If you’re wondering why it can be so difficult to obtain medical cannabis in a state like Michigan, Michael Jackman offered up a clear answer last weekend. Writing in the Detroit Metro Times, Jackman pointed readers to an interactive map recently posted by the City of Detroit. The map is meant to clarify exactly where medical cannabis dispensaries can legally operate within the city limits. Jackman wrote:
“By name, it is called the ‘Medical Marijuana Caregiver Center Eligibility Search Engine.’ But it should be called the ‘Ineligibility Search Engine,’ given the way 90 percent of Detroit seems to be covered in some sort of restrictive area inhospitable to dispensaries.”
The map is a gob-smacking testament to the power of zoning. Or rather, the power of city officials to use zoning as a way to keep dispensaries from operating. The map is confusing, as there are overlapping colors used in the circles to indicate different sensitive uses, like churches and schools, we assume — but there’s no legend or explanatory information contained within the map. The eligible spots are those tiny shards of uncolored space, which you actually can find if you look hard enough.
The address locator seems to be one of the few aspects of the map that works well. Just for fun, we suggest looking up a few of Detroit’s most famous landmarks, to check their eligibility. Enjoy.
Hitsville USA: The original Motown Studios and Museum
2648 W Grand Blvd, Detroit, MI 48208
Comerica Park: Home of the Detroit Tigers
2100 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48201
The former site of Tigers Stadium
2121 Trumbull Ave, Detroit, MI 48216
Detroit Institute of Arts
5200 Woodward Avenue Detroit, Michigan 48202
Joe Louis Arena: Home of the Detroit Red Wings
19 Steve Yzerman Dr, Detroit, MI 48226
Ford Field: Home of the Detroit Lions
2000 Brush St, Detroit, MI 48226
General Motors world headquarters
GM Renaissance Center, Detroit, MI 48243
Detroit Opera House
1526 Broadway St, Detroit, MI 48226
Fisher Body Plant 21
Fisher Body Plant 21, Detroit, MI 48202
One of the world’s greatest derelict factory buildings. Check out these amazing photographs here and here.
