A proposal to convert the former Pier 1 Imports store on Route 300 into a cannabis dispensary is under review by the Town of Newburgh Planning Board. The project, known as the Kush Factory Cannabis Retail Dispensary, was presented on Nov. 21 as part of a site plan and special use permit application. The board approved the circulation of notices to neighboring property owners.
The dispensary would occupy 3,305 square feet of the 9,000-square-foot building, which has been vacant for some time. The property is in a shopping center that includes Lowe’s, TGI Fridays, Barnes & Noble, and Michaels. The applicant, who has secured an eight-year lease for the building, plans no major renovations aside from interior remodeling and new signage.
Attorney Javier Rosado of O’Keeffe & McCann LLP, representing the project, explained that the existing structure would remain unchanged. “The plan is to keep the structure as is. We’re not going to do any significant work or renovations. The focus will be on interior remodeling and signage,” Rosado said.
Property owner and business operator Melzina Canigan-Izzard clarified that the facility would not be used for cannabis cultivation. Instead, she is negotiating a lease for outdoor land suitable for cultivation. Canigan-Izzard emphasized the property’s location in a prime shopping district and shared details of the dispensary’s operations.
The dispensary’s model includes strict security measures. Customers would be checked in by security personnel who would scan and validate their IDs. Only valid, government-issued IDs would be accepted. After entering, customers could browse products displayed on the sales floor. A second ID check would be performed before purchases, ensuring compliance with regulations. Products would be dispensed in childproof, sealed bags.
Rosado also addressed waste disposal measures, noting that an on-site dumpster would render discarded products unusable. Additional measures include window coverings to enhance privacy and security. Canigan-Izzard announced plans for monthly seminars to educate customers about product safety and responsible use.
MHE Engineering, the town’s consultant, raised several points in its review memo, including the need for updated signage and architectural details. The dispensary, classified as a Type II Action under the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA), requires submission to the Orange County Planning Department for further review.
Before another appearance before the board, the applicant must address outstanding comments from MHE and other planning requirements.