ICE Prepares Environmental Reviews for Proposed Detention Facilities at Texas Warehouse Sites

The Department of Homeland Security is continuing efforts to transform warehouses into large-scale immigration detention centers. US Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials recently discussed plans to award contracts for construction and operations at warehouse sites in San Antonio and near El Paso.

The Trump administration is examining how to continue work at a warehouse site near Hagerstown, Maryland, while complying with a court order limiting construction activity there.

The warehouse initiative is a central part of the Trump administration’s broader deportation agenda. Officials argue the facilities will allow ICE to process and detain illegal immigrants more efficiently through centralized hubs capable of housing large numbers of detainees.

ICE is preparing environmental assessments for the two Texas sites, with the goal of having both facilities operational by early 2027.

Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin ordered a review of the estimated $38 billion project after taking office earlier this year. The plan was originally launched under former DHS Secretary Kristi Noem. A DHS spokesperson said the department is reviewing policies and proposals adopted before Mullin assumed leadership.

Several states have filed lawsuits claiming the administration failed to complete environmental reviews required under federal law. Critics from both political parties have attacked the proposal. The administration appears determined to move forward with the project despite the legal challenges.