The move of two historic ships at the Buffalo Naval and Military Park is now being pushed to next year.
But while the USS The Sullivans and the USS Croaker won't be moving anytime soon, park officials say they are making progress toward getting both vessels into drydock in Erie, Pennsylvania for major repairs.
Naval Park President and CEO Brian Luallen tells WBEN they're waiting for a federal permit to move the ships. The shipping channel will also need to be dredged before the move can take place.
"'The real long term repair that will prepare these ships for the next 80 years has to involve new steel hulls," said Luallen. "There is no other practical way to do that than taking the vessels to Erie, PA. That will likely happen in the spring of 2027."
The plan is to tow the ships across Lake Erie, with other vessels following behind. Luallen maintains that the vessels are in good condition to make the journey.
The Naval Park has already raised $22 million dollars toward the effort. It's also looking for new ways to generate revenue, including its newest attraction, "Nightmare Wharf."
Luallen said it's the biggest fundraiser the Park has ever undertaken.
USS The Sullivans, a retired United States Navy Fletcher-class destroyer at the Buffalo Naval and Military ParkSusan Rose, WBEN
