See How Much Wheels by RT Has Grown in 30 Years [PHOTOS]

Wheels by RT started with fairly humble beginnings: Rich Tomman struck out on his own on Jan. 2, 1989, after watching his father run Dick Tomman Auto Sales.

At just 20 years old, he started selling pre-owned vehicles at 2020 Broadway (near where Toad Hall Books and Records is now). As he built his business, he built a family, too: He met his wife, Stephanie, when she started working there as a detailer. Their two daughters, Brooke and Kaci, now work at the business as well.

You've probably heard that when you shop local, you're not just supporting a business but you're helping a little girl get dance lessons and supporting a boy's baseball dreams. Brooke Tomman, who works in Wheel's by RT's Sales & Marketing, says that adage held true for their family and they greatly appreciate all the support they've received over three decades.

"Without the amazing support of the community over the years, we wouldn't have been able to do some of the things we did," Brooke said. "We've done a lot as a family."

They moved to their current location at 7261 Harrison Ave. in 1995 and then added a service center in 2006. Over the years, the staff grew to three salesmen, two ASE master technicians and a service advisor.

In each of the past three years, Wheels by RT has hit sales records. They remain just as committed as ever to providing customers with great sales and service experiences. Their website offers a searchable database of their inventory, including complimentary CARFAX reports and video tours, and special listings of vehicles under $11,000 and one-owner vehicles. You also can find the value of your trade and get pre-approved for financing online.

Of course, if you prefer to do everything in person, they're happy to help you with all of that, too. Just call 815-332-2122 or stop by 7261 Harrison Ave. — and tell them we sent you!