Escalating financial setback for Florida: Trump's 'Alligator Alcatraz' detention center faces closure, potentially costing the state $218m

In a significant ruling, US District Judge Kathleen Williams has ordered the closure of Donald Trump's flagship immigration detention center in Florida, named 'Alligator Alcatraz'. The center, situated near the Everglades National Park, has been the subject of legal challenges due to its controversial nature.

The center, originally a training airport, was swiftly converted into a detention facility, featuring chain-link fences and large white tents containing bunk beds for detained immigrants. Removals of migrants have begun according to state officials, and the facility has been operational since July 1. President Trump visited the center in August.

The legal motion to prevent the closure of Alligator Alcatraz was filed by environmental and indigenous groups, including the Sierra Club and the Native American tribes such as the Pit River Tribe. The challenge was brought jointly by these groups and the Miccosukee Tribe of Native Americans.

Judge Williams found that environmental surveys were not conducted for the center, which is located within a UNESCO Wetland Area of Global Importance. This oversight has raised concerns about the potential impact on the delicate Everglades ecosystem.

Despite requests to pause the order for the site to wind down operations, Judge Williams denied them last Wednesday. The Department of Homeland Security is now complying with the order and moving detainees to other facilities.

The state of Florida claims it will lose $218 million (£161.4 million) if the center remains closed, as stated in court filings. Florida has signed vendor contracts worth at least $405 million for the site. However, the current status of the number of migrants being held at the facility is unknown.

The intended purpose of Alligator Alcatraz is to serve as a prototype for multiple immigration detention centers. The closure of this facility could potentially set a precedent for future challenges to similar projects.

As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how this decision will impact the immigration detention system in the United States and the preservation of the Everglades ecosystem.