The Newport Beach Planning Commission unanimously voted to approve the development of Sage Hill’s middle school on Dec. 7, clearing a significant hurdle in the project’s path.

The three-story middle school building would increase Sage Hill’s maximum student enrollment from 600 to 750 students by adding the seventh and eighth grades. The proposed structure includes the construction of eight new classrooms, an outdoor learning courtyard, a new gymnasium, a café, and improvements to the baseball field lighting.

“I think this is a fantastic project. I think you guys brought together a great application. We’re going to be supportive and wish you the best of luck,” Planning Commission Chair Curtis Ellmore told Sage Hill trustees, employees, parents, and students gathered in the Newport Beach City Council Chambers.

The project required a thorough traffic review and a biological resources study. City staffers determined construction of the new building would not have a significant impact on the environment, including sensitive species and habitats.

Traffic engineers said additional car trips created by the project could be mitigated with an extension of the left turn pocket at Newport Coast Drive and the Coyote Canyon Renewable Energy Facility gate. Queuing motorists will see the turn lane extended from 100 feet to 550 feet long. 

Additionally, the middle school would start at 8:30 a.m. to offset the possibility of traffic congestion on weekdays. High school classes will continue their normal 8:00 a.m. start time. 

Senior Billy Ray voiced support for the project.

“I love the school and I hope the committee approves it,” Billy said. 

Mike Bolen, Chair of the Sage Hill Board of Trustees and parent of Sage Hill alumni, told commissioners the middle school would maximize the property’s use. 

“We’ve been studying this project diligently for the last four years, it will largely complete the vision of the founders when we get it done,” Bolen said.