SS United States’ Move from Philadelphia Now Has a New Concern

The SS United States was supposed to move from its longtime home in South Philadelphia last month until the move was halted due to storms in the Gulf of Mexico.

Nearly a month later, a new concern has surfaced as it pertains to moving the massive 900-foot long vessel, writes Joe Holden for CBS News Philadelphia.

Among the new concerns include fears that the ship could strike the Walt Whitman Bridge.

As a result of the concerns, the Coast Guard is now analyzing the ship to ensure it would be able to make the voyage to Alabama, where it will be prepped for sinking. It will eventually go to Destin-Fort Walton Beach and be sunk off the coast to become an artificial reef.

The Delaware River Port Authority operates and maintains the bridges.

To this regard, it wrote in a statement: “At this time, we have not been informed of any changes to the previously established clearances or received notice of differences that could affect our bridges.”

While a new date to move the vessel has not been determined, an attorney for Pier 82 operators said the county will be assessed a $100,000 penalty if it remains in Philadelphia after December 13.

Read more about the new concern facing the SS United States’ move in CBS News Philadelphia.

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