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Exit 39 truck stop developer outlines timeline, plans for 7–10 acres; hopes to break ground in late 2026
Summary
Developer Arpit Soni said his team switched engineering firms, plans a preliminary traffic analysis by May 2026, will pursue field studies and wetland delineations, expects to develop about 7–10 acres, and aims to break ground in late 2026.
Arpit Soni, owner and developer of the proposed Exit 39 truck stop, told the Smyth County Board that his team has retained Lumsden and Associates as the new engineering firm and plans to deliver a preliminary traffic analysis by May 2026.
Soni said the project would cover roughly 7–10 acres and that he currently has "no plans to demolish or act on the house at this time," adding that he would like to find a future use for the nearby house but is concentrating on the truck stop project. When County Administrator Shawn Utt asked about timing, Soni said he expects to break ground in the later part of 2026 and will keep the Board updated via email and future meeting presentations.
Rye Valley District Supervisor Jason Parris asked about acreage and the fate of an on‑site house; the developer confirmed the 7–10 acre range and reiterated his focus on the truck stop. The Board did not take any formal action on the project at the March 26 meeting; Soni’s comments were presented as an informational update and next steps include the traffic analysis and environmental field studies.
