I just received this in an email from the
Dreadnaught (newsletter of the Battleship Texas Foundation) that has an FAQ section that addresses some of the questions brought up on this thread.
I thought it might be interesting to some.
Quote:
FUNDS
What happened to all the money that has been raised in the past?
The 2007 and the 2015 legislature appropriations have been spent to make much needed structural repairs to the Texas. These repairs have also helped position the Texas, along with other preparations, to make the journey to the dry dock.
What happened to the dry berth project?
We extensively researched and vetted the dry berth project as a potential viable option for the future of the Battleship Texas. Unfortunately, the cost of the dry berth had reached an estimated $100 million, and we were unable to secure the necessary funds. After several years attempting to pursue this option, it was taken off the table by Texas Parks and Wildlife in search of a solution that was more fundable. At the time, the only two options were dry berth or scrapping the ship, a $30 million cost for an unthinkable solution. The current plan was developed as an alternative to scrapping or dry berthing the ship, and was fully funded by the legislature.
REPAIR AND RESTORATION
What is getting repaired? Will it cost the whole $35 million?
All available funds will be used. Priority one is to address the issues with the hull. The constant leaks require continuous pumping out of the water. In addition, we must get to a point where new leaks stop threatening the ship and we can stop the cost of dealing with those leaks. We also hope to replace the entire deck and paint the ship. The Battleship Texas Foundation will also be launching a Capital Campaign to raise additional funds.
What is the timeline for repairs?
The ship is currently undergoing preparations to prepare for transportation. Starting on September 1st, the ship will be closed to the public to allow for more preparations to take place. We are targeting mid-December 2019 for when the ship will leave for repairs, but will not move her until all necessary preparations are made. Once she is towed to a dry dock, the restoration process will take approximately 1 year.
TOWING
I've heard she can't be moved because the Coast Guard has placed restrictions on her. Is this true?
This is untrue. In fact, engineering has been shared with the Coast Guard and they were impressed with what they saw. While engineering still has some additional work that needs to be completed, there is no doubt that Coast Guard approval will be granted.
What is the risk of the ship sinking during transportation?
No one involved in this effort would consider moving the ship a foot if it can not be done safely. Engineering has been very thorough and, while there is still more work to be done on this front, we will not put the ship at risk.
PERMANENT LOCATION
Why does the ship have to go out of state for repairs? Will she return?
The Texas will need to leave the state for repairs because there is not a dry dock in Texas that can accommodate her. Once the repairs are completed, there is one place and one place only that the Texas belongs in the great state that bears her name.
Where will the ship live once she is repaired?
We have been given a great gift to repair and restore this magnificent ship so that she is around for generations to come. With that being said, we want the ship to be easily accessed so that she can be experienced by more people than ever. At this time, no permanent location has been determined. There are multiple locations who have expressed an interest in becoming the home of the Texas. Once due diligence has been completed and a new home has been selected, we will let you know.
If the ship moves to the coastline, what type of hurricane protection will she get? Also, what about protection from salt water?
Again, no decision has been made in regard to where the Texas will call home. Part of that decision will certainly be driven by all issues including weather concerns and long-term maintenance, which has always been an issue for the Texas. Anyone that has visited in recent years is well aware of the condition of the ship. The goal is to return her to reasonable condition and maintain her moving forward.
Why move the ship from where it has been for 71 years?
The simple truth is economics. The Battleship Texas in its current location does not draw enough paid visitors annually to produce the required funds to maintain her. Operations lose money, requiring the state to subsidize her, in addition to funding the constant cost of leaks. Added to the $60 million funded in the last four years for major repairs, the state is no longer willing to subsidize the ship. The ship must be in a location where she can be accessed by many more people and sustain herself financially.
What will happen to the San Jacinto Monument and Battleground?
Our first priority is the survival of the Texas. Long before the Texas arrived in La Porte, the battleground and monument were there. The grounds will remain a compelling and important part of Texas history, but one that is unteathered to that of the Battleship Texas. Any questions about the future of the battleground and monument can be directed to the Texas Historical Commission, who will be in charge of both starting on September 1st.
What criteria will you use to pick the new site?
The most important thing is finding a location that allows a greater number of people to experience the ship. The goal is preservation and the ability to present the Texas in a location that will come and visit the ship.
“Socialism is a philosophy of failure, the creed of ignorance, and the gospel of envy. It's inherent virtue is the equal sharing of miseries." - Winston Churchill
