TravelCenters of America is buying the historic Johnson's Corner truckstop in Johnston, Colorado, and rebranding it as a Petro Stopping Centers.

In 1950, Joe S. Johnson and one of his station managers, Clayton Bearly, staked the outlines of a new Johnson’s Corner on the old U.S. Highway 87, which is today’s I-25, according to the company website. With nothing around but farmland and a beautiful view of the Rocky Mountains, Johnson’s Corner opened in 1952.

Most thought Joe crazy for building in the middle of nowhere, but shortly after he built his truck stop, construction began on an interstate highway that would run right in front of his new business.

Known for its cinnamon rolls, the truckstop restaurant was picked by Travel & Leisure magazine in 1998 as having one of the “Ten Best Breakfasts in the World.” A few years later, in 2003, it was featured on the WB2 Network as one of the best roadside attractions in the United States. And in 2004, the Food Network called Johnson’s Corner the “Top Truck Stop Restaurant” in the country.

Chauncey Taylor, owner and general manager, told the Loveland News that he has been approached over the years by other companies hoping to buy the truckstop.

"None really appealed to us," he said. "This is the most interesting because they don't try to change the footprint too much."

The iconic Johnson’s Corner Restaurant and Bakery will remain, along with:

• 6 diesel lanes

• Fully stocked Travel Store

• A quick-serve deli

• 6 showers on a fully automated system

• A drivers' lounge

• UltraOne Rewards Program kiosk and swiping system

• WiFi

• CAT Scale

• 110 truck parking spaces

• ATM, check cashing and TripPak services.

Renovations in the coming months are expected to include a Petro:Lube truck service facility. Gasoline is offered at 12 fueling positions.

“We are very happy to have the opportunity to acquire this location – a renowned destination truckstop,” says Tom O’Brien, president and CEO of TravelCenters. “The addition of Johnson’s Corner gives us the opportunity to provide professional drivers a new full-service travel center within our network, while also keeping the charm and character they have come to love at Johnson’s Corner."

More information on the historic Johnson’s Corner location can be found at www.johnsonscorner.com. The bakery’s world famous cinnamon rolls also can be ordered online there.

This move brings the number of travel centers in the TA and Petro Stopping Centers branded chain to 251.