To the Editor:

Recently, the Princeton community was invited to a presentation at Town Hall to learn about Herring Properties’ concept plan for the development of the former Princeton Theological Seminary (PTS) property. The concept plan reflected the efforts by Herring and team of engaging with stakeholders in smaller discussions to solicit input and learn concerns. The plan was truly the culmination of what was heard and reflected genuine responsiveness to much of the feedback. One might attribute this thoughtful approach to Herring’s own tenure as a Princeton resident.

The graduated heights of the buildings will create visual harmony with the heights of the surrounding structures. The exterior style of the project reflects the traditional look of the neighborhood and much of Princeton. Placing the majority of parking underground reduces the impact of street parking in the neighborhood. The number of parking spaces, just over one car per residence, reflects the properties’ proximity to the Dinky, the town, the University, and local employers and will allow residents to walk or bike. The lot layout and design locates the buildings such that the green spaces are graciously visible from the street. It highlights some beautiful public spaces which will create a comfortable relationship between cars, pedestrians, houses, and greens. When possible, the effort to retain existing trees, especially those at the street, was made and is clear and appropriate.

While the development of the property has a unique impact on the adjacent property owners, it will also have an impact on the wider Princeton community. In addition to the people who live in the two-block area, many more walk by there, drive by there, and interact with the property in some way. Some see the property as one of the welcoming gateways into Princeton. Because of the location, it is important to consider all concerns and ideas — and make decisions that reflect feedback from both the immediate neighbors and the larger community.

Herring Properties did just that. They took great care to make the design and site engineering plans responsive to what were sometimes opposing points of view. The result may fall short of pleasing everyone, but it will be very difficult to say that Herring didn’t listen and try to accommodate. At one point, when questioned about the specific design of a crosswalk, Herring generously asked what the speaker’s preference was. The details are still under development and Mr. Herring is clearly still listening.

The fact that affordable housing is part of this plan should not go unnoticed. Princeton has a mandate to provide affordable housing which this development provides. Aside from the fact that there is a legal mandate, Princeton has a moral obligation to provide more affordable housing on an ongoing basis to allow more people who work in town to live in town.

There will likely be more iterations of this plan, more refinements and adjustments, but this plan, and ultimately this development are a welcome addition and one which will stand the test of time.

Ross Wishnick
Edgerstoune Road