Buc-ee’s San Marcos officially opens, brings economic opportunities

By Jolee Gavito and Kira Utter

News Reporters

SAN MARCOS– After a year of construction along I-35 North Frontage Road and Yarrington Road, Buc-ee’s San Marcos opened its doors at 6 a.m. on Aug. 12.

The 74,000-square-foot travel center sits on a 22-acre site with 128 fuel pumps and a new layout plan.

Speakers, including Gov. Greg Abbott and San Marcos Mayor Jane Hughson, were also in attendance at the location’s ribbon-cutting ceremony, held at 10 a.m.

Abbott presented a signed proclamation from the state of Texas, highlighting the economic impacts Buc-ee’s has generated.

“Buc-ee’s is a remarkable Texas success story and makes our state a better place, one beaver at a time,” Abbott said.

Hughson recognized San Marcos City Manager Stephanie Reyes and her economic development team for securing investment incentives per a Chapter 380 Economic Development Incentive Agreement with Buc-ee’s LLC.

“Reyes and her team helped bring over $50 million in capital investments and over 300 jobs, with the emphasis on hiring local,” Hughson said. “Buc-ee’s’ success is San Marcos’ success.”

Chapter 380 Economic Development Agreements offer tax rebates, fee waivers and job grants to businesses.

In March 2024, San Marcos City Council members and Hays County officials approved the agreement with Buc-ee’s LLC, providing the corporation $4.2 million in economic incentives.

Per the agreement, Buc-ee’s is set to receive a 50% refund on sales taxes for 15 years, in exchange for having no rebates on property taxes to further generate revenue for the region, according to the presentation seen by the San Marcos City Council.

Additionally, San Marcos Buc-ee’s became the first location with a rainwater harvesting system. Other environmental protections include rain sensors on irrigation systems, oil-water separators and highly efficient water and lighting fixtures.

“I hope customers who stop by and see the tubing stuff are respectful when they come to see the river,” San Marcos resident and Buc-ee’s customer Ashley Sabrsula said.

Reg Aplin, brother of the Buc-ee’s CEO, said he is proud of the franchise’s success.

“We’re amazed like everyone else, because these big stores transform into a new world,” Aplin said.

With Texas State’s fall semester approaching, new students have the opportunity to explore San Marcos Buc-ee’s and the new opportunities provided.