NJ Rest Stops Seek to Add More Retail

A bill moving through New Jersey's Legislature envisions more shopping opportunities in places where people tend to spend a lot of time anyway -- the state's toll roads.

Rest stops and service plazas are being targeted for more retail development. It's part of a move to squeeze more revenue out of the Garden State Parkway, New Jersey Turnpike and Atlantic City Expressway without raising tolls or taxes.
 
Twelve rest stops on the Turnpike and nine on the Parkway generate about $35 million annually. Billboards and corporate sponsorships also bring in revenue.
 
The Assembly transportation and independent authorities committee approved the bill unanimously last week.
 
The Press of Atlantic City reports a companion bill died in the Senate during the last legislative session.