The former Dow Chemical Co. and Crane Resistoflex building at 4675 E. Wilder Road.A medical marijuana company has approached officials in northern Michigan about converting a former Dow Chemical plant into a grow facility.
The company said it wants to invest about $21 million into the plant and employ up to 140 people. It also hopes to eventually supply medical marijuana to half of the company’s dispensaries in the state.
The township is holding off on identifying the potential buyer for now.
The same building was eyed by former Detroit Lions running back Billy Sims in 2014 as a possible location for the milk processing plant he wanted to open. But as of 2015, the building’s owner, Art Dore, listed the location as still being for sale.
The marijuana industry in Michigan is on the cusp of experiencing major growth. According to a recent report in Detroit Free Press, state revenues from medical pot are estimated to be more than $700 million. If it is fully legalized for recreational use (which could happen next year if advocates are successful at getting the issue on the voting ballot), it is projected that the market could grow to $21.6 billion by 2021.
The industry is still controversial, however. If this marijuana company is to take over the Dow building, it will have to win over Bangor Township’s board of trustees who could rely on feedback from residents. From there, the project will need to be consistent with zoning laws and local ordinances before finally being approved by the state.
A representative from the township said that he hopes the proposal will pass.
"This is not a Cheech and Chong movie," he said. "This is no different than going to Walgreens or CVS Pharmacy and picking up your prescription.”
