Controversial Villanova Bridge With Crosses Approved By Radnor Commissioners, Reports Say​​​

A pedestrian bridge proposed by Villanova University that was embroiled in controversy due to its overt religious display was approved Monday by Radnor Township's Board of Commissioners despite residents' objections, according to reports.

At the Monday meeting, the commissioners voted 6-0 with one abstention, giving the school permission to install Lancaster Avenue-spanning bridge with metal crosses.

The crosses were discussed in early February at the township's Design Review Board meeting.

Residents showed concern over the crosses, with some saying they overstep religoius boundaries.

“This bridge really disturbs me. The size of it and the safety of it concern me first. The crosses disturb me second," Radnor resident Susan Smith said, according to the Delaware County Daily Times. "I don’t think if we had Beth Hillel University down the street in the next block that we would like to see the Star of David on that.”

The more than 4-and-a-half-feet tall metal crosses were called unconstitutional by resident Rick Leonardi, as the school is receiving $4.5 million from the state for construction.

The crosses on the bridge will be located on Villanova property, and university president Rev. Peter Donohue said crosses adorn every campus building, according to Philly.com

“I understand people’s sensitivities," Donohue said. "But it’s just something we’ve always done. It’s just part of who we are. We are a faith-based institution"

NBC10 reports the bridge will link Norristown High Speed Line platform to the walkway of the university chapel.

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