Everglades Construction Halted as Court Pauses Work on Controversial Detention Center

MIAMI, FL – August 7, 2025 – A federal judge has temporarily halted all construction activity at the controversial “Alligator Alcatraz” immigration detention center in the Florida Everglades, following a lawsuit filed by environmental and conservation groups and the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of florida. The order, issued today, suspends filling, paving, infrastructure installation, and lighting work for 14 days pending a hearing on a preliminary injunction.

The lawsuit, originally filed on June 27th, alleges the detention center poses significant threats too the delicate Everglades ecosystem, endangered species, water quality, and the region’s dark night skies. Plaintiffs argue the facility’s construction and operation will inflict irreparable harm on a uniquely vulnerable surroundings.

Friends of the Everglades,a leading environmental advocacy group,expressed satisfaction with the court’s decision.”We’re pleased that the judge saw the urgent need to put a pause on additional construction, and we look forward to advancing our ultimate goal of protecting the unique and imperiled Everglades ecosystem from further damage caused by this mass detention facility,” said Eve Samples, the organization’s executive director.

The Miccosukee Tribe, who joined the case as a plaintiff, emphasized the cultural significance of the land. “We welcome the court’s decision… the detention facility threatens land that is not only environmentally sensitive but sacred to our people,” stated Talbert Cypress, Chairman of the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida. “While this order is temporary,it is an important step in asserting our rights and protecting our homeland.”

The detention center, championed by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, is intended to enhance immigration enforcement efforts within the state. Alex Lanfranconi, a spokesperson for DeSantis, dismissed the court’s ruling as the work of an “activist judge” and asserted it would not impede Florida’s immigration policies. Lanfranconi stated the facility “will remain operational, continuing to serve as a force multiplier to enhance deportation efforts.” The judge overseeing the case, however, was appointed by former President Barack Obama.

Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella levine Cava,who has previously voiced objections to the facility and requested access for monitoring,welcomed the construction halt as “an overdue and necessary step.” She reiterated concerns regarding conditions within the facility and its potential environmental impact, pledging to continue advocating for transparency and accountability to protect the local community and environment.

Background: The Everglades and the Controversy Surrounding “Alligator Alcatraz”

The Everglades is a unique subtropical wetland ecosystem spanning over 1.5 million acres in South Florida. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it provides critical habitat for numerous endangered species, including the Florida panther, American crocodile, and various wading birds. The Everglades also serves as a vital source of freshwater for millions of Floridians.

The “Alligator Alcatraz” detention center, located within the Everglades, has drawn widespread criticism from environmental groups, Native American tribes, and some local officials. Concerns center on the potential for habitat destruction, water contamination from waste disposal, light pollution disrupting wildlife behaviour, and the overall impact on the fragile ecosystem. Opponents also question the suitability of the location, citing the challenges of construction and operation in a sensitive wetland environment.

The legal battle over the facility is ongoing, with the next hearing scheduled to address the conservation groups’ motion for a preliminary injunction. The outcome of that hearing will determine whether construction remains halted for a longer period.

Reuters contributed to this report.

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