The Baxter City Council heard updates Thursday night on a major expansion planned for the Love’s Truck Stop, just off Interstate 40.
Building and Codes Inspector Bob Lane said the significant remodel that will update both the interior and exterior of the travel stop. The project also includes a modest building addition.
“They’re gonna do a facelift on the Love’s store, inside and out,” Lane said, “They’re gonna build approximately a thousand more feet on the building which is not going to effect the parking lot. The way they’re going to have it, it’s gonna maybe get two parking spaces,” Lane said, “They’re just doing an update. A great big project.”
Lane said the expansion will not significantly impact the existing parking lot. He said the project may temporarily affect one or two parking spaces but should not disrupt overall operations.
Lane said Love’s has the necessary permit. He said construction could begin at any time.
City officials discussed potential traffic impacts during construction. Lane said some congestion is possible but expects the large rear parking area to limit disruptions.
Lane said the expansion is expected to improve the experience for both customers and employees. He said the updates should make the store easier to navigate and quicker for travelers moving through the area.
“It’s just making it bigger and better, and making it quicker to get in and out, and just be a prettier store,” Lane said.
In addition to Love’s, Lane provided updates on several other projects underway in Baxter. He said new construction and remodeling activity continues across multiple parts of the city.
Lane said DR Horton is building new structures on Liverpool Way. He also said the building near City Hall that houses a hair salon is being remodeled.
Lane said plans are also in place for three new duplexes on Phillips Street. He said those projects are still moving through the planning stages.
Other development includes continued work at the new cabinet factory. Lane said electrical service has been connected and work is progressing steadily.