News Summary
Mississippi has welcomed its first Buc-ee’s travel center, with a grand opening that drew over 1,000 fans. The 74,000-square-foot facility features 120 fuel pumps and 24 electric vehicle charging stations, anticipated to generate significant tax revenue and local employment. With a commitment to clean facilities and unique offerings, Buc-ee’s aims to attract travelers and tourists alike. The store operates 24/7 and is supported by recent infrastructural upgrades to handle increased traffic, marking a new chapter for local commerce and tourism.
Mississippi has welcomed its first Buc-ee’s travel center, officially opening to the public on Monday, June 9, 2025. Situated at the Menge Avenue exit off Interstate 10 in Harrison County, the new store commenced operations at 6 a.m. and celebrated its grand opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 10 a.m. Over 1,000 fans gathered for the occasion, many arriving hours in advance, highlighting the excitement surrounding the new location.
The new Buc-ee’s facility spans an impressive 74,000 square feet and features a staggering 120 fuel pumps along with 24 electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. This expansive travel center is projected to generate significant economic benefits, with estimated annual sales tax revenue between $50 million and $60 million. Additionally, it is expected to become a major employer in the area, providing jobs for over 200 locals with competitive wages.
Known for its exceptionally clean restrooms and popular food offerings such as fresh brisket sandwiches, Buc-ee’s also boasts a unique merchandise selection that includes the brand’s iconic products. The new location aims to not only cater to regular travelers but also attract tourists from neighboring states, including Louisiana and Alabama, which frequently visit the Mississippi Gulf Coast.
The development of this Buc-ee’s store comes with several infrastructural upgrades to accommodate the heightened traffic anticipated from the increased patronage. Recently, a $15 million expansion of the exit bridge and Interstate 10 was completed to facilitate smoother access and enhance road safety. The improvements are further supported by the Harrison County Development Commission’s plans to establish a special tax district that will help fund continued road enhancements in the area.
Officials familiar with the experiences of Buc-ee’s locations in neighboring Alabama have noted the economic revitalization following those store openings. In Loxley, Alabama, for instance, the arrival of Buc-ee’s resulted in a substantial economic boom, paving the way for insights that informed the planning of the Mississippi location. Local law enforcement will be present to monitor traffic and ensure safety, addressing the expected congestion issues associated with the influx of visitors.
The new Buc-ee’s location will operate 24/7, allowing it to serve travelers year-round, particularly those journeying from New Orleans, which is approximately 60 miles away. As part of its commitment to community engagement, Buc-ee’s aims to hire locally, offering positions that provide salaries above the regional average, coupled with various benefits for its employees.
In addition to providing employment and generating tax revenue, the opening of Buc-ee’s is anticipated to bolster local business activities, creating a ripple effect in the local economy. By capitalizing on its popularity and engaging tourism from neighboring areas, Buc-ee’s is expected to become an essential stop for travelers along the Gulf Coast. The store’s grand opening event saw a diverse group of attendees, including local residents and visitors who traveled from as far away as Hawaii to experience the new travel center, further underscoring the brand’s national appeal.
As Mississippi embraces this new addition, the future looks promising for both Buc-ee’s and the Harrison County community, marking the beginning of a new chapter in local commerce and tourism.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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