Buc-ee’s Eyes New Location in Port Charlotte

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Florida’s Biggest Roadside Attraction Yet?

The iconic Texas-based travel center Buc-ee’s is making waves again — this time in Southwest Florida. Known for its massive footprint, ultra-clean restrooms, and cult-favorite snacks like Beaver Nuggets, the brand is reportedly planning a new location in Port Charlotte, setting the stage for what could become Florida’s most talked-about roadside attraction yet.

Eyeing Land around I-75 and Harbor View Road

A Mega Stop in the Making

The proposed Buc-ee’s would anchor a 653-acre mixed-use development at the northeast quadrant of Interstate 75 and Harborview Road in Punta Gorda — a fast-growing corridor of Charlotte County. If approved, the project would include:

Over 655,000 square feet of commercial space
More than 3,600 residential units
Multiple hotels, office spaces, and recreational amenities

The development would effectively function as a mini-city, with Buc-ee’s as a central feature, drawing tourists, commuters, and long-haul travelers alike. (Source: NBC2 News)

From Residential to Retail: The Key Vote

Currently, the land is zoned strictly for residential use. However, the developer is seeking a zoning amendment to allow for commercial construction that would support Buc-ee’s.

A critical zoning hearing is scheduled for May 27, 2025, when the Charlotte County Board of Commissioners will review the proposal. Approval would pave the way for Buc-ee’s first location in Southwest Florida, adding to its expanding Florida footprint in Daytona Beach, St. Augustine, and upcoming stores in Ocala and Fort Pierce. (Source: WINK News)

Buc-ee’s in St. Augustine, FL – Google Maps

Local Reactions: Hype Meets Hesitation

As with any large-scale project, the proposal has stirred a blend of excitement and apprehension.

On the one hand, residents and regional travelers are thrilled by the prospect of Buc-ee’s legendary convenience, especially its:

100+ gas pumps
24/7 operations
Specialty barbecue, jerky, and snack offerings
“World’s cleanest bathrooms” reputation

But others are concerned about the potential impact on local infrastructure. Some fear increased traffic congestion, road wear, and strain on nearby intersections.

“We circled 120 pumps three times before finding one. It was chaos,” one Florida driver recalled about a prior Buc-ee’s visit, emphasizing how even well-designed Buc-ee’s locations can overwhelm local traffic systems. (Quote via Fox 4 Now)

buc-ees, bucees coming to port charolette, port charolette buc ees — Buc-ee’s Are Huge, Massive Even – Image From buc-ees.com

What It Could Mean for Charlotte County

Should Buc-ee’s receive approval, the economic ripple effect could be substantial. The site would potentially bring:

Dozens of construction jobs
Long-term employment at the travel center
Increased regional tourism
A boost in sales tax revenue

With Charlotte County poised for population and commercial growth, this development could become a key travel and retail hub in Southwest Florida.

Final Thoughts

Buc-ee’s is more than just a gas station — it’s a roadside phenomenon. If the zoning change is approved, Port Charlotte may soon be home to a destination that combines Texas-sized convenience with Florida sunshine.

Next Step: Zoning vote on May 27, 2025 — stay tuned as this story develops.