Florida is set to turn an airfield in the Everglades into a migrant detention center, marking a controversial step in the state’s immigration policy. The site, known as the Dade-Collier Training and Transition Airport, has been dubbed "Alligator Alcatraz" by Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier, who proposed the project last week. He believes the remote location is ideal for detaining migrants due to its natural barriers, including alligators and pythons, which he claims would deter escape attempts.
The proposal aligns with the Trump administration’s efforts to tighten immigration controls. Uthmeier stated in a video that Florida Governor Ron DeSantis asked state officials to find temporary locations for detention facilities. Uthmeier described the airfield as "virtually abandoned" and noted that it has a long runway capable of accommodating large aircraft.
The facility is expected to open in early July and will house up to 5,000 migrants. Uthmeier mentioned that the construction would involve temporary structures like heavy-duty tents and trailers. He emphasized that the site would not require extensive perimeter fencing, as the natural environment would act as a barrier. This plan has drawn sharp criticism from environmentalists and immigration advocates who are concerned about the potential impact on the fragile Everglades ecosystem and the living conditions for detainees, especially during the hot summer months.
Local protests have already begun, with hundreds of residents gathering to voice their opposition to the detention center. Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava has also expressed concerns, requesting more information from state officials about the project’s environmental impact. She highlighted the need for thorough review before any actions are taken that could harm the community.
Uthmeier claimed that the federal government approved the facility quickly, and funding will come largely from FEMA’s Shelter and Services Program, which was created to assist communities sheltering migrants. The estimated cost for running the facility is around $450 million for one year.
The Dade-Collier Airport is located within the Everglades, a critical wetland ecosystem that supports diverse wildlife. Conservation groups, such as Friends of the Everglades, are actively campaigning against the "Alligator Alcatraz" plan, arguing that the area deserves protection from development.
As the project moves forward, many are watching closely, concerned about its implications for both the environment and the treatment of migrants in Florida.