Mandel JCC day-camp expansion approved with conditions, capacity could grow to ~650

The Beachwood Planning and Zoning Commission unanimously approved the Mandel Jewish Community Center’s final site plan for a children’s day-camp expansion at 26001 South Woodland Road on July 30.

Rick Parker of Brandcenter Carroll Architects, presenting the plan on behalf of the applicant, said the project would expand day-camp capacity from "approximately 400" to — if all approvals are obtained — "about 650 campers and counselors on-site at 1 time for day camp programming." The proposal includes five modular "home-base" structures, a new recreation field, an open-air amphitheater, a new pool dedicated for camp and family recreation, and a new field house for rainy-day activities and additional membership use.

City staff recommended conditional approval. Mr. Chuni said the grading, utilities and stormwater management were acceptable but listed three conditions: extending the South Woodland sidewalk to the JCC entrance signal, obtaining Cuyahoga County sanitary-engineer approval for sanitary plans, and a long-term maintenance agreement for the stormwater facilities prior to occupancy. Building and fire staff asked that property gates be converted to electric gates with traffic-preemption for emergency access.

Commissioners questioned parking geometry, winter snow removal, and whether overnight stays were planned; applicants said the facility would be used for daytime programming only, with occasional group visits but no regular overnight use. Civil engineer Jeffrey Hammel described a tiered parking layout that preserves grades and keeps slopes below 5% while adding roughly 25 spaces dedicated for early-childhood programs in addition to replacing existing parking.

Jesse Rosen, president and CEO of the Mandel JCC, flagged security concerns related to a newly requested sidewalk extension and said the organization was open to staff-level discussions to refine that element. "That agreement expired in December '24, at which point it became, the project, and obligation of the JCC. We are in conversations both with Preston's family and community leaders about, what is next for Preston's Hope," Rosen said when describing a separate, ongoing matter the JCC is addressing.

With the three staff conditions noted on the record, Commissioner Carr moved for final approval and the commission approved the plan on a unanimous vote. Staff will process sanitary approvals and the maintenance agreement before occupancy permits are issued.