Performing arts school to convert vacant three-story building. Montgomery Academy, a performing arts school located at 414 Utica Avenue, Brooklyn, sought a special permit to convert a vacant three-story commercial building on nearby Lefferts Avenue into additional school space. Montgomery stated that the building was necessary to accommodate increased enrollment.

Prior to submitting its application, Montgomery sought alternate sites, but failed to find any buildings that allowed a school as-of-right suitable with respect to size, cost, or quality. Montgomery argued that the Lefferts Avenue building, which was only 50 feet from a zoning district that allowed school use, was in good condition, ready to use, and sufficient for its needs. Montgomery also emphasized its contribution to the community: teaching music and dance to students primarily from the Crown Heights neighborhood, many of whom were immigrants and benefited from a performing arts school environment. (read more…)