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.”