Manhattan’s Community Board 4 Hears About SS United States
Members of the SS United States Conservancy met with the Waterfront and Parks Committee of Community Board 4 in Manhattan on Thursday, January 14th. Conservancy Executive Director Dan McSweeney and Board Member Charlie Anderson were joined by the organization’s real estate consultant, Michael Kramer, to introduce the idea of returning the SS United States to the Hudson as a re-purposed stationary attraction.
“We made a very broad, preliminary presentation,” said McSweeney. “More than anything, we wanted to understand the views of the committee and we were glad to hear a lot of support and good observations from the members in attendance.”
Conservancy Real Estate Consultant Michael Kramer discusses potential siting of SS United States in New York with members of Manhattan's Community Board 4
The Conservancy is investigating a variety of potential locations for a re-purposed ship, including sites in Philadelphia. Recent conversations with the vessel’s current owner indicate a clear desire by NCL to investigate ways of working with the Conservancy.
“We have a long way to go,” said Anderson, son of the the ship’s longest-serving master, John Anderson. “But we’re taking the steps necessary to do this the right way. Wherever we end up bringing the ship will involve a long and complex planning process.”
Coverage of the meeting has appeared in the New York Times, DNAinfo, the Long Beach District Weekly, and the South Florida Business Journal.
“We’re hitting our stride,” said McSweeney. “Stand by for more news in the next weeks.”
Reader Comments
Way back in 1961 [July 210th] I first boarded her at 86 in New York. In 1966 I presented Comm. Leroy J. Alexanderson with a painting of his command and my beloved ship. In the fall of 1969 I served on board her as Tourist Class Bells thence First Class Bells making voyages 395, 396, 398 and 399. In the early 1970’s I created a color slide presentation entitled “The Star Spangled Giantess” thanks to the late great Maritime Historian Frank Braynard & mentor. Through the Comm. I boarded here several times in Norfolk. In 2002 I was a speaker out in Long Beach on the QUEEN MARY with the presentation. I want to see her back in operation, not in service, here in New York. I think it is quite feasable to bring it about. I’m sorry I missed the New York meetings of January but I do want to help in any way I can and bring 31 years of maritime merchant marine experience to the table. I have some rather interesting ideas for her that could save an American piece of heritage and bring her back where she belongs, in New York!!! Please contact me. I am J. Fred Rodriguez Jr., P.O. Box 164, Staten Island, New York 10301. My E-Mail is caronia010449@yahoo.com