SS United States Ordered To Move by September 2024

SS United States Ordered To Move by September 2024

In a crucial decision on Friday June 14th, U.S. District Court Senior Judge Anita Brody ruled that Penn Warehousing, the landlord of the SS United States, cannot double the dockage fees without prior notice in an attempt to force “America’s Flagship” from Pier 82 in Philadelphia.

While this ruling partially favors the nonprofit organization that owns the SS United States, it also mandates that the historic ship must vacate its current berth by September 12, 2024.

The judgment signifies a critical juncture for the SS United States Conservancy, as it scrambles to secure a new location for the ship and gather the necessary resources for the move.

The SS United States, an engineering marvel and the fastest ocean liner ever to cross the Atlantic, remains a testament to mid-century design and technological innovation.

“While the Conservancy was vindicated in not having to pay a substantial amount in back rent to the pier operator, the ruling underscores the peril facing this iconic American symbol,” stated Susan Gibbs, President of the Conservancy and granddaughter of the ship’s celebrated designer, William Francis Gibbs.

Gibbs emphasized the urgency of the situation: “The judge’s decision gives us a very limited window to find a new home for the SS United States and to raise the resources necessary to move the ship and keep her safe. We must do both to avoid the tragic fate that countless supporters from around the world have worked for over a decade to prevent.”

In response to the ruling, the Conservancy is launching an urgent campaign to preserve “America’s Flagship” and honor her storied legacy.

Supporters are encouraged to donate to the cause through the organization’s website, SSUSC.org.

Historically, when the SS United States faced imminent threats, dedicated supporters from across the globe have rallied to her aid.

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Moving the ship, however, presents a complex and expensive challenge, requiring funds for insurance, tugboats, surveys, and dock preparations to ensure her safe relocation.

The Conservancy is actively exploring potential new pier locations in the Philadelphia area and along the East Coast that can accommodate the nearly 1,000-foot-long ocean liner. Additionally, they are engaging with federal and state officials to garner support for this monumental task.

Despite the current challenges, the Conservancy unveiled a comprehensive redevelopment plan in November 2023, created in collaboration with RXR and MCR Hotels.

This plan showcases the SS United States’ potential as a commercially viable, privately funded, mixed-use destination and museum, poised to generate thousands of jobs and significant tax revenue.

Renderings of this vision, demonstrating the ship’s potential transformation, are available for public viewing.

Since acquiring the SS United States in 2011, the Conservancy has dedicated itself to educating the public about the ship’s historical significance and preserving its legacy through exhibitions, events, and the maintenance of an extensive museum collection featuring original furniture, artwork, documents, and historic components.

“As we approach our nation’s 250th birthday, the loss of this American masterpiece could be seen both domestically and internationally as a tragic metaphor. A unique historic achievement bearing the name of our great nation should not be at grave risk of destruction,” Gibbs remarked.

“While the Conservancy is preparing for all possible scenarios, we have great faith that our global community of supporters will help us meet this latest challenge. We must all come together to save this symbol of American pride and innovation.”

The future of the SS United States now hinges on the Conservancy’s ability to mobilize quickly, secure funding, and find a new berth for the historic vessel, ensuring that this irreplaceable symbol of American ingenuity and perseverance remains afloat for future generations.