Marina
The long-awaited Emporia Travel Plaza officially broke ground Thursday afternoon, marking a major milestone for a project first announced in 2020.
The ceremony symbolized the start of construction on what is expected to be a key addition to the city’s commercial landscape.
Delays and Challenges Overcome
According to Darrin Dodge, Vice President of Operations for Brownstone 3 Development LLC, the project faced several delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and economic factors.
“We’ve gone through COVID, seen material prices skyrocket, and interest rates climb while supply chains struggled,” Dodge explained. “We truly appreciate everyone’s patience—this groundbreaking marks the exciting first step toward making the development a reality.”
What the New Plaza Will Feature
The upcoming 12,000-square-foot facility, located at the southwest corner of U.S. Highway 50, will feature an array of amenities designed for both travelers and locals.
Key Features Include
- 14 gas pumps and 10 diesel pumps for vehicles of all sizes.
- A hotel to accommodate travelers.
- A food court with multiple dining options, including a new Starbucks and other nationally recognized restaurants yet to be announced.
Plans for an RV park with cabanas and a pool are still under review.
Timeline and Operations
Official construction work is set to begin next Wednesday, with the gas station portion expected to be completed by April, about six to seven months after work begins. The plaza will operate under the Pilot brand name, as part of the One9 Fuel Network.
The existing Flying J Travel Center at 4215 US-50 will serve as a sister location to the new plaza, ensuring consistency and convenience for travelers passing through Emporia.
Healthy Competition in Emporia
Dodge emphasized that nearby gas stations would create healthy competition, benefiting both truckers and travelers.
“It’s about giving people options,” Dodge said. “Some truckers prefer Flying J, others QuikTrip, and some will choose One9. It’s all about diversity and competition—it helps everyone.”
Strategic Location to Capture Highway Traffic
Emporia City Manager Trey Cocking highlighted the strategic positioning of both the Emporia Travel Plaza and the upcoming QuikTrip location.
“These stations are perfectly located for drivers coming off I-35 or heading out on U.S. Highway 50,” Cocking noted. “Together, they’ll provide two great opportunities for travelers to stop, making this an exciting step for Emporia’s development.”
The Emporia Travel Plaza represents more than just another fueling station—it’s a sign of the city’s ongoing growth and resilience.
After overcoming pandemic-related setbacks, the project promises to bring new energy, convenience, and economic opportunities to the region. With construction now underway, Emporia can look forward to welcoming this vibrant addition by next spring.