OKALOOSA COUNTY, Fla. — Officials in Okaloosa County have announced delays in moving the historic SS United States from Philadelphia to Mobile, Alabama.
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The vessel, which was originally scheduled to depart last week, has had its departure postponed to ensure optimal logistical and safety conditions. Okaloosa County is also monitoring a tropical disturbance in the Gulf of Mexico, as it may affect the operation, according to the county’s statement.
A new departure date has not been set.
Once moved, the SS United States will be towed by multiple tugboats to Mobile, where contractors will begin removing hazardous materials and modifying the vessel to ensure it lands upright when deployed as an artificial reef.
The preparation process is expected to take approximately 12 months.
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While the exact deployment location in the Gulf of Mexico is not yet determined, it is expected to be approximately 20 miles south of the Florida Panhandle, near Destin and Fort Walton Beach.
The project is expected to enhance marine habitats and boost the region’s recreational diving and fishing industries.
