Meridian considers plans for huge travel center

A large development project at the intersection of Meridian Road and Interstate 84 in Meridian is being planned and under review.

If approved, it could become a commercial development that is one of the largest in the region. It would be a travel center that could be operated by Buc-ee’s, a chain of convenience stores based in Texas known for its cartoon beaver mascot and oversized stores.

The convenience store of the proposed travel center would span 74,000 square feet and it will have 104 fueling stations. The Buc-ee’s brand is unique in that it only serves passenger vehicles and is open 24 hours a day, every day of the year. It is known for its house-made desserts, made-to-order barbecue, and snacks such as fudge and jerky.

The planning advisor for Meridian, Bill Parsons, said that the city is in discussions with the applicant, who is working with the Idaho Department of Transportation and the Ada County Highway District, to determine what improvements in transportation would be needed at the site so that a large travel center could be accommodated there. Parson said that once it is identified what those improvements are and there is support from the agencies, he believes there will then be a formal application made to the city.

Banner printing could be used at such sites to inform residents of upcoming projects once they are approved.