Red Rock Island, the only privately owned island in the San Francisco Bay, has recently been listed for sale at $25 million. This 5.8-acre property presents a unique and challenging opportunity for prospective buyers. While it has garnered interest in the past, including proposals for a wind farm and investments from “princes and dignitaries,” the island remains undeveloped.
Owned by Brock Durning, who inherited it from his father, Red Rock Island has not been visited by its owner in recent years. Now, Durning has made the difficult decision to sell in order to provide financial assistance to his elderly mother. However, challenges await any potential buyer of this private island.
Development plans will encounter bureaucracy from three different counties, namely Contra Costa, Marin, and San Francisco, each with jurisdiction over different portions of the island’s acreage. Furthermore, residential development may require significant time and effort due to the steep terrain of the island.
Red Rock Island has a rich history, having been settled by Russian fur traders and played host to former California senator Selim Woodworth in the 1850s. The island’s past also includes an era when its manganese-rich soil attracted miners, leaving behind a network of mine tunnels.
Despite numerous proposed ideas for development, including private residences, a yacht harbor, a botanical garden, billboards, a casino, a hotel, and even a 25-story tower, Red Rock Island has yet to see any ambitious plans come to fruition. However, its uniqueness and location continue to captivate potential buyers.
Chris Lim of Christie’s International Real Estate, the representative for the property, is hopeful in finding a buyer who appreciates the rarity of Red Rock Island. Whether for conservation purposes or future development, the island holds immense potential.
So, as Red Rock Island hits the market, its new owner will have the opportunity to shape its destiny, making it a truly one-of-a-kind investment in the San Francisco Bay area.
FAQ
1. Is Red Rock Island currently developed?
No, Red Rock Island remains undeveloped, presenting a blank canvas for potential owners.
2. What challenges are associated with owning private islands?
Ownership of private islands can come with bureaucratic challenges, as different jurisdictions may have regulations and restrictions. Physical hurdles, such as steep terrain, can also complicate development plans.
3. What is the history of Red Rock Island?
Red Rock Island was first settled by Russian fur traders and later hosted former California senator Selim Woodworth in the 1850s. It also served as a site for manganese mining, leaving behind a network of mine tunnels.
4. What kind of development has been proposed in the past?
Various ambitious development ideas have been proposed for Red Rock Island, including private residences, a yacht harbor, a botanical garden, billboards, a casino, a hotel, and a 25-story tower. However, none of these plans have materialized thus far.
5. What is the asking price for Red Rock Island?
Red Rock Island is listed for sale at $25 million.