One of North Carolina’s most anticipated projects is finally moving forward. Construction has officially begun on the state’s first Buc-ee’s travel center in Mebane.
Local leaders joined Buc-ee’s executives this week to break ground on the massive facility at Exit 152 along Interstate 40 and Interstate 85.
We officially broke ground on the first-ever Buc-ee’s in North Carolina yesterday morning! 🦫🚧
A special thank you to everyone who attended the ceremony and to all of the partners and stakeholders who helped make this exciting project a reality for Mebane and Alamance County.… pic.twitter.com/BHG3ayIbwe
— City of Mebane (@CityMebane) June 11, 2026
The new location will be the largest Buc-ee’s in the Southeast, featuring a 75,000-square-foot store, 120 gas pumps, and approximately 600 parking spaces.
The travel center is being built within the 1,200-acre NC Commerce Park and is expected to open in November 2027.
Officials say the project will create between 200 and 300 full-time jobs, along with about 100 part-time positions. Hourly wages are expected to range from $18 to $33 depending on the role.
The Texas-based chain currently operates 54 locations nationwide and has developed a cult-like following for its Beaver Nuggets, brisket sandwiches, and massive convenience stores.
Traffic studies estimate the new location could generate more than 2,000 vehicle trips per hour during peak weekend periods. Unlike traditional truck stops, Buc-ee’s does not allow tractor-trailers.
For North Carolina residents, the groundbreaking marks the official start of a project that has generated years of excitement and will bring one of the country’s most popular travel destinations to the state for the first time.
