Without regard for ( or addressing ) the arguments pro and con the project, here’s a thought as to why so many reasonable people are so emotional and upset about the proposed construction:
9-11 was a singular, and seminal event in our nation’s history, much more than just one of those ’ where were you when ’ moments. Many people were, and are so marked by the trauma of that day that… regardless of measured distances or other statistics re the location… they cannot imagine this building as an acceptable part of what to them is an area to be revered.
Again, this is not my personal argument for or against…. it’s just a reason I believe that the Cordoba House is such a hot button for many.
I’m specifically excluding from this argument/group those who hate all Muslims or think they are all un-American…. because their opinion is irrelevant.