Buc-ee's, the largest convenience store in the world, is planning to open its first location in Charlotte County along Interstate 75 in Port Charlotte, potentially making it the largest in the state.
Randy Hoff, reacting to the potential Buc-ee's, said, "Let it rip! Well, yeah, I'm from Old Town. What can I tell you? But, you know, let it. Whatever is good for the economy and the population, you know, I think it's great. I really do!"
Rosemarie Farron expressed enthusiasm, saying, "Well, that would be great. A one-stop shop. You can go in and do your shopping, get whatever you need. Hey, that's what we need when we need to be quick getting out."
James Coloma commented on the convenience, stating, "It'll be convenient. It's going to be packed. It'll be there, might be a fight."
With half a million followers on social media and countless viral Buc-ee's videos, the county was asked if the landowners want a Buc-ee's in the area. "Oh, yeah, definitely. They would not have applied if they didn't. And with Buc-ee's being the contract purchaser, I think they're very eager to move," said Shaun Cullinan, a planning and zoning official.
Cullinan explained that the area is currently zoned residential, but a hearing in May will determine if it can be changed to commercial. "Large development that's had entitlements for probably 15-20 years now, they're looking to make some changes to allow for potential Buc-ee's, and until they're actually breaking ground and we're sitting there eating beaver nuggets, it's still just a potential project," Cullinan said.
Heather Johnson shared her excitement, saying, "I think that anything new is, you know, great. I think that there's a lot of different gas stations, like, wow, that's pretty cool. I have heard of Buc-ee's. I think that Buc-ee's will be a great addition to the community, and I'm excited. Maybe they'll have cheaper gas."
The county's board of commissioners will discuss the Buc-ee's proposal on May 27.
DOWNLOAD
the free
Gulf Coast News app
for your latest news and alerts on breaking news, weather, sports, entertainment, and more.