Trump Proposes Federal Funding to Convert Alcatraz Museum Back Into Maximum Security Prison

U.S. President Donald Trump has requested $152 million in the 2027 federal budget for planning to reactivate the former Alcatraz prison as a modern correctional facility. The proposal, outlined in a White House budget document, would transform the current museum site into a high-security institution. Alcatraz operated from 1934 to 1963 on an island in San Francisco Bay, gaining notoriety as America's most feared penitentiary housing notorious criminals like Al Capone. The facility closed due to high operational costs and deterioration from marine conditions. Since 1972, it has functioned as a popular tourist destination and museum while also serving as a protected bird sanctuary. Trump previously announced intentions in May 2023 to reopen an expanded and renovated Alcatraz to incarcerate the nation's most violent offenders, describing it as a symbol of law and order. Experts estimate renovation costs could reach $2 billion. Historical records indicate the prison never reached its 336-inmate capacity, typically housing 260-275 prisoners representing less than one percent of the federal inmate population. The budget proposal now goes to Congress for final approval.