22/07/2023
Possible Arrival of Iconic Texas-Based Buc-ee's Store Sparks Excitement in North Carolina's Piedmont Triad
Residents of North Carolina's Piedmont Triad may soon have a new reason to rejoice as the iconic Texas-based convenience store chain, Buc-ee's, is eyeing the region for its first foray into the Tarheel State. According to the City of Mebane, a potential location has been proposed for a sprawling 32.49-acre site near Interstate 85/40 in Mebane, specifically at 1447 Trollingwood-Hawfields Road, Exit 152 on I-85/40. This strategic positioning places it between the bustling areas of Burlington/Graham and Orange County, a mere 20 miles away from Greensboro's outskirts.
The preliminary site plan submitted to Mebane outlines an impressive 75,400-square-foot store, complemented by a whopping 120 gas pumps. If approved, this would be a significant addition to the North Carolina Commerce Park, with the resulting revenues being divided between Mebane, Graham, and Alamance County.
However, it is important to note that this is not Buc-ee's first attempt at establishing a presence in the state. A previous proposal for a store in Efland, Orange County, faced opposition from certain segments of the community. Concerns were raised regarding potential traffic congestion and environmental impacts, which ultimately led to the project's abandonment. The proposed Efland travel center was set to feature 60 fueling stations and span an impressive 57,000 square feet, with talks of a phase 2 plan that could have included a hotel, restaurants, and office space, as reported by The News of Orange County.
For those unfamiliar with the Buc-ee's brand, it is a Texas-based chain that originated in Lake Jackson. Since its inception, the company has experienced tremendous growth and currently boasts an impressive 58 locations scattered across the Southeastern United States. While the only existing Carolinas store can be found in Florence, South Carolina, Buc-ee's has successfully expanded its fan base beyond the Lone Star State's borders since 2018. A recent survey even ranked Buc-ee's as the nation's second-favorite gas station, a testament to its popularity and appeal, as reported by KXAN.
The potential arrival of Buc-ee's to the Piedmont Triad is generating excitement among residents and has piqued the curiosity of those who have yet to experience the retail phenomenon. With its reputation for spacious, clean facilities, and an impressive array of snacks, beverages, and merchandise, Buc-ee's has mastered the art of creating a loyal customer base.
While the proposed store's fate rests on approval from Mebane officials, the prospect of having a Buc-ee's in the region has sparked a buzz that resonates with locals and travelers alike. For now, residents will have to wait and watch as the City of Mebane evaluates the proposal and considers the potential benefits and challenges the store could bring to the community.
Whether or not the Piedmont Triad becomes home to a Buc-ee's, the mere prospect of this Texas giant making its mark on North Carolina demonstrates the growing appeal and draw of the region as a commercial hub.
