Department of Defense to Construct Largest Immigration Detention Facility in U.S.
The Department of Defense is set to establish the largest federal immigration detention center in the United States, located at Fort Bliss, Texas. This announcement was made by Pentagon spokesman Kingsley Wilson during a Thursday press conference.
According to Wilson, construction began in July, with an initial capacity aimed at housing 1,000 undocumented immigrants expected to be ready by late August. Furthermore, as the project progresses, up to 5,000 beds could be completed within the following weeks and months.
Wilson indicated that this facility will be unprecedented in size in U.S. history and is part of the broader mission to facilitate the deportation of unauthorized immigrants.
In related developments, officials from the Trump administration have pledged $68 million for a state project to create an immigration camp, drawing comparisons to the “Alligator Alcatraz.” This facility supports President Trump’s executive order aimed at safeguarding American interests.
The announcement coincides with Indiana Governor Mike Brown’s declaration that the state plans to develop a facility dubbed “Speedway Slammer” at the Miami Correctional Center, strategically located between Indianapolis and Fort Wayne. This facility, inspired by Indiana’s racing legacy, is designed to accommodate 1,000 immigrants.
“We are eager to collaborate with President Trump and Secretary Noem to eliminate the most serious threats through this innovative approach,” Brown stated. He emphasized Indiana’s commitment to addressing illegal immigration comprehensively.
Funding for this initiative arises from a settlement bill recently enacted by Trump, which he referred to as a “big, beautiful bill.” The Department of Homeland Security noted that the legislation will finance the 287(g) program, enhance cooperation between Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and local governments, and maintain about 80,000 detention spaces.
While the administration continues its focus on deportation, there are indications it is easing the pressure on undocumented immigrants who don’t have any self-reported criminal histories.
Moreover, an additional facility informally dubbed “Alligator Alcatraz” was opened this past summer under the oversight of federal officials and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. This center is intended as a staging ground for deportations.
The facilities initially funded by the state are set to receive further assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Currently housing 2,000 individuals, the center expects to double its capacity as deportation flights commenced last month. The site was previously a decommissioned airport in the Everglades, raising concerns from various immigration and environmental groups regarding its purpose and location.
