The newest Tire Barn Superstore, which will open later this year in Merrillville, Ind., will demonstrate ecological responsibility in its design and surroundings.

For example, the store will feature an eco-friendly rain garden to handle water run-off. The 4,300-square-foot bio-retention area next to the store will be designed to drain off a half inch of rain quickly; the storm water will seep into dry wells below ground that will actually filter the water and return it to the earth as clean as it was when it fell. Filtering will come in the form of wildflowers, which will give the area the appearance of a nature center after the plants fill in.

The new location, with 8,500 square feet with six bays, will offer a larger selection of tires, free nitrogen with all tire purchases and free alignment checks, among other perks.

Founded 85 years ago, Tire Barn consists of 32 stores, most in Indiana. Expansion plans include opening two new stores annually with a goal of 50 stores in the next 5-6 years.