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Florida's "Alligator Alcatraz" shutting down permanently, sources say
CBS News • • nation
Key Points:
- The Florida migrant detention center known as "Alligator Alcatraz" is undergoing full demobilization, ending a $1.2 billion state-run operation originally promoted by Gov. Ron DeSantis and former President Trump.
- The final detainees were relocated or deported last week, with officials citing hurricane season safety concerns as a reason for closure, though demobilization was planned from the start.
- The site, located in the Florida Everglades, will be repurposed as a small airport for pilot training after removal of fencing and structures.
- The facility's closure was anticipated by DeSantis, who stated the center had served its purpose, with escalating operational costs cited as a primary reason for shutting down.
- Despite initial claims that the federal government would reimburse Florida for expenses, the $1.2 billion cost has not yet been covered by federal funding.
