Actor Matthew Broderick Among Those Voicing Opposition To NYU's Controversial Expansion Plan
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- The City Council examined New York University's controversial Greenwich Village expansion plan at a hearing on Friday.
The school is proposing to build about 2 million square feet of new facilities in the iconic neighborhood.
1010 WINS' Stan Brooks reports
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Demonstrators who oppose the plan, including actor Matthew Broderick, who grew up in Greenwich Village and currently resides there, rallied before the hearing, calling on the City Council to reject the proposals.
"For me, the open park land is extremely important -- there's not that much of it -- and I've watched so much of it disappear and so many small, nice, beautiful buildings be knocked over for huge dorms," Broderick said.
"It is the wrong plan for the village, it is the wrong plan for NYU and it is the wrong plan for New York City," added Andrew Berman, who is spearheading the opposition.
Supporters said the plan would generate 2,400 jobs every year for the next 20 years and help secure the future of small businesses in the Village.
"NYU is a great economic engine and job generator for Greenwich Village and the city," supporter Tony Giuliano said. "In order for the university to continue its strong presence it must grow."
The 20-year expansion plan, dubbed NYU 2031, has already been approved by the City Planning Commission but still needs the green light from the City Council.
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