To the Editor:

“Princeton is special” is a phrase that is often invoked in discussions of contentious issues like parking, housing, and cannabis. Depending which side of an issue you are on, special can mean very different things, from safety to charm to high property values. Being explicit about what makes Princeton special is worth doing so that in the midst of these issues we can work to preserve and promote what we want the town to be.

To me, what makes Princeton special is three distinct things: strong institutions, vibrant business districts, and diversity.

Princeton has a unique and truly remarkable array of institutions that enrich the town: a world-class university, a regional theater, great public and private schools, civic organizations, a strong local government  . . .  the list goes on. I am particularly impressed with the openness, thoroughness, and civility that our town government brings to complex and emotionally charged issues — an often thankless task for which those involved deserve to be thanked. All of these institutions need to be valued, supported, and preserved.

Princeton’s downtown and the commercial districts extending down Witherspoon Street, up Nassau Street and at the Shopping Center stand in sharp contrast to the shopping areas on the sides of through-roads that characterize so many other towns. Being able to park, walk, and shop is a lure and a pleasure for residents, employees, and visitors alike. The number of empty store fronts we currently see is troubling. It is critical that we ensure that our local merchants can run viable, sustainable businesses.

Princeton residents’ diversity in terms of wealth, age, race, ethnicity, and other measures make the town vibrant and resilient. The thousands of students who flow through and use the town each year add even greater diversity and vitality. As the town fulfills its obligations to build affordable housing it will only become more so.

There will always be tensions between the goals that aim to help the town, but one thing is clear: trying to keep things the way they have always been is a recipe for irrelevance. Princeton needs to change and adapt if it is to remain special.

Andrew Gomory
Shadybrook Lane