Friendly Express to open new gas, travel center near I-71 in Ashland County
MONTGOMERY TWP. – Jeromesville resident Larry Kane is busy once again helping fuel more economic growth in Ashland County.
Kane’s latest project is a new Friendly Express gas station and travel center at U.S. Route 250 across from Fin Feather Fur Outfitters and Grandpa’s Cheesebarn.
Plans are for the center to be up and running by November.
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“It’s just nice to (have) something local, bring development home and create jobs,” said Kane. “We have never laid anyone off in 22 years. “This will help bring in tax revenue for our town to help grow. It’s nice to be able to add onto what Mayor (Matt) Miller and his administration have done in downtown Ashland and other revitalization they have done in Ashland.”
Kane purchased the property in February of 2014.
“It will create 14 positions, plus 60 jobs during the building process,” he added. “These will include local contractors such as Leiby Construction, Shakely Mechanical, Mike Gray Construction along with local trucking companies. All of our contractors are Ohio companies.”
Travel center brings potential for future growth
Economic Development Coordinator Aaron Pauly said there is a lot of future potential with the travel center.
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“This travel plaza will be another great addition to Exit 186,” said Pauly. “It will bring in traffic from all over the state. It will allow for potential investors, residents and workers an opportunity to see a little part of Ashland.”
Pauly explained how the project began.
“Larry Kane came to the Economic Development office with his application for a CRA property tax abatement,” said Pauly, “and from there we took it to the Montgomery Township Trustees to discuss the rate and length of the agreement. Mr. Kane discussed the project at great length to both myself and to the affected parties.”
The 25% tax abatement for Friendly Express will be for 10 years.
The travel plaza will offer four high-volume diesel lanes for semitrailers and motor homes, and also an RV dump station, said Kane. ”We will offer 90 non-ethanol fuel for boats and small engines and clear kerosene.”
Kane also said the plaza will have a dozen gas dispensers.
A 6,000-square-foot store is planned with a 600-square-foot beer cave that will include a selection of wines, Kane said. Among the food offerings will be Champs Chicken, featuring full meals. Subs, pizza and hamburgers also will be available.
“Larry has a history of doing clean, honest business,” said Pauly. “Many of us have seen the wonderful Friendly Express fuel point in Bailey Lakes and we can expect him to continue with his business excellence.
"He is an entrepreneur that continues to invest in Ashland County, providing jobs and supplies to the people of Ashland,” Pauly said.
This article originally appeared on Ashland Times Gazette: New Friendly Express gas and travel center coming to Ashland County
