A federal judge has issued a mandate for the caretakers of the historic SS United States to relocate the vessel from its pier in Philadelphia by September 12 or face losing control of the iconic ship, known as the “Queen of the Seas.” The order came from U.S. District Judge Anita Brody, who emphasized that the conservancy cannot remain at the pier indefinitely.
The ship, a 1,000-foot-long, 47,000-ton ocean liner that has been docked in Philadelphia for over 30 years, is unable to move under its own power. Daily dockage fees, which have risen to $1,700, are currently being disputed. The SS United States Conservancy, responsible for the ship's upkeep, has continued to pay an outdated rate of $850, leading to ongoing legal and financial conflicts.
The conservancy had previously hoped to use the ship as a dynamic stationary destination, exploring possibilities such as converting it into condominiums, a hotel, or a green space. A proposal by New York's RXR Realty to transform the ship into an event space with a ballroom was also unsuccessful. Judge Brody has dismissed these ideas, emphasizing the need for practical solutions.
Attorneys representing the pier owners have characterized the vessel as a “toxic timebomb,” further complicating the situation. The conservancy's request to keep the ship in place until December was denied, and Brody has waived $730,000 in back rent but insists on an expedited move.
Efforts to find a new location for the ship have so far been fruitless. Potential sites in Philadelphia, Virginia, Maryland, North and South Carolina, and Georgia have not materialized. Two counties in Florida have shown interest in creating an artificial reef from the ship, aimed at attracting tourist divers. However, this plan faces a significant hurdle, as preparing and transporting the vessel for sinking could exceed $10 million.
The SS United States Conservancy, which includes Susan Gibbs, granddaughter of the ship’s architect William Francis Gibbs, has called on President Joe Biden and Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro to intervene. The group has appealed to their patriotism, arguing that the potential destruction of the ship would be a global embarrassment during a time of geopolitical uncertainty.
Gibbs has stated that the conservancy's primary goal is not to seek financial assistance but to find a suitable location for the ship where it can be redeveloped. "Our cause transcends party politics," Gibbs said. "It’s about showing that our nation can unite to save one of its most significant symbols."
As of now, the conservancy has not received a response from the White House regarding their appeal.
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