With nine stores already in operation locally and three under construction, QuikTrip makes plans for more locations.

QuikTrip continues its Arizona expansion as it plans to begin construction on a new Tuscon, Ariz. convenience store and gas station this May at South Alvernon Way south of East 22nd Street from Evergreen Development Co., the Arizona Daily Star reported.

The project is estimated to cost about $1.2 million.

QuikTrip purchased a little more than an acre of what was a former drive-in site.

The rest of the 20-acre site could be developed into a shopping center, or mixed-use development.

The Tulsa, Okla.-based convenience-store chain has been growing quickly in Tuscon, with nine locations already in operation and three more under construction not including the South Alvernon site.

The South Alvernon store is expected to be a larger format store and feature a fresh look, and employees will prepare hot and cold coffee drinks, soft-serve ice cream and fruit smoothies for customers.

“In this business, if you don’t continue to improve your offer, you won’t continue to enjoy success,” QuikTrip Spokesperson Mike Thornbrugh told the Arizona Daily Star.