Judge Halts Border Barrier Construction in Big Bend
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Judge halts border barrier construction in Big Bend
U.S. District Judge Kathleen Cardone’s ruling means federal contractors can’t continue construction in Big Bend National Park or surrounding areas until a lawsuit opposing the work is resolved.
By Sam Karas, Big Bend Sentinel
Oct. 2, 2026, 3:40 p.m. Central
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U.S. District Judge Kathleen Cardone’s decision:
- Blocks further border barrier construction in the Big Bend region.
- Grants a preliminary injunction against "ground-disturbing activities."
- Aims to maintain the status quo while the lawsuit continues.
Key Takeaways:
- Environmental group, Center for Biological Diversity, filed a lawsuit in April against the Department of Homeland Security.
- Suits argue the five contracted border wall projects are unconstitutional, violating separation of powers and depriving citizens of their land.
- Legal battle centers on the impact of wall construction on the Rio Grande and the Big Bend community.
[Excerpt from the lawsuit highlighting potential losses due to barrier construction]
Zeynep Graves, attorney for the Center for Biological Diversity, emphasized:
The impact of wall construction in the Big Bend affected the community at all levels.
[Closing arguments and judge's ruling summary]