NYC mosque developer says he has no plans to move project, experience has been an ‘eye-opener’

NYC mosque developer: No plans to move project

NEW YORK — The developer behind a controversial proposal to build an Islamic center near ground zero says he’s the one ultimately calling the shots on the project and there are no discussions about moving it.

Speaking on NBC’s “Today” show Wednesday, Sharif El-Gamal says the experience of developing the site has been an “eye-opener.” He says it has shown him that there are a lot of misperceptions about his Islamic faith.

The proposed community center and mosque called Park51 would be two blocks from ground zero.

The location has upset some relatives of Sept. 11 victims and led to angry demands that it be moved. Critics say the site of mass murder by Islamic extremists is no place for an Islamic institution.