ARIZONA - The wait is nearly over for Arizona residents eager to experience the "Disneyland of gas stations." Construction is entering the final phases for the state's first-ever Buc-ee’s, located in Goodyear. After some schedule adjustments, the massive travel center is on track to open its doors in June 2026, bringing its famous Beaver Nuggets and pristine restrooms to the West Valley.Location & Scale
The new travel center is located at the southeast corner of Interstate 10 and Bullard Avenue. This strategic spot aims to capture traffic heading between Phoenix and Los Angeles, as well as locals in the rapidly growing West Valley.
True to the brand’s "everything is bigger in Texas" roots, the Arizona location will be enormous:
- Size: Approximately 74,000 square feet (significantly larger than a standard grocery store).
- Fuel: 120 fueling positions to handle high-volume traffic.
- Parking: Over 700 parking spots for cars (but, as per company policy, no 18-wheelers allowed).
What to Expect
For the uninitiated, Buc-ee’s is less of a convenience store and more of a destination. The Goodyear location will feature the brand's signature offerings that have generated a cult following across the South:
- Food: A massive barbecue station chopping fresh brisket, a bakery serving kolaches and pastries, and a fudge counter.
- Snacks: An entire wall dedicated to beef jerky and aisles stocked with "Beaver Nuggets" (sweet, crunchy corn puffs).
- Merchandise: Everything from t-shirts and swimsuits to home decor featuring the company's beaver mascot.
- Restrooms: Famous for winning awards for cleanliness, the restrooms are a primary draw for travelers.
Economic Impact
The arrival of the Texas-based giant is a major economic win for Goodyear. The store is expected to employ more than 200 full-time workers. Buc-ee’s is known for offering pay rates well above the industry average, along with full benefits, three weeks of paid vacation, and 401(k) matching.
Goodyear Mayor Joe Pizzillo has previously noted that the city expects the site to become a significant revenue generator, with nearly 80% of sales anticipated to come from travelers outside the immediate city limits.
The "Westernmost" Outpost
This opening marks a significant milestone in Buc-ee’s expansion. While the chain has moved north into Colorado and Missouri, the Goodyear location represents its furthest push west to date. If successful, it could pave the way for further expansion along the I-10 corridor or into other parts of the Southwest.
With the exterior structure largely complete and hiring expected to ramp up in the coming months, Valley drivers can expect to see the beaver logo lighting up the I-10 skyline just in time for the summer travel season.
