Binghamton Cannabis Shop with Drive-Up Window Ready to Open

A closed A&W restaurant in Binghamton is about to come back to life as a legal marijuana store - complete with drive-up service.

The building at 439 Court Street on the city's East Side has been quiet for nearly seven years since the fast-food establishment went out of business.

The unused restaurant equipment and fixtures were removed early this year in a project under contract to the state dormitory authority. An Albany construction company was hired to remodel the place so it could be used by a licensed cannabis retailer.

Now, the operators of Cotton Mouth Dispensary say the place is ready to start operating.

Daron and Regina Driscoll of Elmira told WNBF News they expect to be awarded their state license as soon as Tuesday. They said when they receive the license, they are prepared for a soft opening of the business.

The building that once was used to serve burgers, fries and root beer soon will be selling a wide array of cannabis and related products. The exterior hasn't changed much except that the familiar orange of the A&W restaurant now has been painted red.

The place now includes an entry area where customers will enter and have their IDs checked. They then will be permitted to enter the sales area where items will be on display.

Customers will be able to use the drive-up window on the rear side of the building. But - unlike when the place was an A&W restaurant - orders won't be placed by speaking at the outdoor menu board. All cannabis items for pick-up must be first be ordered and paid for online.

At the drive-up window, a customer will be required to show identification that matches what was used to place the order.

Cotton Mouth is expected to be open from 8 a.m. to 2 a.m. seven days a week.

The Binghamton planning commission approved plans for the cannabis business about a year ago after hearing some opposition from nearby residents and the principal of a city elementary school.

Enter your number to get our free mobile app

Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: bob@wnbf.com. For breaking news and updates on developing stories, follow @BinghamtonNow on Twitter.