Buc-ee’s store planned for Oak Creek development

OAK CREEK, Wis. (CBS 58) -- The City of Oak Creek plans to discuss rezoning for Wisconsin’s first Buc-ee’s travel center at its Plan Commission meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 28. The store’s opening is projected for early 2027.

The proposed site is located at the southwest corner of I-94 and Elm.

The project includes a 73,370-square-foot convenience store and fueling plaza with 120 gas pumps offering ethanol-free fuel, DEF and EV charging.

Oak Creek Mayor Dan Bukiewicz is thrilled for the potential of a Buc-ee's in his city, saying the company approached the city about the site last fall. 

"I think it's wonderful. Anytime we can offer something in southeastern Wisconsin, it's just a great addition," said Bukiewicz.  "It's at the very entrance of our city, so we'll be the welcome from the south to Oak Creek."

Bukiewicz hasn't actually been to the Texas-based chain before, but he is looking forward to the uniqueness of the country store. 

"What it is not is a truck stop. It is a tourist destination is what it is," said Bukiewicz. 

While selling hot food and other goods, the store would have 120 gas pumps and provide more than 175 jobs. 

"Just the tax base alone is going to help boost Milwaukee County with the recent tax increase they got county wide," said Bukiewicz.

In 2023, Buc-ee's announced plans for a store in Deforest, near Madison. Those plans have stalled, as the funding is needed to upgrade a nearby interchange. 

In Oak Creek, the mayor says that is not a concern. Bukiewicz expects it to spur more development in the area. 

"Buc-ee's is an attraction nationwide, and a lot of businesses can benefit from all those out-of-town visitors that may arise around there."

Following next week’s meeting, public hearings are scheduled for Monday, Feb. 17 and Tuesday, March 18. The Oak Creek Common Council will review a land use amendment and rezoning request on March 18, with a vote expected the same day.