Buc-ee’s Expands Midwestern Footprint with Nebraska Location

Buc-ee’s, the renowned Texas-based travel center, is set to establish its first location in Nebraska. The Gretna City Council has approved plans for a new facility on a 43-acre site near the interchange of Interstate 80 and Highway 31. This expansion marks Buc-ee’s continued growth into the Midwest, where it currently operates a store in Missouri and has additional locations planned in Wisconsin, Indiana, and Ohio.

The proposed Buc-ee’s in Nebraska is projected to cover approximately 74,000 square feet and will feature around 100 gas pumps. The travel center will offer a variety of popular items, including its signature brisket sandwiches, beaver-themed souvenirs, and the beloved Beaver Nuggets. Buc-ee’s has become a cultural phenomenon, celebrated for its clean facilities and extensive selection of snacks and merchandise.

Economic Impact and Local Benefits

City officials anticipate that the new Buc-ee’s will generate significant tax revenue, create hundreds of jobs, and attract travelers to nearby businesses. The development will qualify for Nebraska’s “good life district” program, which was established in 2019. This initiative offers a reduction in local sales tax by half, encouraging tourism and large-scale commercial ventures.

The travel center will be located on land southeast of the Interstate 80 and Highway 31 interchange in Gretna. Although the site is currently outside city limits, the Gretna City Council has granted initial approval for the annexation of the property. This step allows the project to be eligible for state incentives associated with the good life district.

Timeline for Construction and Approval Process

While there is no definitive timeline for construction, city officials indicate that the project is progressing through necessary approval stages with a target completion in early 2026. The Gretna City Council will conduct two additional votes on the annexation, a process expected to conclude in March 2024. Furthermore, an economic development advisory committee must approve the incentive package for the project.

City leaders have been collaborating with Buc-ee’s since last summer, demonstrating a commitment to bringing this popular travel center to the Midwestern market. As Buc-ee’s prepares to make its mark in Nebraska, local officials remain optimistic about the potential benefits for the community and the region.