Curaleaf Queens Opens New Medical Marijuana Dispensary

NEW YORK — Curaleaf Queens opened a new medical marijuana dispensary on Friday, March 14, 2026, offering expanded access to cannabis-based therapies for certified patients in the borough. The state-of-the-art facility, located just off Cross Bay Boulevard in Ozone Park, marks a significant expansion of medical cannabis services in Southeast Queens.

Curaleaf Expands Footprint in Ozone Park

Curaleaf, one of the nation's largest cannabis operators, officially launched its newest Queens dispensary at 104-12 101st Avenue, a strategic location chosen for its accessibility to major thoroughfares like Cross Bay Boulevard. The opening signifies Curaleaf’s commitment to growing its New York presence, providing a wider range of medical cannabis products to registered patients. This new location brings a much-needed service to a rapidly expanding patient base.

"We are thrilled to bring our high-quality medical cannabis products and patient-centric care to the residents of Ozone Park and surrounding communities," said Matt Darin, CEO of Curaleaf, at the ribbon-cutting ceremony Friday morning. Darin emphasized the company's dedication to patient education and responsible access, as reported by the Queens Daily Eagle.

Boosting Local Economy and Patient Access

The new Curaleaf Queens dispensary is expected to create dozens of local jobs, from pharmacists and patient care specialists to security personnel and administrative staff. This economic boost comes at a crucial time for the Ozone Park area, offering employment opportunities and contributing to the local tax base. Furthermore, the facility significantly reduces travel times for patients previously needing to journey to other boroughs or distant parts of Queens for their medical cannabis needs.

Local civic leader Frank Cammalleri noted the positive impact on neighborhood businesses. "Any new enterprise that brings jobs and convenience to our community is a welcome addition," Cammalleri told reporters. This development stands in contrast to some of the recent economic strains faced by other businesses along Cross Bay Boulevard Businesses React to Global Fuel Spikes in Queens.

Comprehensive Product Offerings and Patient Services

Curaleaf Queens will offer a comprehensive menu of medical cannabis products, including flower, vape cartridges, tinctures, capsules, and topicals. Each product is rigorously tested for purity and potency, adhering to strict New York State regulations. The dispensary employs licensed pharmacists and trained patient care specialists who provide personalized consultations, helping patients navigate product selection and dosage recommendations. They aim to destigmatize cannabis use by emphasizing its therapeutic benefits.

The facility itself is designed with patient comfort and privacy in mind, featuring discreet consultation rooms and a welcoming waiting area. Security measures are robust, ensuring a safe environment for both patients and staff, a priority for any medical cannabis operation in the city.

Regulatory Landscape and Future Growth

The opening aligns with New York State's ongoing efforts to expand its medical cannabis program and potentially transition to a broader adult-use market. The Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) has been working to streamline licensing and operational guidelines for dispensaries across the state. Curaleaf's strategic placement in Queens positions it for potential future growth as the regulatory landscape evolves, demonstrating a forward-thinking approach to the cannabis market.

Council Member Joann Ariola's office confirmed that all necessary city and state permits were secured for the dispensary's operation. "Ensuring safe and legal access to medical cannabis for our residents is paramount, and this facility meets all the stringent requirements," Ariola's spokesperson said Thursday, reinforcing the importance of compliant operations.

Impact on the Ozone Park Community

The arrival of Curaleaf Queens brings a new type of business to the Ozone Park neighborhood, stimulating conversation about local economic diversification. Community board meetings have seen discussions around the potential for increased foot traffic and its ripple effect on other local shops and restaurants. This new establishment provides services that were previously underserved, making wellness more accessible to area residents. The dispensary's operations will be closely monitored by city agencies to ensure compliance with all regulations and to address any community concerns proactively.

This development signifies a shift in how medical services are delivered in Queens, offering an alternative for patients seeking relief through regulated cannabis products. Curaleaf’s investment reflects a growing confidence in the state’s cannabis market, which continues to mature under state guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible to purchase medical marijuana from Curaleaf Queens? Only certified patients registered with the New York State Medical Cannabis Program are eligible to purchase products from Curaleaf Queens. Patients must have a qualifying medical condition and a recommendation from a registered practitioner. The dispensary requires a valid New York State medical marijuana card and a government-issued photo ID at each visit, ensuring strict adherence to state regulations. Prospective patients can find details on qualifying conditions and registration processes via the New York State Office of Cannabis Management website.

What are the operating hours and location of the new Curaleaf Queens dispensary? The new Curaleaf Queens dispensary is located at 104-12 101st Avenue, Ozone Park, easily accessible from Cross Bay Boulevard. Current operating hours are Monday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and Sunday from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Patients are encouraged to check the official Curaleaf website or call the dispensary directly for the most up-to-date information on hours and product availability, which can sometimes vary based on demand and inventory.