7 things you need to know about North Carolina's first Buc-ee's travel center

We're still more than a year away from the first Buc-ee's travel center opening in North Carolina.

Here's a look at seven questions local folks are pondering about the out-sized convenience store.

What is Buc-ee's building in Mebane?

Buc-ee's is building its first North Carolina travel center in Mebane at 1425 Trollingwood Hawfields Road near Interstate 40/85. The company broke ground on the project June 10 and plans to open the store in November 2027.

How large will the store be and what will it include?

The travel center will be 74,000 square feet and feature 120 gas pumps. Company officials said the project represents a capital investment of between $60 million and $70 million.

How many jobs will Buc-ee's create?

Buc-ee's expects the Mebane location to employ 200 full-time workers and 100 part-time workers. Founder and CEO Arch "Beaver" Aplin III said providing what the company considers livable wages is a key part of its business model, with many hourly positions typically paying between $16 and $21 per hour.

Why did Buc-ee's choose Mebane?

Aplin said the company originally preferred a site in neighboring Orange County, but local leaders there did not support the project. He said Mebane and Alamance County officials actively recruited Buc-ee's and helped secure support for road improvements needed to accommodate the development.

What transportation improvements are planned?

The N.C. Department of Transportation is spending an estimated $28.7 million to widen nearby roads and improve the interstate bridge serving the area. Buc-ee's is contributing $10 million toward those costs to help support the expected increase in traffic.

What economic impact do local leaders expect?

Mebane Mayor Ed Hooks said the project will create jobs and generate significant sales tax revenue. Buc-ee's officials argue the store will attract travelers from across North Carolina and other states, bringing additional spending to the area and encouraging visitors to explore local businesses.

What is the Garden of Heroes?

The project will include a Garden of Heroes, a memorial space recognizing first responders, firefighters, law enforcement officers and health care workers. Hooks said the area is intended to give both travelers and residents a place to reflect and express gratitude to those who serve the community.

This article was prepared with the help of AI technology using information collected and verified by journalists.

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