Judge Refuses to Halt UC Construction

A state appellate court judge has refused to grant an emergency injunction to stop construction of UC Merced.

Environmental groups filed suit against the university, claiming officials did not adequately evaluate the campus’ impact on air and water quality and surrounding areas.

The campus is slated to be built on a wetland area where vernal pools are home to endangered fairy shrimp and serve as feeding grounds for migratory birds.

The groups filed a notice of appeal after Merced County Superior Court Judge William Ivey ruled that plans for the campus met state environmental requirements, clearing the way for construction to start on 100 acres later this month.