Along Florida’s bustling I-95 corridor, Buc-ee’s is building a massive 76,000-square-foot travel center in Fort Pierce, poised to rival its largest locations and transform stops for millions of drivers.
Planning documents list the site at 76,000 square feet, though Buc-ee’s Director of Real Estate Stan Beard clarified in January 2026 that measurement standards differ by jurisdiction. He stated Luling, Texas, remains the company’s largest at 75,593 square feet and will hold that title. Acquired on 35 acres, the Fort Pierce project includes 120 fuel pumps, 18 EV charging stations, and a 778-space parking lot—comparable to a Walmart Supercenter. Opening is targeted for late 2027 or early 2028 after state approval in April 2025 and ongoing county reviews.
Why Fort Pierce Draws Buc-ee’s Focus
The I-95 corridor handles heavy year-round traffic from tourism and commuters, fueling demand for fuel, food, and rest areas. Buc-ee’s already operates in Daytona Beach and St. Augustine, but Fort Pierce fills a gap in this competitive stretch. Rivals like Love’s Travel Stops and Pilot Flying J dominate with rapid growth, premium amenities, and EV options. Buc-ee’s counters with scale, entering Florida’s market to capture steady flows of vehicles.
Economic Boost for the Region
St. Lucie County officials anticipate over 175 jobs from the store, plus substantial tax revenue. The development could spur nearby retail and hospitality growth along I-95. Construction, spanning about two years, involves experienced contractors for utilities and building, with local coordination to limit traffic disruptions. The site’s vast parking underscores Buc-ee’s aim to create extended-stay destinations for meals, shopping, and its renowned restrooms.
Community and Environmental Concerns
Residents express mixed views: enthusiasm for employment and investment tempers worries over construction traffic and post-opening congestion. Environmental watchdogs scrutinize stormwater runoff from the expansive lot, requiring compliance with Florida regulations. Buc-ee’s collaborates on mitigation plans, addressing these alongside traffic studies in county negotiations. Opposition remains limited as approvals advance.
Florida’s Broader Expansion Plans
Buc-ee’s eyes more Florida sites, including a 74,000-square-foot store in Ocala opening in 2028, backed by Governor Ron DeSantis’s 2023 pledge of $4 million for an I-75 interchange. A Tallahassee location is also in development, cementing the state’s role in the chain’s strategy. Nationally, stores are planned in Ohio, Arizona, and beyond through 2031. Founded in 1982 by Arch “Beaver” Aplin III, Buc-ee’s upholds standards of cleanliness and service amid this push.
This Fort Pierce venture tests whether Buc-ee’s can sustain quality during rapid scaling against entrenched competitors, while balancing economic gains with infrastructure and ecological demands. Success here could solidify its national footprint, influencing travel infrastructure and retail standards along major highways.
Sources:
“Luling, TX will Remain the Largest Buc-ee’s Travel Center.” Digital Journal / ACCESS Newswire, 20 Jan 2026.
“Buc-ee’s eyes world’s largest convenience store title planned for Fort Pierce.” Sebastian Daily, 13 Jan 2026.
“Governor Ron DeSantis Awards $4 Million for New I-75 Interchange in Ocala, Announces Third Buc-ee’s Location in Florida.” Florida Governor’s Press Office, 6 Apr 2023.
“Buc-ee’s plans to open world’s largest convenience store.” Fox Business, 19 Jan 2026.