Hamilton County, FL (October 23, 2025) – Today, the Hamilton County Development Authority (HCDA) announced that construction of the second phase of the Busy Bee redevelopment and expansion project is now underway at State Route 6 and Interstate 75, marking continued retail growth and investment in Hamilton County.
“The Busy Bee project has been a long-term priority for Hamilton County and the Development Authority,” said HCDA Executive Director Chadd Mathis. “We have worked closely with Busy Bee leadership, Lucas Waring and Kevin Ryan, since April 2021 to support site development, expansion planning and infrastructure improvements that create jobs, attract investment and strengthen the county’s economy.”
Busy Bee has long been a North Florida landmark, drawing residents from Hamilton County as well as visitors from across the state and country. Phase one of the project included the redevelopment and renovation of an existing convenience store and Burger King franchise supported by .59 acres of adjoining HCDA property. Phase two, currently under construction, involves the renovation of the Busy Bee Travel Center, a larger diesel fuel canopy with multiple lanes, and approximately 85 new semi-truck parking spaces on the 6.91-acre expansion site. Together, the two phases encompass approximately 14 acres.
The redevelopment is expected to create construction jobs and permanent jobs in retail, food service and travel-related services. The project is also projected to increase new fuel and sales tax revenue annually, contributing to Hamilton County’s economic growth and community services.
“The expansion of Busy Bee not only strengthens our local retail and travel infrastructure but also serves as a catalyst for additional much-needed business and industry,” said Nathaniel Combass, Board Chair of the HCDA. “Projects like this build on the momentum we’ve seen with the recent Dollar General locations in Jasper and Jennings, demonstrating Hamilton County’s growing appeal for new commercial development.”
The project is part of a broader effort to develop 50 acres of HCDA-owned property into a Business Commerce Center featuring nine shovel-ready sites totaling 30 acres prepared for new businesses, jobs and capital investment. The development was supported by a Florida Commerce Jobs Growth Grant awarded in April 2022 totaling $5,457,290.39, funding critical site infrastructure improvements.
“The planned development will include the business commerce park, convenience stores, quick-serve restaurants and the expanded travel center,” Mathis added. “The shovel-ready sites also create potential for future manufacturing and commercial opportunities, ensuring Hamilton County continues to grow, diversify its economy and attract investment for years to come.”
Mathis added, “Busy Bee has long been a landmark for our residents and visitors. This expansion highlights how strategic partnerships between the county, the HCDA and private developers can create real opportunities for jobs and investment while setting the stage for future economic growth.”