Florida

Food services resume at plazas on Florida’s Turnpike. Takeout only in South FL for now

The eight plazas on Florida’s Turnpike once again are offering more than just bathrooms and a convenience store.

As part of Gov. Ron DeSantis’ plan to gradually reopen the state after coronavirus closures, the Florida Department of Transportation announced Monday that it has resumed food services.

For the time being, while some plazas offer seating, food services at South Florida’s three plazas — Snapper Creek, Pompano and West Palm Beach — are limited to takeout orders only.

But there are changes.

Food services will resume at the eight plazas on Florida’s Turnpike.
Food services will resume at the eight plazas on Florida’s Turnpike. Florida's Turnpike/Twitter

Before they reopened, all facilities were “cleansed thoroughly using a disinfectant specially formulated to eliminate viruses.” Managers and staff were trained on the new procedures, and hand sanitizer stations were placed throughout plazas and restrooms.

Other changes: Dining areas are limited to no more than 25% capacity; outdoor dining tables are placed 6 feet apart; tape on the floors indicates proper social distancing; staff members are required to wear masks and gloves; guests are encouraged to wear masks; and condiments will be provided at the counter instead of a self-serve station.

All Dunkin’ Donuts locations will be open 24 hours, and other restaurants will operate with modified hours.

“The Department will monitor dining practices and adjust as new guidelines emerge,” FDOT said in a news release.

This story was originally published May 11, 2020 at 8:48 PM.

Carli Teproff
Miami Herald
Carli Teproff grew up in Northeast Miami-Dade and graduated from Florida International University in 2003. She became a full-time reporter for the Miami Herald in 2005 and now covers breaking news.
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