The North Miami Beach City Commission meeting on October 17, 2023, featured a significant proposal for a new private Jewish school, the Royal Academy, which aims to serve up to 396 students from kindergarten through eighth grade. The project, located at Northeast 161 Street and Northeast 160 Street, is set to transform an existing industrial warehouse into a modern educational facility, complete with classrooms, a gymnasium, and outdoor play areas.

The architectural team, led by Kaler Architecture, presented plans that include three buildings: a repurposed warehouse for classrooms, a two-story cafeteria and middle school, and a gymnasium. The design emphasizes an industrial aesthetic while ensuring functionality and safety for students. The proposal also includes two parking lots with a total of 47 spaces, which exceeds the minimum requirement based on the expected faculty and student population.

A key focus of the discussion was the traffic flow and safety measures for student drop-off and pick-up. The design incorporates a dedicated queuing area to minimize congestion on surrounding streets, with the capacity to accommodate over 30 vehicles at a time. Security measures include a combination of a five-foot solid wall topped with metal pickets around the perimeter, aimed at enhancing safety while maintaining visibility.

Commissioners raised concerns about the adequacy of parking during events and the safety of students crossing streets. The school plans to employ private security during peak times and has committed to working with local authorities to ensure proper signage and crosswalks are in place.

The commission also discussed the need for several variances related to building height, parking requirements, and security measures. The proposed gymnasium exceeds the standard height for a single-story building, prompting a request for a variance. Despite some community concerns regarding the solid wall's visibility, the overall sentiment was positive, with many commissioners expressing support for the project as a beneficial addition to the neighborhood.

The meeting concluded with a motion to approve the project, reflecting a consensus on the potential positive impact of the Royal Academy on the North Miami Beach community. As the school prepares to move forward, it aims to foster educational opportunities while addressing safety and accessibility for its students and families.