The Juneau Planning Commission has given the green light for a pioneering venture in the Mendenhall Valley, setting the stage for the opening of Alaska Vibes, a novel marijuana establishment. This facility stands out as it permits patrons to indulge in smoking or savor edibles on the premises. The decision marks a significant milestone, especially considering it is the second approval from the commission, necessitated by the lapse of the initial permit.
Alaska Vibes, according to Tara Smith, the Director of Operations, aims to carve a niche by creating a welcoming environment for marijuana enthusiasts. Smith emphasized the intricate legal considerations and operational challenges that have extended the project’s timeline beyond initial expectations. Unlike opening a conventional dining establishment, launching a business where customers can consume cannabis products on-site involves navigating a complex web of legal requirements, which has occasionally stalled progress.
The green light for such establishments came in 2019 when Alaska sanctioned laws permitting on-site consumption of marijuana, encompassing both smoking and edibles, at specially licensed cannabis retailers. Nonetheless, the state mandates stringent conditions for these permits, including separate ventilation systems for indoor areas or designated outdoor spaces, and restrictions that only products bought on-site may be consumed. Local ordinances in Juneau add further layers of regulation, such as controls to prevent the escape of odors from the premises.
The approved permit will enable Alaska Vibes to operate both a retail outlet and a cultivation facility, coupled with an area designated for outdoor consumption. Situated near Pavitt’s gym in the Valley, this establishment is poised to complement its sibling, the downtown Alaskan Kush Company. With state laws prohibiting the public consumption of cannabis products and the ban on tourists transporting these products onto cruise ships, Alaska Vibes plans to bridge a significant market gap. By shuttling visitors from downtown to their Valley location, the business aims to tap into the tourism sector, offering a unique experience for tourists looking to explore Alaska’s cannabis culture safely and legally.
