The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) confirmed plans to purchase a significant warehouse in Ashland, Virginia. The 552,000-square-foot facility will become an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) processing center. This announcement follows heightened ICE operations in the Richmond area.
Details of the ICE Facility Acquisition
The warehouse is situated at 11525 Lakeridge Parkway, directly across from the Bass Pro Shop and adjacent to Interstate 95. The property spans 43 acres and was constructed in 2024 as a distribution center for Genpak, a food packaging firm. Jim Pattison Developments acquired the site for $7.6 million in 2022.
Upcoming Modifications and Community Involvement
The DHS letter outlined planned modifications for the facility. These include:
- Improvements to the building and parking areas
- Installation of fencing, lighting, and cameras
- Stormwater management and drainage enhancements
- Potential installation of a guard shack
The letter is dated January 21 and requests comments from Hanover County within 30 days. Local planning director Jo Ann Hunter will lead the response, with discussions scheduled at the supervisors’ meeting on January 28.
Community Concerns
Residents express concerns over the facility’s impact. During a public meeting, a county resident mentioned that the facility was included in a spreadsheet resulting from a DHS data breach, indicating it would have a capacity of 1,500 beds.
In 2023, Hanover County was identified as a “sanctuary jurisdiction” by the DHS for not obstructing federal immigration laws. The county maintains it cooperates fully with ICE operations.
Political Reactions to ICE’s Actions
Virginia’s leadership, including Governor Abigail Spanberger, has also reacted to the increased ICE presence. During her inauguration, she addressed the rising enforcement activities in the state and rescinded a previous order that required law enforcement to assist ICE.
U.S. Senator Tim Kaine emphasized the need for community engagement regarding the new facility. He criticized past immigration enforcement policies and called for transparency in ICE operations.
Conclusion
With the acquisition of the Ashland warehouse, ICE aims to bolster its presence in Virginia, which already includes detention centers in Farmville and Bowling Green. The local community’s response remains critical as further developments unfold around this significant federal project.
