A developer has proposed what could become Michigan's first combined music venue and cannabis-consumption lounge near Ypsilanti. The project, preliminarily approved by the Ypsilanti Township Planning Commission on August 27th, involves transforming 3.87 acres at 2525 S. State St. into a unique space that integrates live music and cannabis use.
The plan includes a 4,300-square-foot indoor lounge, an outdoor amphitheater, and a 1,260-square-foot storage building. Michael Ludtke, the landowner and applicant, who is also developing a nearby dispensary, has named the venue "Pipeline" as a nod to the underground cannabis market, often referred to as the "black market."
Ludtke, who has long envisioned blending music with cannabis in a permanent setting, emphasized the lack of spaces where cannabis consumers can enjoy the substance in a social, experiential environment. "As a cannabis consumer, we really don't have anywhere to enjoy cannabis with any type of experience," Ludtke stated.
According to Ludtke, this venue would be the first in the state to offer both indoor and outdoor cannabis consumption. The indoor facility would host events year-round and welcome a broad range of music genres. Ludtke mentioned that Detroit's rap scene, classic hippie-style bands reminiscent of the Woodstock era, electronica, and DJ performances are among the potential genres that could be featured, all within a cannabis-friendly environment.
The outdoor amphitheater will include spaces for food trucks and will be enclosed by a non-visibility fence to comply with state regulations. The venue plans to operate three days a week, accessible to anyone aged 21 or older for a $25 entry fee, or for free with a $50 purchase at the adjoining dispensary. Planned operating hours range from noon to 10 p.m. or 5 to 10 p.m., depending on the day, with one day each week reserved for private events such as weddings or parties.
Pipeline will be situated just south of where Ludtke is establishing Frost Cannabis, a dispensary and cultivation facility at 1250 Watson Ave. Although these projects are distinct, both developments are on Ludtke's six-acre property, which was divided into two parcels in April 2023 to comply with state requirements for separate parcels.
Security at the venue will be stringent, with indoor and outdoor areas under continuous video surveillance. Footage will be stored for 60 days, with access provided to law enforcement as required by state law. Additionally, Ludtke mentioned that a noise study has been conducted, and adjustments have been made to minimize noise impact on the nearby West Willow Neighborhood.
Ludtke also commented on the broader concept of cannabis consumption lounges, describing them as a "hollow idea" if they only offer a space to consume cannabis without additional experiences. He believes that combining cannabis use with music and social activities will create a more appealing environment.
In Michigan, only three cannabis consumption lounges currently operate, the most recent of which opened in February in Kalamazoo. For the Pipeline project to proceed, developers must finalize an agreement with the township board, addressing conditions such as the number of large events, temporary parking needs, security measures, portable toilets, capacity, hours of operation, lighting, and waste management.
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