ITHACA, N.Y. (WHCU) – A cannabis dispensary is set to open in Ithaca.

The recreational adult-use marijuana shop, William Jane, owned by Binghamton resident William Durham, will open on a short-term basis this week. The shop is located at the former site of Trader K’s on the Ithaca Commons at 119-121 East State Street.

“I’m excited to be one of the first cannabis businesses opening in upstate New York,” said Durham. “I never imagined I’d be able to start a business like this, and I’m grateful to New York State for creating this opportunity to grow a business here. This is a blessing that will help me create opportunities for others in the future.”

The location will eventually be built out by the state and private investors. The ‘pop-up’ opening will help generate capital for the business and provide initial training opportunities before closing for final construction and permanent reopening. Officials say the opening helps advance the state’s goals of equity in the licensing process, prioritizing those affected by cannabis convictions.

“The ‘William Jane’ dispensary represents one step in helping correct past inequities of cannabis policing and incarceration, while also providing a market for local farmers growing cannabis,” said Assemblymember Anna Kelles. “Local production sales can help ensure transparency and product quality, keeping the product safe for adults who choose to use it for medicinal or recreational use.”

William Jane opens Thursday, March 16, 2023, at 4:20 p.m.