WISCONSIN - The anticipation among Wisconsin residents and Midwest travelers continues as plans for the state's first-ever Buc-ee's travel center in DeForest are "moving forward," though at a deliberate pace in 2025. The iconic Texas-based chain, famous for its massive stores, pristine restrooms, and unique array of food and merchandise, selected DeForest for its initial foray into the Badger State, but the project has encountered some delays.
The Buc-ee's Phenomenon: What to Expect
For those unfamiliar, Buc-ee's is more than just a gas station; it's a destination. These sprawling travel centers are known for:
- Immense Size: Typically 74,000 square feet or larger.
- Vast Fueling Options: Often 100-120 gas pumps.
- "World's Cleanest Restrooms": A claim they take very seriously.
- Extensive Food Offerings: Including Texas-style barbecue (brisket), Beaver Nuggets (a caramel-coated corn puff snack), jerky, fudge, kolaches, and fresh pastries.
- Massive Retail Space: Offering unique gifts, apparel featuring the beaver mascot, home goods, and travel essentials.
- No 18-Wheelers: A policy that contributes to a more family-friendly atmosphere.
DeForest Project Update for 2025
Plans for the DeForest Buc-ee's, proposed for a site near Interstate 39/90/94 (often cited near the Hwy V/Hwy I interchange), were first announced in 2023.
- Initial Approvals & Delays: While Buc-ee's had previously received a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) from the Village of DeForest, that permit expired. Recent information indicates the project has faced delays primarily related to negotiations over the cost-sharing for public infrastructure improvements, such as highway interchange upgrades needed to handle the significant traffic a Buc-ee's typically generates. The Village of DeForest has been working with state officials to secure funding.
- Current Status: As of early 2025, while there's been extensive "due diligence" and communication with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, a groundbreaking has not yet occurred. The path forward for the DeForest location seems contingent on resolving these financial and infrastructure considerations. Village Administrator Bill Chang had noted in earlier reports that the project was estimated to cost nearly $15 million and that Buc-ee's would need to make a final decision based on the financial outcome.
- Proposed Features (if it proceeds as originally planned): The DeForest location was envisioned to be around 74,000-75,000 square feet with approximately 120 gas pumps and was expected to create 175-200 full-time jobs with competitive wages and benefits.
A Second Wisconsin Iron in the Fire: Oak Creek
Interestingly, while the DeForest plans have moved slowly, Buc-ee's has more recently announced and is actively pursuing another Wisconsin location in Oak Creek (near Milwaukee, off I-94). This Oak Creek project has seen more recent municipal approvals (like rezoning recommendations in early 2025) and is currently projected by some to potentially become Wisconsin's "first-completed store," with an anticipated opening in early 2027.
Local Anticipation and Considerations:
The prospect of a Buc-ee's in DeForest has generated both excitement and concern among local residents.
- Economic Impact: Supporters point to the significant job creation (175-200 full-time jobs with benefits), increased tourism, and the general economic boost a Buc-ee's can bring. Other businesses have reportedly awaited the Buc-ee's decision before finalizing their own development plans in the area.
- Traffic and Local Impact: Concerns have been raised regarding the massive increase in traffic the travel center would generate, the potential impact on existing local gas stations and businesses, and ensuring the development fits with the village's character.
Looking Ahead:
While the timeline for the DeForest Buc-ee's remains somewhat uncertain in May 2025, the fact that discussions and planning are still "moving forward" indicates the project is not abandoned. The ultimate decision likely hinges on the resolution of infrastructure funding and cost-sharing agreements. Wisconsinites eager for their first taste of Beaver Nuggets and award-winning restrooms will be watching closely for further developments in both DeForest and Oak Creek.
The journey to bring the first Buc-ee's to Wisconsin continues, with the DeForest project advancing slowly but surely through planning and negotiation stages in 2025. While a new potential "first" has emerged in Oak Creek, the DeForest community and eager travelers still hold out hope for the famous beaver-branded travel center to eventually break ground. For now, it's a waiting game, but the prospect of experiencing the Buc-ee's phenomenon in Wisconsin remains a tantalizing possibility.
