Ruston, Louisiana, October 23, 2025
News Summary
Ruston is preparing for the groundbreaking of Louisiana’s first Buc-ee’s at a significant ceremony set for October 24. The 74,000 square-foot facility will feature over 120 gas pumps and create more than 200 full-time jobs. City officials anticipate that this major development will boost the local economy by attracting travelers while enhancing business opportunities along the I-20 corridor. Buc-ee’s is famed for its clean facilities and popular food offerings, with the Ruston location expected to open in late 2026 after a 15 to 16 month construction period.
Ruston, Louisiana, Set to Break Ground on First Buc-ee’s Location on October 24, 2025
Ruston will hold the official groundbreaking for Louisiana’s first Buc-ee’s on Friday, October 24, at 10:30 a.m. The ceremony will take place at the intersection of I-20 and Tarbutton Road, the site of the new development, marking a significant step for the region as it prepares for this new addition.
The new Buc-ee’s is expected to feature more than 120 gas pumps and will span 74,000 square feet, making it a considerable facility in the area. The project is anticipated to create over 200 full-time, high-paying jobs in north Louisiana, with starting pay above minimum wage and including full benefits.
City officials believe that the Buc-ee’s store will serve as a major economic driver for the region, attracting travelers and creating new business opportunities around the active interstate corridor. Dignitaries expected to attend the ceremony include Ruston Mayor Ronny Walker and U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy.
Buc-ee’s is recognized for its signature offerings such as Texas barbecue, homemade fudge, kolaches, and a variety of snacks and beverages. Founded in Texas in 1982, Buc-ee’s operates 54 stores nationwide and is well-known for its clean facilities, fresh food, and exceptional customer service.
The upcoming groundbreaking ceremony marks the end of a long planning and pre-construction process, which began in 2023. Following the ceremony, construction is expected to take approximately 15 to 16 months. The Ruston Buc-ee’s location is projected to open after construction is completed, with timelines suggesting a potential opening in late 2026. Buc-ee’s recently opened a location in Pass Christian, Mississippi, in June 2025, and has plans for further expansion, including a site in Lafayette, Louisiana, although no permits have been approved for that location yet.
Key Features of the New Buc-ee’s Location
- Official Groundbreaking Date: October 24, 2025
- Location: Intersection of I-20 and Tarbutton Road, Ruston, Louisiana
- Size: 74,000 square feet
- Number of Gas Pumps: Over 120
- Jobs Created: Over 200 full-time positions
- Starting Pay: Above minimum wage with full benefits
- Construction Duration: Approximately 15 to 16 months
- Projected Opening: Late 2026
Background on Buc-ee’s
Buc-ee’s has garnered a reputation for not only its extensive offerings but also its commitment to providing clean and welcoming facilities to travelers. Established in Texas, Buc-ee’s has expanded steadily, contributing significantly to local economies wherever it opens new stores.
The company’s most recent expansion includes a location in Pass Christian, Mississippi, highlighting its ongoing growth and popularity among consumers. The Ruston Buc-ee’s location will be the first in Louisiana and is expected to cater to the needs of residents and travelers alike while also enhancing the local economy.
Impact on the Local Economy
The addition of Buc-ee’s in Ruston is expected to have a ripple effect throughout the area. With more than 200 jobs created, the local workforce will benefit significantly. The presence of such a prominent retail store also tends to attract other businesses to the area, enhancing the potential for economic growth in and around Ruston.
Future Expansion Plans
Looking ahead, Buc-ee’s has announced plans for continued expansion, with additional sites in various stages of consideration, including a proposed location in Lafayette, Louisiana. While this location is still pending permits, the overall strategy reflects Buc-ee’s commitment to growing its brand and offerings across the southern United States.
FAQs
When is the groundbreaking ceremony for Buc-ee’s in Ruston?
Ruston will hold the official groundbreaking for Louisiana’s first Buc-ee’s on Friday, October 24, at 10:30 a.m.
What is the size of the new Buc-ee’s store?
The new Buc-ee’s is expected to span 74,000 square feet.
How many jobs will be created by this Buc-ee’s?
The store will create over 200 full-time, high-paying jobs in north Louisiana.
What are Buc-ee’s notable offerings?
Buc-ee’s is recognized for its signature offerings such as Texas barbecue, homemade fudge, kolaches, and a variety of snacks and beverages.
What is the projected opening timeline for the new Buc-ee’s?
The Ruston location is projected to open after construction is completed, with timelines suggesting a potential opening in late 2026.
Key Features Chart
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Groundbreaking Date | October 24, 2025 |
| Location | Ruston, Louisiana |
| Size | 74,000 square feet |
| Gas Pumps | More than 120 |
| Jobs Created | Over 200 full-time positions |
| Starting Pay | Above minimum wage with full benefits |
| Construction Duration | 15 to 16 months |
| Projected Opening | Late 2026 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Ruston, LA Prepares for Buc-ee’s Construction
Lafayette, Louisiana Welcomes Buc-ee’s
Additional Resources
Author: STAFF HERE SHREVEPORT WRITER
The SHREVEPORT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREShreveport.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Shreveport, Caddo Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mudbug Madness Festival, Red River Revel Arts Festival, and Independence Bowl. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Shreveport-Bossier Chamber of Commerce and Shreveport Regional Arts Council, plus leading businesses in gaming, healthcare, and energy that power the local economy such as Horseshoe Casino, Ochsner LSU Health, and Atmos Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBatonRouge.com and HERENewOrleans.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
