Watertown Considers Two New Proposals for Cannabis Dispensaries
The City of Watertown is taking another step toward expanding its role in New York’s growing cannabis industry. According to Michael A. Lumbis, the city’s director of planning and community development, the Planning Department has officially received two proposals for cannabis dispensaries to open within city limits. The move signals a growing interest among entrepreneurs eager to establish retail cannabis operations in the North Country.
Proposed Locations for Watertown Dispensaries
The first of the proposed dispensaries would be located at the current site of the Bad Apple Saloon, 545 Arsenal Street a high-traffic area that could draw customers from both Watertown residents and nearby Fort Drum. The second proposal targets a commercial property at 848 Coffeen Street, another busy corridor lined with retail and service businesses. Both sites appear strategically chosen to provide accessibility and visibility, which are key factors in the success of new dispensaries.
If approved, these dispensaries would bring more retail diversity to the city’s commercial landscape and help position Watertown as a regional hub for adult-use cannabis sales. They would also align with the state’s broader mission to normalize and regulate the cannabis market, supporting both public safety and economic development.
Economic and Community Impact
The introduction of dispensaries in Watertown could offer several economic benefits. Local officials anticipate new tax revenue, job creation, and increased foot traffic for surrounding businesses. Additionally, licensed dispensaries help divert consumers away from the unregulated market, ensuring products are tested and sold safely.
For residents, the availability of legal dispensaries provides convenient access to regulated cannabis products without the need to travel to other cities or counties.
The Approval Process
Both proposed dispensaries must now go through the city’s established review process, which includes site plan evaluations, zoning compliance checks, and possible public hearings. City officials will review the proposals to ensure the locations meet state and local requirements related to distance from schools, parks, and other sensitive areas.
The city’s Planning Department will also consider traffic flow, parking availability, and overall neighborhood compatibility before making any recommendations. If the dispensaries are approved, construction and renovation could begin within months, depending on state licensing timelines.
What’s Next for Watertown
Watertown’s potential approval of these dispensaries reflects a broader statewide trend as more municipalities embrace the cannabis economy. With New York’s adult-use market continuing to expand, these new dispensaries could mark a turning point for the city fostering local investment, creating jobs, and ensuring safe access for consumers.
As the proposals move through the review process, all eyes are on whether Watertown will soon join the growing list of New York communities welcoming licensed cannabis dispensaries into their business landscape.