Mahomet’s Plan and Zoning Commission to Review Proposal for Travel Centers of America Facility
The Village of Mahomet’s Plan and Zoning Commission (PZC) is set to review a proposal for a new Travel Centers of America (TA) travel plaza at a public hearing scheduled for Nov. 5.
The proposed facility, located at 501 S. Prairieview Road, would span approximately 15.73 acres and bring a range of amenities tailored for both long-haul truck drivers and regional travelers.
The travel plaza, led by R&S Real Estate Holding LLC, is said to offer an array of services, including refueling stations, truck maintenance and repair facilities, convenience retail, a three-bay shop, and dining options. The site plan also includes provisions for truck scales, an RV dump station, and a biodiesel shed to meet the needs of diverse vehicle types. In addition, the plaza will feature overnight accommodations to support drivers requiring rest.
Located just north of the Prairieview Road interchange with Interstate 74, the TA travel plaza will provide significant parking capacity, with 113 designated semi-truck spaces and 84 automobile spaces, which include four ADA-compliant spots. The design incorporates future space for electric vehicle parking, positioning the center to adapt to emerging transportation needs.
The travel center will be located to the east and south of two residential neighborhoods, between a vet clinic and a former gas station.
To address potential neighborhood impact, the PZC and village staff have outlined several requirements. Among these are conditions for traffic impact analysis, right-of-way access, fencing, and landscape screening. Privacy fencing will enclose truck parking areas, while additional landscaping along Prairieview Road will help screen the property from public view. Additionally, all exterior lighting will use full cut-off fixtures to minimize glare and skyglow.
Access to the facility will be provided via three entrance and exit points on Prairieview Road, with planned sidewalk installation along the road frontage to enhance pedestrian access. Water and sewer services will be provided by the Sangamon Valley Public Water District.
The PZC is expected to gather public feedback during the hearing, after which it will make a recommendation to the Board of Trustees. The Board has the final say on whether the conditional use permit for this project will be approved. Public notices about the hearing were issued on Oct. 19, and property owners within 250 feet of the proposed site were notified by mail.
