Ruston Buc-ee’s Opening Delayed
A lot of excitement was generated at the first of the year when Buc-ee's announced they were building a new travel center just down I-20 in Ruston, Louisiana.
But BRReports is reporting that the new Buc-ee's has been delayed due to a traffic study by the Louisiana Department of Transportation. The City of Ruston won't receive state legislation approval for the service road until July, 2023.
Construction on the new Buc-ee's was expected to later this year with initial plans to be fully open by 2025. But according to reports, the traffic study is expected to push the opening of the new travel center to the middle of 2025.
Buc-ee's is known for it's exceptionally clean restrooms, innumerous gas pumps, and almost an endless choice of snacks and food, like beef jerky and freshly baked cinnamon rolls.
But more than just their snacks and bathrooms, Buc-ee's can literally change the landscape of the area. If you remember, the area around I-20 & Highway 80 in Texas was nothing but fields and pasture before Buc-ee's built their travel center there near Terrell, TX. Now, there's almost an entirely new town, with hotels, furniture stores, restaurants, and other retail outlets.
Back in January, Jade West, Economic Development Director for the City of Ruston, stated:
"This is a huge win for Ruston and all of North Louisiana. We are thrilled that Buc-ee's saw the potential in our city and are so glad they are locating the first Buc-ee's in Louisiana here in Ruston. The economic impact of this development is substantial and something the community will continue to benefit from for years to come. I am excited to see the additional development and indirect economic impact that will spur from this project. Our community is well-positioned for future growth and success."