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Ocala
Thursday, March 28, 2024

Buc-ee’s coming to Ocala after Marion County commissioners approve zoning request

A new Buc-ee’s travel center is coming to Ocala.

On Tuesday, the Marion County Board of County Commissioners unanimously approved a rezoning request from Buc-ee’s Ocala, LLC to build an 80,000 square-foot travel center on a 32.83-acre portion of Baldwin Angus Ranch.

The upcoming Buc-ee’s travel center will be located directly east of I-75 and 1.75 miles south of W Highway 326, and it will include three fuel canopies totaling 120 vehicle fueling stations; 750 regular parking spaces with 28 electric vehicle parking spaces, 21 handicapped parking spaces, 11 recreation vehicle/bus parking spaces, and 8 diesel exhaust fluid positions; and a 125-foot-tall sign along I-75 to entice customers.

During Tuesday’s meeting, chairman Craig Curry stated that Buc-ee’s is not just a store – it’s a destination.

Founded in 1982, Buc-ee’s is committed to providing a clean, friendly, and in-stock experience for customers. In addition to its gas stations, Buc-ee’s is known for its clean restrooms, branded clothing, and an enormous selection of foods including Texas-style brisket, nuts, jerky, and Beaver Nuggets (caramel popcorn).

While most Buc-ee’s are located in Texas, the upcoming travel center in Ocala will become Buc-ee’s third location in Florida – the other two can be found in Daytona Beach and St. Augustine. Each Buc-ee’s store is enormous, and the New Braunfels, Texas location currently holds the world record for largest convenience store at 66,335 square feet.

“Every time we go out in the community, we have too many car washes and too many gas stations being built,” stated commissioner Carl Zalak III during Tuesday’s meeting. “Not much we can do about it, but everybody I’ve talked to can’t wait for Buc-ee’s to be there.”

Commissioner Zalak added that he is looking forward to being first in line to grab a brisket once construction is completed and Buc-ee’s opens its doors to Marion County customers.

For more information on the popular chain of travel centers, visit the Buc-ee’s website.