HEATH -- The southern entrance to Heath on Ohio 79 already has been improved, even before Coughlin Automotive begins building its new dealership at Hebron and Ridgely Tract roads.

Coughlin and Toyota executives joined Heath and Licking County officials Tuesday in a groundbreaking ceremony for a 26,101-square-foot facility, while demolition of old buildings continued on the 5.6-acre site.

Coughlin Automotive plans to open a new Coughlin Toyota dealership early in 2012, adjacent to its Hyundai dealership on Hebron Road.

The property sat idle since it was used for an Ohio Department of Transportation garage, salt shed and small pole barn. The site is now mostly cleared, ready for the new development.

The land had been in Union Township, but Coughlin sought annexation into Heath, and the city, township and Licking County commissioners approved.

"Before, with the old ODOT facility, it was kind of an eyesore, coming right into the city," Heath Mayor Mark Johns said. "This ground was more or less abandoned.

"When this is completed, tied in with the Hyundai dealership, it's going to look a whole lot better. Obviously, that's something we're excited about."

Coughlin, which added the Hyundai dealership in Heath and Kia dealership in Newark in 2009, already sells 14 new car brands at 10 locations, including five in Licking County.

The company celebrates 20 years in Licking County in September and employs about 200 people in the county.

"It's exciting for all of us, and we're thrilled to be here," co-owner Mike Coughlin said. "We plan on pulling in customers from a long way."

Andrew Gilleland, general manager of the Cincinnati regional office for Toyota Motor Sales, told Mike Coughlin and brother Al Coughlin, also a co-owner, that Toyota fully supports the investment in Heath.

"It's a tribute to all the dealers how successful you've been during difficult times," Gilleland said. "I can't thank you enough, and you have our full commitment to support you over the long haul."

Coughlin operates dealerships in Newark, Pataskala, Johnstown, Heath, Circleville, Chillicothe and Marysville.

Automobile sales are improving nationally, but especially in Licking County, Mike Coughlin said. New car sales in Licking County increased 18 percent in the second quarter compared to a year ago and jumped 26 percent in the first half of this year, compared to 2010.

"Licking County is outpacing what the auto industry is doing nationally," Mike Coughlin said. "This building is going to enhance that. We think there's an opportunity in Licking County."

The Coughlin brothers said Licking County customers are loyal to products they like.

"We take extreme pride in taking care of customers the first time around in hope of that repeat sale," Al Coughlin said.

The facility will include 15 service bays to work on all vehicles and a car wash. It will connect with the adjacent Hyundai dealership.