Dakota Access Protest Dealt Legal Setback

The federal judge ruled against a challenge that would have halted construction on the $3.8 billion pipeline project connecting North Dakota to Illinois.

1 minute read

September 10, 2016, 7:00 AM PDT

By James Brasuell @CasualBrasuell


Dakota Access Pipeline

Tony Webster / Flickr

The Associated Press has been updating news regarding the Dakota Access pipeline protest throughout the day (September 9, 2016) after a federal judge denied a request for a temporary halt to construction on the project.

A few days earlier in the week, the news had a different tone, after the same judge "granted part of the [Standing Rock Sioux Tribe's] emergency request to halt construction of a section of oil pipeline in North Dakota," according to an article by Merrit Kennedy. Lauren Donovan provides additional reporting about the week's previous ruling, which was framed as a mixed victory for both sides of the debate.

Friday's ruling responded to a lawsuit filed in July by Attorney Jan Hasselman of Earthjustice on behalf of the tribe. The lawsuit challenged permits issued by the Army Corps of Engineers for Dallas-based Energy Transfer Partners to construct the pipeline. Hasselman has promised to challenge the ruling. 

Friday, September 9, 2016 in Associated Press via ABC News

portrait of professional woman

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Get top-rated, practical training

High-rise apartment buildings in Waikiki, Hawaii with steep green mountains in background.

Study: Maui’s Plan to Convert Vacation Rentals to Long-Term Housing Could Cause Nearly $1 Billion Economic Loss

The plan would reduce visitor accommodation by 25,% resulting in 1,900 jobs lost.

April 6, 2025 - Honolulu Civil Beat

Two yellow and white Dallas Area Rapid Transit light rail streetcars at station in Dallas, Texas.

North Texas Transit Leaders Tout Benefits of TOD for Growing Region

At a summit focused on transit-oriented development, policymakers discussed how North Texas’ expanded light rail system can serve as a tool for economic growth.

April 3, 2025 - KERA News

Blue and white Seattle Link light rail train exiting concrete Downtown Bellevue Tunnel in Bellevue, WA.

Why Should We Subsidize Public Transportation?

Many public transit agencies face financial stress due to rising costs, declining fare revenue, and declining subsidies. Transit advocates must provide a strong business case for increasing public transit funding.

April 7, 2025 - Todd Litman

Amtrak Acela

How to Make US Trains Faster

Changes to boarding platforms and a switch to electric trains could improve U.S. passenger rail service without the added cost of high-speed rail.

April 11 - Bloomberg CityLab

Mural showing tools and craft supplies with banner reading 'Things are made here' in front of makerspace in Columbia, Missouri.

Columbia’s Revitalized ‘Loop’ Is a Hub for Local Entrepreneurs

A focus on small businesses is helping a commercial corridor in Columbia, Missouri thrive.

April 11 - Next City

Close-up of wood log with emerald ash borer larvae tracks etched in the wood.

Invasive Insect Threatens Minnesota’s Ash Forests

The Emerald Ash Borer is a rapidly spreading invasive pest threatening Minnesota’s ash trees, and homeowners are encouraged to plant diverse replacement species, avoid moving ash firewood, and monitor for signs of infestation.

April 11 - The Bemidji Pioneer