Princeton University Expansion Lawsuit Hearings Begin

Hearings began on Monday in the case of a group of residents suing Princeton University concerning the Arts and Transit project, nj.com reports.

The $330 million project, labeled the “largest expansion project in the University’s history, would dramatically change the Dinky Station and the area surrounding it.

Construction on the project is underway and the station was closed last month, according to the report.

The Dinky transports commuters from downtown Princeton to the Princeton Junction train station. The University is preparing to move the station 460 feet south of its current location.

Residents argue the ordinance that allows this project conflicts with the township’s master plan, which calls for reducing the conversion rate of residential and commercial land into University property.

The University purchased the land containing the station and the surrounding area in 1984, and the NJ Transit Board of Directors approved a land transfer with the University that cleared the way for the Dinky train relocation in June.

The University and the township are named in the case.

The hearing continues Tuesday and is expected to conclude Wednesday, with a decision likely coming in a couple weeks, according to the report.