Belfast developers plan on turning a Victorian-era jail into a tourist attraction, hotel, and art gallery. Her Majesty’s Prison Belfast closed in 1996, and is a symbol of The Troubles, the long struggle in Northern Ireland for Irish independence.
"Belfast is undergoing significant tourism development, particularly in the new Titanic Quarter, but older areas face particular challenges because of their experiences during Northern Ireland's civil conflict and the need to preserve historic sites and neighborhoods.
Preliminary plans for the prison include two of the four wings being turned into a museum and the others into a hotel or hostel. Buildings that formerly housed guards are to be renovated as a restaurant and an international art gallery, and yards that prisoners once walked are to be turned into community gardens.
The community action unit is raising funds for the redevelopment project this year by hosting a "businessperson ransom," in which local business leaders are to be "imprisoned" in the jail until their company makes a donation."
FULL STORY: Belfast Group Seeks Investors in Prison Redevelopment Project

Trump Administration Could Effectively End Housing Voucher Program
Federal officials are eyeing major cuts to the Section 8 program that helps millions of low-income households pay rent.

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

Ken Jennings Launches Transit Web Series
The Jeopardy champ wants you to ride public transit.

California Invests Additional $5M in Electric School Buses
The state wants to electrify all of its school bus fleets by 2035.

Austin Launches $2M Homelessness Prevention Fund
A new grant program from the city’s Homeless Strategy Office will fund rental assistance and supportive services.

Alabama School Forestry Initiative Brings Trees to Schoolyards
Trees can improve physical and mental health for students and commnity members.
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