Florida 'Alligator Alcatraz' Detention Center Opens Amid Safety, Environmental Concerns

The newly opened migrant detention center in Florida, dubbed "Alligator Alcatraz," has sparked significant controversy regarding environmental impact and detainee welfare. Environmental groups and lawsuits challenge state officials' claims that no new construction occurred, citing aerial photos showing new paving and lighting that contradict these statements. Governor Ron DeSantis and the Florida Division of Emergency Management maintain the facility was built on existing airport infrastructure and deny environmental harm, despite concerns about the sensitive Big Cypress National Preserve. Detainees, including Cuban artist Leamsy La Figura, report harsh conditions such as lack of water for bathing, limited and spoiled food, and denial of medical and religious needs, prompting calls for oversight from local officials. The rapid construction of the facility, completed in just over a week, has raised safety concerns amid the looming hurricane season, with videos showing temporary flooding during storms and questions about the site's resilience. These issues have fueled ongoing debates over the humanitarian and environmental implications of the detention center, which is designed to hold up to 3,000 migrants.