Construction on Third Kentucky Buc-ees Experiencing ‘Significant’ Delays

I have always been a huge fan of roadside travel centers. They didn't used to be as big as they are now. In fact, they didn't even used to be called "travel centers." But, in retrospect, that's exactly what the legendary Stuckey's was.

Stuckey's - the Original Travel Center

The familiar turquoise roof, those (often stale) trademark pecan logs. It wasn't a travel center, but it was the most popular stop on the road, I mean interstate highway. You couldn't find a Stuckey's location on a two-lane road. When you have time, check out this mini-documentary about the godfather of the modern travel center.

Buc-ees Richmond

While Pilot and Love's, among others, are popular stops while traveling (I'm a fan of both chains), nothing generates excitement like the arrival of a brand new Buc-ee's Travel Center.

Kentucky got its first Buc-ees in April of 2022, and, almost immediately, pilgrimages were planned from everywhere. Considering that Richmond isn't the easiest place in the world to get to from portions of western Kentucky, that shows you the level of excitement this brand name gins up.

Buc-ees Smiths Grove

It was at a fever pitch when Buc-ees #2 opened in Smiths Grove in June of 2024.

Consequently, when the news broke that Kentucky was getting a third Buc-ees, delirium once again ensued. Oak Grove, located on Interstate 24 next to the Fort Campbell Army base, is next up for the Commonwealth.

However, we'll have to tap the brakes, if not press them to the floor, because a considerable delay in construction on the new store has been announced.

Construction Pushed Back on Third Kentucky Buc-ees

Construction was expected to begin in the summer of 2025 with an opening date planned for the fall of 2026. But studies have revealed that massive intersection upgrades are needed, not to mention the problems with the nearest I-24 exit ramp, which has to be completely reworked. Add in the necessity of roundabouts, and you have a significant postponement.

The good news is that there will be a third Buc-ees in Kentucky. It's just going to take a little longer to get here. The anticipation is palpable.