Buc-ee’s Set to Make a Splash in Kansas City!
Exciting news for all the road trippers and snack lovers out there! Kansas City is on the verge of welcoming its very own Buc-ee’s, the super-sized travel center that’s been turning heads across the nation. Just recently, a pivotal step was taken toward bringing this much-anticipated location to life, and it’s just one more hurdle away from breaking ground!
The Green Light Is Almost Here
On Monday, the Economic Development and Finance Committee of the Unified Government of Wyandotte County and Kansas City unanimously recommended approving a development agreement that would see Buc-ee’s built near the Kansas Speedway, specifically at 601 Village West Parkway. This is thrilling news for fans of the brand, which has cultivated quite the cult following since it started back in 1982.
To speed things up, the committee has voted to fast-track the approval process, which means the matter will be put to a vote by the Board of Commissioners as early as Thursday. If all goes well, Buc-ee’s plans to break ground in May and aims to complete the project within two years. However, fans may be in luck, as it’s possible the opening could happen even sooner!
A Big Project in the Works
So what’s all the fuss about? For starters, Buc-ee’s is requesting a sizable $13.3 million in tax incentives for its estimated $95 million project. This includes setting up a community improvement district that would collect a 1% sales tax on purchases made at Buc-ee’s and a tax increment financing district designed to help ease construction costs. This financing plan could lead to up to $3.3 million being reimbursed over 15 years, along with $10 million generated over the next 20 years!
In addition, funds will go towards significant local infrastructure improvements. These include a hefty $6.3 million for road enhancements on Village West Parkway, $700,000 to reroute a water line, $4.1 million for electrical relocations, and another $1.6 million to enhance the Interstate 70 interchange. Sounds like a win-win for the community!
A Buc-ee’s Like No Other
According to Stan Beard, the director of real estate and development for Buc-ee’s, this establishment will be one of the largest in the chain. Get ready for 120 gas pumps, 12 electric charging stations, and a sprawling 74,000-square-foot footprint that promises to be a sight for sore eyes on the road. And if you’re looking for a job, this new Buc-ee’s plans to hire about 200 full-time employees with sweet starting pay between $17 and $20 per hour, plus benefits!
Visitor Magnet on the Way
With an estimated 4 million visitors expected annually at the new location, Pat Warren, president of the Kansas Speedway, proudly states, “This is a phenomenal opportunity for Wyandotte County and Village West.” It’s worth noting that approximately 70% of these visitors will likely come from beyond state lines, giving a nice boost to the local economy.
But Wait, There’s More!
Even the committee members are fans of Buc-ee’s! Commissioner Phil Lopez shared his experience visiting a Buc-ee’s in Tennessee, raving about how clean the place was and how he could even snag some hunting supplies. He’s not alone in his admiration; Buc-ee’s has drawn a loyal fan base across the states. The excitement is palpable as the countdown begins for what could soon be another beloved spot for Kansas City residents and visitors alike!
So, mark your calendars and hang tight! It looks like Kansas City might just get its very own Buc-ee’s sooner than we think. Stay tuned for more updates as things progress!
