaded by Applegreen, a notable player in the service plaza sector. Charged with the task to rebuild or renovate the 18 locations, they are promising to deliver major facility improvements, enhance amenities, and bolster sustainability. Massachusetts-based Suffolk Construction is to take the lead on the project, expected to hire over 750 local union laborers. "This is a transformative initiative that will have a lasting impact on communities and workers throughout Massachusetts," John Fish, Suffolk's Chairman and CEO, told MassDOT.
Furthermore, all existing employees at these plazas are poised to be given new job opportunities with Applegreen, who will also be running the overall service operations. This realignment is expected to create an additional 1,500 operational positions, marking a significant boost in employment opportunities within the state. "We are excited to bring our global experience and local commitment to Massachusetts," commented Bob Etchingham, Chairman of Applegreen, in a MassDOT interview.
In a move to support regional suppliers, Applegreen has teamed up with Chicopee-based Rachael's, a sandwich provider founded in 2008, that will now handle the supply for all Applegreen plazas in Massachusetts, and their entire US operations. As part of their commitment to nurturing community ties, Applegreen and Rachael's tout their use of locally sourced ingredients, reinforcing the project's goal of community integration and economic support. As commented by Bob Etchingham, Applegreen's chairman, in their broader hiring strategies, all roles—from food services to facility maintenance—will be sourced internally, intending to streamline operations for a more unified customer experience.
With an eye towards community involvement, MassDOT and Applegreen plan to launch a public engagement process in fall 2025. This initiative, led by the reputable Consensus Building Institute (CBI), seeks to gather public opinion on the specifics of plaza programming and the diverse needs of the region. "This is a long-overdue modernization of vital economic infrastructure," James E. Rooney, President and CEO of the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce, was quoted saying in an interview with MassDOT, emphasizing the importance of these sites mirroring the unique character and demands of Massachusetts communities.
