This alternative proposed reusing the existing buildings on the 40-acre parcel for public interpretive uses and special events. New development on the parcel would have been limited to restoration and revegetation of disturbed areas, with limited improvements for parking. The new academic research center, maintenance facility, and parking lot would have been constructed on undisturbed, designated ACEC land immediately to the north. This site development scheme resulted in separate public and academic zones. This alternative was eliminated from further analysis because of the potential for unacceptable adverse impacts to currently undisturbed desert tortoise and desert habitat when numerous other alternatives with less potential for harmful effects had been identified as reasonable and feasible.