A new development proposal in Brooklyn’s East New York neighborhood could bring a seven-story educational facility capable of serving approximately 500 students to 556 New Lots Avenue. Project details, highlighted on NYC Newswire, outline plans for a school-focused building that may ultimately house a charter school, though no specific operator has been identified at this time.
Development Planned for East New York Site
A new development project in Brooklyn’s East New York neighborhood could transform a commercial property on New Lots Avenue into a seven-story educational facility designed to serve hundreds of students.
Plans filed with the New York City Department of Buildings outline a proposal for a new academic building at 556 New Lots Avenue, located between Hendrix Street and Van Siclen Avenue. Information about the project was highlighted in an announcement published on NYC Newswire, which reported on the development filings and early details of the proposal.
The project is being advanced by Soly Bawabeh of Midyan Gate Realty No. 4 LLC, who is listed as the property owner behind the application.
Earlier concepts for the site envisioned a mixed-use building that could include a charter school along with commercial space. The current proposal focuses primarily on an educational facility, although no specific charter school operator has yet been identified as a tenant.
Proposed School Building and Facilities

https://nycnewswire.com/news/new-east-new-york-school-planned-new-lots-ave
According to project filings, the proposed building would rise to approximately 105 feet and contain about 51,218 square feet of community facility space dedicated to educational use.
Once completed, the structure could span more than 60,000 square feet and be capable of serving around 500 students.
Plans indicate the building would include multiple classroom levels along with spaces designed for school programming and activities. The first floor is expected to include a gymnasium and lecture hall, while the fifth floor would feature an auditorium and recreational area.
The project is designed as a steel-framed structure with a cellar level, providing additional operational space for the facility.
Transit-Accessible Location Near Van Siclen Station
The proposed school development would be located just one block from the Van Siclen Avenue subway station, which provides access to the 2, 3, 4, and 5 subway lines.
The site also sits approximately two blocks from the New Lots Public Library and currently houses a discount retail store that would likely be replaced if the development moves forward.
Because of its proximity to transit and community resources, the site is viewed as a strategic location for a potential educational facility serving families in the surrounding area
Continued Development in East New York
The project reflects ongoing development activity in East New York, where residential, commercial, and community facility projects have been proposed or constructed in recent years.
While large new developments can sometimes spark debate about neighborhood change, new schools and educational facilities are often viewed as long-term investments that can support community growth and provide expanded opportunities for local families.
The proposed project at 556 New Lots Avenue will continue to move through the city’s review process, with oversight involving the New York City Department of Buildings and the New York City Department of Transportation.
Project documents estimate the development budget at approximately $18 million.
As the proposal advances and additional details emerge, the East New York community will gain a clearer picture of how the site may be developed and whether a charter school operator ultimately becomes the building’s tenant.
Project Overview
Location: 556 New Lots Avenue, Brooklyn, NY
Building Height: Approximately 105 feet
Estimated Size: About 61,000 square feet
Estimated Capacity: Approximately 500 students
Construction Type: Steel-framed structure with cellar
Estimated Budget: $18 million
Agencies Involved: NYC Department of Buildings, NYC Department of Transportation

