Okaloosa County plans to transform historic SS United States into the largest manmade reef off Destin’s coast
Destin, Florida – With the expected acquisition of the SS United States, a legendary ocean liner known for its speed and historical relevance, Okaloosa County is ready to start a new chapter in its marine and tourism activities. The County intends to turn this ship into the biggest manmade reef off the coast of Destin-Fort Walton Beach, therefore improving the ecology as well as the economic landscape.
Renowned for breaking the fastest Atlantic crossing record, the historic ship will become a pillar of local marine conservation initiatives and a benefit for tourists. Tuesday, September 3, at 3 p.m., the Okaloosa Board of County Commissioners is expected to meet to verify the deal for the ship’s acquisition.
Under the plan, the Tourist Development Department of the county has asked permission for a budget of approximately $9 million. This budget will cover the costs of acquiring, cleaning, transporting, and sinking the SS United States. Plans also include a land-based museum honoring the vessel’s legendary heritage, hence improving the educational value of the project.
Docked in Philadelphia right now, the SS United States has been under legal pressure to leave the port based on a June court ruling. This has sped up the county’s initiatives to find and utilize the vessel, therefore safeguarding it as a priceless artifact of American marine history.
Inspired by the USS Oriskany, another vessel converted into an artificial reef that has greatly increased local tourism, the economic hopes for the reef are high. Studies indicate that artificial reefs can yield significant returns since every dollar spent multiplies several local economic benefits. The SS United States reef should draw divers year-round, therefore expanding the travel season beyond the usual summer months, according to the county.
Ecologically, the reef is projected to benefit commercial as well as recreational fishing businesses in the area by providing habitat for a variety of marine creatures, therefore helping to increase local fish populations. The project intends to position the SS United States among one of three approved Large Area Artificial Reef Sites therefore guaranteeing accessibility for divers of different degrees of experience.
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Financially, the project is comprehensive with $1 million set for the ship purchase and continuous due diligence to guarantee structural and environmental fit. The SS United States Conservancy, the ship’s present owner, has also promised to create a museum honoring the vessel’s rich past and providing learning opportunities for people who don’t intend to dive.
With preliminary agreements suggesting to offset a significant amount of the expenses, the county administration have been aggressively looking for finance partners to support this ambitious project. The County Board will closely analyze and approve future contracts and funding plans to guarantee financial restraint and project feasibility.
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Should things proceed as expected, the SS United States will not only preserve a noteworthy portion of maritime history but also function as a driver of environmental preservation and economic development in Okaloosa County. This project represents a unique confluence of history, conservation, and economic development, that would position Destin-Fort Walton Beach as a leading destination for diving and marine life exploration.
