After years of vacancy, the former Uselton Oil Company (USCO) gas station at 201 E 4th Street in Delavan is set to reopen as a convenience store under the name Delavan Mart. The new establishment, owned by Navpreet Singh, plans to offer a variety of goods and services, including coffee, fountain drinks, snacks, candy, soft drinks, wine, beer, liquor, a kitchen, and a gaming room for video gambling.

The building, which has stood empty for an extended period, is undergoing renovations to accommodate its new purpose. While the convenience store will provide a range of refreshments and entertainment options, one lingering question remains: Will the gas pumps be reopened or removed?

According to plans submitted to the city, there are currently no intentions to reopen the gas pumps. However, no plans have been submitted to remove them either. Additionally, all four underground storage tanks at the site have been condemned by the Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal, Division of Petroleum & Chemical Safety. Singh has not publicly disclosed his plans for the fueling infrastructure, and he did not respond to requests for an interview.

Local residents have expressed mixed reactions to the reopening. Some welcome the addition of a new convenience store, citing the benefits of having more options for food, beverages, and entertainment. Others are curious about whether the gas station component will return.

According to records from the Illinois State Fire Marshal’s Office, the facility has had inactive status for some time. The property has changed ownership multiple times, with Singh acquiring it in April 2023. The site has also faced regulatory challenges in the past, including violations related to fuel tank maintenance and inspections.

As Delavan Mart prepares to open its doors, the community awaits further details on its offerings and operations. The convenience store is expected to provide a new retail option for residents and travelers alike, though the fate of the gas pumps remains uncertain.