The spacious new studio apartments, updated exterior, interiors and “retro” baths of the new Broadway Apartments in Toledo. Photos/Superior Rentals

They recognized the highly visible location and the decline of the vacant old motel, Mike Judge says. He said his company “negotiated with the owner for a couple of years” before securing a deal. Superior Rentals, based in Marshalltown, took possession of the former three buildings making up the former Budget Inn and original L-Ranko Motel at Broadway and Business Highway 30 in Toledo on June 4.

Since then contractors have been at work renovating and converting the 25 units into what are now the Broadway Apartments.

Judge, Superior Rentals president, provided a sneak preview to all who came by on Tuesday, Dec. 17, with the north set of eight studio apartments now ready for occupancy.

The efficiency-style apartments feature brand new kitchens and appliances, a large living space and bath. McKenzie Standley, Superior rentals general manager, notes the “retro” pink cast iron bath tubs have been utilized in the updated baths.

All new electrical service work done by Hardon’s, Tama, and installation of new windows and doors purchased from Hrabak Lumber Co., Toledo, are some of the updates according to Standley.

Built in the mid-1950s the L-Ranko was the premier stopping place on U.S. Highway 30 in Toledo.

All include central heat and air conditioning.

Judge said he marvels at the excellent construction of the buildings which date back to the mid-1950s to the early 1960s. He marvels the measurements of openings in the north building match exactly.

Loren Rank was the original owner of the motel development and was a noted carpenter who did much of the construction work himself.

Judge says it is hoped to complete the center units in February and have the south building ready by May.

While most of the units will be studios, he said a two or three bedroom apartment is being considered for inclusion in the south building.

Superior Rentals is not a stranger to the area having two other apartment properties here. The company owns 400 rental units located in Marshalltown, Toledo and in Illinois.