Buc-ee’s, the popular Texas-based chain of travel centers, has cleared a significant hurdle in its plan to open a new store in Ruston. Ruston Mayor Ronny Walker says a critical meeting scheduled today in Baton Rouge to discuss the interstate 20 Tarbutton interchange design to accommodate the project.
“Just the construction and all the roads to go with Buc-ee’s itself all have to be planned out and approved with DOTD, so that’s what this meeting will be about.”\
The proposed Ruston store will be located near the I-20 corridor. The store is expected to boost the local economy by creating ja minimum of 200 jobs and increasing sales tax revenue. Walker says they plan to break ground on the site soon, with construction anticipated to take 12-15 months.
“We’re getting very very close. I mean this is a huge project. A lot of moving pieces. We have a school, of course, Ruston Junior High is located at that same interchange. It had a few more obstacles maybe than some other places.”
Local officials and residents have largely welcomed Buc-ee’, viewing it as a significant development for Ruston. The store is expected to draw visitors from across the region, enhancing Ruston’s reputation as a travel destination. With this latest approval, Buc-ee’s is one step closer to making its Louisiana debut.
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“We’re looking for ward to the meeting tomorrow and will continue to push forward this great project for north Louisiana and for the entire state.”
Ruston and Lafayette are in an unofficial competition to land the first Louisiana Buc-ee’s. Lafayette is scheduled to open their story in 2025.
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