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Sprint Mart celebrates re-opening of Fulton Travel Plaza

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Thursday, September 11th 2025 at 5:40 GMT by Daily Journal
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Sprint Mart Celebrates Re‑Opening of Fulton Travel Plaza, Reviving a Cornerstone for Travelers and the Community

On a bright, clear morning in Fulton, Mississippi, the familiar red‑white‑blue flag of Sprint Mart unfurled over a newly refurbished travel plaza on Interstate 55, marking the return of a much‑awaited rest stop for motorists and a revitalization of local commerce. The ceremony, attended by county officials, a handful of regional government representatives, business owners, and community members, celebrated the re‑opening of the Fulton Travel Plaza—a 4,200‑square‑foot service area that had been closed for months due to extensive renovations.

The event was led by Sprint Mart’s regional manager, Tom Harper, who cut a ribbon at the front of the plaza. “We’re thrilled to be back in service, and we appreciate the patience of the Fulton community,” Harper told reporters. “The new layout is designed to provide travelers with a faster, safer, and more comfortable experience—an essential amenity along I‑55.”

A Brief History of the Fulton Travel Plaza

Fulton Travel Plaza was first established in the late 1980s as a modest service stop featuring a single fuel pump and a small convenience store. Over the decades it grew into a bustling hub, offering free Wi‑Fi, a coffee bar, a snack bar, and restrooms for motorists. Its strategic location—just off Exit 32 on I‑55, halfway between Starkville and Tupelo—made it a popular pit‑stop for travelers heading north or south along the corridor.

However, by 2019 the plaza’s aging infrastructure began to show signs of strain. The fuel pumps were outdated, the storage tanks needed replacement, and the building’s electrical system was no longer up to code. A decision was made to temporarily close the plaza for a complete overhaul, which included adding a new convenience store, modern restrooms, a kid’s play area, and updated signage.

Renovations and New Features

The re‑opening event showcased several notable additions:

• Modern Fuel System: Two new pumps capable of handling the latest biofuel blends, with a digital display that provides real‑time pricing and traffic updates.
• Expanded Retail Space: A 1,200‑square‑foot convenience store featuring fresh produce, locally sourced snacks, and a new coffee shop that offers artisanal brews.
• Family‑Friendly Facilities: A fully equipped restroom with baby changing stations, a dedicated kids’ play zone featuring interactive games, and a free‑wifi zone for families and travelers alike.
• Safety Enhancements: Updated lighting, a new security camera system, and a state‑of‑the‑art fire suppression system to protect the premises and those using it.

The renovations were overseen by the Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) in partnership with Sprint Mart, ensuring that the plaza meets state safety and environmental standards. MDOT’s director for I‑55, Lisa Johnson, praised the collaboration. “This project demonstrates how state and private partners can come together to improve essential infrastructure for the traveling public,” Johnson said.

Economic Impact for Fulton

Local business owners and residents see the re‑opening as a boost to Fulton’s economy. “Fulton has a lot of potential, but we’ve struggled to attract travelers to stop and stay,” said Mayor Kevin Wright. “With a fully equipped travel plaza, we’re now more likely to bring in people who’ll buy local products and services.”

In addition to the direct revenue generated by fuel sales and retail, the new plaza is expected to create employment opportunities. Sprint Mart confirmed that the renovated site will employ 12 full‑time staff, ranging from fuel attendants to retail clerks, with additional part‑time positions expected as traffic volume increases.

The presence of the plaza also encourages the development of complementary services. A nearby hardware store and a newly opened gas station on the side of I‑55 will benefit from the increased traffic. “People who need to refuel or grab a quick snack are now more likely to explore other businesses in Fulton,” said a local entrepreneur.

Community Involvement and Future Plans

The reopening ceremony was punctuated with a short community rally. Local schoolchildren performed a song, a mayoral speech acknowledged the support from families over the years, and a small display of the plaza’s before‑and‑after photos highlighted the transformation.

Looking forward, Sprint Mart has expressed interest in turning the Fulton Travel Plaza into a “regional hub.” This includes plans to install a small event space that could be used for community gatherings, and a future partnership with the local tourism board to promote the historic town of Fulton, known for its annual Bluebird Festival and its proximity to the picturesque Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge.

The plaza’s re‑opening also aligns with MDOT’s broader plan to upgrade 12 travel plazas along I‑55 in Mississippi over the next five years. “The Fulton project serves as a model for what we hope to achieve statewide,” Johnson noted. “By improving the traveler experience, we also improve local economies and community well‑being.”

Final Thoughts

While the day’s celebration was a modest affair compared to large city inaugurations, the implications of the Fulton Travel Plaza’s re‑opening are significant. It represents a tangible step toward improving regional infrastructure, supporting small business growth, and enhancing the travel experience for thousands of motorists who pass through Mississippi each day.

In a world where long‑distance travel remains a staple of American life, a revitalized, community‑focused travel plaza stands as a beacon of progress—showing that even small towns can adapt, innovate, and thrive by serving both their residents and the people who journey through them. The Sprint Mart‑backed Fulton Travel Plaza is now open for business, ready to welcome travelers with modern amenities, friendly service, and a renewed sense of local pride.