Every once in a while (read: all too frequently) we come across a development proposal that sets off a little bell: "This one," we say to ourselves "is going to cause a riot." Hyperbole? Perhaps, though we simply can't see Alcatraz— Fort Mason Center and its sadsack outbuildings, to be specific— redeveloped into hotels, gift shops, and event space without a ruckus (though hell, if the Global Peace Center made it onto the ballot, maybe we're wrong.) Three proposals are on the boards, the first focusing on turning Alcatraz into a circus providing visitor amenities; numero deuce promotes ecotourism, while the last will scare 'em straight by focusing on the island's history and recreating some sort of Panopticonic jail cell mies en scène. Environmentalists, stand down for a moment: all plans provide for "buffer zones" to protect the island's precious birds and foliage (some of which only exists on the island). Will the "Indians Welcome" sign survive? Developers might want to go with a "yes" on that one.
· Plans could bring life to Alcatraz [Examiner]
· Peace Will Have a Chance at Alcatraz [Curbed SF]
The Golden Gate National Recreation Area has drafted three scenarios for Alcatraz Island’s future:
Connecting People with the Parks: People could visit most of the island’s historic buildings, landscapes and natural resources. Visitors would follow trails through the island’s ecosystems all year around. Gull populations would be managed to prevent conflicts with tourist operations.
Preserving and Enjoying Coastal Ecosystems: Some of the buildings would be preserved, while weather and wildlife would overrun the rest. Most of the shoreline would be preserved to protect natural habitat. A 300-foot-wide marine reserve would ring most of the island
Focusing on National Treasures: The island’s buildings would undergo extensive stabilization, rehabilitation and restoration. Prison-themed ferries would help showcase the island’s history. A trail linking the island’s landmarks would close down during bird-breeding season.
Source: Golden Gate National Recreation Area via the SF Examiner
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