Plans for a Buc-ee’s travel center in El Paso County appear to be advancing, as county officials review a request that could clear a key zoning hurdle for the Texas-based chain.
El Paso County that Buc-ee’s EPCO LLC has requested an administrative determination on whether its proposed land use qualifies as a “convenience store” under the county’s C-1 zoning district.
The property Buc-ee’s is considering along Interstate 25 near Palmer Lake is located in a C‑1 commercial zone, which is intended for general commercial uses.But county officials stress that the request is “not an approval of Buc-ee’s.”
“An administrative determination is a written code interpretation. It does not approve construction, authorize commercial activity, or approve a site development plan,” said Natalie Sosa, interim executive director of communications with El Paso County, in an email statement to The Post.
“In the event this is found to be a convenience store per the Land Development Code definition in Section 1.15 and therefore a permitted use, future approvals are administrative.”
The county’s website shows the project “Buc-ee’s ADM” was created on Thursday afternoon, with Buc-ee’s EPCO LLC submitting a nearly 300-page letter that includes traffic studies, site plans, memos and other supporting documents.
The request letter said the proposed development will include an approximately 74,000 square-foot building, 60 multi-product fueling dispensers under two canopies (120 fueling positions), approximately 20 electric vehicle (“EV”) charging stations, approximately 790 surface parking spaces, bicycle parking and associated site infrastructure.
The request comes after Buc-ee’s EPCO LLC purchased land in April near the intersection of Beacon Lite Road and County Line Road, about 50 miles south of the Denver area.
Buc-ee’s, a larger-than-life roadside stop known for its spotless restrooms, beaver nuggets and almost theme-park-like experience, has drawn widespread attention on social media as it expands beyond its home state.
The company opened its on Monday, attracting thousands of people, heavy traffic and fans who camped outside, wore Buc-ee’s merchandise and posed with Buc-ee’s famous red-capped beaver mascot ahead of the grand opening.
Yet, the proposed development has divided the Tri-Lakes community. For nearly two years, supporters have praised the projectap potential economic benefits, while opponents have raised concerns about its impact on traffic, water and the character of the area.
The Planning and Community Development Director will make the determination in writing, though the decision may also be referred to the Board of County Commissioners. Staff review could take up to 14 business days.
The determination may also be appealed within 30 days of the administrative determination, the county said.
Any future development application would be reviewed separately under the applicable county process. Future applications will be posted publicly through the county’s website and planning and development webpage at .
Representatives from Buc-ee’s did not respond to requests for comment.
This is a developing story and may be updated.
