Riverdale, a quiet, family-oriented neighborhood in the Bronx, is abuzz with conversation and controversy. The focus? A now-empty storefront on busy Johnson Avenue that once housed a beloved Italian restaurant. The space, which carries years of nostalgia for many locals, may soon be transformed into something entirely different: a state-licensed cannabis dispensary.
An official application has been submitted to New York’s Office of Cannabis Management by Green Retailer LLC, a company incorporated in June. Though the license hasn’t been granted yet, the mere possibility of a dispensary opening in the area has already sparked intense debate among residents and local business owners.
The plan was even discussed at last month’s Public Safety Committee meeting, where nearby resident Jason Pack voiced his strong opposition. “Terrible idea,” he said. “There’s already at least two dispensaries within a mile radius. I don’t think that’s something this neighborhood needs.” Pack is among a group of residents concerned about the dispensary's proximity to schools and family spaces.
Others, however, see potential benefits—both economic and practical. Some local business owners believe the dispensary could generate new foot traffic and provide a financial boost to the area. “From a business standpoint, it’s a good idea,” one merchant noted. “But again, I’m not looking at it from a business standpoint. This is a very family-oriented neighborhood. I don’t think it’s ideal to have a dispensary so close to where there are many children.”
The issue touches on larger themes that New York City continues to grapple with as its legal cannabis market expands. According to the Office of Cannabis Management, at least 34 dispensary licenses have been approved in the city this year alone—five of them in the Bronx. While many argue there is still a shortage of safe, legal places to purchase cannabis, others believe the rapid expansion may be outpacing the community’s readiness.
Supporters of the dispensary point to tax revenue as a major advantage. “Tax it and use the money for schools and roads,” one resident said.
For now, the Johnson Avenue site remains undecided, its future hanging in the balance as community members, officials, and the state continue to navigate the complexities of cannabis legalization. Whether it becomes a restaurant once again or turns into Riverdale’s latest dispensary, one thing is clear: the conversation is far from over.
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