Buc-ee's Breaks Ground on $82 Million Lafayette Travel Center
Buc-ee's began construction on a massive travel center in Lafayette, Louisiana, expected to create 300 jobs and open by February 2028.
State and local leaders joined Buc-ee's executives on November 9 to break ground on a new travel center near Interstate 10 and Louisiana Avenue in Lafayette, Louisiana. The project, estimated at $82 million, will occupy 42 acres of land previously owned by Charlie Castille. The facility will feature a travel center exceeding 74,000 square feet, 120 fuel pumps, and approximately 700 parking spaces.
CEO Arch Beaver Aplin III stated that the property's size and visibility were critical to the decision. To integrate with the local community, the store will sell boudin as a specialty item. Mayor-President Monique Blanco Boulet noted that the location will incorporate a Cajun flair to distinguish it from other branches.
The project follows years of negotiations and delays, including setbacks from the 2016 floods. The Lafayette Economic Development Authority estimates the center will support over 300 jobs with starting wages around $17 per hour, generating $257 million in personal income over 25 years. Governor Jeff Landry praised the investment for its potential to drive wage growth and job creation.
Construction is expected to continue through 2027, with a projected grand opening in February 2028. This will be the second Buc-ee's in Louisiana, following a location in Ruston scheduled to open in April 2027.
