Approximately two-thirds of the metal structure of 'F' dock (250 feet) had to be removed before any investigative or salvage operations could begin. Even though the structure itself did not burn, the foundation was weakened and could no longer be used because of supporting piers burning.
Most of the finger piers, pilings, and walkways between slips 9 and 23 on 'F' dock were destroyed. Sixteen vessels were sunk. One vessel located at 'F' dock received heavy damage and two at 'C' dock received substantial damage as a result of fuel burning on the water. Approximately 100 boats received light damage from soot and burning embers. Their cleaning proved much more difficult and expensive than first thought.
It is estimated that the loss to the vessels was $8 million and damage to the structure, $1 million. There were no casualties.
The possibility of surface fuel and burned debris reaching the river created an immediate need for a massive cleanup and containment operation. This operation involved containment ponds throughout the marina complex and daily maintenance of these ponds by several cleanup crews. Several weeks were required to complete the operation, which cost $286,000.
The costs of the fire did not stop at the direct loss. There were logistical difficulties in conducting an effective investigation and salvage operation. In order to remove sunken vessels for investigation and harbor clearances, heavy cranes both on shore and on barges, assisted by many divers, had to be utilized. The total cost of the fire was estimated at close to $10 million.
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