USS Constitution warship moves to dry dock for restoration

BOSTON — The USS Constitutions has been moved to dry dock for a major restoration project expected to take three years.

The world's oldest commissioned warship still afloat on Monday night moved into dry dock at the Charlestown Navy Yard historical park in Boston.

The project could cost the Navy as much as $15 million. It will include re-coppering the hull, replacing worn rigging and old planks and making general repairs to the stern, bow and captain's cabin.

The ship's top deck will be open to visitors during most of the work, beginning in June.

The last time the Constitution was dry-docked was in 1995, in preparation for its bicentennial.

The ship was launched in 1797 and is a major tourist draw.