Oak Creek approves Buc-ee’s Travel Center; traffic study still pending

OAK CREEK, Wis. (Civic Media) — The Oak Creek Common Council approved a conditional use permit Tuesday night for Wisconsin’s first Buc-ee’s travel center, to be located at the southwest corner of I-94 and Elm Road, just north of the Milwaukee-Racine County line.

A traffic impact study by the state Department of Transportation is still pending, and some criticized the council for approving the permit before receiving the study’s results.

The Texas-based chain plans to build a 73,000-square-foot retail space with 120 gas pumps, operating 24 hours a day. Stan Beard, Buc-ee’s director of real estate development, said during the meeting the company is excited to become part of the Oak Creek community.

The decision faces opposition from people living nearby, as they voiced concerns regarding increased traffic, pollution, and the impact on their neighborhood.

Officials say construction could begin this summer if final approvals are granted.