BREAKING: Federal judge halts additional construction at Alligator Alcatraz due to environmental concerns

District Judge Kathleen Williams issued a temporary restraining order Thursday that halts any additional paving, fencing, lighting installation, filling, or excavation at the site known as Alligator Alcatraz. The order is set to last for two weeks.

The legal challenge was brought by the Miccosukee Tribe, along with Friends of the Everglades, the Center for Biological Diversity, and Earthjustice. The groups are seeking to pause operations at the site until a full environmental review is completed. They argue that construction was pushed forward without complying with federal requirements that mandate environmental assessments for major federal projects.

The site, which sits on an old airstrip inside the preserve, has been under development as the state seeks to expand its capacity to detain up to 3,000 individuals. The DeSantis administration has supported the expansion effort.

During two days of hearings, scientists warned that construction activities at the site—including pavement and high-powered lighting—could harm the surrounding ecosystem. They testified that the work may displace wildlife such as the Florida panther and contribute to runoff containing carcinogens.

Witnesses said they observed frequent truck traffic carrying fill and construction materials, describing the location as an active construction zone.

The court order prevents further physical development while the judge considers whether federal environmental law was violated.

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