Supporters and critics of a proposal to build a luxury high-rise building in Mount Vernon attended a City Council meeting Wednesday night to discuss the issue.

The proposed apartment tower would be built on the corner of West Broad Street and Fleetwood Avenue.

Opponents say it will cause traffic and congestion in the area.

"This intersection also serves as the entrance and exit to the Cross County Parkway. Traffic here is already an issue," said John Di Giovanno.

Others say the project would be a boost for the city.

As part of the proposal, the city would hand over the parking garage next door to the development, which includes 249 residential units.

"The capacity of the garage would increase from a little over 400 spaces to almost 600 spaces, and studies have shown that is more than adequate for all of the current and proposed uses," said developer Mark Alexander.

There will be more public hearings before the city council votes on the project. The developer is hoping to break ground by next year.