America loves a good drive-thru. And America loves marijuana. So it was only a matter of time before the two great American passions were combined into one, quick-and-easy drive thru marijuana dispensary. There are actually various drive-thru dispensaries in the country already, including one in Olympia, Washington, and several in Detroit. But those dole out medical marijuana only. But now, the country is getting its first drive-thru for marijuana with no prescription required in the town of Gold Beach, Oregon, which became the fourth state to legalize recreational pot last year.
It might sound hazardous to sell a mind-altering drug to motorists. But Green Life Oregon, the company behind the dispensary, said they are opening it up across the street from a hospital to serve as a kind of drive-by pharmacy. “We want to make sure people have the opportunity for natural alternatives to pain medicine, as well as offer a product the voters of Oregon support,” said Green Life manager Jeremy Paulson.
However, the new window is not only open to sick people filling prescriptions. Its location, just across the border from California, was no accident, as the spot is likely to attract tourists from California, where recreational marijuana is not sold legally (yet). Local officials say a rise in tourism could provide a much-needed boost for the former timber town, which has been in an economic depression for decades.
“I’ve seen the business plan, I’ve met the investors, and I believe this venture is going to be quite an asset to the area,” said Curry County Economic Development Director Julie Schmelzer. “Their plans for expansion and other amenities can help Gold Beach and the southwestern coast become a destination for those interested in the new green tourism we are fortunate to be a part of.”
Also not a coincidence is the date the drive-thru is set to open up: April 20th (4/20) the official weed holiday. So get excited, Oregonians (and Californians). If all goes as planned, you may never have to get out of your car to buy marijuana ever again.