MIAMI (AP) - Testimony is set to continue in the trial of a lawsuit challenging the financing plan for a new Florida Marlins ballpark and other projects being approved without a public vote first.

Defense witnesses will testify on Tuesday in the lawsuit filed by auto dealer Norman Braman.

The lawsuit contends the proposal improperly diverts money intended to fix urban blight and that it should be put to a vote.

Government officials and the Marlins say the $3 billion plan is legal. Besides the Little Havana ballpark, the plan would build a tunnel to the Port of Miami, pay off debt at a performing arts center, start a downtown trolley system and build a museum park.

The Marlins hope to begin play in the new 37,000-seat stadium in 2011.

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)