A 101-year-old former Farm Bureau building in Ypsilanti, Michigan, reopens Monday as Quality Roots' newest marijuana dispensary at 2 W. Forest Ave. The site, once deemed uninhabitable and listed among the city's dangerous structures in 2015, required $2 million in renovations over 14 months to become operational. This project blends historic preservation with the expanding cannabis retail sector in a community eligible for state social equity provisions.
Rescuing a Derelict Landmark
Quality Roots purchased the building facing severe deterioration: collapsing walls, damaged stairs and structures, six feet of basement water, and infestations of birds and animals. CEO Aric Klar noted the structure was not occupiable, yet the company preserved its signature towers, silos, and exposed brick while demolishing two adjacent buildings, including the Frog Island Beer facility. Partners Farbman Group and local entrepreneur Jeff Guyton aided the effort, turning a liability into an asset that Klar describes as representing Ypsilanti's past, present, and future.
Expanding with Variety and Trust
The dispensary stocks 50 to 100 brands of flower, pre-rolls, vape cartridges, edibles, concentrates, and CBD products. As the Birmingham-based company's seventh Michigan outlet—with more planned in Westland and Madison Heights—Klar emphasizes superior service, variety, and reliability. He views each location as a means to uplift communities, an approach refined through collaboration with residents like Guyton.
Social Equity Fuels Local Renewal
Ypsilanti permits recreational marijuana retailers via Michigan's social equity program, targeting 184 communities disproportionately harmed by past prohibition and enforcement. Guyton, a longtime resident, joined to renovate blighted properties, restore them to tax rolls, and create viable businesses, motivated by the industry's impact on friends and family. Klar anticipates initial opening deals, consistent pricing, and a larger grand opening event ahead, with hours from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily.
