ELR Citation: ELR 20820
No(s). 74-232- (E.D. Va. Aug 7, 1974)

The court issues an injunction prohibiting the U.S. Navy from awarding contracts for the construction of a 600-unit housing project at Fort Story on the Virginia seashore until a NEPA impact statement has been filed. The project is a major federal action that will significantly affect the human environment, and the Navy's determination that an impact statement is not required is therefore arbitrary and unreasonable. Plaintiffs, who are residents of a nearby city, have standing to maintain this action since the project and its residents will adversely affect the ecosystem of an adjoining state seashore park that plaintiffs use for recreation, and will place greater demands on the already overburdened municipal services and facilities in plaintiffs' city. Plaintiffs are required, however, to post $3,000 bond.

Counsel for Plaintiffs
William H. King, Jr.
McGuire, Woods & Battle
1400 Ross Building
Richmond, VA 23219

Counsel for Defendants
Edward R. Baird, Jr. Asst. U.S. Attorney
P.O. Box 60
Norfolk, VA 23501