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Construction Begins on Florida's "Alligator Alcatraz" Immigration Detention Center Amid Controversy

Thursday, June 26, 2025 by Edward Lopez

Construction Begins on Florida's "Alligator Alcatraz" Immigration Detention Center Amid Controversy
Attorney General James Uthmeier (left) and First images of the works on site (right) - © Collage Screenshot from X/ - YouTube/Screenshot Telemundo 51

The state of Florida has initiated the construction of a controversial new detention facility for undocumented immigrants. Dubbed unofficially as "Alligator Alcatraz," the project is championed by Attorney General James Uthmeier and Governor Ron DeSantis, who regard it as a pivotal step in the state's immigration policy. Located deep in the Everglades, the center is being developed on the largely unused Dade-Collier Training and Transition Airport and is designed to house up to 5,000 migrants with criminal records.

The nickname "Alligator Alcatraz" highlights the site's isolated nature, surrounded by alligators and other wildlife that naturally deter escape. "If anyone manages to escape, they will encounter nothing but alligators and pythons. There is nowhere to run or hide," stated Attorney General Uthmeier.

Temporary Facilities and Military Oversight

The center's design includes reinforced tents to withstand Florida's extreme summer weather. No permanent concrete structures are planned, as the rugged terrain itself offers a deterrent to potential escapes. Spanning approximately 78 square kilometers, the site will receive military support, particularly from the Florida National Guard.

Initial construction activities were captured by Telemundo 51, showing machinery and mobile units active at the former airport. State authorities anticipate the center will be operational by early July, initially accommodating at least 1,000 detainees with plans for expansion.

Lack of Consensus on Construction

The swift pace of construction has raised alarms among local officials, environmental leaders, and indigenous communities. Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava expressed concerns over the project's ecological impact and the opaque land acquisition process. In an official letter, she warned, "Given this land's critical location, its transfer requires thorough review and due process to prevent long-term consequences for our community."

Levine Cava also criticized Florida's offer of only $20 million for the property, compared to its recent valuation of over $190 million. "We have requested a comprehensive environmental impact review. No response has been received," she remarked at a recent event, noting the construction began without formal county approval.

Emergency Powers and Federal Backing

In a letter sent Monday, Kevin Guthrie, director of Florida's Division of Emergency Management, invoked emergency powers established during the Biden administration to justify occupying the land. "Time is of the essence. We must act swiftly to ensure our state operations effectively support federal immigration enforcement," he stated, as reported by local media.

Despite the state's claim of being open to negotiating the purchase, the property has already been seized by the DeSantis administration through executive orders. This unilateral move has heightened tensions between the state government and Miami-Dade officials.

Federal Support and National Implications

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has endorsed the project, praising the collaboration with Florida. The DHS noted that it is exploring "innovative and cost-effective ways to fulfill the American public's mandate for mass deportations," emphasizing the proposed center's efficiency in the Everglades.

DHS spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin stated, "Alligator Alcatraz will expand facilities and available space within days, thanks to the cooperation with Florida." Uthmeier reinforced his alignment with federal immigration policies, declaring, "I am proud to support President Trump and Secretary Noem in their mission to resolve our illegal immigration issue once and for all."

Funding Concerns and Environmental Impact

The center's annual operating costs are estimated to exceed $450 million, with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) potentially reimbursing part of this expense, according to the New York Times. Funds are sourced from programs intended to aid migrant-supporting organizations, though some allocations have been controversial and litigated, especially in cities like New York.

Environmental leaders and indigenous communities have strongly opposed the center. Friends of the Everglades publicly criticized, "This site is a multigenerational home for Florida's native peoples, not a harmful and unnecessary prison." Curtis Osceola, an advisor to the Miccosukee tribe, emphasized the tribe's interest in preserving the land and participating in environmental restoration projects: "Restoring these lands and water flow will be vital."

Beyond critiques of the immigration policy, building in this ecologically sensitive region risks causing irreversible damage to the Everglades ecosystem, one of the United States' most significant natural reserves.

Florida's Alignment with Trump-Era Policies

Florida has positioned itself as a leading state in implementing immigration policies promoted by the Trump administration. Governor DeSantis has enacted regulations requiring all 67 counties to cooperate with ICE and has suggested that the Highway Patrol participate in immigration raids. The "Alligator Alcatraz" detention center is part of this broader offensive.

While Mayor Levine Cava acknowledges the importance of border control and the need for immigrants with criminal backgrounds to face justice, she emphasized the necessity of legal, environmental, and moral review for measures of this magnitude. As Florida authorities rush to fill the first beds by July 1, local leaders and environmental advocates are poised to turn this project into a legal, political, and social battleground.

Key Questions About "Alligator Alcatraz" Immigration Detention Center

Why is the detention center called "Alligator Alcatraz"?

The facility is nicknamed "Alligator Alcatraz" due to its isolated location in the Everglades, surrounded by alligators and other wildlife, creating a natural security barrier.

What are the main criticisms of the new detention center?

Critics highlight the project's potential ecological damage, lack of transparency in land acquisition, and concerns over human rights and the treatment of detained immigrants.

How is the detention center funded?

The center's estimated $450 million annual operating cost may be partially reimbursed by FEMA, utilizing funds initially intended for migrant-supporting organizations.

What legal actions are anticipated against the detention center?

Local leaders and environmental advocates are preparing to challenge the project legally, citing ecological concerns and the lack of due process in its approval.

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