Buc-ee's Wisconsin: Construction Delayed Until After November Election

Buc-ee’s, the iconic Texas-based convenience store known for its massive size and wide variety of offerings, is making its way north to Wisconsin! The small village of DeForest, just north of Madison in Dane County, is set to host one of the world’s largest Buc-ee’s locations—a 74,000-square-foot mega-store complete with 120 gas pumps and 20 electric vehicle charging stations. However, there’s been a hiccup in the road: the project’s construction has been delayed until after the November 5th election.

According to DeForest Village Administrator Bill Chang, the store’s anticipated traffic flow—estimated between 4,000 and 8,000 vehicles per day—could have a dramatic impact on local infrastructure. While the economic benefits of Buc-ee's are clear, including a projected $25 million in annual gross taxable sales and the creation of 200-225 jobs, the village is still grappling with how to manage the increased traffic flow. Studies have shown that the current infrastructure around the Interstate 39/90/94 interchange in DeForest cannot support this influx.

To tackle this, Buc-ee’s has proposed a $15 million upgrade to the interchange, offering to cover up to $8.1 million of the costs. This leaves local officials needing to secure additional funding to cover the remaining expenses. Chang mentioned that the village has considered creating a tax improvement district as one way to generate funds, but the final decision hinges on the results of several key local and state elections happening in early November. 

“We anticipate that we'll need some political help with the interchange project,” Chang said. “We know that the impacts are far-reaching, but we definitely can’t do it ourselves. We’re waiting to see who’s going to help us.”

For Buc-ee’s, choosing DeForest as the location for its first Wisconsin store is a strategic move. Positioned along major interstate routes, the store will not only serve locals but also travelers passing through. The land, already owned by Buc-ee’s, is ideal for what they envision—a massive destination that will pull in people from all over the region. 

This location is also particularly exciting because it will mark the northernmost Buc-ee’s to date, bringing the Buc-ee’s experience further than it has ever been. From its famous Beaver Nuggets to its Texas-style barbecue, Buc-ee’s aims to make a big splash in the Midwest.

DeForest residents are split on the project. On one hand, many are excited about the jobs, economic growth, and unique experiences Buc-ee’s will bring to the area. On the other hand, concerns about traffic congestion remain, with some residents worried about how the influx of visitors will affect their daily commutes. The village plans to hold sessions for community input later in the process to address these concerns.

With Buc-ee’s owning the land and the overall project estimated to cost $50 million, the company remains committed to bringing their Texas hospitality to the Midwest. The store is projected to generate around $1 million annually in state sales tax revenue—another reason local officials are eager to see the project succeed.

But until the November election, the future of Buc-ee’s in DeForest remains in a holding pattern. The results will determine which representatives will help navigate the approval and funding necessary to support the interchange upgrade. Once the political landscape is clearer, construction plans should start to move forward.

As die-hard Buc-ee’s enthusiasts, we’re thrilled to see the iconic beaver make its way to Wisconsin! This location is already on our “Buc-ee’s List,” and we’re eagerly planning our visit once it opens. We’ll keep our readers updated on the progress and are excited to experience Buc-ee’s northernmost store when the time comes. We’ll be sure to share our first impressions and, of course, our go-to snacks and souvenirs. Stay tuned, Buc-a-roos!

Keep following our journey as we track this development and plan our future Buc-ee’s adventures across the country!

Buc-ee's Begins Construction on Highly Anticipated Goodyear, AZ Travel Center

Work has officially begun on the eagerly awaited Buc-ee's travel center in Goodyear, Arizona! The new site is strategically located on Bullard Avenue, just south of the I-10 freeway, designed to be a hub for both travelers and locals alike. This marks Buc-ee’s first venture into Arizona, a significant milestone for the iconic Texas-based chain

Scott Ray, Buc-ee’s Director of Construction, shared an update on the progress: “We are currently in the early grading phase. Once we have completed that, then we’ll start to put utilities in.” The initial phase focuses on clearing the site to make way for utility work, laying the groundwork for the travel center's development. 

Known for their enormous travel centers, Buc-ee's offers an experience far beyond that of a typical gas station. The Goodyear location will span an impressive 74,000 square feet, making it about 23% larger than a football field. Fans can expect all the beloved Buc-ee’s staples, including freshly prepared barbecue, homemade fudge, Beaver Nuggets, and its famous “wall of beef jerky.”

In line with Buc-ee’s reputation, the Goodyear store will also feature clean, well-maintained restrooms and an extensive selection of snacks and merchandise, creating a one-stop destination for travelers. “We are designed for travelers, so we want to be right off the freeway for those traveling so that they can pull in and get the best experience they’ve ever had,” Ray explained.

This project is not only significant for Buc-ee's but also for the Goodyear community. The new location is expected to generate over 200 full-time jobs, complete with benefits, and draw visitors from across Arizona and beyond. Buc-ee’s often partners with local vendors and artisans, ensuring that products represent the unique flavor of the region. 

Additionally, the travel center will include a massive 120 fueling stations, providing convenience for road travelers. By attracting a steady stream of visitors, Buc-ee’s will contribute to Goodyear's General Fund, supporting vital city services such as public safety and parks.

Buc-ee's fans are eagerly anticipating the opening of the Goodyear location, which is projected to welcome guests by the end of 2025. With its variety of offerings and unparalleled experience, this Buc-ee’s promises to become a must-visit destination for road trippers and locals alike.

For those tracking their own ‘Buc-ee’s List’ like us, this new location is one to watch! Stay tuned to Food and Flame for updates as construction progresses, and be sure to subscribe to keep up with all things Buc-ee's as we continue to explore their expansion across the country.

Buc-ee’s Eyes Monroe County for Georgia’s Fourth Location: What We Know So Far

Buc-ee’s fans in Georgia, get ready for more of the world-famous beaver-themed oasis! The Texas-based mega convenience store chain confirms that it is actively exploring Monroe County as the site for its fourth Georgia location. If everything goes as planned, the new store could rise just off I-75, near the Rumble Road exit. This spot is a mere 30 miles from Buc-ee’s first Georgia outpost in Fort Valley.

What’s the Latest?
According to Buc-ee's Director of Real Estate, Stan Beard, Jr., the company is excited about the potential Monroe County site. "We have plenty of work still to do, and planning steps to complete, but we’re excited about the opportunity," Beard said. It’s clear that while the company is moving forward, there are still several regulatory hurdles to overcome before we see shovels hitting the ground.

Joyce White, President of the Development Authority of Monroe County, confirmed that zoning approval is one of the next major steps. Buc-ee’s aims to present its proposal to the Monroe County Commission in December for approval. White noted that the proposed site is located at the northwest corner of Rumble Road, next to Meadows Clay Shooting. 

What Makes This Location Ideal?
White expressed her enthusiasm for Buc-ee’s interest in the area, stating, "They are just a good steward or neighbor to have in our community." With its prime location off I-75, the land could have been used for other large industrial developments. But having Buc-ee’s take the spot is seen as a win for Monroe County.

The community benefits extend beyond convenience. Buc-ee’s is known for creating jobs that offer above-average pay and benefits, and Monroe County residents are already excited about the opportunities. "A lot of people get excited about working for Buc-ee’s," White added. "It’s friendly, it pays well, they have good benefits."

What’s Next for the Project?
If the Monroe County Commission approves the zoning in December, Buc-ee’s estimates a timeline of approximately 15 months from the start of construction to the grand opening. That means we could see the new Buc-ee’s opening its doors sometime in 2026.

The project has been in the works for over a year, according to White, who suspected Buc-ee’s was behind the development due to the large scale and number of gas pumps planned. “Once they were comfortable, they identified themselves," she noted, emphasizing that the location at Rumble Road and I-75 is seen as ideal for Buc-ee’s expansion.

Buc-ee’s Success in Georgia
Georgia’s two existing Buc-ee’s locations, in Warner Robins and Calhoun, have each become popular destinations for travelers. Warner Robins, the state’s first Buc-ee’s, opened in November 2020 and has since become a model for future locations. Monroe County’s proposed Buc-ee’s would significantly surpass its predecessors, boasting a 74,000-square-foot facility and 120 gas pumps. For comparison, the existing Georgia stores are around 53,000 square feet each.

While Monroe County’s Buc-ee’s is still in the planning stages, the company is also making progress elsewhere in the state. In Brunswick, a new location is set to open in June 2025 after breaking ground earlier this year.

What’s Next for Us?
You better believe this new spot is already on our 'Buc-ee’s List!' We can’t wait to visit the Monroe County location once it opens, adding it to our growing list of Buc-ee’s adventures. Keep an eye out on foodandflame.com as we continue to track the development of this site and other exciting Buc-ee’s news. If you spot us on our travels, be sure to say hello!

Stay tuned for updates as we follow Buc-ee’s path through the zoning process and the progress leading up to construction. We’re excited to share every detail as Monroe County gets closer to welcoming Buc-ee’s.

Buc-ee’s is Coming to Arkansas: Benton Welcomes the Beaver!

For my wife and me, Buc-ee's is more than a pit stop—it’s an adventure, a destination, and, honestly, a part of our "Buc-ee’s List" (our fun twist on a bucket list, where we're determined to visit every Buc-ee's in the country). And now, we’re thrilled to add a new stop to that list: Arkansas!

That’s right—Buc-ee’s is officially coming to Saline County, right in Benton, Arkansas, nestled between exits 114 and 116 along I-30. After over a year of rumors and anticipation, the news was made official in front of thousands of fans at the 2024 Salt Bowl, with none other than Buc-ee himself making a surprise appearance! Can you imagine the excitement in the air? It’s not every day that a beloved beaver steals the show under the Friday night lights.

But the biggest star of the night wasn’t just Buc-ee—it was Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders, who shared the big news with a video announcement. “Buc-ee’s is coming to Arkansas and Saline County, right in the heart of our state will be its home,” she said. No need for Arkansans to hit the road to neighboring states for a brisket sandwich, Beaver Nuggets, or, let’s be honest, the cleanest restrooms around. It’s all happening right here!

Mayor Tom Farmer was equally ecstatic, announcing the grand plans at the game. "This is a fantastic move for our county, for our city, and for the state of Arkansas," he said. And I’m sure he’ll be just as excited as I am to share a brisket sandwich with the Governor at the grand opening!

Though the official completion date isn’t set just yet, the final permit is expected to be in hand soon, which means construction will be underway before we know it. The Benton location will be the very first Buc-ee’s in Arkansas, making it a major milestone not only for Saline County but for the entire state.

From securing land near the Haskell exit on I-30 to the city council’s approval of the soon-to-be-famous Buc-ee’s Boulevard, this project has been a long time coming. And now, after months of planning, the contracts have been signed, the location confirmed, and Arkansas is ready for the grand arrival of Buc-ee’s.

For my wife and me, adding the Benton Buc-ee’s to our growing list is an absolute joy, and I’m sure many fellow Arkansans are as excited as we are to welcome this Texas-sized traveler’s paradise to the Natural State. Get ready, Arkansas—Buc-ee’s is about to make road trips a lot more exciting!

Buc-ee’s: More Than Just a Pit Stop—It’s the Destination

For someone like me, Buc-ee's isn’t just another convenience store—it's a traveler's oasis. Whether it's the smell of fresh brisket from the Texas Round Up, a bag of Beaver Nuggets, or a much-needed bathroom break in the cleanest restrooms you’ll find on the road, Buc-ee's is always the highlight of any trip. My wife and I love it so much that we’ve made it our mission to visit every single location across the country. For us, Buc-ee's isn't a stop along the way—it is the way.

But not everyone seems to share that level of devotion. According to the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI), Buc-ee’s ranked third in their recent convenience store study, based on feedback from over 5,700 customers. In a tight race, Wawa took the top spot with a score of 82, followed closely by QuickTrip (QT) at 81, and Buc-ee’s and Murphy USA tied at 80.

So what gave Wawa and QT the edge? According to the study, food options were key. Wawa’s famous hoagies and QT’s pizza from their QT Kitchens were big draws for their loyal customers. While those may be crowd-pleasers, Buc-ee’s offers something more—the experience. From quirky t-shirts to rows of fresh jerky, and yes, those award-winning clean restrooms, Buc-ee’s turns a quick stop into a full-fledged adventure.

One reason for Buc-ee’s ranking might simply come down to location. While QT and Wawa are built for convenience, often close to urban areas, Buc-ee's stores are more spread out in rural locations. A drive to Buc-ee’s in Hillsboro or Temple from Austin or Dallas may not be quick, but for me, the journey is always worth it.

In contrast, 7-Eleven and Shell ranked near the bottom of the list, with Shell coming in last at 74. For many, these chains simply serve as places to refuel and grab a snack, while Buc-ee’s provides something much more—a destination in itself.

So while the rankings might put Buc-ee’s in third, it’s always first in my book. There’s just no other place like it.