The Department of Homeland Security says it is building a new detention facility at the Buffalo Federal Detention Facility in Batavia.
A DHS spokesperson says it will be able to house 100 people who are in the country illegally. The agency says this is necessary because New York restricts counties from contracting with ICE.
DHS issued a statement saying in part:
“The facility will provide a safe, secure and humane environment for individuals in ICE custody and will operate in accordance with applicable National Detention Standards. As with all ICE detention facilities, detainees will have access to comprehensive medical care, mental health services, legal access, religious accommodations, recreation and other required services. The facility will be subject to the same oversight, inspection, and operational requirements that govern ICE detention facilities nationwide.”
This is not the only planned immigration detention facility in the area. Plans to place an ICE detention facility inside the Kenneth B. Keating Building in downtown Rochester are currently moving forward.
The plan has generated significant backlash from advocates and community members, as well as federal, state and local leaders.