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The Department of Defense is working on constructing the largest federal migrant detention facility in the United States at Fort Bliss in Texas. This facility is expected to accommodate up to 5,000 beds for individuals who have entered the country illegally.
During a press briefing on Thursday, Pentagon Press Secretary Kingsley Wilson revealed the plans for the project, mentioning that construction commenced in July.
“Work has started to create initial detainment capacity for 1,000 illegal immigrants, with the possibility of reaching initial operating capacity by mid to late August,” Wilson stated. “Upon accomplishing the initial setup, we will proceed with the construction of up to 5,000 beds in the coming weeks and months.”
Wilson emphasized that this facility will become the largest of its kind in U.S. history, serving the crucial mission of deporting illegal immigrants.
The establishment of this new facility is in line with President Donald Trump’s executive order to protect Americans from an invasion.
Recent announcements include Indiana Gov. Mike Braun’s statement about building a facility named the “Speedway Slammer” at the Miami Correctional Center, situated between Indianapolis and Fort Wayne. This facility, with a capacity of up to 1,000 migrants, will be operational soon.
“We are pleased to collaborate with President Trump and Secretary Noem as they remove the most severe offenders through this innovative partnership,” Braun mentioned in a statement on Tuesday. “Indiana is taking a comprehensive and collaborative approach to address illegal immigration and will continue to lead among states.”
The funding for this project is derived from a reconciliation bill signed by Trump recently, referred to as the “one big, beautiful bill.”
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) highlighted that this legislation supports the 287(g) program, which promotes coordination between Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and local authorities, as well as 80,000 ICE detention beds.
The Trump administration continues to carry out deportation operations while encouraging undocumented immigrants without additional criminal records to consider self-deportation.
Individuals who voluntarily leave the country are eligible for a $1,000 incentive and complimentary travel, potentially allowing for legal reentry in the future, according to DHS.
Another facility, known informally as “Alligator Alcatraz,” opened recently under the supervision of federal officials and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis. This facility functions as a staging center for deportations.
Initially funded by the state, the facility will also receive support from the Federal Emergency Management Agency. It currently accommodates 2,000 individuals, with plans to double its capacity. Deportation flights have already begun.
The facility was transformed from a decommissioned airport in the Everglades. There is a possibility of a second center being established, as per WJHL. State officials have faced criticism from immigration and environmental advocacy groups regarding the facility’s location and purpose.
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Fox News Digital’s Greg Norman and Cameron Arcand contributed to this report.
