Crystal Academy Gets Permanent Coral Gables Home

A Coral Gables development will provide a permanent home for Crystal Academy, an institution serving children with autism and other developmental disabilities. The Coral Gables City Commission granted final approval for the Crystal Residences project, which includes 184 residences, 16 live/work townhomes, and a new facility for the academy.

Developer Fifield Companies will construct a new, approximately 6,700-square-foot school for Crystal Academy, complete with a dedicated playground. The developer will also provide a 99-year rent-free lease for the facility. The academy has operated for over 16 years, offering specialized education and therapy.

Crystal Academy founder Mary Palacio established the institution to teach students essential life skills for independence. The current facility requires costly repairs, diverting funds from programs. The new school will allow the academy to redirect resources to its students and therapeutic offerings.

The Crystal Residences project will also feature over 20,500 square feet of open space, two courtyards, enhanced landscaping, and a pedestrian connection. A 4,000-square-foot children's park and playground will be publicly accessible outside of school hours. The development team will preserve and relocate a mature live oak tree from the Crystal Academy property.

Construction on Crystal Residences is expected to begin in 2028 and conclude in 2030. This timeline allows for project monitoring and the realization of promised amenities.