An Immigrations and Custom Enforcement (ICE) facility continues moving toward completion in Williamsport, according to Gary Knarr, city zoning officer.

The property, at 2851 S. Reach Road according to city zoning information released Tuesday upon request, will replace administrative offices currently located near Lycoming and Union counties’ line.

“The building will house an ICE facility,” said Gary Knarr. Knarr spoke to the Sun-Gazette previously about the facility, explaining it will not house or jail immigrants.

Some ICE facilities elsewhere detain either illegal immigrants or immigrants whose asylum status is pending.

This facility will be for administrative office and is a permitted use within the “Open” zoning district, he said, adding that a permit was issued for both building/zoning on Sept. 23.

The permit was necessary in order for renovation of the existing metal building to provide holding processing support areas for ICE.

Upon the work being completed, and a final inspection and walk through by codes Administrator Joseph Gerardi and Knarr, an occupancy permit will be issued for them to occupy and utilize the facility.

The matter does not need to go before Williamsport City Council as open zoning use is permitted, Knarr said. An existing office used by ICE in Allenwood will be relocated at this facility, ICE public affairs noted.

The Bureau of Prisons declined to comment, citing safety concerns and stating as a policy it does not discuss internal BOP decisions and referring any further comments to ICE.