
What Happens if Inmates Move Into MT’s MetraPark?
A summary of the key information is provided at the bottom of the article.
BUTTE, MT - A new move has already sparked both support and controversy.

Yellowstone County commissioners have proposed repurposing Billings' MetraPark—a venue renowned for concerts, fairs, and community events—to detain individuals apprehended under recent federal immigration directives.
This proposal aims to address overcrowding in local detention facilities but raises significant questions about the suitability and implications of such a transformation.
The Proposal Unveiled
On January 23, 2025, Commission Chair Mark Morse, with the backing of fellow commissioners John Ostlund and Mike Waters, extended an offer to federal authorities to utilize MetraPark's expansive 189-acre campus for detention purposes.
Citing the overcapacity issues at the Yellowstone County Detention Facility and neighboring jails, the commissioners highlighted MetraPark's vast arena, commercial kitchen, expo center, and pavilion as assets that could be repurposed to accommodate detainees.
Potential Benefits
- Alleviating Jail OvercrowdingThe primary advantage of this proposal is the immediate relief it could provide to the overcrowded local detention facilities.
By utilizing MetraPark, the county could manage the anticipated influx of detainees without compromising the safety and operations of existing jails.
- Resource UtilizationMetraPark boasts facilities that, with appropriate modifications, could serve detention needs. The presence of a large commercial kitchen, ample space, and existing infrastructure could reduce the time and cost required to establish a new detention center from scratch.
- Economic ConsiderationsThe county has invested millions in upgrading MetraPark, partly through federal funds from the American Rescue Plan Act.
Repurposing the venue could be seen as maximizing the return on these investments, especially during periods when the park is underutilized.
Concerns and Detriments
- Community BacklashMetraPark holds a special place in the hearts of Billings residents, serving as a central hub for cultural and recreational activities. Transforming it into a detention center could lead to public outcry, with citizens feeling deprived of a cherished community space.
- Event DisruptionsThe venue hosts numerous events annually, including the popular MontanaFair, which attracts over 225,000 attendees.
Repurposing MetraPark could lead to the cancellation or relocation of these events, resulting in economic losses for local businesses and disappointment for residents.
- Security and Safety ConcernsAdapting an entertainment venue into a detention facility may pose security challenges. Ensuring the safety of both detainees and the surrounding community would require significant planning and resources.
- Ethical and Image ImplicationsHousing detainees in a space traditionally used for community gatherings could send mixed messages about the county's values and priorities. It may also affect the venue's reputation, potentially deterring future events and partnerships.
How Would the Transfer Process Work?
If MetraPark were to be repurposed as a detention center, the logistics of transferring inmates would be a critical consideration.
Federal and local authorities would need to coordinate closely to ensure a secure, efficient, and minimally disruptive process. Here’s how it might unfold:
- Infrastructure Modifications
Before any transfers take place, MetraPark’s facilities would need significant modifications to meet security and operational standards.This could include installing fences, surveillance systems, and secure access points, as well as repurposing existing structures like the Expo Center and pavilion into temporary housing units. The commercial kitchen would likely be retrofitted to handle meal preparation for detainees. - Transportation Logistics
Transferring detainees would require a well-coordinated effort between law enforcement and transportation services.Inmates would likely be brought to MetraPark via secured vehicles, potentially under federal oversight, to ensure safe and orderly arrivals. To minimize public disruptions, transfers might occur during off-peak hours or be staggered over several days. - Staffing and Training
A dedicated staff, including corrections officers, medical personnel, and administrative workers, would need to be assigned to MetraPark.These individuals would require specialized training to operate within the venue’s unique setup, balancing security measures with humane treatment of detainees. - Managing Daily Operations
Day-to-day operations at MetraPark would likely include managing meals, healthcare, and recreation for detainees.Systems would also need to be in place to monitor and prevent contraband while ensuring detainees have access to legal representation and communication with families. - Community Communication
Public perception and community support would hinge on how the transfer and subsequent operations are handled.Officials would likely hold informational sessions or town hall meetings to address concerns and outline the measures in place to ensure safety for the surrounding area.
This process, while logistically feasible, would require significant investment and cooperation from multiple levels of government.
Whether such a transformation is practical—or desirable—remains a question for the residents of Billings to consider.
Conclusion
The proposal to repurpose MetraPark as a detention center presents a complex interplay of logistical benefits and community concerns. While it offers a potential solution to pressing detention facility shortages, it also threatens to alter the fabric of a beloved community landmark.
As discussions progress, it is imperative for county officials to engage with the public, weigh the pros and cons meticulously, and consider alternative solutions that balance security needs with community interests.
Summary:
Yellowstone County commissioners have proposed repurposing MetraPark in Billings, Montana, as a temporary detention center to address overcrowding in local jails from illegal immigrant round-ups. While the venue’s size and facilities make it a viable option, the plan has sparked mixed reactions. Supporters highlight its potential to alleviate jail congestion and make use of existing infrastructure, while critics worry about event disruptions, community backlash, and security challenges.
If implemented, the process would involve modifying MetraPark for security, coordinating inmate transfers, hiring trained staff, and managing daily operations. Public input and government collaboration would be essential to ensure the transition meets both safety needs and community expectations. Ultimately, the proposal raises a key question: should a beloved community hub like MetraPark be transformed to address detention needs?
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