New Haven’s City Plan Commission gave its stamp of approval on Wednesday for INSA CT Retail II LLC to operate a hybrid cannabis retailer at 222 Sargent Drive. The special permit will let the existing adult‑use dispensary add medical cannabis sales without altering the building’s interior.
Commission vote and permit details
During the commission’s monthly online meeting, commissioners voted unanimously in favor of the application. The permit designates the Long Wharf (MULW) district location as a “cannabis hybrid retailer,” allowing both adult‑use and medical sales under one roof.
Company background and recent regulatory changes
INSA, a Springfield, Massachusetts‑based company, opened the adult‑use dispensary at the former Long Wharf Theatre building in May 2024. The site has been selling pre‑rolls, flower, edibles and other legal products for the past two‑and‑a‑half years.
INSA’s Steve Reilly explained that a recent change to Connecticut’s cannabis regulations removed the requirement for a licensed pharmacist to be present at medical sales locations. “Under the new rules, it’s much more efficient for us to be able to operate a hybrid business,” Reilly said. “We’re seeking to add medical sales to the Sargent Drive dispensary site.”
Operational impact
Reilly emphasized that the addition of medical sales will not affect the dispensary’s recreational offerings. The company plans to dedicate an existing register to medical transactions while keeping the current retail setup unchanged.
When asked whether the change would require physical modifications, Westville Alder and Commission member Adam Marchand received reassurance that no reconfiguration of the space is needed. Reilly confirmed that the adjustment is procedural, involving new standard operating procedures for handling medical products, and that the company is coordinating with the state Department of Consumer Protection.
Community response
During the public hearing, Hill Alder Carmen Rodriguez voiced support, noting the dispensary’s clean record. “We have no incidents with them,” she said. “They are good business owners. We’ve had no hanging out, no issues.”
Commission member Adam Marchand also expressed support, stating, “It’s just adding medical in addition to the recreational.” The commission’s unanimous vote reflects confidence that the hybrid model will serve the community without disrupting existing operations.
What this means for New Haven residents
The approval expands access to medical cannabis for patients who qualify under state law, while preserving the convenience of the existing recreational storefront. Residents can now obtain both types of products at a single, familiar location, potentially simplifying access for those who need medical cannabis.
INSA’s plan aligns with the state’s broader effort to streamline cannabis regulation and improve efficiency for licensed businesses. The company’s cooperation with the Department of Consumer Protection suggests a smooth transition to the hybrid model.
Next steps
INSA will finalize its updated standard operating procedures and submit them to the Department of Consumer Protection for approval. Once cleared, the dispensary expects to begin medical sales shortly thereafter, maintaining its current hours and retail layout.
Original reporting: New Haven Independent — read the source article.
