A Ribbon cutting ceremony was held on Thursday, October 11, 2018 during a week-long open house celebrating the grand opening of Highway 84 Auto & RV Wash in Hartington, NE. The new 2 bay car wash features an IQ 2.0 Touch Free Automatic and a self-service bay is owned by Jackrabbit Ventures LLC, which features the first initials of the owners’ names: Jody Koch, Chrys Koch, Keith Eickhoff, Ryan Eickhoff and Brandon Eickhoff. The group’s extensive business background and the discussions about the progress in the town of Hartington kickstarted the beginnings for a new car wash.

The initial journey started with the group researching various car wash companies around the US. They decided to further investigate D&S Car Wash Equipment Company and after visiting the factory in the Spring of 2017. Impressed with the equipment, they soon knew they wanted to bring the IQ back to Hartington. “When we were at the factory they were in their research lab working with the chemical makeup of their soap and how to break down grasshopper remains on the windshield of vehicles in the southern United States where they are going through a drought. This was another reason to convince us that D&S wants to have the best car wash in every aspect,” Jody Koch said.

The group initially wanted to get Highway 84 Auto & RV wash operating before the end of 2017 but the obstacle was time. However, after almost two years of planning and researching, ground was broken in mid July 2018. Keeping the building of the facility and IQ 2.0 concept of Smarter, Cleaner and Greener in mind, the principals utilized eco-friendly and energy efficient products in everything they could. Constructing the walls from LiteFoam and poly liner panels that are fastened with stainless steel screws on the interior of the bay. Highway 84 Auto and RV wash also features LED lights, and in-floor heat. “It will have a long life and low maintenance,” Jody said.

Installers from MidWest Equipment Sales lead by Brian Merz, Kyle Merz and Jason Rose came to install the equipment the week of Sept. 17 and the business shortly opened its doors Oct. 6, even though they had planned on waiting a few more days. “It was such a beautiful October day and we were so excited to finally have it ready for people we decided to open two days early,” Chrys Koch said.

Keith Eickhoff thinks people will appreciate the new business. “A vehicle is an investment. Just like one should change the oil regularly and replace tires as needed, keeping a car clean should be a priority,” he said.