Last-Ditch Attempt to Save the SS United States Is Rejected
The recent emergence of the so-called “New York Coalition to Save the SS United States” has sparked fresh debate about the future of the historic ocean liner.
John Quadrozzi Jr., owner of Gowanus Bay Terminal, a dock in Brooklyn, New York, partnered with Dan McSweeney to form a coalition aimed at saving the SS United States and bringing her to New York City.
Last-Ditch Attempt to Save the SS United States Is Rejected
However, according to those directly involved in the ship’s fate, the reality remains unchanged: The SS United States is set to become the world’s largest artificial reef.
Quadrozzi and McSweeney proposed transforming the ship into a sustainable floating ecosystem, incorporating coworking spaces, incubators, maritime and environmental initiatives, and more.
Their plan envisioned a phased development that would include residential, commercial, and industrial spaces.
Quadrozzi has already secured a 1,300-foot docking space near the entrance of the Gowanus Canal, not far from the IKEA in Brooklyn—an interesting parallel to the ship’s current location in Philadelphia, where another IKEA sits in front of it.
Despite this, the SS United States Conservancy made it clear in a Facebook statement that this plan is not on the table.
In their statement, they said:
“While the Conservancy’s decision to sell the ship to Okaloosa County was absolutely gut-wrenching for us and for all those who dedicated so much time, effort, and financial support during our ownership of the SS United States, reefing is the ONLY plausible outcome for the ship. The only other option is for it to be scrapped.”
Okaloosa County has remained firm in its stance, making it clear that it will not sell, trade, or reconsider its decision regarding the SS United States.
Also See: USS John F. Kennedy Leaves Philadelphia for Its Final Journey
The transformation of the ship into an artificial reef is expected to generate significant tourism and diving interest, similar to the USS Oriskany, a decommissioned aircraft carrier that now serves as a renowned dive site.
The Conservancy argues that while the New York Coalition claims to be working toward an alternative preservation effort, their plan lacks the necessary financial backing, feasibility studies, and realistic execution.
In contrast, Okaloosa County has already begun planning the logistics of towing the vessel to Mobile, Alabama, where remediation work will commence to prepare it for deployment as an artificial reef.
While the Conservancy acknowledges the desire to keep the ship afloat, they maintain that such efforts are ultimately “fruitless.” They added, “It’s time to come back to reality, and that reality is: the SS United States will be deployed as an artificial reef.”
The relocation of the SS United States is moving forward, with the Coast Guard reporting progress in making the ship seaworthy and meeting approval standards.
The Wildwood Video Archive will be there to film her as she moves down the Delaware, whenever that happens
Last summer the WVA was able to explore the inside of the SS United States.
You can check out that video below. (Please subscribe before you watch)