Urgent Call to Save SS United States
The New York City Council has taken a significant step to preserve the historic ocean liner SS United States, urging Congress to relocate the vessel back to its original home port in New York City. This move comes as Okaloosa County in Florida plans to sink the iconic ship to create an artificial reef, a proposal that has alarmed historians and preservationists alike. Councilmember Gale Brewer emphasized the importance of the ship as a potential educational and cultural landmark for future generations.
A Race Against Time for Preservation
The SS United States, launched in 1951, is renowned as the largest and fastest ocean liner ever built in the United States. It holds the transatlantic speed record and has a storied history, having hosted numerous celebrities and dignitaries during its operational years from 1952 to 1969. The vessel is currently at risk of being sunk off the coast of Florida, where Okaloosa County aims to attract tourists by marketing it as “the World’s Largest Artificial Reef.” This plan has sparked outrage among preservation advocates, who argue that the ship deserves a more dignified fate.
Gale Brewer, a key supporter of the preservation effort, stated, “Letting this iconic vessel slip away would mean losing a huge opportunity to create public space and a maritime museum that could educate and inspire New Yorkers for generations.” The New York Coalition to Save the SS United States is actively campaigning to halt the sinking, asserting that the ship is a vital part of America’s maritime heritage. The coalition believes that the vessel could serve as a cultural hub, similar to how the USS Intrepid has revitalized Manhattan’s waterfront.
Brooklyn industrialist John Quadrozzi Jr. has been a prominent figure in the preservation efforts, offering to moor the ship at his Gowanus Bay Terminal without charge until it becomes self-sustaining. Quadrozzi and other advocates have been vocal in their opposition to the sinking plan, arguing that it would be a disgrace to allow such a significant piece of American history to be lost.
Environmental Concerns and Legal Battles
The potential sinking of the SS United States raises serious environmental concerns. Experts warn that the ship’s unique aluminum and steel construction could lead to harmful chemical reactions if submerged. Geologist Matt Lesiw highlighted the risks, noting that the interaction between the two metals could result in accelerated corrosion, posing a threat to the surrounding marine ecosystem. Additionally, the ship was painted with carcinogenic zinc chromate primer, raising further alarms about the environmental impact of sinking the vessel.
In response to the impending sinking, the New York coalition has taken legal action, filing a lawsuit to halt the process until federal agencies can assess the situation. Although the lawsuit was dismissed for lack of standing, advocates remain determined to seek federal intervention. They argue that the SS United States is protected under the National Historic Preservation Act, which mandates federal review for any significant modifications to historically significant sites.
As the clock ticks down, the coalition continues to rally support, emphasizing the ship’s potential to serve as a museum and educational center. They have garnered over 15,000 signatures on an online petition advocating for its preservation. With the New York City Council’s recent legislation, supporters hope to strengthen their case and prompt federal action to save the SS United States from an untimely demise.
