In an ongoing dialogue on downtown development, opponents of the current plan last night called for the Princeton Borough Council to reevaluate the effects of the proposal and for the University to play a greater role.
Residents and local business owners from the Concerned Citizens of Princeton expressed their frustration during a meeting at the Frist Campus Center.
The plan includes a 5.5-story garage, apartments, a new retail section and a plaza.
Voicing their concern that the construction would harm the identity of the downtown, the group presented a petition with more than 1,000 signatures in opposition to construction.
The group said the plan, created by Princeton Future, does not reflect their interests.
"To the degree possible, we would like to preserve the character and dignity of downtown but what is happening instead is that Princeton Future is imposing its will," said Bob Zagoria, a member of Concerned Citizens.
While Princeton Future held meetings open to the public, some citizens said these forums were not sufficient.
Borough officials said the plan originated from multiple viewpoints.
"The plan did not immediately arise out of Princeton Future," Mayor Marvin Reed said. "It came out of numerous sources and was a long process involving interactions between Borough Council members and interactions with citizens."
Concerned Citizens also presented a survey of 25 merchants that illustrated a reduction in business since construction began during the summer.
"Our price structure is based on continuous volume; you need a steady flow," said Rich Carnevale, owner of Annex Restaurant. "The most dramatic dropoff was in the summer when the 81-car park-and-shop was closed."
Concerned Citizens further called upon the University to take a greater role in any expansion of parking spaces.
"The University has a very direct interest in the vitality of the town," Zagoria said.
While some citizens called for an increased financial responsibility, others wanted a more direct role.
Pointing out that most University parking is far away from the downtown region, head of Concerned Citizens Jim Firestone asked, "Why isn't the University providing downtown parking?"
According to the University, it has fulfilled its community obligations.
The University is working to establish a parking garage on Ivy Lane and has redirected traffic, said Pam Hersh, director of community and state affairs.
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