To the Editor:

It has come to my attention that the Princeton Academy of the Sacred Heart School is planning to add lighted, artificial turf soccer fields on the top of Princeton Ridge.  While I understand that the school feels there is a need in Princeton for these fields, I believe that what they are planning is irresponsible and will cause considerable damage to the Princeton Ridge neighborhood.

The plans they are presenting to the Planning Board include the removal of 46 mature trees, the addition of plastic turf fields that are not proven impervious to water, and 11 diesel powered lights that will create a level of noise and light pollution that is untenable to both the neighborhood and the wildlife in the area. Additionally, the school plans to rent these fields to an outside company for league play that will occur 12 months out of the year until 9:30 p.m. each night. League play will add additional noise and traffic issues to the residents of these quiet streets.

I feel that this project will affect the area in several ways:

1. Light and noise pollution disturbing the peaceful neighborhood along the Great Road and including Heather Lane and Ridgeview Drive.

2. Disturb the wildlife in the area including several endangered hawks that are known to nest nearby.

3. Safety issues on the Great Road as water runoff will turn into icy dangerous conditions in winter. The corner of Heather Lane and the Great Road is already hazardous when Icy conditions exist. I do not believe that this has been properly studied.

4. Water runoff on the north slope of the ridge could cause potential damage to the homes and yards of the residents that live on Heather Lane. The water will eventually land in the township woods that make up the corner of the Great Road and Cherry Valley Road. 

As a resident of Heather Lane, I strongly oppose these plans and urge the Board to deny the petition for variances. This project requires further study and discussion to ensure that the neighboring residents and natural ecosystem are not impacted in any way. 

Please stop this plan. Let your voice be heard. Please log onto the Zoom meeting Thursday, December 10 at 7:30 p.m.

Gary Bannett
Heather Lane