Ground work and construction of a new Fast and Fresh Express store is just beginning to the east of the Hy-Vee Food Store.

“They tell me we’ll be ready to open Jan. 5 or 6,” said Jon Johnson, store director. The Fast and Fresh Express will feature gasoline, fresh food, beverages and other convenience items.

Johnson said plans call for six fuel pumps and a store front. The current parking lot will lose one row of parking, but additional spaces will be added near to main store.

“We’re adding seven spaces closer to the store,” he said.

The new facility will also bring additional employment opportunities, Johnson said. Two full-time positions — a manager and assistant manager — and 10 to 12 part-time positions will be needed to operate the Fast and Fresh Express.

“We’re excited to get things finished and open up,” Johnson said. “This just adds to the convenience that we can provide our customers.”