Buc-ee’s, the popular Texas-based convenience store chain, is setting its sights on expanding into Oak Creek, with a proposed 74,000 square foot travel center. The company is currently navigating through the initial stages of the city’s approval process, which includes amending the local land use plans and rezoning.
The development is proposed for a 29.6-acre location at 10700, 10820, and 10840 S. 27th St., situated in the southwest part of the Interstate 94 and Elm Road interchange.
Buc-ee’s is also seeking to change the designation for the property to “Commercial” to align with their business model, which fits more under retail and services. This amendment to the 2020 Comprehensive Plan Land Use Category is the first step in a multi-phase approval process.
Following the land use amendment, Buc-ee’s is requesting a rezoning from “Business Park” to the “B-6 Interchange Regional Retail District,” a zoning classification designed for high-intensity, destination retail along major highways like I-94. This zoning would allow for the construction of Buc-ee’s travel center, which would include 120 fueling stations and operate 24/7, but notably, would exclude parking for 18-wheelers.
The Oak Creek Plan Commission is scheduled to consider these requests on January 28th. If approved, a public hearing might be scheduled as early as February 17, 2025, with subsequent actions by the Common Council in February. Further steps include the approval of a Certified Survey Map and a Conditional Use Permit in April and May, culminating in a review of site, landscaping, and architectural plans in June.
Buc-ee’s has boasted that their facilities attract nearly 100,000 visitors per week, positioning the new center as a significant tourist attraction. The company emphasizes its commitment to community engagement, promising over 175 full-time jobs with an average wage of $18-20 per hour, alongside significant tax revenue and community goodwill.
Traffic concerns have been a focal point, with preliminary discussions involving road improvements to S. 27th St. and W. Elm Rd. Buc-ee’s has engaged with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) and local engineering departments to ensure that the infrastructure can handle the increased traffic load without requiring a major redesign of the I-94 intersection.
Buc-ee’s describes its model as family-focused, offering a variety of freshly prepared foods, unique gifts, and clothing, all while maintaining what they claim are the cleanest restrooms and friendliest staff in the highway travel sector.
This development proposal represents a significant potential change for Oak Creek, aiming to bring a new dimension of commerce and tourism to the area, pending city approval.
1.23.25
Updated at 12:03 pm to include precise location of the proposed development
