FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 19, 2025
New York City Council Urges Federal Action to Preserve SS United States
NEW YORK — The New York City Council on Thursday, December 18 approved a resolution urging federal action to preserve the SS United States, the all-American–built historic ocean liner, a true work of art, and the fastest passenger ship ever to cross the Atlantic, a record she still holds.
The resolution, introduced by Councilmember Gale Brewer, calls on Congress to provide federal support to restore and relocate the vessel to New York City, her original home port. Supporters say the ship, afloat, could anchor a major waterfront redevelopment as a cultural, educational and economic engine.
“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,” Brewer said.
Advocates say the ship’s restoration would extend far beyond preservation, positioning the SS United States as a platform for education, media production, the arts, hospitality and public programming, capable of generating sustained economic activity, tourism and jobs. They describe the vessel as both an engineering achievement and a monumental work of American design — a floating expression of mid-century modernism that belongs in public view.
Launched in 1952, the SS United States was built entirely in the United States and designed to serve both civilian and national defense purposes. Preservation advocates have mounted nationwide opposition to plans by Okaloosa County, Florida, to sink the ship as an artificial reef in the Gulf as early as 2026.
The New York Coalition to Save the SS United States, with SS United States Preservation Foundation, and other allied groups were formed shortly after it was announced the ship had been sold to Okaloosa County for sinking. More than 20,000 petition signatures have been collected. Extensive public testimony has been submitted, all urging alternatives that would keep the vessel intact, on the surface, and accessible.
Former crew member Fred Rodriguez, who attended the Council vote, said the ship’s return to New York would restore her purpose. “As someone who served aboard her, I hope she comes home as a place people can walk, study, create and gather,” Rodriguez said. “She represents what this country was capable of building at its best.” Another attendee, 11th grader James Graci said “I am thrilled that the resolution passed unanimously. It shows huge support among the city of New York. It is great that younger people may have a chance to see a piece of history restored right in our city.”
Supporters say the Council’s action strengthens the case for preservation as federal agencies consider next steps that will weigh historical significance, public interest and long-term economic impact. They argue the ship’s reuse as a permanent waterfront destination would generate ongoing benefits for New York while preserving a singular artifact of American craftsmanship.
The resolution adds New York City’s voice to a growing national effort to keep the SS United States above water and in public service, supporters said, framing the ship not as a landmark of the past but as a catalyst for future education, creativity, inspiration, and economic growth.
We urge Congress to act quickly with us on the call to pass legislation as every passing day is a day closer to an irreparable loss of history and a profound future opportunity. America’s Flagship must have a future afloat.
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Media Contacts:
| John Quatrozi, Director New York City Coalition to Save the SS United States (917) 769-8098 • jqjr@quadrozzi.com |
David Di Gregorio, Education Officer New York City Coalition to Save the SS United States (551) 655-8661 • ddigregorio@gmail.com |
