Monroe County, Georgia, might soon be the home to the fourth Buc-ee's location in the state, as the company sets its sights on expanding its footprint in the region. Stan Beard, Jr., director of real estate for Buc-ee’s, confirmed the news in discussions with the Macon Telegraph, announcing "Buc-ee’s is actively pursuing a location for our next Georgia store in Monroe County." The report detailed that the proposed site is slated off Interstate 75 on Rumble Road in the Smarr/Forsyth area.
The plans, still under consideration, include a 74,000-square-foot facility and an impressive various 120 gas pumps. This move marks another significant expansion for the brand after opening its first branch outside of Texas in Baldwin County, Alabama, back in 2018. Adding to its ever-growing chain of convenience stores and gas stations, Buc-ee's has already established itself with 47 existing locations across several states, offering travelers quality snacks, spotless restrooms, and affordable fuel. The company's other Georgia locations in Adairsville and Warner Robins are also strategically positioned off Interstate 75, while another in Brunswick is to officially open next year.
The Monroe County store also sets to potentially bring a considerable economic boost to the area. Joyce White, President of the Development Authority of Monroe County, told 11Alive, "Buc-ee's has been working on their due diligence and looking at this location for over a year." Furthermore, the project is expected to generate around 200 jobs, offering competitive wages between $18 and $20 per hour, health insurance benefits, and 401K options. It also hopes to draw roughly 100,000 visitors weekly.
While the official nod from local authorities is still forthcoming, with a ballot to take place this December, anticipation is building amongst potential customers and those eager to see the local job market thrive. Should the proposal pass, Buc-ee's intends to broaden its domain and also to bring its renowned travel center experience, which includes 71 clean restrooms as part of the development, to a new segment of Georgia's populace. This expansion represents a sizable investment in the state's retail and service industry landscape.
