DeSantis Says Everglades Immigration Detention Center May Close After Serving Purpose
Florida’s remote Everglades detention center dubbed “Alligator Alcatraz” may close after processing nearly 22,000 immigrants, with federal officials citing high operating costs.
TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA — Governor Ron DeSantis said Thursday that Florida’s controversial Everglades immigration detention center has fulfilled its mission, responding to reports that the facility known as “Alligator Alcatraz” may shut down after negotiations between state and federal officials.
The New York Times reported Thursday morning that Florida is in preliminary talks with the Trump administration to close the temporary detention facility. According to the report, officials at the Department of Homeland Security have concluded that the center is too expensive to continue operating.
Speaking during a bill-signing ceremony for new artificial intelligence data center regulations, DeSantis did not dispute the potential closure. He emphasized that the facility was always intended as a temporary solution to help federal authorities manage detention capacity shortages.
Facility Processed Nearly 22,000 Detainees
“It was always designed to be a temporary facility. It has made a major impact and, if we shut the lights out on it tomorrow, we will be able to say it served its purpose because it was responsible for helping with almost 22,000 illegal aliens, and that ultimately is what it’s all about,” DeSantis said.
The governor indicated that if federal authorities can independently handle deportation volumes, “that would be great for us to break that facility down.” Florida constructed the detention center last year in the remote Everglades, drawing national attention and hosting President Donald Trump for a tour in 2025.
Financial Questions Remain Unresolved
The facility consists of tents, mobile housing units, and supporting infrastructure that required transportation to the isolated Everglades location. However, officials have not finalized who will bear the costs associated with dismantling and removing the temporary structures.
The detention center, dubbed “Alligator Alcatraz” by the DeSantis administration, was designed as a stopgap measure to assist federal immigration enforcement efforts. The facility received significant media coverage when it opened and became a symbol of Florida’s aggressive approach to immigration policy.
Earlier this year, the Federal Emergency Management Agency lifted an environmental hold on a $608 million grant related to the facility, clearing the way for continued operations. The potential closure would mark the end of one of the most high-profile state-level immigration detention initiatives in recent years.
