MAIN Coalition spokesman Craig Stevens issued the following statement in response to U.S. District Court Judge James Boasberg’s decision to deny a request for a preliminary injunction, which was sought by the Cheyenne River Sioux tribe and would have stopped construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline:
“Judge Boasberg’s thoughtful decision further demonstrates that both the Army Corps of Engineers and Dakota Access have fully complied with all established laws and regulations governing the permitting, installation, and operation of the Dakota Access Pipeline.
“Both Dakota Access and its parent company, Energy Transfer Partners, have continued to show a strong desire to accommodate landowner concerns and respect for culturally sensitive areas. This was demonstrated in the more than 140 modifications the company made to the pipeline’s path – in North Dakota alone – to avoid potential cultural resources, including at the James River crossing.
“Going forward, we continue to appreciate Judge Boasberg’s careful consideration of this case and remain hopeful that the construction and operation of this pipeline will be completed in a safe and timely manner.”
-###-