Ruston, Louisiana, October 24, 2025
News Summary
Ruston, Louisiana is gearing up for the groundbreaking of its first Buc-ee’s, set for Oct. 24, 2025. This significant project is expected to bring over 250 full-time jobs and attract travelers with its expansive gas station and convenience offerings. The development aims to boost the local economy, with plans for future expansions along the interstate. Mayor Ronny Walker expresses optimism over the job prospects and additional business opportunities that Buc-ee’s will create in the region.
Ruston Set for Historic Buc-ee’s Groundbreaking
Ruston, Louisiana, is set to hold the official groundbreaking for its first Buc-ee’s on Friday, Oct. 24, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. The ceremony will take place at the I-20 and Tarbutton Road site designated for the new development. Buc-ee’s, a popular convenience store chain known for its expansive gas stations and unique offerings, will feature more than 120 gas pumps at this location, which is anticipated to attract around 15,000 vehicles daily.
Economic Growth Anticipated
City officials believe this Buc-ee’s project will serve as a significant economic driver for the region, bringing over 250 full-time, high-paying jobs to north Louisiana. Mayor Ronny Walker has highlighted the potential for the development to attract travelers and create new business opportunities along the interstate corridor. Despite misinformation regarding delays in the project, Walker noted that the opening date has shifted from an initial target of late 2026 to potentially January 2027, indicating only a minor adjustment of a month or two.
Walker met with Buc-ee’s representatives on Aug. 15, who confirmed that site work is on track to begin in September or October 2025. The city is also investing an $8 million project to widen the Tarbutton Road interchange to accommodate the Buc-ee’s campus. With salaries projected between $18 to $20 per hour, the establishment of the Buc-ee’s location is expected to create at least 200 jobs, alongside benefiting the local economy significantly.
Project Developments and Future Expansion
Construction for the Ruston Buc-ee’s is anticipated to span approximately 12-15 months. The store will cover a 74,000 square foot area, larger than other Buc-ee’s locations, and will also feature 700 parking spots. Buc-ee’s has acquired over 80 acres of land in Ruston, with plans for future developments that may include additional restaurants, hotels, and retail stores following the store’s completion.
Broader Implications on Local Economy
Buc-ee’s plans to cater predominantly to travelers from over 200 miles away, with 80% of its customer base coming from a considerable distance. The economic implications of this project are not limited to Ruston; they are expected to provide revenue boosts for local entities such as the Lincoln Parish School Board and the City of Grambling. Infrastructure upgrades, including a new frontage road connecting Buc-ee’s to Grambling, are currently in progress to support this growth.
The Buc-ee’s initiative is perceived as a “once-in-a-generation opportunity” for Ruston and surrounding areas, positioning the city as a rising hub for retail, manufacturing, and regional development. In addition to the Buc-ee’s project, Ruston is also preparing for the state’s first microchip manufacturing facility, further solidifying its role in economic expansion.
Key Features of Buc-ee’s Ruston Development
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Groundbreaking Date | Oct. 24, 2025 |
| Location | I-20 and Tarbutton Road, Ruston, LA |
| Gas Pumps | More than 120 |
| Expected Jobs | Over 250 full-time jobs |
| Opening Date | Potentially January 2027 |
| Store Size | 74,000 square feet |
| Parking Spaces | 700 spaces |
| Salary Range | $18 – $20 per hour |
FAQ Section
When is the groundbreaking for Buc-ee’s in Ruston?
The official groundbreaking for Buc-ee’s in Ruston is set for Friday, Oct. 24, 2025, at 10:30 a.m.
Where will Buc-ee’s be located in Ruston?
Buc-ee’s will be located at I-20 and Tarbutton Road in Ruston, Louisiana.
How many gas pumps will the new Buc-ee’s feature?
The new Buc-ee’s is expected to have more than 120 gas pumps.
How many jobs will the Buc-ee’s project create?
The project is expected to create over 250 full-time, high-paying jobs in north Louisiana.
When is the expected opening date for Buc-ee’s?
The opening date for Buc-ee’s has shifted from 2026 to potentially January 2027.
How large will the Buc-ee’s store be?
The Ruston Buc-ee’s will be 74,000 square feet.
How many parking spots will the new location have?
There will be 700 parking spots at the Ruston Buc-ee’s.
What will the salaries be for the jobs at Buc-ee’s?
Salaries for positions at Buc-ee’s are expected to range from $18 to $20 per hour.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Shreveport Faces Economic Challenges Amid Rising Living Costs
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Lafayette, Louisiana Welcomes Buc-ee’s
Additional Resources
- KSLA: Louisiana Breaking Ground for First Buc-ee’s in Ruston
- Google Search: Buc-ee’s Ruston
- KPLC: Louisiana Breaking Ground for First Buc-ee’s in Ruston
- Wikipedia: Economic Impact
- Shreveport Times: Latest on Buc-ee’s Opening Delays
- Google News: Buc-ee’s Louisiana News
- The Advocate: Buc-ee’s to Hold Groundbreaking for Ruston Store
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Business
- KEEL: Ruston Buc-ee’s Getting Closer
- Google Scholar: Buc-ee’s
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.
