Arizona is officially one step closer to opening its very first Buc-ee’s — the beloved Texas-based travel center known for its massive convenience stores, endless fuel pumps, and famously clean restrooms.

Construction on the new Goodyear location is set to kick off on May 14, when Buc-ee’s executives and city leaders will gather for a groundbreaking ceremony starting at 10 a.m.

The project is expected to be a significant economic boost for the area, bringing in at least 200 new jobs once the store opens.

“We could not have picked a better location for our first store in the Grand Canyon State. Perfectly placed for our road-trippers headed out to California or coming in for the destination-rich Phoenix area, Goodyear will be the place to stop,” said Stan Beard, Buc-ee’s Director of Real Estate and Development.

The new Buc-ee’s Travel Center will be located at 1001 N. Bullard Avenue in Goodyear. Once completed, the 74,000-square-foot structure will feature an astonishing 120 fueling positions — designed to accommodate everything from local drivers to long-haul travelers.

City officials including Mayor Joe Pizzillo and council members Wally Campbell, Brannon Hampton, Laura Kaino, Vicki Gillis, Benita Beckles, and Trey Terry are scheduled to attend the ceremony, reflecting the city’s enthusiasm for landing one of the most recognizable brands in highway travel.

More Than Just Gas
For those unfamiliar, Buc-ee’s is far more than a gas station. The brand has developed a devoted following thanks to its oversized stores stocked with snacks, barbecue, fresh-made fudge, signature Beaver Nuggets, branded merchandise, and clean, award-winning restrooms. Locations are often seen as destination stops in their own right, drawing tourists and road trippers eager for the full Buc-ee’s experience.

Expanding West
The Goodyear store marks Buc-ee’s first venture into Arizona, expanding the brand’s footprint westward. Historically concentrated in Texas and the Southeast, Buc-ee’s has been steadily adding locations in states like Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and now Arizona, aiming to capture travelers along major interstate corridors.

For Goodyear, city leaders see the project as a way to boost local employment, attract travelers, and increase local tax revenue. Economic development officials believe the high-profile store will also help put Goodyear on the map for future commercial and retail expansion.

What’s Next

While no official opening date has been confirmed, Buc-ee’s typically completes its construction and opens stores within a year to 18 months. More updates on the Arizona location are expected following the groundbreaking event.

Originally reported by Jolyn Hannah in 12 News.