Villanova University has been granted the green light by Radnor Township’s Board of Commissioners for the construction of a controversial pedestrian bridge that will connect the campus with its planned expansion, writes Susan Snyder for Philly.com.

However it has raised some eyebrows, as the design includes two five-foot metal crosses mounted on top of pillars at each end of the bridge. But the decision to approve the bridge, which is a part of a $285 million expansion project, came after an hour long discussion with the board.

“We’re pleased that the conversation tonight resulted in an outcome that allows the university to move forward,” said Chris Kovolski, Villanova’s assistant vice president of government relations and external affairs.

Concerns were raised by some Radnor citizens who have called the proposed structure an audacious show of religion which should have no place in a township that has residents of many faiths.

Nearby resident, Sara Pilling, said that she understood that the township is constrained by the law on what it can do, but that she believes that Villanova University is not following the spirit of the law.

“I think they are overstepping their sense of ecumenism to shove these crosses in our faces,“ she stated.

Read more about the decision at Philly.com by clicking here.