(Photo by Christina Estes - KJZZ)

Supporters of preserving the Chinese Cultural Center rallied outside Phoenix City Council on Wednesday.

A federal judge has denied a temporary restraining order request against the new owners of the former Chinese Cultural Center.

The Arizona Foundation for Chinese Religious Rights wanted the new owner, 668 North, to open up the prayer garden and restrict them from altering the iconic tile roof. This case is different from a similar state case, whereby a Maricopa County Superior Court Judge issued a temporary restraining order preventing any changes to the exterior, but did not compel the new owner to open the prayer garden.

Wednesday’s federal ruling will allow the new owner to move forward with the planned revitalization.

EDITOR'S NOTE: The headline of this story has been updated to clarify that only the federal restraining order request was denied — the restraining order issued by Maricopa County Superior Court is still in effect.