NewsWUSF — Tampa Bay NPR (Politics)August 7, 2026Hillsborough
Florida Highway Patrol seeks information for contractor-run detention centers
The Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) has issued a Request for Information (RFI) to explore the development of multiple private, contractor-operated detention centers across the state. These facilities are intended to house up to 50 adults each under the oversight of the U.S. government.
Read the full story at WUSF — Tampa Bay NPR (Politics)Why It Matters
This initiative signals a potential expansion of detention capacity in Florida through private contractors, which could impact state resources and local community infrastructure.
Key Facts
- The Florida Highway Patrol issued a formal Request for Information regarding new detention facilities.
- The plan involves building multiple detention centers throughout Florida.
- The facilities would be operated by private contractors.
- Each facility is designed to hold up to 50 adults.
- The U.S. Government would maintain oversight of the detainees held in these centers.
Who's Mentioned
organizationFlorida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles“Issued the Request for Information on behalf of the Florida Highway Patrol.”organizationU.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement“Federal agency associated with immigration detention.”other50“Number of adults each detention center is planned to hold.”organizationU.S. Government“The entity stated to have oversight of the proposed detention centers.”organizationFlorida Highway Patrol“The agency leading the initiative to solicit information for detention centers.”personAnna Eskamani“State Representative who criticized the proposal.”personEricka Gómez-Tejeda“Coordinator with the Immigrants Are Welcome Here coalition.”