Buc-ee’s, the Texas-based American chain of country stores with various food and drink options, has been approved to open its first North Carolina site in Mebane, located at 1425 Trollingwood-Hawfields Road.
The Mebane city council voted unanimously to approve rezoning and a special use permit for the popular travel center last week, according to the Carolina Journal. The new development will be 75,000 square feet, with 120 gas pumps and 600 parking spots on a 32-acre plot of land. Buc-ee’s will invest $60 to $70 million to build the store. This will be the first time the company lands anywhere in North Carolina, with the next closest Buc-ee’s in Florence, SC, and Kodak, TN.
The city council approved the motion at the beginning of this year despite being in opposition to a vote by the county planning board to deny recommending the project. On top of that, several residents expressed their approval and concerns with the project, citing fears of a negative environmental imprint on the region and new traffic challenges. Those favoring the new gas station suggested the development would be an excellent opportunity for anyone coming through Mebane on the I-85/I-40 corridor.
On top of being one of the largest gas stations in the country, featuring its own clothing line and some of the cleanest bathrooms, the stop is known for its food and beverage options. Customers are welcome to choose from various grab-and-go options, including banana pudding, beef jerky, and corn snacks known as beaver nuggets and fudge. Those wanting more of a meal can head to the barbecue station, where they will find brisket, sausage, or turkey sandwiches. More sandwich and entree options are available at the kiosks.