Staff Writer
A federal judge has ordered the State of Florida to stop construction and dismantle infrastructure at ‘Alligator Alcatraz’ in the Big Cypress National Preserve. The ruling gives the state 60 days to comply, following a lawsuit filed by environmental groups concerned about ecological impacts.
The injunction stems from a case brought by Friends of the Everglades, Inc. and the Center for Biological Diversity, which argued that the project violates environmental protections and threatens sensitive ecosystems. The lawsuit, filed June 27, cites noncompliance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and the Administrative Procedure Act (APA).
Lawsuit Challenges State’s Construction Plans
According to court documents, the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) took control of the site, an airport within the preserve, on June 23 and began construction without first conducting an environmental assessment.
Plaintiffs contend that the camp could harm wetlands, wildlife habitats, and air and water quality in an area critical to endangered species and located near Everglades National Park. The groups sought a Preliminary Injunction to block construction until compliance with federal, state, and local environmental laws is ensured.
State and Federal Roles
Governor Ron DeSantis previously stated that the detention center was requested and fully funded by the federal government. However, the lawsuit maintains that moving forward without an environmental review undermines longstanding protections for one of Florida’s most sensitive ecosystems.
What Comes Next
With the injunction in place, Florida officials must cease all new construction and begin dismantling existing infrastructure at the Big Cypress site. The ruling represents a significant legal victory for environmental organizations advocating for stronger oversight in development projects within federally protected lands.
Environmental advocates argue that the decision underscores the importance of conducting environmental reviews before breaking ground on projects in fragile ecosystems like the Everglades and Big Cypress Preserve.
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