East Central Reporter

A new travel center is set to be developed in St. Elmo, Illinois, as part of a project by Chicago-based company Vast. The private equity firm aims to create refueling spots that are both environmentally friendly and appealing to customers.

The upcoming gas stations will incorporate sustainable energy solutions and cater to electric vehicles (EVs) as part of their growth strategy. "There are a lot of gas station models out there where there is a limited offering and the stores are modestly built. We are building stations that are larger and more grand, which will hopefully provide a better experience to the customers and will be more friendly to the environment," said Jeff Rehberger, founder and CEO of Vast.

These stations may feature green technologies such as solar panels on canopies, geothermal heating/cooling systems, on-site biodiesel blending, and fast charging stations for EVs. Branded as “Lindy’s” by Midwest Real Estate (MRE), this initiative marks MRE's first ground-up development project.

The St. Elmo location is projected to open in about six months with an estimated cost exceeding $10 million. It is expected to create numerous jobs in construction and retail while generating over $100,000 annually in tax revenue for the community. "It will be a really nice project for St. Elmo, who currently does not have a gas station offering off their interstate exit. There used to be a station years ago, but it is closed," Rehberger added.

Vast operates as an investment company focusing on economic solutions for rural communities from its headquarters in Chicago. Its business interests span gaming, real estate, and retail sectors through various LLC businesses including Lucky Lincoln Gaming, Lucky Coin, Highland Crypto Technologies, MRE Community Solar, Midwest Real Estate Investments of Illinois, Cloud 9 Cannabis, and Aviator Coffee.