Phoenix-based U-Haul International Inc., which operates more than 1,300 self-storage locations across North America, has acquired a property adjacent to its facility in Hanover, Ill., with the goal of converting the existing structure to self-storage, thereby expanding the current operation. The 1.53-acre site at 4N221 84th Court borders U-Haul Moving & Storage of Stratford Square at 4N275 84th Court, which opened in 1994.

Expected to open this spring, U-Haul Moving & Storage of Stratford Square II will contain 112 climate-controlled units. In addition, a 2,189-square-foot showroom will replace the smaller one at the original site.

"This will be a one-stop shop for moving and self-storage," said Angela Farley, president of the U-Haul Co. of Chicago Western Suburbs. "There isn't a lot of climate-controlled storage in this area, so we are excited to bring our state-of-the-art technology, security and affordability to these customers."

The expansion will also create new jobs at the property. U-Haul plans to hire locally to promote job growth within the Hanover Park community, according to a press release.

Established in 1945, U-Haul owns more than 44 million square feet of storage space. The company’s corporate sustainability initiatives, which support infill development to help local communities lower their carbon footprint, has led to dozens of conversion projects in recent years.

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