The Ultimate Truck Stop

Aman, I'm a wanta be, But know of these places as I laid acrossed the back window ledge in my moms 69 impala.. (That is for another thread) We traveled a lot maybe that is where the bug came from. Keep up the good work. TD

 

I've lived near it my whole life. I know that. I'm talking about decades ago.

It's a ######## too. They dont even sell fifth wheel pullers. WTF? I only support it because they're the only truckstop in the area that'll let me park my truck there on the weekends without worry of it being towed.

 

How bout a Hooters minus the booze (I'm having thought of pantyhose junction). I've heard the food aint all that bad. Or a nice restaurant with phones at the tables.

Somehow keep track and tow anyone who stays in the store for more than 10 - 15 minutes while blocking the fuel island.

 

What about a bar attached to the t/s. You get done for the night and you just want to unwind??I know alot don't drink but some do. Just a place to chill like you were at home would help alot!!!!

 

Troutville Or. had a bar at the T/A back a few years ago. Hope they still do. The Jubitz on the other side of town has one also. I would just go and just socialize because it was against company policy to drink unless your on home time. I am not one to break any rules.

 

I really do not think a bar is a good idea, nor is it professional.
The Wawa idea was good, simply because the owner (yes there is only 1) had a great marketing plan and a good designer. Good c-store to model around. I actually know one of his sons.

Anyway.
I wanted to try and attack some of your first questions.
-Idle Air is out of business. So no idle air.
-parking space size is covered. The more parking you put in the more business you would have. Start with what you can afford to pave, then add over time. If it is on a main east/ west route it will be full every weeknight. A dedicated area for some oversize and hazmat needing safe haven would be good. There really is not enough places for these guys.
-Laundry facility's
-small lounge area, I really have never seen one full.
-movie/ TV area. If it can seat 25-30 would probably be fine. Does not need to be huge.
-Good food and a changing menu. At least specials here and there. Easy to do when suppliers have sales on set items. And it creates variety. Not the same thing all the time.
-You asked something about satellite pumps? these are just pumps set away from the building, unless I did not understand the question.
-I love baked goods. Best fritters I have ever had were up at Clear spring? I think it was Missouri. At the petro. They have a full bakery, that the locals all go to as well.

That is really a key with the food. You need a local base to come to the restaurant, not just drivers. TA's make about 2 mill a year profit, this was before they got rid of the buffet so may be better now. They bought R Place in Morris IL because the restaurant made so much money every year. Great place, lots of parking, and the locals all come to eat as well as the drivers.

I cannot remember your original post well enough now to answer more, but I will check back later.

 

I didnt see the question about satellite pumps but I have always considered them to be oppisite the "main" pump and pumps at the same time, so you dont have to drag the fuel hose over the deck

 

Here is a blast from the past. An automat with premade sack lunches like you would get at county lockup. Operated with debit, credit and cash. I dont like to wait in line behind a guy that has to cash his com check or fax something.

 

was there last month and they still do.