News Summary
Construction is underway for a new Buc-ee’s travel center in Ocala, Florida, coinciding with the expansion of Interstate 75. The project, valued at over $238 million, includes a Divergent Diamond traffic interchange and is expected to create 1,500 jobs. Governor Ron DeSantis allocated $4 million to support the new interchange, emphasizing Ocala’s importance for travel and manufacturing. The Buc-ee’s will feature a spacious travel center and has become part of broader plans to expand the company’s presence in Florida.
Ocala, Florida – Construction is advancing on a new Buc-ee’s travel center in Ocala, coinciding with the expansion of Interstate 75. The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) has announced that Lane Construction Company has secured the contract for the widening project, which is valued at over $238 million.
The I-75 expansion will enhance the highway from Wildwood to State Road 326 in Marion County, specifically targeting the stretch that runs from State Road 200 to State Road 326. A significant feature of the project includes the creation of a new Divergent Diamond Pattern traffic interchange at the 49th Street Interchange, marking a first for Marion County.
In an effort to support the Buc-ee’s site, Governor Ron DeSantis has allocated $4 million in funding for the new interchange, highlighting the strategic importance of Ocala for both travel and manufacturing. The new Buc-ee’s is slated to span 74,000 square feet and will include an expansive 80,000-square foot travel center, featuring 120 fuel pumps and more than 720 parking spaces.
The location of Buc-ee’s in Ocala is anticipated to play a role in reducing traffic congestion in the surrounding area. Additionally, the project is expected to create approximately 1,500 new jobs in Florida, contributing positively to the local economy.
The new Buc-ee’s location is set to open in the next year; however, a specific opening date has yet to be established. This expansion is part of broader plans for Buc-ee’s in Florida, which also includes established locations in St. Augustine, St. Lucie County, Daytona Beach, and Leon County.
The St. Augustine Buc-ee’s, which opened in February 2021, was soon followed by the Daytona Beach location that debuted the following month. Plans are already in motion for additional outlets in Fort Pierce and Tallahassee, further enhancing Buc-ee’s presence in the state. The Fort Pierce location, in particular, aims to offer 120 gas pumps and over 700 parking spaces.
The construction and expansion efforts link directly to the growing demand for travel hubs in Florida and are seen as a strategic investment into the future of both transport infrastructure and local business capabilities. The Buc-ee’s brand is well-known for its convenience store offerings and unique amenities, contributing to its popularity among travelers in the region.
The project has garnered attention not only for its immediate benefits but also for its potential long-term impact on the surrounding community and economy. As construction progresses, it is clear that Ocala’s role as a travel stop will continue to evolve alongside the interstate improvements.
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Author: STAFF HERE PETERSBURG WRITER
ST PETERSBURG STAFF WRITER The ST PETERSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREStPetersburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in St Petersburg, Pinellas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, Localtopia, and SHINE Mural Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the St. Petersburg Area Chamber of Commerce and St. Pete Downtown Partnership, plus leading businesses in finance, manufacturing, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Raymond James Financial, Jabil, and Bayfront Health St. Petersburg. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
