ROCKINGHAM COUNTY, VA (ROCKTOWN NOW) After 17 months of waiting, the “coming soon” sign is now gone on Virginia’s first Buc-ee’s location in Rockingham County.

Doors officially opened at 6am for the gas station and convenience store, with people coming from all over the country just to see it. The first people in line got there at 8pm Sunday night.

Known for their fresh brisket on the board and beaver nuggets, caramel flavored puffed popcorn, Buc-ee’s welcome at least 1,000 people in just the first few minutes of opening on Monday.

At 10am, the ribbon was officially cut by local government officials including the Rockingham County Board of Supervisors, local mayors, and Governor Glenn Youngkin.

Joel Hensley, District 5 Supervisor and Chairman of the Rockingham County Board of Supervisors said Buc-ee’s inclination to invest in people is a philosophy the County can get behind. “Buc-ee’s didn’t just choose Rockingham because it’s centrally located off I-81 and in the central Shenandoah Valley. They chose us because our people know how to show up early, work hard, and treat others with dignity, and that’s what makes us a great fit.”

Reflecting on the farmland that now is home to the fan-favorite gas station and convenience store, Hensley added that Rockingham County aims to “grow with intention, to balance opportunity with preservation, and to partner with businesses that understand that balance.”

Governor Glenn Youngkin said that the gas station and convenience store with a fan-following serves as a “welcome mat” for those visiting and moving to the state. “It also represents 200 great paying jobs, careers, and for all of you that are not from the Commonwealth of Virginia, not only do we want you to spend a lot, get ready to move! Because Virginia is the best place in America to live and to work and to raise a family.”

Youngkin doubled down and added that Virginia is also the greatest place in America to start or grow a business and for individuals to live out their dreams.

Buc-ee’s will bring in around 200 jobs and over $1 million a year in taxes on food and beverage alone to Rockingham County.

The 74,000 square foot store will have 120 fuel pumps for cars and trucks only; no tractor trailers are allowed.