
Continuing a 42-year tradition, free coffee and hot tea will be available to travelers along the New York State Thruway on New Year's Eve.
The free beverages will be available at each of the 27 Thruway Travel Plazas, along the 570-mile superhighway system, from 11 p.m. Monday, December 31, 2012, through 7 a.m. Tuesday, January 1, 2013.
"This New Year's Eve tradition in partnership with Thruway Travel Plaza operators is intended to remind motorists to take breaks to prevent drowsy driving on the Thruway and other roadways," said Thruway Authority Executive Director Thomas J. Madison. "Sleepiness and fatigue are major contributors to highway accidents. All motorists should put safety first at all times."
Operators participating in the free-coffee program are McDonald's Corp., Delaware North Companies Travel Hospitality Services, and HMS Host Corporation.