Coast Guard Renames Bridges, Eliminates Fog Horn Requirements
Published Date: 1/17/2025
Rule
Summary
The Coast Guard is updating the rules for the railroad bridge over the Umpqua River in Reedsport, Oregon. They’re renaming the bridge to the Umpqua River railroad bridge, letting it stay closed to boats when needed, and removing the fog signal requirement. These changes start February 18, 2025, and mainly affect boaters and the railroad company, with no extra costs involved.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Bridge may remain closed; two-hour notice
Starting February 18, 2025, the Umpqua River railroad bridge at mile 11.5 may be kept closed to navigation and will open only after at least two hours' advance notice by telephone. If your boat needs the draw opened, you must call and give two hours' notice before transit.
Fog signal requirement removed
The rule removes the requirement for the bridge to sound fog signals when it is cycled during reduced visibility. Mariners should rely on making a draw opening request and the opening-on-signal procedure rather than a fog signal to know the bridge position.
No significant small-business costs
The Coast Guard certified that this rule will not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities and that there is no new collection of information required. Small vessel owners or operators in the area should not expect new paperwork or large costs from this change.
15-foot clearance often allows passage
The Umpqua River railroad bridge provides 15 feet of vertical clearance above high water when closed, which allows most mariners to pass under the bridge without requesting an opening. Many vessels can therefore transit the bridge at any time without giving notice.
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