Those in the community view the disturbance of moving ancestral graves as destruction of sacred heritage sites (Arizona Department of Transportation photo).

The Gila River Indian Community has filed a court motion seeking an injunction to stop South Mountain Freeway construction.

The motion, filed on Friday, indicates there will be permanent harm to the Community if the freeway is built.

"The Community very much hopes that this construction is halted immediately, before permanent harm comes to South Mountain, or Muhadagi Doag in our culture," said Gila River Indian Community Gov. Stephen R. Lewis.

The motion states construction crews have reportedly discovered and disrupted more than 20 sites containing protected human remains.

Those in the community view the disturbance of moving ancestral graves as destruction of sacred heritage sites.

ADOT released the following statement to ABC15: "The data recovery process has identified cultural resources at these sites, which are all north of the Gila River Indian Community in the City of Phoenix. ADOT and FHWA have engaged in extensive consultation with the tribal historic preservation officer to ensure that all archaeological and cultural resources are afforded appropriate care."

Source: ABC15 Arizona http://www.abc15.com/news/region-phoenix-metro/ahwatukee/human-remains-reportedly-found-at-south-mountain-freeway-construction-site

Today's top stories

Fay Preps Way for Pittsburgh International Airport Modernization Project

Volvo CE Continues to Perform, Transform During Slower Q1 2024

American Bridge Co. Leads Conn.'s East Haddam Swing Bridge Project

Growing Interest in Construction Careers Among Younger People Means Jobs Filled, Deadlines Met

Pettibone Celebrates 75th Anniversary of Cary-Lift

Common Ground Alliance Hosts Conference & Expo in Colorado On Preventing Utility Damages

Powerco Hosts Mecalac Road Show Event in Clinton, N.J.

Site Prep Inc. of NC Adds Milling Services to Its Existing Highway Infrastructure Capabilities