The Long Island Cannabis Club (LICC) has officially opened its doors in Deer Park, marking a significant expansion of New York’s legal cannabis market. Located at 94 East Industry Court, this 4,200-square-foot dispensary is the first state-licensed cannabis shop in the Town of Babylon outside the East Farmingdale area.
The grand opening on December 6, 2024, featured giveaways, vendor interactions, and a raffle for Mariah Carey concert tickets, drawing a diverse crowd of cannabis enthusiasts. LICC offers a wide array of products, including flowers, concentrates, vapes, and edibles, with many sourced from women-owned and local brands.
Co-owner Leslie Rodriguez emphasized the strategic location near Tanger Outlets Deer Park, anticipating increased foot traffic, especially during the holiday shopping season. The dispensary’s interior design reflects Long Island’s coastal charm, featuring epoxy floors resembling water and skylights laminated with sky images to create a beach-like ambiance.
LICC is the fifth licensed marijuana business in Babylon Town and the seventh on Long Island, joining dispensaries in East Farmingdale, Riverhead, and Southampton. The opening signifies a positive step in the region’s cannabis industry, offering consumers a legal and regulated option for cannabis products.
However, community concerns persist. Valerie St. Bernard, president of the Deer Park Community Association, expressed worries about potential impaired driving. She requested that LICC display signage warning patrons against driving under the influence, to which the management agreed.
The Town of Babylon has embraced the growing cannabis industry, reportedly generating nearly $2 million in sales tax revenue to date. As LICC begins operations, it aims to contribute to the local economy while addressing community concerns through responsible business practices.
The opening of LICC reflects the broader trend of cannabis legalization and commercialization across New York State. As more dispensaries emerge, they bring economic opportunities and challenges, necessitating ongoing dialogue between business owners, consumers, and community members to ensure the industry develops responsibly and sustainably.
