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Project rep says Exit 39 truck stop back on track after staffing and engineering problems
Summary
R. Pizzoni told the Smyth County board the Exit 39 Truck Stop stalled for two years because of problems with a prior engineering firm; he said he has contracted Lumsden and Associates, paid engineers directly in February, expects a preliminary traffic impact analysis by May 2026, and anticipates site work later in 2026.
R. Pizzoni, a project representative for the Exit 39 Truck Stop proposal, told the Smyth County Board of Supervisors that the project experienced a multi-year delay because funds paid to an earlier engineering firm were not passed on to the subcontractor responsible for the Traffic Impact Analysis. He said he terminated the prior firm, paid Matt and Craig directly in February, and has since engaged Lumsden and Associates of Roanoke to restart site work.
"Once I identified that issue, I took immediate action," Pizzoni said. He told the board Lumsden and Associates finished field survey work and that the team expects a preliminary traffic impact analysis by May 2026. Pizzoni estimated the near-term development footprint at "between 7 to 10 acres" and said the historic house on the site will not be removed during the first phase.
Board members pressed for timing and asked whether the developer could provide written updates instead of traveling from Roanoke for short status reports; Pizzoni agreed to send minor updates by email and to appear in person for major submissions. He also requested information about potential donor sites for fill material.
Why it matters: the project sits adjacent to Route 11 and would change traffic patterns and land use in the area; the board will review the traffic analysis and any VDOT permitting before any large-scale construction begins. The developer apologized for the delays and said he is confident the new engineering team will produce meaningful progress in the coming months.
What's next: Pizzoni said the TIA is due late May 2026, after which the developer will apply to VDOT for a Commercial Entrance Use Permit; he estimated breaking ground in the latter half of 2026, subject to state and federal approvals.
