Second Buc-ee's in Colorado may not move forward after town planning commission's recommendation
The plan for a second Buc-ee's in Colorado may be running into a dead end.
The company is looking to build a 74,000-square-foot travel center on 25.20 acres of land off I-25 and County Line in El Paso County. The popular national chain is known for its brisket, beef jerky, fudge, numerous fueling stations and its clean bathrooms.
The Palmer Lake Planning Commission held a hearing on Wednesday and ultimately recommended to the town board of trustees not to move forward with the plan to annex the land. The Palmer Lake Board of Trustees is set to meet next week.
There has been significant pushback from the community and activist groups over traffic, noise and environmental concerns. The proposal has Buc-ee's paying for a water treatment plan and road repairs in the area.
On Aug. 25, Sen. Michael Bennet voiced opposition to the project, stating the land Buc-ee's is looking to annex encompasses open space that's part of the historic Greenland Ranch.
Buc-ee's withdrew its annexation request in March and resubmitted it.
The plan continues to be a hot-button issue in the community. According to a report by the Wall Street Journal, activists with the group Integrity Matters, who oppose the travel center, have reported harassment, but trustees say it's untrue and the group is simply trying to "come in here and make trouble." Those supporting the new Buc-ee's have also reported threats and harassment against them.
Wednesday's hearing was intended to give the commission an opportunity to question the applicants and discuss the applications before making its decision.
