If you've ever wanted to spend a night on Alcatraz, the National Parks Service might be coming up with your next staycation destination. In a lengthy proposal (which the Examiner handily broke down for you), the Golden Gate Recreation Area details a couple possible plans to spruce up the facilities and restore historical structures while also adding new tourist draws like overnight accommodations and concessions on the island.
The proposed hostel would be "a modest dorm-like" environment in to the old guard barracks [pictured], so if you were dreaming of spending the night in Al Capone's cell, we're sorry to report that won't be happening. (Yet?) At the moment, the plan is to open the hostel to vistors who come for the park's "education, conservation, stewardship programs." So, assuming the plan goes through, visitors will have to work for the privilege of an Alcataz stay.
Other proposed changes to the island include removing the boathouse addition and opening up previously off-limits sections like the Parade Grounds and the perimeter areas where nature lovers can get a more natural look at the island.
Of course, the plan isn't without it's opponents: The local chapter of the Audubon Society is already worried about what increased traffic and all that litter from people food could do to the half-dozen species of bird life that make their home out there. GGNRA has already included plans to rehab the avian habitats on the island, but for an added history lesson, we might suggest they look in to hiring a professional Birdman of Alcatraz impersonator to handle the island's ornithological duties.
