Areas USA to Partner with 10 Prominent Maryland Companies to Redevelop I-95 Travel Plazas

MIAMI, Jan. 24, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Areas USA has unveiled a proposal to join with 10 Maryland-based companies to design, build and operate new state-owned travel plaza facilities on I-95 in the northeastern portion of the state. Baltimore-based architectural firm Ayers Saint Gross designed the proposal's LEED certified Silver facilities, which are slated to be built by Bethesda-based Clark Construction in conjunction with Cain Contracting of Columbia.

The Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) Board unanimously approved the proposal. Pending approval by the Maryland Board of Public Works and a 30-day review by the Maryland General Assembly, Areas USA will invest $56 million to redevelop the Maryland House and Chesapeake House on I-95.

"We're thrilled to collaborate with a number of exceptional Maryland companies in developing world-class facilities that deliver outstanding amenities and customer service for travelers," said Areas USA CEO Xavier Rabell. "We anticipate this public-private partnership will generate some 400 construction jobs and deliver roughly $400 million to the state over the duration of the 35-year contract."

"The designs for the new Chesapeake House and Maryland House draw their inspiration from the spirit and uniqueness of our region," said Ayers Saint Gross principal Adam Gross. "The Chesapeake House's shape and siting takes its cues from the forms of boats and the natural features of the Chesapeake Bay, while the Maryland House builds from a contemporary reinterpretation of Maryland's historic architecture."

In addition to Ayers Saint Gross, Clark Construction and Cain Contracting, Inc., other Maryland-based businesses included in the proposal are:

• WBCM, civil and traffic engineer, Baltimore
• Aria Environmental, Inc., environmental design, Woodbine
• Cagley & Associates, structural engineer, Rockville
• L&J Construction, snow removal, Baltimore
• L&J Waste Recycling, Inc., waste management, Baltimore
• 4 Evergreen Lawncare, LLC, landscape maintenance, Baltimore
• NMP Engineering Consultants, Inc., water resources engineering, Hunt Valley

Areas USA's proposal received the highest ratings for the evaluation criteria set forth by the Maryland Transportation Authority Board, particularly with regard to financial returns to the State.

Designed to be LEED Silver, both buildings will employ cutting-edge devices to save water and energy, including large, naturally lit public spaces that create transparent dining commons opening to outdoor seating areas.  Each plaza also will feature Wi-Fi, additional bus parking and a staffed Welcome Center.

Areas USA's parent company has been providing food, beverage and retail services to the travel industry for more than 40 years and currently maintains a presence in more than 70 airports and 160 service plazas around the world, encompassing 1,700 locations with 12,000 employees.

Areas USA began operations in 2006 and services 11 U.S. airports, including Ronald Reagan Washington National. The company also services airports in Boston, Atlanta and Los Angeles, as well as the Florida Turnpike.

Sunoco, with some 4,700 retail gasoline outlets in 26 states, will operate the fuel facilities and convenience stores at both the Maryland House and Chesapeake House.

The Maryland House, which will be rebuilt in its existing location, will feature the following brands and amenities:  Wendy's, Cosi, Dunkin' Donuts, Nathan's Famous Hot Dogs, Jamba Juice, Pizza Hut and Baskin Robbins.

The Chesapeake House, which will be rebuilt immediately adjacent to its current location, will feature the following brands and amenities: Wendy's, Qdoba Mexican Grill, Caribou Coffee, Jerry's Subs & Pizza, Wetzel's Pretzels and Earl of Sandwich.

About Areas USA
Areas USA is a leading provider of food, beverage and retail services in the U.S. travel hospitality industry. Areas delivers a fresh and exciting experience that exceeds clients' expectations through its extraordinary level of service, high quality products, outstanding customer care and successful national brands portfolio that embraces local culture and way of life.

SOURCE Areas USA