Buc-ee’s, the beloved Texas-based convenience store chain, is setting its sights on Wisconsin. Plans are underway to bring the iconic travel center to DeForest, just north of Madison. The proposed Buc-ee’s location would span an impressive 74,000 square feet, making it one of the world’s largest convenience stores.
The DeForest site promises to deliver the full Buc-ee’s experience, complete with 120 fueling stations and over 600 parking spaces. This massive undertaking would mark Buc-ee’s first foray into the Midwest, bringing its unique blend of Texas-sized hospitality and extensive amenities to Wisconsin travelers.
While excitement builds for the arrival of Buc-ee’s in Wisconsin, the project has faced some delays. The primary hurdle involves a $15 million interchange upgrade needed to accommodate the increased traffic. Discussions are ongoing between Buc-ee’s, local officials, and the state to determine how to split these costs, with the company offering to contribute up to $8.1 million.
History of Buc-ee’s Expansion
Buc-ee’s journey from a single Texas store to a multi-state phenomenon showcases its strategic growth and popular appeal. The company’s expansion has focused on key markets across the Southern and Midwestern United States.
From Texas to the Midwest
Buc-ee’s began its expansion beyond Texas in 2019, opening its first out-of-state location in Alabama. The company quickly followed with stores in Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, and South Carolina. This rapid growth demonstrated Buc-ee’s ability to adapt its Texas-born concept to new markets.
Each new location maintained the brand’s signature features: massive stores, numerous fuel pumps, and an extensive selection of food and merchandise. The expansion strategy targeted high-traffic corridors and tourist destinations, capitalizing on Buc-ee’s reputation as a travel destination itself.
Buc-ee’s in Wisconsin: A Strategic Move
Buc-ee’s announcement of plans for a Wisconsin location marks its first foray into the northern Midwest. The proposed 73,000-square-foot store in DeForest, Wisconsin, aims to bring the Buc-ee’s experience to a new region.
This move represents a significant step in the company’s northward expansion. The Wisconsin store plans include:
- 120 fueling positions
- Buc-ee’s signature food offerings
- Extensive retail space
While the opening date remains unconfirmed, groundbreaking could begin as early as 2024. This expansion into Wisconsin demonstrates Buc-ee’s confidence in its appeal beyond its Southern roots.
The Wisconsin Location
Buc-ee’s has set its sights on DeForest, Wisconsin for its first Midwest location. The proposed site aims to serve travelers along a major interstate corridor between two popular destinations.
Choosing DeForest
DeForest, a village about 16 miles north of Madison, has been selected as the site for Buc-ee’s Wisconsin debut. The location strategically positions the travel center to capture traffic from both local residents and tourists. DeForest offers a balance of accessibility and available land for the large-scale development Buc-ee’s is known for.
The proposed Buc-ee’s would be a massive 74,000-square-foot facility. This size aligns with the company’s reputation for expansive stores and extensive amenities.
Proximity to Madison and Wisconsin Dells
The DeForest location places Buc-ee’s within easy reach of two major Wisconsin attractions. Madison, the state capital and home to the University of Wisconsin, lies just a short drive south. To the north, the popular tourist destination of Wisconsin Dells draws millions of visitors annually.
This positioning allows Buc-ee’s to tap into both the daily commuter traffic around Madison and the seasonal tourist flows to and from the Dells. The site’s accessibility makes it a convenient stop for travelers in both directions.
Infrastructure and Interstate 39/90/94
The proposed Buc-ee’s would be situated near the intersection of Interstate 39/90/94, a major highway artery. This location requires significant infrastructure upgrades to accommodate the expected increase in traffic.
Plans include a $15 million interchange upgrade to support the development. Buc-ee’s has proposed splitting these costs with local authorities, highlighting the scale of the project’s impact on local infrastructure.
The site plans call for 120 fueling stations under two canopies, along with over 600 parking spaces. These features underscore the massive scale of the proposed development and its potential impact on local traffic patterns.
Economic Impact and Development
Buc-ee’s planned Wisconsin location promises significant economic benefits for the local area. The project aims to create jobs, boost tax revenues, and foster strategic partnerships with local officials.
Job Creation and Local Economy
The new Buc-ee’s in DeForest is expected to generate substantial employment opportunities. Typically, Buc-ee’s locations create hundreds of jobs, ranging from entry-level positions to management roles.
These jobs often come with competitive wages and benefits, potentially raising the overall wage standards in the area. The influx of workers and visitors is likely to stimulate local businesses, from restaurants to hotels.
The economic ripple effect could extend beyond DeForest, benefiting neighboring communities as well.
Tax Incremental Financing and Improvement District
To support the Buc-ee’s development, DeForest is considering the use of Tax Incremental Financing (TIF). This tool allows the village to invest in infrastructure improvements needed for the project.
The TIF district would capture increased property tax revenues generated by the development to pay for these improvements. This approach aims to facilitate growth without burdening existing taxpayers.
Key improvements may include road upgrades, utility extensions, and other infrastructure enhancements that could benefit the broader community.
Strategic Partnership with DeForest Village Administrator
The Buc-ee’s project has fostered a strategic partnership between the company and DeForest’s local government. The Village Administrator plays a crucial role in navigating the development process.
This collaboration focuses on ensuring the project aligns with community goals and regulations. Discussions likely cover topics such as zoning, permitting, and public safety considerations.
The partnership aims to maximize the positive impact of Buc-ee’s presence while addressing potential concerns. Regular communication between Buc-ee’s representatives and village officials is essential for the project’s success.
Store Features and Amenities
Buc-ee’s Wisconsin locations will offer an expansive array of services and products designed to cater to travelers’ needs. The stores will feature numerous gas pumps, pristine restrooms, ample parking, and a wide selection of snacks and specialty items.
Gas Pumps and Fueling Stations
Buc-ee’s is known for its extensive fueling areas. The Wisconsin locations will likely include dozens of gas pumps to minimize wait times for customers. These stations will be equipped with modern, easy-to-use pumps accepting various payment methods. Diesel options will be available for truck drivers and RV owners.
The fueling areas will be well-lit and monitored for safety. Attendants will be on hand to assist customers and ensure smooth operations. Competitive fuel prices are expected to be a draw for local and interstate travelers alike.
Clean Bathrooms and Spacious Parking Spaces
A hallmark of Buc-ee’s is its commitment to cleanliness, particularly in its restroom facilities. The Wisconsin stores will feature numerous individual bathrooms, each meticulously maintained throughout the day. These facilities will be spacious and equipped with touchless fixtures for hygiene.
Parking at Buc-ee’s is designed to accommodate high volumes of visitors. The lots will offer hundreds of spaces for cars, trucks, and RVs. Wide lanes and clear markings will facilitate easy navigation, even during peak travel times.
Snacks and Specialty Products
Buc-ee’s is renowned for its extensive selection of snacks and unique products. The Wisconsin locations will offer a vast array of food options, including:
- Fresh sandwiches and wraps
- Hot foods like barbecue and breakfast items
- Packaged snacks and candies
- Buc-ee’s branded products
Specialty items will include Buc-ee’s famous beef jerky, homemade fudge, and kolaches. The stores will also stock travel essentials, local souvenirs, and outdoor gear. Customers can expect to find a diverse range of products catering to various tastes and needs.
Sustainable Infrastructure
Buc-ee’s Wisconsin plans incorporate sustainable infrastructure elements to support eco-friendly transportation and energy efficiency. These initiatives aim to reduce environmental impact while meeting the needs of modern travelers.
Electric Vehicle Charging Stations
Buc-ee’s Wisconsin location will feature multiple electric vehicle charging stations. These stations will be equipped with fast-charging technology, allowing EV drivers to recharge their vehicles quickly during stops. The charging infrastructure will support various EV models and charging standards.
The placement of charging stations will be strategically planned to maximize accessibility and minimize wait times. Buc-ee’s aims to accommodate the growing number of electric vehicles on the road, aligning with Wisconsin’s push for cleaner transportation options.
To enhance user experience, the charging area will include amenities such as sheltered waiting areas and real-time availability information. This infrastructure investment reflects Buc-ee’s commitment to supporting sustainable transportation choices while serving the evolving needs of its customers.
Construction and Impact on Traffic
Buc-ee’s planned Wisconsin location faces significant traffic and construction challenges. The project’s scale necessitates careful planning and infrastructure improvements to accommodate the expected increase in vehicles.
Anticipated Traffic Analysis
A traffic analysis by Kimley-Horn engineering firm projects that by 2034, 53.67% of the interchange’s total traffic volume would come from the Buc-ee’s convenience store. The site is expected to generate between 4,000 and 8,000 vehicles per day.
This substantial increase in traffic flow could have a dramatic impact on local infrastructure. The nearby interchange currently handles an average daily traffic count of 59,000 cars.
Construction Start Date and Phases
The construction start date for Buc-ee’s Wisconsin location has been delayed. Initially planned for earlier execution, the project is now on hold until after the November 2025 election.
This delay stems from unexpected costs associated with necessary infrastructure improvements. Estimates for these upgrades range from $12 million to $16 million, significantly higher than initially anticipated.
The construction phases will likely include extensive road work and interchange modifications to handle the increased traffic load. Specific details on construction phases are not yet available due to the current delay.
Comparisons with Regional Competitors
Buc-ee’s and Kwik Trip are two major players in the convenience store and travel center industry in Wisconsin. Both chains have distinct offerings and strategies that appeal to different segments of travelers and local customers.
Buc-ee’s Versus Kwik Trip
Buc-ee’s is known for its massive stores, often spanning over 50,000 square feet. These locations feature an extensive selection of snacks, beverages, and prepared foods. Buc-ee’s prides itself on clean restrooms and a wide variety of merchandise.
Kwik Trip, on the other hand, operates smaller format stores typically around 5,000-7,000 square feet. They focus on fresh food offerings, including produce and dairy products from their own production facilities.
While Buc-ee’s targets long-distance travelers with large fuel stations and ample parking, Kwik Trip caters more to local communities with convenient neighborhood locations.
Buc-ee’s emphasizes its unique branded products and quirky merchandise. Kwik Trip differentiates itself through its vertical integration and focus on fresh, locally-sourced items.
In terms of regional presence, Kwik Trip has a strong foothold in Wisconsin with hundreds of locations. Buc-ee’s is still in the planning stages for its first Wisconsin store, aiming to make a splash in the market.