Thornton’s truck stop in La Salle still planned, but won’t be ready in 2022

A Thornton’s truck stop still is planned for La Salle, but construction will not be in 2022.

Phil Bolduc, a representative from Thornton LLC, asked for an extension of a deadline regarding a redevelopment agreement with the city of La Salle to Dec. 31, 2023.

After investing more than $2 million into the project, including the purchase of the land roughly three years ago, Bolduc said Thornton remains committed to opening a truck stop at the intersection of Route 351 and Civic Road (North 30th Road), La Salle, across from Flying J.

The business plans a quick service gas station for tractor-trailers and passenger cars with a convenience store and restaurant attached, similar to a Thornton located in Channahon.

“It’s a site we desperately want to build,” Bolduc said. " ... We know, however, we will not get it done this year.”

Overall, Bolduc said the project will be about a $10 million investment.

He said BP recently acquired Thornton and COVID-19 has had a significant impact in causing stops and starts at the corporate level. Giving an example regarding the impact the pandemic has had, he said Thornton has had trouble acquiring double-wall fiberglass tanks. He said there is a lead time of 12 to 16 months to acquire the materials.

When asked if a proposed Quik Trip truck stop along Interstate 80 in Peru would deter Thornton’s plans, Bolduc said it will have no affect.