U.S-based Tutor Perini has landed a multi-million project contract to revamp San Fransisco’s Bay Alcatraz. Alcatraz, also known as “The Rock,” is set to get a $48.6 million makeover, after the National Park Service signed a deal with the firm for the Alcatraz Island Historic Structures Stabilization and Rehabilitation Project. The initiative in the San Francisco Bay area focuses on renovating and refurbishing the aging Alcatraz main prison building. The Alcatraz revamp project will also tackle the building’s exterior and interior issues, which have arisen due to long-term wear and tear and structural weaknesses.
The Alcatraz revamp project plan includes removing hazardous materials from the outer walls and areas inside that are set for construction. It also entails fixing deteriorated parts of the concrete, replacing rusted steel supports and strengthening the base of concrete foundation walls that are currently without reinforcement. Moreover, the project also seeks to repair and secure external windows, as well as adding protective storm windows.
The Relevance of the Alcatraz Revamp Project is Profound
The Alcatraz revamp project is one that is called for as its significance is deemed to be highly profound. The work aims to bolster the building’s structural integrity, particularly its resistance to earthquakes. It also seeks to ensure the safety and well-being of the 1.4 million visitors and employees who come to the site each year. The project also ensures that the rich diversity and history that the facility represents remains a part of San Fransisco’s Bay area. In 1909, the U.S. Army demolished the original fortress on the island to construct a military prison, known as the Pacific Branch, U.S. Disciplinary Barracks.
This prison later became famous as “The Rock.” It became more renown however the island was transferred to the U.S. Department of Justice, and Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary was established in 1934 to house the most incorrigible inmates from federal prisons. The department closed it down however due to its high running cost. In 1972, Alcatraz became part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, managed by the National Park Service.
Also read:
Sutter Health announces new US$442 mn neurological and neurosurgical care complex, San Francisco
The State of Affairs Regarding the Completion of the Project
Tutor Perini, the firm in charge of the Alcatraz revamp project, say work is expected to begin this month with substantial completion anticipated by the summer of 2027. Alcatraz, managed by the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, ranks as San Francisco’s fifth most popular tourist destination. Others on the list include Pier 39, the Golden Gate Bridge, Golden Gate Park and Lombard Street. Notable for its infamous inmates such as Al Capone and Alvin Karpis, the prison has seen a consistent rise in visitors. It attracts between 1.4 million to 1.7 million visitors annually over the past decade.
Many may criticize Tutor Perin’s past record for its dismal performance in constructing San Fransisco’s Central Subway. Tutor Perini previously worked on Muni’s Central Subway, a project that was marked by delays and budget overruns. Many insight that the National Park services should have sought out a more qualified company regardng the significant revamp project.
Also read:
BART Silicon Valley Phase II Extension Project Advances with $490.8M Contract Award
New 35-story high-rise apartment approved in San Francisco, CA
