By admin 
GOODYEAR, AZ (AZFamily) Goodyear is rolling out a major traffic detour ahead of the grand opening of Arizona’s first Buc-ee’s at 6 a.m. Monday, with police expecting large crowds — including out-of-state visitors.
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Micah Padre Juan works down the road from the new location and said she’s eager to experience the travel center known for more than fuel.
“I’ve heard so much about the beaver nuggets — I really want to try it,” Padre Juan said. “Brisket sandwich. What can’t you buy at Buc-ee’s?”
But the excitement comes with concerns about traffic. Padre Juan said her workplace is close enough to walk to Buc-ee’s.
“We could just walk across the street,” she said.
Traffic detours planned
City crews have been setting up traffic markers to funnel drivers through the detour. Padre Juan said traffic could complicate her commute.
“I have to be here at 8 — I’m planning to leave my house at 6:30,” she said.
Sgt. Mayra Reeson with the Goodyear Police Department said the department expects big crowds for opening day.
“Just pack your patience and, you know, just come prepared, hydrate,” Reeson said.
Parking restrictions in place
The Buc-ee’s parking lot will remain closed until Sunday at midnight. Reeson said the lot is secured until it opens to the public.
“It’s a secured lot for now. So once that opens up to the public, then people will be able to enter the parking lot,” Reeson said.
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If the lot fills, a line will likely form. Nearby businesses have their own parking, but employees have been issued parking passes.
“They gave us parking passes to print out and put in our cars and there will be security checking here to see if they are working here or attending one of the businesses,” Padre Juan said.
Despite the traffic concerns, Padre Juan said she’s still excited about the opening.
“Oh 100%,” she said.
She said she hopes Buc-ee’s fans will be considerate as employees try to get to work.
“It’s just going to hype up more of my excitement so when I get there I can see if it’s actually worth it or if everybody is just trippin,” Padre Juan said.
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