City Council heard lots of positive feedback from the Bellaire community, regarding changes to Episcopal High School, during its public hearing last night.
Jackson & Ryan Architects have submitted an application on behalf of Episcopal High School to change the size, shape and placement of the parking complex, academic center (academic building) and fine arts center.
Council needs to approve the amendment to the specific use permit in order for Episcopal High School to start their construction project.
The Planning and Zoning Commission approved unanimously Episcopal High School’s amendment request on June 8. Their recommendation to council is to approve the request.
One of the proposed changes to Episcopal High School includes elongating the planned parking garage from a 6-story to a 4-story garage.
Currently, there is space for 512 cars to park at the high school and the changes would accommodate 724 cars.
Head of School Ned Smith told council that there aren’t enough parking spaces for the number of students and faculty.
“We have to be creative,” he said.
Smith said they don’t plan on seeing an increased enrollment so there shouldn’t be a need to make additional parking spaces in the future.
“We want to know and love each one of these kids individually,” he said.
With the changes to the parking garage, the fine arts building will need to be revised. The high school also plans to simplify the layout of the academic building.
Seven residents addressed council during the public hearing, urging them to approve the proposed changes to their specific use permit.
“I have welcomed Episcopal High School from its inception,” Lynn McBee, an Evergreen Street resident said. “Welcome again Episcopal High School.”
Bellaire residents have until July 29 at noon to turn in written comments to council.
Council will deliberate on the changes to the specific use permit on Aug. 2 in the council chambers, 7008 S. Rice Ave.
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