With the recent news about Trump wanting to open up Alcatraz and return it to being a federal prison, I thought I would weigh in since I am a long-time resident and now an often-time visitor to San Francisco.
First, the prison has been closed for 60 years and there are many reasons for that.
Because of the weather, wind, rain, etc., most of the buildings have deteriorated so much they are no longer safe to be in. They have maintained the main prison building enough to make it safe enough for tourists. Second, there is no water on the island. Every drop of water has to be brought in by boat. It’s about a 30 minute ferry boat ride from the Embarcadero in San Francisco.
Even though it’s a bay, it quite often gets storms with high waves. All personnel, such as guards, etc., would have to be ferried back and forth to the island.
Also all the many things needed to maintain a prison, like food, would also have to be taken to the island by boat.
In its history there were only three prisoners that ever escaped. They were never found, so no one knows if they actually escaped or drowned and washed out to sea. The only good thing about the island is that it has terrific views of the San Francisco skyline.
It simply won’t work. Trump is only using the idea to distract from his problems about the Epstein files.
Having said all that, I would highly suggest anyone who can take the ferry boat ride and visit the island. It’s a nice three or four hour treat and the views are breathtaking.
Jack Lader, South Jordan
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