There’s one less place for Winnebago motorists to buy fuel for their vehicles.

With the closing of Winnie Mart on Dec. 31, the opening of Casey’s on Main Street can’t come too soon for some.

But, it won’t be until the end of March or early April before any gas is pumped at the new convenience store.

Kelly Read, in charge of real estate development for the Iowa-based company, says the Winnebago store will be the first of its kind in Minnesota.

“It will be a lot bigger, 33 feet wider. It will be fancier and have a sit-down area. It won’t look like the other Casey’s you’re use to seeing,” she says.

Because design and specifications of the Winnebago store are different from other stores the company owns, Read says it took more time to get the needed approval.

In 2006, company officials told the City Council of its expansion plans and said $1 million was earmarked for site development for the store.

“When we’re all finished, we would have spent more than that,” Read says.

In addition to deli foods Casey’s is known for, ‘made-to-order’ sub sand-wiches will be offered.

The business is expected to employ 10 workers. She says anyone wishing to apply for a position may do so by logging onto the company’s website: www.caseys.com

Already, Corn Plus has taken advantage of Winnie Mart closing.

The ethanol producer last week began airing radio commercials that gasoline and diesel could be purchased at self-serve pumps near the facility.

Crosby Oil on Main Street also sells fuel.

Local businessman Bob Weerts opened Winnie Mart in April 2007.

Weerts began leasing the building from Mara-thon Oil after they closed its Oasis Market convenience store.

Weerts was unavailable for comment.