News Summary
Buc-ee’s celebrated the grand opening of its first Mississippi store in Pass Christian on June 9, 2025, with nearly 1,000 fans attending. The 74,000 sq. ft. travel center features 126 gas pumps, 24 EV charging stations, and 165 restrooms designed for cleanliness. The opening is expected to boost the local economy and create over 200 jobs, while construction delays at a second location in Louisiana continue to pose challenges. Buc-ee’s aims to enhance traveler convenience and support economic development in the area.
Pass Christian, Mississippi
Buc-ee’s celebrated the grand opening of its first Mississippi location in Pass Christian on June 9, 2025, drawing nearly 1,000 enthusiastic fans to the event. Many attendees arrived hours ahead to be part of the opening festivities at the popular travel plaza.
The Pass Christian Buc-ee’s spans approximately 74,000 square feet and features an impressive 126 gas pumps along with 24 electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. The store is designed to be a travel center that is particularly distinguished by its 165 restrooms, which Buc-ee’s claims are the cleanest in the industry. The facility operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, making it a convenient stop for both local residents and travelers alike.
This new location is strategically situated to attract travelers from nearby states, especially residents of Louisiana and Alabama, with downtown New Orleans located about 60 miles away—a drive that typically takes around 75 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Buc-ee’s aims to serve as a premier pit stop for those journeying across state lines, enhancing both convenience and comfort for visitors.
Economic Impact and Job Creation
The opening of Buc-ee’s in Pass Christian is expected to provide a significant boost to the local economy and create over 200 new job opportunities. The starting pay for these positions is reported to be above the state’s minimum wage, indicating the company’s commitment to offering competitive employment options in the region. This development is likely to attract further interest in the area as travelers and residents alike frequent the new facility.
Construction Challenges in Louisiana
While Buc-ee’s is celebrating its latest opening, the company is simultaneously facing construction delays at its second location in Louisiana. Currently on pause, the Louisiana store’s construction has been hampered due to design complications and adverse weather conditions impacting Triton Construction, the project’s general contractor. These weather-related factors necessitated adjustments including fill dirt modifications and other infrastructure considerations. However, company officials remain optimistic, stating that the project is still on track to move forward.
The anticipated investment for the Louisiana Buc-ee’s, which will feature a beach theme and be one of the largest in the chain, is approximately $82 million. Of this total, around $12.5 million has been earmarked for necessary public infrastructure improvements. Though the expected opening date for the Louisiana location may shift to late 2025 or early 2026, company representatives confirm that no significant changes to the overall project timeline are required despite the weather-related challenges.
Looking Ahead
The Lafayette, Louisiana, Buc-ee’s is projected to feature 120 gas pumps and offer a range of amenities aimed at enhancing the traveler experience. As Buc-ee’s continues to expand its footprint in the region, both locations reflect the company’s strategy of catering to highway travelers and fostering community economic development.
With the successful launch in Pass Christian, Buc-ee’s reinforces its brand as a destination for travelers, while the pending Louisiana expansion signals the company’s commitment to growth in the market alongside addressing the infrastructure needs of the communities it serves.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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- Encyclopedia Britannica: Buc-ee’s
- Google News: Buc-ee’s Pass Christian
