The SS United States Conservancy board of directors met in Washington, D.C. on Friday.
PHILADELPHIA -- After making the "difficult" decision to consider selling the America's Flagship, the SS United States, the board attempting to restore the ship said Friday that recent donations have given them more time to figure out the future.
The SS United States Conservancy board of directors met in Washington, D.C. and released a statement that says they are still evaluating the financial situation following donations in excess of $100,000 from around the world.
"Progress has been made due to your commitment and we are still compiling the necessary information to help the board fully and responsibly evaluate our current situation from a financial and redevelopment standpoint," the statement read. "As a result, the Board has opted to defer any additional determination about the ship's immediate future until later this month."
VIDEO: Take a walk through the SS United States
The SS United States, which is presently moored in South Philadelphia and was launched in 1952, still holds the world record for fastest trans-Atlantic crossing.
Boosters, who hope to turn the ocean liner into a museum, have said that it costs roughly $60,000 per month to foot their efforts. Further, they noted that the initial deadline of Oct. 31 to figure out what was going to be done with the vessel has come and gone.
"These resources have given us some additional time to advance our redevelopment plans in conjunction with several potential partners," the statement said in reference to the $100,000. "Those discussions and negotiations have picked up momentum in recent weeks as well."
Drone video showcases the SS United States http://t.co/JZJLXsXeHg via @PhillyEntertain
-- SS United States (@SSUnitedStates) June 24, 2015
The SS United States had its final trip out to sea in 1969 and it has been in the city since 1996.
"During this week and next, we hope to continue to build on the momentum created over the past month to extend the life of the ship and to advance our ongoing efforts to ultimately save her," the statement read.
Readers interested in making a tax-deductible contribution to the SS United States Conservancy should visit www.SSUSC.org.
Greg Adomaitis may be reached at gadomaitis@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @GregAdomaitis. Find the South Jersey Times on Facebook.
