ZBA approves expanded day‑care use at Sacred Heart; TSL to continue UPK and school‑age programs

The Troy Zoning Board of Appeals on Aug. 6 approved a variance to permit TSL (Thomas, Shamika and Lynette) to occupy about 12,100 square feet at the former Sacred Heart School for day-care and UPK programs.

TSL representatives said they have provided school‑age programming at Sacred Heart for about 16 years and are transitioning to a licensed day-care operation because the school closed. The group told the board they are taking over some academic programs in partnership with the school district and that their application seeks permission to use more than the 2,500-square-foot threshold that triggers special approval for child‑care uses.

Why it matters: The variance preserves program space and continuity for existing UPK and school‑age services in the neighborhood after the school's closure, the applicants said. The ZBA found no objection in principle and approved the requested relief, concluding the continued use maintains rather than changes neighborhood character.

Key details: TSL identified itself on the record as Thomas Styles, Shamika Brown Johnson and Lynette Smith. The applicants said enrollment and program scale largely match what the school had offered; they do not expect a substantial increase in children beyond prior use. The board voted to grant the special-use variance after a motion and second; the transcript records affirmative votes from attending board members.

Next steps: Applicants will proceed with licensing through the New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) and work with the city on occupancy and permit requirements. The ZBA’s approval does not remove licensing requirements from OCFS.

Public comment: Board members asked applicants about contingency plans if the diocese reclaims space; applicants said they have a plan B but did not expect an immediate change. Several board members expressed support for retaining community programs at the site.