A state supreme court judge ruled Monday in favor of the developers of the Atlantic Yards project, saying they can seize control of 53 Prospect Heights properties surrounding the proposed Brooklyn site for the sports arena and development.

Supporters, including Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz, hailed the decision, saying the project will increase affordable housing, provide solid jobs and bring a world class arena to the borough.

Meanwhile, opponents of the project said the state and developer Bruce Ratner are being given a license to steal private property.

"It's a sad day personally for me, as the state has decided to take ownership of my home. And I think it's a sad day for all New Yorkers, many of whom probably believe that their home is their home. But if a developer wants it, and their friends in government agree, they will take it from you under the slimmest of pretext," said Daniel Goldstein of Develop Don't Destroy Brooklyn.

As the Atlantic Yards project moves forward, Fifth Avenue between Flatbush and Atlantic, and Pacific Street between Fifth and Sixth and Vanderbilt and Carlton Avenues will be permanently closed to traffic starting next Monday.