Washington: The proposal led by Donald Trump has included a request for $152 million (approximately £115 million) to revive the Alcatraz prison as part of the 2027 fiscal budget. The plan has aimed to rebuild the former federal penitentiary into a state-of-the-art secure facility, with funding covering the initial phase of development.
Situated near San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz has been widely known for its history as one of the most notorious prisons in the United States. The facility was shut down in 1963 due to rising operational costs and infrastructure limitations. Since then, it has operated as a tourist attraction managed by the National Park Service, generating around $60 million (£45 million) in annual revenue.
The Trump-led plan has been part of a broader $1.7 billion (£1.3 billion) investment into the Bureau of Prisons. According to the proposal, the rebuilt Alcatraz prison would be designed to house some of the most dangerous offenders in the country.
The proposal has faced criticism from several political leaders, including Nancy Pelosi, who has opposed the plan citing financial and practical concerns. Pelosi has argued that converting the landmark into a prison would not be a justified use of public funds.
Additional concerns have focused on the logistical difficulties of operating a prison on an island. The absence of natural water and sewage systems has meant that all essential supplies would need to be transported by boat, increasing operational complexity.
Historical data from the US Bureau of Prisons has indicated that Alcatraz was nearly three times more expensive to operate than other federal prisons before its closure. Critics have also warned that reviving the prison could risk losing its global recognition as a historic site. The Trump proposal will require approval from the US Congress before any construction or redevelopment begins.
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