DIX HILLS, N.Y. (AP) - The Federal Highway Administration says a new multimillion-dollar rest stop along the Long Island Expressway is in violation of federal law by conducting over-the-counter sales.
Newsday reports (https://nwsdy.li/2holfcZ ) the $20.2 million Long Island Welcome Center in Dix Hills has been selling locally produced food and drinks to visitors in part to promote tourism in New York.
FHA officials say federal law allows states to place vending machines for travelers at similar rest areas but prohibits over-the-counter sales.
New York Department of Transportation officials believe the sales are permitted, saying the welcome center supports tourism and isn’t a commercial facility.
NYDOT spokesman Gary Holmes says he’s not sure how much money the over-the-counter sales have generated.
FHA officials say the agency intends to bring the state into compliance.
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Information from: Newsday, https://www.newsday.com
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