Florida is preparing Camp Blanding, a National Guard training center in Starke, as a possible immigration detention facility. As of August 2025, the site is not yet operational, but planning and debate continue as state officials push for expanded immigration enforcement.
Current Status and State Actions
On June 30, 2025, Governor Ron DeSantis announced that the “Alligator Alcatraz” facility at Dade-Collier Training and Transition Airport would soon open to hold up to 5,000 suspected undocumented immigrants. He also confirmed that similar plans are under review for Camp Blanding. However, by mid-July, DeSantis clarified that “plans aren’t moving forward with Camp Blanding yet,” meaning the site is still in the planning stage and not yet used as an immigration detention facility.
The Florida Division of Emergency Management is leading the planning for Camp Blanding. Official documents show the state is considering how to provide food, medical care, disability accommodations, and evacuation plans for up to 1,000 detainees and staff. Many details remain undecided or redacted, and there is no public evacuation plan in case of hurricanes—a major concern for the area.
Policy Changes and National Trends
Florida’s push to expand detention capacity fits into a larger national trend of increased immigration enforcement and deportations. The state is positioning itself as a leader in these efforts, with Governor Ron DeSantis and Attorney General James Uthmeier as the main supporters. The 2025 National Detention Standards require that detainees receive medical, dental, and mental health care, three showers per week, three balanced meals daily, and access to religious materials.
The cost of detaining and removing each person now averages over $17,000. To address costs, the government has started a self-deportation program, offering a $1,000 stipend for people who choose to return to their home countries voluntarily.
Community Response and Opposition
The Camp Blanding plan has sparked strong reactions from local residents, advocacy groups, and faith leaders. Many have organized protests and rallies, raising concerns about the humanitarian and moral impact of detaining migrants, especially those fleeing violence or poverty. Environmental groups have filed lawsuits to block detention centers in sensitive areas, such as the Everglades, and are closely watching developments at Camp Blanding.
Faith leaders and activists argue that detaining migrants goes against American values and lessons from history, pointing to past internment practices as a warning. Critics also worry about the economic and social costs, such as diverting resources from local communities and risking human rights violations.
Facility Requirements and Procedures
If Camp Blanding becomes an immigration detention facility, it would need major upgrades to meet federal standards for health, safety, and humane treatment. Planning documents outline several requirements:
- Food Service: Four meals daily for detainees and staff, with at least two hot meals.
- Medical Care: On-site medical and behavioral health services, a pharmacy, and regular health checks.
- Disability Accommodations: Facilities must be accessible for people with disabilities.
- Evacuation Protocols: Plans for safe evacuation during hurricanes or other emergencies, though no final plan exists yet.
- Basic Needs: Each detainee would receive bedding (one pillow, blanket, towel, two sheets, pillowcase).
- Other Services: A dedicated behavioral health building, barber operations, and a functioning medical clinic.
The facility would operate under the 2025 National Detention Standards, which set rules for detainee care. However, recent reports from similar sites like Alligator Alcatraz show problems with medication delivery and religious access, raising concerns about whether Camp Blanding could meet these standards.
Legal and Environmental Challenges
Environmental groups have already filed lawsuits to stop construction of detention centers in sensitive areas. They are monitoring Camp Blanding closely for any signs of environmental harm. Legal challenges may delay or change the state’s plans, especially if evacuation and safety procedures remain unclear.
Community groups, including the Jewish Council of North Central Florida and Trinity Metropolitan Community Church, have joined local immigrant rights organizations in opposing the facility. They argue that the plan could harm vulnerable people and damage the community’s reputation.
Background and Historical Context
Camp Blanding has long served as a National Guard training site, not an immigration detention center. Its proposed conversion is part of a recent wave of state-level immigration enforcement measures following federal policy changes in 2024 and 2025. The controversy over Camp Blanding mirrors debates about other large-scale detention facilities in Florida, such as the Dade-Collier “Alligator Alcatraz” site, which has faced lawsuits and widespread protest.
Implications for Immigrants and Local Communities
If Camp Blanding opens as an immigration detention facility, it could house up to 1,000 people at a time. This would have a big impact on immigrants, who may face long detention periods and uncertain legal outcomes. Families could be separated, and local communities might see increased tension and resource strain.
For local residents, the plan raises questions about safety, emergency preparedness, and the use of public funds. Many worry about the risks of housing large numbers of people in an area prone to hurricanes, especially without a clear evacuation plan.
Looking Ahead
As of August 2025, Camp Blanding’s future as an immigration detention center is still undecided. The state government continues to explore ways to expand detention capacity, but faces strong opposition from advocacy groups, residents, and environmental organizations. Ongoing lawsuits and public scrutiny may delay or change the plan.
For official updates on the Camp Blanding plan and other emergency management efforts, readers can visit the Florida Division of Emergency Management. For information about national detention standards, the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) website provides detailed guidelines.
As reported by VisaVerge.com, Florida’s approach to immigration detention is being watched closely by other states and national policymakers. The outcome at Camp Blanding could set a precedent for how states handle immigration enforcement in the future.
Practical Guidance for Affected Individuals
- Stay Informed: Monitor official state and federal websites for updates on facility status and legal changes.
- Know Your Rights: If you or someone you know may be affected, consult with local immigrant rights organizations for legal support.
- Community Support: Join local advocacy or faith groups to stay connected and informed about protests, rallies, and support services.
- Prepare for Emergencies: If living near Camp Blanding, review local emergency plans and evacuation routes, especially during hurricane season.
The debate over Camp Blanding highlights the complex balance between immigration enforcement, community values, and the rights of vulnerable people. As plans develop, ongoing public input and legal oversight will play a key role in shaping the future of immigration detention in Florida.
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