West Memphis is gearing up for a sizeable economic boost. The Texas-based Buc-ee's chain has been confirmed to set up shop in the city following the green light from the West Memphis City Council this past Tuesday. According to Action News 5, the new Buc-ee's location, which will include 120 gas pumps and is famed for its extensive convenience store offerings like beaver nuggets and brisket, is expected to create over 200 jobs, marking a significant surge in employment opportunities for the area.
Mayor Marco McClendon is particularly optimistic about the project's implications, stating, "West Memphis is the best Memphis," echoing this expansion's potential to position the city as an increasingly attractive destination. Residents and commuters like Dajon Quinn share this enthusiasm, relaying to Action News 5 the importance of such development—seeing it as a positive step for job seekers and economic stability.
Moreover, the city council's approval also sanctioned a $3 billion data-processing center which is projected to bring 50 high-tech jobs to West Memphis, as pointed out in the same report. The data center, similar to the one associated with Elon Musk in Memphis, will leverage gray water to cool its servers, hinting at sustainable practices being considered in the city's growth.
During a special city council meeting, Mayor McClendon also shared plans for the Buc-ee's site near Cracker Barrel on the 1600 block of North 6th Street, which FOX13 detailed as part of broader economic growth and development for the city. It's estimated the travel center will span 74,000 square feet and offer modern conveniences, including EV stations alongside its fuel pumps.
