Eagle Square proposals spark sharp disputes.(controversial proposed construction of strip mall in Providence, Rhode Island)(Brief Article)

The seven semi-abandoned mill buildings at Eagle Square in Providence have inspired an intense debate about what is tasteful development and what is wasteful development.

City officials realized the proposal was a big deal after more than 150 objectors to the plan showed up in city hall last month, where Feldco Development of New York submitted preliminary plans for the development of the Valley neighborhood on the west side of the city of Providence before the City Plan Commission. The objectors said the proposed plan was too much like a strip mall, while the 30 or so residents representing the nearby Providence Commons, wanted to see the proposed Shaw's Supermarket and 26 neighboring stores at Atwells Avenue and Eagle Street developed as soon as possible.

The City Plan Commission voted to postpone action on the issue until another meeting, set for Dec. 19 and set up several smaller conferences before that, for the opponents and …