Florida Bridge Drama: Boats vs Cars in Rush Hour Showdown
Published Date: 1/8/2025
Proposed Rule
Summary
The Coast Guard wants to change when the Blackburn Point Bridge in Osprey, FL opens to help reduce traffic jams during busy weekday times. Boat captains might have to wait a bit longer during peak hours, but this will keep cars moving smoother on the road. If you have thoughts, speak up before February 7, 2025—no money changes, just smarter bridge timing!
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Bridge opens on schedule at peak hours
If you operate a boat through the Blackburn Point Bridge at Osprey, FL, the bridge will open only at the top of the hour, 20 minutes after the hour, and 40 minutes after the hour Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. At all other times the bridge will open on demand.
Weekday schedule aims to reduce road jams
If you drive across Blackburn Point Bridge in Osprey, FL, changing the bridge to open on a schedule Monday–Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. is intended to help reduce roadway congestion during weekday peak traffic times.
Emergency and certain vessels still served
Public vessels of the United States and tugs with tows must be passed through the drawspan at any time, and emergency vessels and tugs with tows can still request an opening at any time under the proposed rule.
Coast Guard says no big small-business cost
The Coast Guard certifies under the Regulatory Flexibility Act that this proposed rule would not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities, including small vessel owners or operators.
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