It’s Official! Louisiana Is Finally Getting A Buc-ee’s [VIDEO]

It is finally happening Louisiana is getting its first Buc-ee’s travel center! The deal was announced by Ruston, LA Mayor Ronny Walker after a Monday, January 9, City Council meeting solidified the negotiations between Buc-ee's development group CSMS Managment LLC. Mayor Walker announced Buc-ee's first Louisiana convenience store will be built on the western side of the city's border along I-20, at the Tarbutton Rd exit and the newly constructed $25 million dollar Tarbutton Exchange.

On Monday, Jan. 9, 2023, the Ruston City Council voted on a proposal cooperative endeavor agreement and tax incentive package to close the deal with the iconic Texas-based company. According to the City of Ruston, press release the new Louisiana Buc-ee's will bring a minimum of 200 full-time jobs to the area, with starting pay of $16 per hour. Full-time employment also comes with full benefits of health insurance, matching 401-K retirement, 3 weeks of paid vacation, and more.

The super convenience store being constructed at the I-20 Tarbutton Exchange will be more than 53,000 square feet, with 120 gas pumps Mayor Walker said Monday,

“This is a tremendous project,” Walker said. “We are so grateful that Buc-ee’s has decided to locate its first travel center in the state here in Ruston. The capital investment is huge and the 200+ jobs being created are extraordinary for the citizens of Ruston. We are excited to welcome Buc-ee’s to our community and look forward to their success.”

KALB Ruston reports the sight of the massive gas station will be directly across from Ruston Junior High School. Ruston's Mayor said the history-making project didn't happen overnight. Walker explained,

“This project has been in the works for several years and would not be possible without our wonderful City Council members,” He continued. “I would also like to say thank you to the Lincoln Parish School Board, the Lincoln Parish Police Jury and the Lincoln Parish Sheriff for their partnership in this project.”

At the same time, the first Louisiana Buc-ee's will not be built overnight. The city's Economic Development Director, Jade West, spoke of the great opportunity growth this project brings to the city.

“The economic impact of this development is substantial and something the community will continue to benefit from for years to come,” West added. “I am excited to see the additional development and indirect economic impact that will spur from this project. Our community is well-positioned for future growth and success.”

Construction on the Bayou State's first Buc-ee's will get underway before the end of the year. It is scheduled to open sometime in 2025.