Hardee's has permanently closed its Knoxville Avenue location in Peoria, directing customers to remaining restaurants at 3431 N. University St., 3505 NE Adams St., and 3909 W. War Memorial Drive. The property, situated along one of Peoria's most traveled commercial corridors with high visibility, is now available for lease, with Joseph Companies seeking new retail or restaurant concepts.

Brad Joseph, principal of Joseph Companies, learned of the impending closure in late 2025, though the shutdown occurred more recently. The business has not disclosed reasons for the closure but is actively considering various options, including reaching out to concepts not currently operating in the Peoria area to find the ideal fit for the space that has served fast-food customers for years.

With three Hardee's locations still operating in Peoria and additional storefronts in nearby communities including Bartonville, Chillicothe, East Peoria, Pekin, Washington, Canton and Eureka, the closure appears strategic rather than systemic. The high-traffic location's availability presents an opportunity for new businesses to capitalize on the established customer base.