Chick-Fil-A On NYS Thruway Could Stay Open 7 Days A Week

Can you believe it’s been over a year since we've had a chance to check out the new and improved rest stops along the New York State Thruway?

Back in the summer of 2021, a $450 million renovation project was underway on several of New York State’s 27 thruway rest and service areas. Currently, twelve of them have completed construction, and millions of travelers from Long Island to Buffalo have had a chance to pop in and check them out throughout the holiday season and beyond. 

Along with a more spacious layout, upgraded seating area, and larger selection of Taste Of New York goods, the recently upgraded stops have brought in some new restaurants where New York State travelers can grab a bite on the road, including Starbucks, Popeye’s, and Chick-Fil-A. 

Although many New York State travelers were quick to welcome Chick-Fil-A to the revamped thruway rest areas, plenty were left confused - especially knowing Chick-Fil-A’s famous policy of closing on Sundays. Why would these new rest stops include a restaurant that customers won’t be able to access on one of the busiest travel days of the week?

Why Is Chick-Fil-A Closed On Sundays?

Any regular Chick-Fil A customer knows you can’t grab one of their famous sandwiches or nuggets at least one day a week.  

Since the company first began in 1946, Chick-Fil-A has stood firm in shutting their doors every single Sunday, so their employees could, according to their website, “set aside one day to rest, enjoy time with their families and loved ones or and worship if they choose.”

However, a new proposed New York State law could change that - at least for the Chick-Fil-A locations along the thruway. 

New York State Bill Could Force Thruway Chick-Fil-A's To Stay Open On Sunday

Earlier this month, the New York State Assembly introduced a new bill that would require Chick-Fil-A and any other food service retailer contracted with the Thruway Authority to be open 7 days a week.

The bill states, 

“While there is nothing objectionable about a fast food restaurant closing on a particular day of the week, service areas dedicated to travelers is an inappropriate location for such a restaurant. Publicly owned service areas should use their space to maximally benefit the public.”

New York State Thruway spokesman Jennifer Givner rebutted the proposed bill, saying in a statement,

“When the project is complete, Chick-Fil-A will operate in less than half of the service areas on the Thruway — all of which have at least one other food concept and a convenience store open seven days a week."

What do you think? Should Chick-Fil-A be forced to stay open for hungry weekend travelers, or is it their right to remain closed on Sundays?