For the last two years, rumors — and nearly concrete plans — had megaplex gas and convenient station Buc-ee’s first coming to Exit 89, and then Clarksville’s Exit 1, before things seemingly got scuttled.
Not so fast.
Tuesday night, with Mayor Jackie Oliver presiding, Oak Grove City Council approved an incentives package for the Texas-based chain — bringing the project back to southern Christian County.
And for good.
Emotions aside, Oliver — a long-time-resident-turned-leader — thanked the economic and political pillars of the region, for turning a presumed pipe dream into construction that’s now expected to begin in Spring 2025.
Oliver said details on the incentives package will come at a later time, as city council members discussed those details in closed session.
But in open session, Buc-ee’s Project Coordinator Angela Janik also welcomed the news for her company.
When Buc-ee’s discussion first exploded in Christian County during Spring 2022, officials then spoke of the potential for 300 new jobs and more than 140 gasoline and EV pumps for travelers.
Buc-ee’s already has two other locations in Kentucky: one in Richmond, and one in Smith’s Grove, and more than 40 nationwide.
Among its chief reasons for popularity include its signature food items like brisket, turkey, sausage, pulled pork, beaver nuggets, in-house fudge and beef jerky, its big and clean public restrooms, and its multi-faceted shopping options.
Brief Timeline
— Buc-ee’s considering Oak Grove, March 2022
— Buc-ee’s considering Clarksville, December 2022
— Buc-ee’s no longer considering Clarksville, September 2023
— Buc-ee’s coming to Oak Grove, September 2024
