NEW YORK, NY June 23, 2008 —The U.S. Supreme Court refused to hear a lawsuit aimed at halting the Atlantic Yards project in Brooklyn.

The justices rejected an appeal by 11 property owners and tenants who stand to have their homes and businesses bulldozed to make way for a basketball arena and 16 high rises.

They have argued that the state's use of eminent domain is unconstitutional, because it's seizing property to benefit a private developer, not the public. Their attorney says they'll pursue the case in state court.

In a statement, developer Bruce Ratner says the courts have consistently agreed with his company that the Atlantic Yards will provide public benefit in the form of affordable apartments and jobs.