Environmentalists had tried to block construction of more than 400 homes in Clover Valley…saying the project violated California’s Environmental Quality Act…or CEQA.

Marilyn Jasper is with the Sierra Club…which filed one of the lawsuits.  

“Frankly, we’re quite surprised. We felt we made very strong, compelling arguments that CEQA had been violate. But we are looking at all our legal options.” 

But development supporters, like Rocklin Mayor Peter Hill, say Judge Lloyd Connelly’s decision means CEQA requirements were met…and the project can move forward. 

“Unless somebody files for an appeal, yes they could start construction. I suspect that the economy will hold the project back for a few years.”

Last year…Rocklin voters approved Measure H, which cleared the way for the Clover Valley development on more than 600 acres of land near the border of Rocklin and Loomis.