Kansas Speedway could get a new gas station with dozens of fuel pumps and thousands of square feet of retail space.
At least that's the type of development that Texas-based chain Buc-ee's is known to be building. On Friday, the company confirmed it was considering building a new travel center in the west end of Kansas City, Kansas, two weeks after news first broke that the highly popular company was interested. Ta.
Details have not yet been revealed. However, Stan Beard, Buc-ee's director of real estate and development, said in a brief statement shared with The Star that an application has been filed to build the company's first travel center in KCK.
“While we are still in the early stages, we are pleased that the project is starting to take shape,” Beard said.
In late April, the company submitted a site plan to Wyandotte County Unified Government and KCK for consideration. The next potential site is a 57-acre vacant lot along the Village West Parkway just south of the speedway.
The company's application also includes a request to change the zoning classification of approximately 26 acres from agricultural to commercial.
On Friday afternoon, Unity Government spokeswoman Crystal McFedders said by phone that there was no firm date as to when the proposal would be presented to the Planning Commission. He said discussions are ongoing between the unified government, Kansas Speedway and state officials about details, including possible incentives.
McPhedders also acknowledged the buzz around the project, saying Buc-ee's has generated high community interest.
The company's big stations are probably only promoted by their fan base. For some, travel centers along highways are more than just pit stops; they are destinations.
Last year, the company opened its first Missouri store in Springfield, receiving a warm welcome from Buc-ee supporters and elected officials. His 53,000-square-foot center in Springfield includes 120 fuel pumps, a barbecue station, a jerky bar and a fudge shop.
Buc-ee's isn't the only big gas station in the Kansas City metro that's getting attention.
St. Louis-based Wally's, also known for its giant convenience stores, opened its first local store last year. The Independence store will be the company's fourth store.
The Star's David Hudnall and Ilana Arougheti contributed to this report.
