Resident opposed to Wal-Mart proposal encourages Planning Board attendance Aug. 20
To the Editor:
The proposed Wal-Mart on Spruce Street in Lawrence Township would be a disaster for Lawrence, Ewing and Trenton. Wal-Mart would bring a massive increase of traffic along Princeton Avenue and Spruce Street, already excessively busy roads as any local could attest.
The proposed site on Spruce Street is adjacent to residential areas of Ewing and Lawrence, creating an additional burden on residents already upset about too much congestion and safety concerns for families with young children. Wal-Mart has an ugly history of harming communities by increasing traffic, crime and pollution, and by harming local businesses who usually have great difficulty competing. Anyone claiming that Wal-Mart increases economic opportunity should think again; an average salary of $9.68 an hour is hardly enough to support a family in Mercer County.
Fortunately, there is a chance the Lawrence Township Planning Board will vote Wal-Mart’s proposal down, as they would need to grant variances to Wal-Mart to avoid violation of township zoning laws. I would encourage any area residents to attend the Aug. 20 Lawrence Township Planning Board meeting at the Lawrence Municipal Building, on Route 206 (near the entrance to I-295). A 6:45 rally will occur before the 7:30 meeting. If we speak our mind as a community, we can stop this.
Brian Williams
Pin Oak Drive