Buc-ee's First NC Location Opening Late 2027

0:00It's March 23rd. Welcome to Durham News Today, powered by AI, I'm Corey with the story. Fans of Bucky's in North Carolina have a longer way to head for the chain's first location. The massive travel center in Mebenay, Alamance County, won't open until late 2027, push back from an earlier target of May. This Texas-based spot will feature 120 gas pumps on a 32-acre site and employ over 200 full-time workers. Location kicked off with land grading back in November, and crews have already shaped the 74,000-square-foot building pad along, with stormwater ponds. Still, the city hasn't seen a building permit application yet, which explains the delay. Local leaders are buzzing about the economic boost from this $60 million to $70 million project. Officials expected to draw $5 million to $6 million visitors a year, putting Mebenay on the map for travelers along Interstate's 40 and 85. Lake E's plans hint at more stores across the state down the line.

1:02What pulls in the crowds are the spotless bathrooms, fresh barbecue-like chop brisket, endless fudge flavors, and shells packed with beaver themed, goodies from pajamas to plush toys, picture lines wrapping around the registers, and parking lots overflowing. That's the everyday vibe at these spots. With progress underway, North Carolina fans can start counting down to that late 2027