SAN FRANCISCO — Federal Bureau of Prisons Director William Marshall says his team is actively exploring the possibility of reopening Alcatraz, the former maximum-security prison that once housed some of America’s most notorious inmates.
Speaking in a recent interview on Fox News, Marshall shared his enthusiasm for the project, calling it an “exciting opportunity” and one that aligns with the Trump administration’s law-and-order priorities.
“To have the opportunity to be the director of the Bureau of Prisons, and to have the opportunity to reopen Alcatraz — how exciting does that appeal?” Marshall said. “You get that feeling about Alcatraz when you think of those historical facilities like Fenway Park.”
Alcatraz, nicknamed “The Rock,” was shut down in 1963 after nearly three decades of operation. Its crumbling infrastructure and isolation in the San Francisco Bay made it a challenge to maintain. While it has since become a popular tourist destination, the idea of returning it to operational status as a federal prison is being taken seriously following a directive from President Donald Trump earlier in May.
Engineering teams are already conducting assessments on the site, Marshall said. He also noted that construction would require updated materials that are more compatible with the island’s infrastructure needs.
“Everything out there currently is concrete and steel,” Marshall said. “With lighter-weight materials and modern construction, we should be able to have a structure that’s more feasible for the environment.”
While no timeline was given, Marshall indicated that more site visits and evaluations are underway.
As of now, the Bureau of Prisons operates 16 high-security facilities, including the ADX Florence supermax in Colorado and USP Terre Haute in Indiana — home to the federal death chamber.
Beyond the symbolic weight of reopening Alcatraz, Marshall emphasized his broader goals for the Bureau: reestablishing a culture of accountability and transparency, and improving outcomes for those leaving prison.
“We need to reestablish a culture and sense of accountability and transparency — everything that goes into a good organization,” said Marshall, who brings prior experience in state corrections and law enforcement in West Virginia. “I want to get to the facilities, walk the halls, see our people and hear what they have to say.”
Marshall also touched on the Bureau’s efforts to reduce recidivism, highlighting ongoing initiatives under the First Step Act and Second Chance Act. He said the Bureau has designated a First Step Act coordinator to focus on reentry strategies, and he outlined plans to expand access to education and vocational programs, including through technology.
“We want to bring in tablets for the inmates so they can do their education and vocation,” he said. “That way, even if there’s a lockdown, they can still complete their programming.”
Marshall said the agency is also working to streamline access to essential documents like birth certificates and IDs prior to release, removing barriers that often stand between individuals and a fresh start.
“We want good neighbors and good people in our communities,” he said. “We have a responsibility to make sure these individuals have everything they need to get back to their lives and families. It’s better for our country — and it’s a public safety issue.”
Marshall acknowledged the symbolic significance of reopening Alcatraz, but made clear that his priority is supporting corrections professionals and ensuring the federal prison system operates with integrity.
“I’m excited to have the opportunity to push forward the president’s agenda and make it as great as it can be,” he said.
