Opponents of Lanier Plaza rezoning picket during rush hour

GAINESVILLE - Residents who live near Lanier Plaza Shopping Center on Thompson Bridge Road have not given up their fight to keep a developer from tearing down the shopping center and constructing a 40,000+ square-foot grocery store on the property.

Opponents issued statements over the weekend saying they would be picketing in front of the shopping center during the morning and afternoon rush hours on Monday. True to their word, a handful of protesters took their posts at daybreak Monday, hoping to generate interest in their opposition.

Residents have said the planned rezoning and redevelopment do not jive with the 2030 Comprehensive Plan developed by city officials.

The Gainesville Planning and Appeals Board last month rejected the proposed rezoning, but the city planning department has recommended approval of the plan. Gainesville City Council takes up the issue at its regular meeting Tuesday at 5:30 p.m. at the Gainesville Public Safety Building.

http://accesswdun.com/article/2014/5/274551