SOMERSET, Pa. -- Family members of the passengers of United Flight 93, along with some area residents, are critizing the design for a memorial in Somerset County.

The comments came at a memorial advisory committee meeting at the Somerset County Courthouse.

Several people at the meeting spoke of what they call "Islamic symbolism" in the proposed design.

They said several aspects of the design involve crescents, including a ring of trees and a tower.

Some family members of those onboard Flight 93 said they were shocked by those accusations.

"I find the design very inspirational," said Sandra Felt, who lost her husband, Edward, on the flight. "It fits in with its surroundings."

The board approved a timeline for completion of the first phase of the memorial.

It is expected to be completed by Sept. 11, 2011, in time for the 10th anniversary of the terrorist attack.