New York's highest court ruled that it is lawful for the state to seize private land for use by private developers, clearing a hurdle for a new basketball arena and marking a victory for local governments hoping to spur development.

A New York Court ruled Tuesday that the state can seize property for the proposed Atlantic Yards development in Brooklyn, shown above in 2008. The project, being developed by Forest City Ratner could eventually include office towers and apartments as well as an arena for the NBA's New Jersey Nets.

The decision is a blow to private-property owners who have argued that they are defenceless once a government deems their land necessary for eminent domain, or the "public good." But it boosts developers and government entities in New York that have sought to boost local economies by offering incentives for private developers.

Wall Street Journal