El Paso, TX – Amid reports of potential closure, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has confirmed that Camp East Montana in El Paso, Texas, will remain open and is undergoing operational upgrades. The facility, located at Fort Bliss, will not be shuttered as some reports suggested, but will instead benefit from a new contract and increased resources aimed at improving conditions for detainees.
The announcement comes after a document distributed to ICE staff indicated the agency was drafting a letter to terminate the facility’s $1.2 billion contract, according to reporting from The Washington Post. However, ICE officials characterized the initial contract termination as a strategic move by Secretary Noem to elevate standards and enhance services at the detention center.
“Camp East Montana is NOT closing, quite the opposite,” an ICE spokesperson stated. “Rather, ICE has contracted with a new provider following Secretary Noem’s termination of the classic contract inherited from the Department of War. ICE is always looking at ways to improve our detention facilities to ensure we are providing the best care to those in our custody.”
Camp East Montana is photographed Friday, March 6, 2026, in El Paso, Texas. (Omar Ornelas/El Paso Times / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images)
New Contract Details and Planned Improvements
The new contract, according to ICE, will allow the facility to maintain “the highest detention standards” while expanding oversight capabilities. Key improvements include increased on-site medical care, additional staffing, and the implementation of a “PRECISE quality assurance surveillance plan.” The agency emphasized that the updated agreement will also strengthen ICE’s direct oversight of operations at the El Paso-area facility.
The move comes as the facility has faced scrutiny regarding its operations. Recent reports have highlighted concerns about conditions within Camp East Montana. However, ICE maintains that the upgrades are a proactive step towards ensuring the well-being of those in its custody. The agency did not immediately disclose the identity of the new contractor or a specific timeline for the full implementation of the improvements.
Facility’s History and Previous Concerns
Camp East Montana, originally established as part of the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement efforts, has been used to house thousands of detainees. The facility has been the subject of ongoing debate regarding immigration policy and the treatment of individuals in detention.
In February 2026, The Los Angeles Times reported on 911 calls revealing instances of attempted suicides, fights, and medical emergencies at the facility, painting a picture of challenging conditions for detainees. The Texas Tribune reported the detection of two cases of tuberculosis at the facility earlier this month, raising public health concerns.
Looking Ahead
The decision to upgrade and maintain operations at Camp East Montana signals a continued commitment to utilizing the facility as part of ICE’s detention infrastructure. The success of the improvements will likely depend on the effectiveness of the new contractor and the implementation of the “PRECISE” quality assurance plan. Further details regarding the contractor’s identity and the specific timeline for the upgrades are expected to be released by ICE in the coming weeks. The agency will be closely monitored to ensure the promised improvements are realized and contribute to a safer and more humane environment for those in detention.
What are your thoughts on the continued operation of Camp East Montana? Share your perspective in the comments below.
