A new travel center is being developed at Exit 105 along I-81 near Radford to address the shortage of truck parking and increase the city’s tax base. The site, which is largely vacant, will transform into a lot with capacity for nearly 80 trucks.
Truck driver Don Bonhotel highlighted the difficulty of finding parking at night, noting that stops fill up quickly. He believes the new facility would allow for better planning in driving schedules, offering a place for drivers to eat, shower, and rest.
The project, spearheaded by TripStop, aims to create a safe, well-lit environment that meets the needs of truckers. It will initially feature a 5,000-square-foot store with dining options and scenic views, followed by the construction of the parking lot. The completion is expected by 2028.
City officials, including Mayor David Horton and economic development director Kim Repass, emphasized the benefits for local residents and the creation of jobs, stating that the center would increase the city’s tax base and employ 25 to 40 individuals from Radford.
