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Greenwich Synagogue Files Application To Build Amid Opposition

COS COB, Conn. (CBSNewYork) - Plans are moving forward to build a new synagogue in a section of Greenwich, Conn., despite opposition from many residents in the neighborhood.

As WCBS 880 Connecticut Bureau Chief Fran Schneidau reported, the Greenwich Reform Synagogue has now filed its application with the town to build a new synagogue on the land it purchased in Cos Cob.

Plans call for a two and a half story building with sanctuary, classrooms and offices in 12,000 square feet of space.

Greenwich Synagogue Files Application To Build Amid Opposition

The plans for the proposed synagogue show it is smaller than earlier reported size estimates.

"Well when I first ran for office, one of my pledges to the community was to try and maintain the nature and integrity of the Greenwich community and this flies in the face of that pledge," Greenwich Selectman David Theis, who lives a half-mile from the site, told Schneidau.

Theis said the opposition has nothing to do with religion but is instead out of concern that a community gathering spot could impact safety and increase traffic on local roads.

A traffic study commissioned by the synagogue found the 150-member congregation would cause a one-second slow-down for drivers near the house of worship.

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