The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals denied an injunction that would have stopped construction on the Loop 202 South Mountain Freeway project.

Arizona Department of Transportation spokesman Dustin Krugel said the delay would have cost the project, which is expected to be completed in 2019.

“It's going to provide an alternative to I-10 through downtown, provide a true connection between the southwest and the southeast regions of the Valley.”

The Gila River Indian Community filed the injunction while the court considers its appeal.

The tribe has said previously it is concerned about destruction to sacred land. Another injunction to stop construction was rejected in November.

Construction phasing schedule via Arizona Department of Transportation.