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