Rode hard and put up wet.
Problem is the Ford Class keeps getting design changes that pushes their commission dates back.
You could very well refurb Kitty Hawk and get it back in service while they're still getting the bugs out of the Fords.
Wouldn't be surprised if they're still trying to get the kinks out of the Ford's in the 2030s.
The problem with that is replacing 50 year old parts that just aren’t made any more. In an emergency, I suppose she could be underway in a few months, but long term is not an option.
At the end, the Kitty had no arresting gear. Most likely they’ve stripped her catapults & jet blast deflectors for spare parts. Bet most of her radar & comms are gone too.