As Pine Street (the main U.S. 66 route before construction of the Veterans Parkway as a bypass after 1940) is part of a largely-residential neighbourhood, the station was designed to fit with its surroundings by having the building follows the architectural conventions of a private residence.

[5] The building then served as a storefront for various businesses including Joe's Welding and Boiler Company, Corn Belt Manufacturing, Yellow Cab and Avis Rent-a-Car.

[6] Illinois State University instructor and Route 66 historical author Terri Ryburn,[7] with her husband William Sanders (August 23, 1933 - January 6, 2011[8]), purchased the station at a cost of $220,000 to begin restoration in October 2006.

The owner's stated intention was to reopen the historic building as an information centre, café, diner, soda fountain, bed and breakfast and event space;[10] these plans were delayed due to an estimated total cost of $1.2 million to fully complete this ambitious project.

[16][17] In 2010, proceeds from the sale of a 'Pics on Route 66′ 2011 Calendar by David Schwartz[18] were donated to the restoration effort; local classic country group Wagon Load A Trouble performed for free at the site in 2014.