Site preparation work for the new Nets' arena in Brooklyn was halted this week with Bruce Ratner and his critics offering different reasons why. A Ratner spokesman said the work had gone as far as it could go pending the final outcome of lawsuits next spring. Critics say that the Nets owner had previously said work would continue through litigation and claimed financial problems were the real reason for the halt.

• Atlantic Yards project location sees work halted abruptly - Jotham Sederstrom - New York Daily News
• As work stops at the Vanderbilt Yard, ESDC blames lawsuits--but that doesn't wash - Norman Oder - Atlantic Yards Report