Hamden, Connecticut, is moving forward with a transformative development that will combine cannabis cultivation with affordable housing on a historic industrial site. The town’s Planning and Zoning Commission (PZC) recently approved a zoning change to create a special development district at the former Himmel Brothers factory on Dixwell Avenue.
The Massachusetts-based company Soulstar plans to develop a hybrid medical and adult-use cannabis facility at the site, including cultivation operations and a dispensary. In addition, the project will incorporate 50 affordable housing units, supporting the town’s ongoing efforts to address housing needs.
Soulstar, which holds one of Connecticut’s provisional Section 149 licenses for cultivators in disproportionately impacted areas, expects the project to create at least 50 new jobs and generate additional local tax revenue. The housing component includes 20 new affordable units priced at 80% of the Area Median Income, alongside 30 previously approved apartments.
Residents have expressed concerns about potential odors from the cultivation facility due to its proximity to nearby neighborhoods. To address this, the development plans include advanced air filtration systems, with annual inspections planned to ensure compliance and minimize impact on surrounding homes.
Community reaction has been mixed. Supporters point to the economic benefits and increased access to affordable housing, while some residents remain cautious about the presence of cannabis-related operations and the strain on local services. The PZC’s approval requires the submission and approval of a detailed site plan, which will outline the project’s implementation and address remaining concerns.
This project marks a significant step in Hamden’s urban revitalization, demonstrating a model for combining emerging industries with community-focused residential development.
Dabbin-Dad Newsroom
