New York’s first legal, recreational weed dispensary is set to open in Manhattan on December 29. Governor Kathy Hochul made the announcement that HIV/AIDS non-profit Housing Works will operate the location, called Housing Works Cannabis Co and located at 750 Broadway near Astor Place, in a storefront that once housed a Gap. It’ll be open seven days a week from 11 AM to 7 PM, with hours expected to adjust after the initial opening.
“We set a course just nine months ago to start New York’s adult-use cannabis market off on the right foot by prioritizing equity, and now, we’re fulfilling that goal,” Hochul said in a statement. “The industry will continue to grow from here, creating inclusive opportunity in every corner of New York State with revenues directed to our schools and revitalizing communities.”
“This is a once in a lifetime moment,” Sasha Nutgent, store manager of the soon-to-open dispensary, added. “That said, our nonprofit’s mission remains as urgent as ever. We are eager to take the lead as a social equity model for America’s cannabis industry, specifically with our hiring practices and continued support of individuals and communities disproportionately impacted by the unjust War on Drugs.”
Trivette Knowles, a spokesperson for the state Office of Cannabis Management, told Gothamist that additional retail license holders are expected to open stores and delivery services in January. Stay tuned.