Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis administration is preparing to build a second immigration detention facility, referred to in state records as the “North Detention Facility,” at Camp Blanding, a Florida National Guard site near Jacksonville. This expansion follows the recent opening of the controversial Everglades-based “Alligator Alcatraz” detention center, which cost the state over $245 million and officially opened on July 1.
While the Camp Blanding site remains on hold pending increased federal deportations, state records confirm a $39,000 contract has been awarded for weather monitoring and safety equipment in anticipation of the build. This comes amid Florida’s peak hurricane season and escalating concerns over the current facility’s safety and humanitarian standards.
The Everglades facility—a compound of tents and trailers—has faced multiple lawsuits from civil rights and environmental groups. Detainees have reported lack of medical care, legal access, and prolonged detention without charges or court hearings. Despite criticism, federal officials including President Donald Trump and DHS Secretary Kristi Noem have praised the center as a model for handling what they call the “worst of the worst.”
Emergency evacuation plans for the Everglades site remain mostly redacted, with Florida officials citing confidentiality laws. Still, Kevin Guthrie, head of Florida’s emergency management division, insisted the facility is built to withstand Category 2 hurricanes.pp
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