By Associated Press
Buffalo, NY – A state judge has issued a permanent injunction that halts plans for a casino the Seneca Nation of Indians was hoping to build in Cheektowaga.
State Supreme Court Justice Joseph Makowski's ruling prohibits construction until the state performs an environmental impact study at the site, located near Buffalo Niagara International Airport.
That report could take up to two years.
The injunction blocks a developer from selling a business park near the airport to the Seneca Nation until the state completes environmental studies.
The court order was sought by a citizens group concerned about the potential impact a casino would have on nearby residential areas.
The Senecas already operate casinos in Niagara Falls and Salamanca. Under a compact with the state, they must break ground on a third casino -- this one in Erie County -- by early December.
Tribal officials say they'll be reviewing the latest legal issues and act accordingly.