Federal Judge Blocks Border Barrier Construction in Big Bend

A federal judge has halted border barrier and road construction across Texas' Big Bend region while a lawsuit challenging the federal government's environmental law waivers moves forward.

U.S. District Judge Kathleen Cardone issued the preliminary injunction on October 2, barring construction and other ground-disturbing activities in the Big Bend Sector unless the government complies with applicable laws. The order prevents work from resuming after a temporary pause by Customs and Border Protection expired on September 30.

The lawsuit was brought by the Center for Biological Diversity, Friends of the Ruidosa Church, and a Big Bend-area river guide and landowner. The plaintiffs are challenging the federal government's decision to waive dozens of laws to accelerate border infrastructure construction in Big Bend National Park, Big Bend Ranch State Park, and surrounding areas.

The waiver set aside protections under laws including the National Park Service Organic Act, Endangered Species Act, and National Wild and Scenic Rivers Act. The plaintiffs argue the waivers unlawfully expose the region's natural and cultural resources to damage.

Construction began near Santa Elena Canyon in Big Bend National Park in August. Contractors had cleared staging areas, built worker camps, and drilled water wells. Plans included vehicle barriers and patrol roads in remote areas, including around Mariscal Mountain.

Laiken Jordahl, a national public lands advocate for the Center of Biological Diversity, called the injunction a "historic victory for Big Bend," while warning that the legal fight is not over.

The project has also drawn opposition from local businesses and recreation groups concerned that barriers and road construction could restrict Rio Grande access and harm the region's tourism economy.

The injunction will remain in effect while the court considers the underlying lawsuit.