Charlotte County residents split on Buc-ee's plan along I-75 Peace River site

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Fla. - Charlotte County commissioners will hold a public hearing on plans to build a Buc-ee's gas station next to the Peace River.

The Texas-based company wants to build the facility off Interstate 75 on the north side of the Peace River. The proposed development would include 74,000 square feet, 120 fuel stations and 740 parking spaces.

The location has sparked mixed reactions from residents ahead of the meeting.

"Everybody's talking about it," Elmer Garza said.

Cody Buel's family are fans of the popular brand.

"The kids love them, it's a three-hour trip at least," Buel said.

Tim Reese said he's never been to a Buc-ee's but is looking forward to it.

"Never been in one myself," Reese said. "But I've heard a lot of good things about it, so, I'm looking forward to it."

The proposed location sits in a FEMA-designated high-risk flood zone, raising concerns for some neighbors.

"I think it's a terrible idea to put 120 gas pumps right next to a river that floods," David LeBlanc said. "They're going to flood everybody around them."

Garza also raised concerns about traffic and the loss of wildlife in the area.

"I think there's other area up and down 75 that would be more suitable," Garza said.

Developers have set aside land to preserve gopher tortoise and scrub jay habitats. Plans also include building a roundabout to connect the gas station to Harborview.

The public hearing is scheduled for 2 p.m. in the county commission chambers.