Federal immigration authorities are expanding ICE detention capacity by purchasing large warehouse properties across the United States, a strategy that is drawing opposition from residents and local officials in multiple communities.
The Trump administration, through U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, is pursuing plans to acquire and convert as many as 23 warehouse facilities into immigration detention centers. The effort could represent the largest expansion of immigration detention space in US history. Two warehouse purchases have already been completed for a combined $172 million, while a proposed site in El Paso, Texas, could hold as many as 8,500 detainees if built as planned.
The purchases cover only the buildings themselves. ICE must still contract with private companies to retrofit the structures with living quarters, sanitation, dining areas, medical facilities, and security infrastructure before operations can begin.
Public opposition has intensified as details emerge. In some cases, that pressure has halted proposed sales. A Canadian billionaire’s company withdrew from selling a warehouse in Virginia after learning it would be used as a detention facility. In Oklahoma City, Mayor David Holt said warehouse owners decided against selling or leasing to ICE following community concerns.
Local officials in smaller municipalities say the facilities could overwhelm existing infrastructure. In Social Circle, Georgia, city manager Eric Taylor said the town does not have sufficient water, sewage, or public safety resources to support a proposed 8,500-bed center located near an elementary school.
Demonstrations have followed proposed sites. In Hagerstown, Maryland, more than 200 people protested in January. Senator Chris Van Hollen addressed the crowd, saying, “One of the most obscene, one of the most inhumane, one of the most illegal operations being carried out by this Trump Administration is what they’re doing at the Department of Homeland Security and ICE. We do not want an ICE facility here in the state of Maryland.”
Immigration policy experts have raised concerns about conditions in large-scale facilities. Emma Winger, deputy legal director at the American Immigration Council, questioned whether adequate care is feasible, saying, “I suppose there’s ways to build enough toilets and private places. But the various health needs of people in these facilities and ensuring that you even know who you’re holding and who has vulnerabilities and who needs medication — it just seems impossible.”
ICE and the Department of Homeland Security did not respond to requests for comment.
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