600-foot protective buffer zone established around Anson’s Bluebonnet Detention Facility

ANSON, Texas (KTAB/KRBC) – A 600-foot protective buffer zone has been established around Anson’s Bluebonnet Detention Facility to further public safety in the area.

The City of Anson designated the Bluebonnet Detention facility as critical infrastructure Friday, which allowed them to enact the buffer zone.

This zone will hopefully, “prevent disruptions to ingress and egress routes, deter surveillance activities, and reduce the potential for protest-related interference.”

Protestors will still be able to exercise their constitutional rights in alternative areas outside the designated zones.

Read the full press release from the City of Anson on their decision to create the buffer zone below:

The City of Anson has formally designated the Bluebonnet Detention Facility as a critical infrastructure facility through a newly enacted city ordinance. This decision reflects the city’s commitment to safeguarding public safety, supporting federal operations, and protecting the economic and operational integrity of the community.

The Bluebonnet Detention Facility, operated under contract with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), plays a central role in upholding national security and immigration enforcement objectives. The facility is also one of the region’s largest employers, significantly contributing to the city’s economy and public services.

“This designation ensures we can maintain the safety of our community, protect city resources, and support our law enforcement partners,” said Anson Police Chief Daniel Graziose. “The ordinance is a measured and necessary step to secure our local infrastructure and public order.”

Under the new ordinance, a 600-foot protective buffer zone is established around the facility. This zone is intended to prevent disruptions to ingress and egress routes, deter surveillance activities, and reduce the potential for protest-related interference. The city emphasizes that the ordinance preserves constitutional rights by ensuring alternative protest areas remain accessible outside the designated zone.

The decision was made pursuant to Anson’s authority as a home-rule municipality and consistent with Texas statutes that allow local governments to define and protect critical infrastructure, including detention facilities.

By taking this proactive measure, the City of Anson strengthens its role in emergency preparedness, ensures the continuity of essential detention operations, and supports a vital economic engine for the region.