Why Alcatraz Island was abruptly closed to tourists this week

LocalPolitics
21 Apr 2026 • 6:49 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

image is not available

  • Alcatraz Island has abruptly closed to tourists from Monday to Friday for dock repairs, with all scheduled tours being refunded.
  • This closure comes weeks after Donald Trump demanded more than $150 million to reopen the infamous prison facility.
  • Trump's administration's 2027 budget proposal seeks $152 million for the restoration of Alcatraz, which he suggested could house “vicious, violent, and repeat Criminal Offenders, the dregs of society”.
  • California Governor Gavin Newsom and Nancy Pelosi strongly criticised Trump's proposal, with Newsom calling it a “colossally bad fiscal idea”.
  • Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary originally closed in 1963 due to its high operational costs, being three times more expensive than other federal prisons because of its isolated location.

IN FULL

Newswav Malaysia Best News App

Newswav is an online content aggregator and obtains its content from different online sources. The content in the app do not belong to Newswav nor do they reflect the opinions of Newswav and its staff. Your use of this app indicates your understanding and acceptance of this information.

Newswav Sdn. Bhd. (201701008480 (1222645-M)) 2026 All Rights Reserved