Attorneys for 1000 Friends of Kaua'i, an environmental group, and Rich Hoeppner, a Kauai resident, are seeking the order to halt ferry service until a more extensive hearing is held Sept. 17. That hearing would determine whether the Superferry can use Nawiliwili Harbor while the state conducts an environmental assessment of harbor improvements made to accommodate the ferry, and any possible secondary impacts of ferry service.

Valenciano said he would wait until tomorrow afternoon to issue his ruling so attorneys from all sides can submit additional information about whether the motion was filed in a timely manner.

In the meantime, Superferry officials have agreed they will not resume service prior to the judge's ruling.