Portsmouth council approves permit for residential drug and alcohol treatment facility at 901 Enterprise Way

The Portsmouth City Council voted unanimously Oct. 28 to grant a conditional use permit (UP2510) allowing a residential drug and alcohol treatment facility to operate at 901 Enterprise Way.

Applicant Grady Palmer told the council the property is currently an assisted‑living facility and is well suited for conversion to a residential recovery program. “It is an underserved population,” Palmer said, arguing that the location balances access to services without isolating clients.

Council members asked about security and operations. Consultant Michael Rothstein said clients would be residents for extended periods rather than a walk‑in clinic, that clients are transported to the site, and that the facility will use perimeter and interior cameras, staff trained in de‑escalation and on‑site medical staff. Rothstein said emergency responders would be called if required.

One resident, Donna Biggs of Woodbine Farms, asked whether the proposal had been included in Link District planning conversations; planning staff had recommended approval with conditions. After public comment the council moved and approved the permit by electronic vote, recorded as adopted 7-0.

The council did not attach additional conditions in the meeting minutes beyond the planning commission’s recommendation; the applicant and project consultant said they would follow licensing and staffing steps if the permit was approved.

The motion to adopt the permit was made and seconded on the record, and the clerk announced the item adopted 7-0.