Massachusetts Highway Plazas Revamped—New Boost for Local Tourism

In a landmark decision set to transform the travel experience throughout Massachusetts, Ireland’s Applegreen recently obtained a 35-year lease from the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) to redevelop 18 highway service plazas. Through a planned investment of $750 million, the redevelopments are set to modernize facilities, improve amenities, and create a friendlier atmosphere for visitors. Through the project, the tourism sector, the local business sector, as well as the infrastructure of the state, are set to undergo a major transformation. Upgrading the Infrastructure to Improve Travelers’ Experience The redevelopment effort involves complete reconstruction of the nine service plazas and extensive rebuilds of the remaining nine. Construction begins in January 2026, and the construction is planned to complete by 2028. Regionally themed concepts—coast, metro, and west—form part of Applegreen’s pitch as a means of mirroring the diverse landscapes and Massachusetts culture. Rebuilds are meant to improve traveler satisfaction, encourage longer stays, and encourage consumer spend at these centers. Fostering Tourism through Enhanced Amenities There are new service plazas offering an array of new facilities meant to enhance the travel experience.