A federal judge declined Wednesday to change security restrictions for protesters at the Democratic National Convention, concluding that parade routes and a demonstration zone established by the city don't infringe on their free speech rights.

Judge Marcia S. Krieger ruled in a case brought by the American Civil Liberties Union and a coalition of protest groups. They feared the restrictions would keep them from being seen and heard by delegates attending the convention, which begins Aug. 25.

Protesters wanted to be allowed closer to the Pepsi Center during the convention, saying the arena should serve as a symbolic backdrop during their marches and demonstrations.

Krieger's ruling did not address security at Invesco Field at Mile High, where Barack Obama is scheduled to give his acceptance speech Aug. 28, the final day of the convention. A hearing on those security measures is scheduled for Tuesday.

Mark Silverstein, legal director of ACLU-Colorado, said the groups were disappointed.

Krieger noted that the security plan is designed to protect convention-goers and the public from attacks involving explosives and weapons, to prevent unlawful or violent protests, to ensure emergency access and to preserve orderly traffic around Denver.

She said a demonstration zone, which protest groups have dubbed the "freedom cage," is designed so convention delegates can see and hear those inside. Delegates will be within 200 feet of the demonstration zone during a portion of their walk to the Pepsi Center, the judge said in her ruling.

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