WQIO Ohio's Super Station
A growing online petition opposing the proposed Buc-ee’s Travel Center near the Interstate 71 and State Route 39 interchange has attracted more than 1,800 verified signatures as residents continue voicing concerns about the project.
The petition, titled “Stop the I-71/SR 39 Buc-ee’s: Protect Our Water, Land, and Community,” was launched in March and urges Mansfield city officials and state leaders to reject the proposed annexation and development of more than 110 acres near the interchange.
Petition organizers argue the development could negatively affect nearby wetlands, groundwater, the Rocky Fork River watershed, farmland, and neighboring residential properties. They also express concerns about increased traffic, light pollution, public safety, and the long-term impact a large travel center could have on the surrounding rural community.
The petition names Mansfield Mayor Jodie Perry and Governor Mike DeWine among the public officials residents hope will reconsider the project. As of this week, the petition had surpassed 1,800 verified signatures, with additional signatures continuing to be added.
Opposition to the project has also been voiced during public meetings. At a May meeting of Mansfield City Council, several residents and nearby property owners spoke against the proposal. Farmer Nick Stadelman told council members the development could threaten the long-term sustainability of his farming operation, citing concerns about environmental impacts, traffic, and changes to surrounding farmland. Other residents said they worry the project would alter the character of the area and affect their quality of life.
Despite those concerns, Mansfield City Council voted in May to approve the annexation needed for the proposed development to move forward. Mayor Perry has described the project as more than a gas station, calling Buc-ee’s a destination that could bring jobs, new tax revenue, and additional economic development to the area. City officials have also said the project still must complete additional administrative and regulatory steps before construction can begin.
If built, the Mansfield location would become Buc-ee’s second travel center in Ohio and would join the company’s growing network of large-format travel centers across the country. The proposed development remains in the planning stages, and no construction start date has been announced.
