Some folks are worried they won't have access to the famously clean bathrooms or notably tasty jerky any time soon, but the answer for a perceived lack of activity at the construction site of Lafayette's first Bucee's is simple: It's raining.
Developing Lafayette reports that they talked to someone with the construction company handling the job, Triton, who told them there were some design delays but the weather isn't helping.
“The job is currently at a standstill due to some design delays. The weather has also been terrible. So with those two issues, us (Triton), the general contractor, and owner decided to hold off for now and wait for better weather conditions,” a Triton representative told DL. “There are no issues between contractor and owner. Everyone is on the same page. We have recently been in discussions to get back out there. I don’t have a date yet but should be happening soon.”
To read DL's full story, click here.
Lafayette Economic Development Authority (LEDA) statement:
Lafayette Economic Development Authority (LEDA) provides the following update on the Buc-ee's Lafayette project announced December 13, 2024.
Site preparation work at the corner of Louisiana Avenue and I-10 has been temporarily paused due to weather-related construction challenges. LEDA maintains regular communication with Buc-ee's officials, who report that excessive rainfall has impacted foundation work at the site. The company reaffirms its commitment to the project and continues to target a late 2026 opening.
"The Buc-ee's project is still very much a go," said Mandi D. Mitchell, LEDA President and CEO. "Weather delays are a normal part of major construction projects, particularly those requiring extensive site preparation and fill work. Consistent rainfall affects soil stability and compaction, requiring additional time to establish the proper foundation. This temporary pause demonstrates Buc-ee's commitment to building a quality facility that will serve Lafayette for decades. Quality construction takes time, and we support Buc-ee's commitment to doing this project right. We’re eagerly looking forward to the 2026 opening date of the Lafayette Buc-ee’s and the hundreds of jobs and additional economic activity, sales and property taxes this will bring to our community."
The Lafayette location will feature one of Buc-ee's largest stores at 74,000 square feet, with over 100 fuel pumps and 150-200 full-time positions starting at $17 per hour. The project represents a significant economic investment in Lafayette Parish, generating substantial construction activity, permanent employment, and ongoing tax revenue.
