Freeway Acres, a junk removal and hauling business owned by Bendell Lee, was built to meet a growing demand for reliable, affordable hauling services. Bendell initially sought support from the ThriveOn Loan Program to purchase a trailer and expand operations through a traditional junk removal model that relied on training and deploying staff to job sites. As the business grew, ongoing challenges with staffing and retention made it difficult to scale in a way that was sustainable.

Access to ThriveOn capital gave Bendell the flexibility to pause, reassess, and pivot strategically rather than push forward with a model that was no longer working. Instead of relying on a large field crew, Freeway Acres shifted to a trailer rental and haul-away model, allowing contractors and customers to fill the trailer themselves while Bendell’s team handles drop-off and disposal. This pivot reduced labor strain, stabilized operations, and created a more efficient, scalable business. Today, Freeway Acres operates with a smaller team and a stronger model built for long-term sustainability and growth.

Business location: West Allis, WI

GMF Investment: $50,000

New Products & Services introduced: +1

New customers: +30

Total employees supported: 2

Legacy Redevelopment Corporation Support: Loan support & Technical Assistance