FAMAGUSTA GAZETTE – A federal judge has ordered a temporary halt to construction at a migrant detention center in Florida known as “Alligator Alcatraz,” following a lawsuit alleging violations of environmental laws.
The lawsuit was filed by environmental groups and the Miccosukee Tribe, who argue the project threatens sensitive wetlands and could undermine restoration efforts in the Everglades.
U.S. District Judge Kathleen Williams issued a 14-day injunction Wednesday, barring workers from continuing construction at the site. The facility may remain operational during that time, but no new development is allowed.
The plaintiffs claim the center, located on a former airstrip in Big Cypress National Preserve, endangers protected plant and animal species, including the Florida panther. They also allege the project did not undergo proper environmental review under the National Environmental Policy Act.
A hearing on a longer-term injunction is expected later this month.