Letters to the editor
Updated Dec 21, 2:46 PM; Posted Dec 21, 2:46 PM
This was the line recently at NETA in Northampton to buy recreational marijuana. (Don Treeger / The Republican) (Treeger)
If the new Easthampton dispensary follows other openings, it can expect huge crowds. But this colossal interest also meant the town of Leicester had to deal with major congestion while customers waited in arduous lines. Salem, on the other hand, avoided the disruption by requiring customers to book appointments and filled nine days’ worth by the time it opened.
While this demand is not surprising, it’s a reminder how delivery can be beneficial. When delivery is available, customers are not required to physically visit a dispensary. This means less congestion and less disruption to surrounding businesses and residents.
With delivery, dispensaries can accommodate customers more efficiently and avoid negative experiences caused by long wait times. Furthermore, for communities uncertain of where to allow dispensaries, delivery offers a solution. A retailer can operate on a delivery model in less conspicuous locations without relying on foot or vehicle traffic.
Delivery means customers will not be subject to long wait times, standing outside in the elements. It’s already available to registered qualifying patients and has worked well. For those with limited mobility, delivery presents the only means of accessing cannabis independently. We cannot forget the most vulnerable populations.
We knew there’d be growing pains with the rollout of retail, but let’s think about how to lessen the burden. Delivery is one such way.
Nichole Snow,
President, Executive Director of Massachusetts Patient Advocacy Alliance
Director, MassCann/NORML