Construction of ICE Detention Center to Commence in Rochester
ROCHESTER, N.Y. — Construction of an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention center in downtown Rochester is set to begin later this month, as confirmed by Democratic U.S. Representative Joe Morrell.
Location and Project Details
The facility will be situated inside the Kenneth B. Keating Federal Building on State Street. On Friday, Morrell expressed his discontent with the Trump administration’s decision to move forward with this project, highlighting the substantial objections raised by local leaders and residents.
Political Opposition from Democratic Leaders
In March, Senators Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand joined Morrell in sending a letter to the Department of Homeland Security, condemning the establishment of the detention center. Morrell announced on Friday that he received confirmation construction would commence on May 23 and is expected to last over a year.
Details of the Detention Facility
The project entails the installation of multiple holding cells, detainee transfer zones, enhanced perimeter fencing, restricted parking in the surrounding areas, and various other security enhancements.
Community Response and Concerns
Morrell criticized the federal government for disregarding local community concerns and providing evasive responses regarding the potential impact of this facility on families and children who frequent the building. He stated that the development of the detention center embodies the Trump administration’s immigration policy, asserting that Rochester residents have every right to express their outrage. Morrell vowed to continue opposing this “reckless decision.”
Republican Committee’s Defense of the Project
The Monroe County Republican Committee defended the location of the federal building, deeming it suitable for federal proceedings. Their statement noted that utilizing federal buildings for immigration-related matters should not be viewed as controversial. They argued that keeping processing local is not just practical but compassionate, allowing individuals to stay near their families and legal representation, which also streamlines case management.
Call for Public Input and Community Values
Democratic Senator Jeremy Cooney emphasized that Rochester residents deserve a platform for public input regarding the plan. Cooney argued that such detention centers contradict the core values of Rochester as a sanctuary city, warning that their presence in the heart of downtown could instill fear among residents. He further stated that if tax dollars were to be allocated for building a new detention center, an open discussion should take place.
