Opening arguments in a new legal fight against the Atlantic Yards project started Thursday in Manhattan State Supreme Court.Develop Don't Destroy Brooklyn and 25 co-petitioners filed the latest suit. The plaintiffs are challenging the state's environmental review and subsequent approval of the $4 billion project. The plaintiffs argue the massive project will have long-term environmental effects in downtown Brooklyn.

Last week, a judge ruled developer Forest City Ratner could begin knocking down buildings in the footprints of the project, despite the latest legal challenge. The developer has also faced lawsuits over the use of eminent domain to seize property.

The project includes a new arena for the New Jersey Nets as well as 16 residential and commercial towers.

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