The Conservancy is pleased to announce the launch of an innovative pre-development program that will help prepare the SS United States for conversion into a mixed-use development and museum complex. This program will include the selective reclamation of obsolete materials aboard the vessel that will help cover the ship's carrying costs as well as advance our future SS United States Center for Design and Discovery. Since the kick-off of the Conservancy's $500,000 "Save Our Ship" Campaign earlier this year, we have been vigorously pursuing a range of creative fundraising approaches. While we continue to search for a permanent location for "America's Flagship," this pre-development program will generate crucial revenue in support of our key goals.
Guided by an expert group of marine engineers, naval architects, maritime historians, and museum specialists, the Conservancy has identified materials aboard the vessel that must be removed prior to the ship's redevelopment. These items are located below B Deck in spaces closed to public view, are not part of our future preservation or curatorial plans, and are not vital to the vessel's structural integrity. This program will support the Conservancy's core stewardship mission and will not alter the historic vessel's appearance or design. All work will be carried out in full compliance with applicable federal, state and local laws and regulations.
This pre-development program will make the ship more attractive for investors and developers and will help cover the vessel's basic carrying costs - such as ship insurance, pier rental, and vessel management and upkeep - through July, 2014. These revenues will not cover the costs of the Conservancy's vital curatorial and educational programs or core operations. Continued support from our members and donors are essential to advance our museum plans, build our curatorial collections, and energetically pursue redevelopment plans and partners.
The Conservancy's momentum continues to build: We are excited to announce that a special new SS United States exhibition will premiere at Philadelphia's Independence Seaport Museum in February, 2014. Our innovative online platform and future "virtual" interactive museum display at SavetheUnitedStates.org continues to capture widespread attention and interest. Stay tuned for exciting events and updates in the coming months featuring renowned author and illustrator David Macaulay, tennis legend Billie Jean King, and other prominent SOS Campaign supporters. Once again, we are profoundly grateful for your continued support.