SSUS project now sits at $10.1 million; a latest look at the numbers

MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) - The storied ocean liner SS United States is nearing its final voyage, with plans to depart from Mobile and be transformed into the largest artificial reef ever created.

As the ambitious project moves closer to deployment offshore near Destin-Fort Walton Beach, its total cost has climbed to more than $10 million following a contract amendment in December. Officials in Okaloosa County approved a $2.95 million increase to the contract with Coleen Marine, Inc. to cover additional expenses tied to preparing, transporting and deploying the nearly 1,000-foot vessel. The updated contract total now stands at approximately $10.1 million.

The budget includes about $7.2 million from the original agreement, roughly $2.77 million in newly identified costs and about $183,000 set aside for contingency expenses. Officials say the funding will cover all aspects of the project, including towing the ship, environmental remediation and final placement on the seafloor.

County leaders describe the undertaking as the most ambitious artificial reef project in the region’s history. Once deployed, the 990-foot vessel is expected to create a massive new marine habitat for fish and other sea life while also serving as a major attraction for divers and anglers.

“This is a generational investment in marine conservation and tourism,” project documents state, noting the reef is expected to boost local economies by drawing visitors and supporting charter fishing, dive operations and related businesses. Still, the project has received pushback from many people who argue the ship should be preserved, not sunk.

The project has also received significant financial backing from outside partners. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Foundation has contributed $2 million, while Visit Pensacola committed $1.5 million — including funds for both construction and marketing. The Coastal Conservation Association added $500,000, marking the largest single donation in its 40-year history. Remaining costs will be covered through local tourism development revenue.

Officials say most of the cost increases stem from factors outside the contractor’s control, including regulatory requirements from the U.S. Coast Guard, rising insurance costs, weather delays and logistical challenges associated with towing and preparing a vessel of this size and age.

Despite those challenges, a spokesperson with Okaloosa County says work on the ship has remained on track. All remediation efforts are being conducted in compliance with federal environmental standards, including best practices outlined by the Environmental Protection Agency and maritime authorities.

The project is currently targeting a May deployment, though officials say the timeline depends on final regulatory approvals and weather conditions.