Virginia is looking for companies that want to pay to sponsor, advertise in and sell snacks and merchandise in the state's 42 rest stops and welcome centers.
Gov. Bob McDonnell announced the new Sponsorship, Advertising and Vending Enhancement, or SAVE, program on Thursday.
McDonnell said partnering with the private sector would save taxpayer dollars and help keep the rest areas and welcome centers open.
A contractor would pay the state a $3.4 million annual fee and a percent of all revenue it receives from advertising and sales of food, drinks, souvenirs, attraction tickets and other merchandise at the centers. More than 800 million people travel on Virginia's highways each year, and about 33 million visit the centers.
Proposals are due by May 4.
Va. Hopes to Cash in by Contracting out Rest Stops
Copyright AP - Associated Press
