Coast Guard locks down river for annual Wharf to Wharf Swim
Published Date: 4/7/2025
Proposed Rule
Summary
The Coast Guard wants to create a special safety zone on the East River in Mathews, Virginia, every year during the 'Wharf to Wharf Swim' event. From 10 a.m. to noon on the third Saturday of August, only authorized people and boats can enter the swim area to keep everyone safe. This rule affects swimmers, boaters, and spectators, and the public can share their thoughts by May 7, 2025.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Annual 4‑Hour Boating Exclusion Zone
You may not enter a marked swim area on the East River near Williams Wharf unless authorized on the third Saturday of August. The Coast Guard would enforce a roughly 760-yard by 700-yard regulated area annually from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and no vessel or person may enter without permission from the Captain of the Port or Event Patrol Commander.
Swimmer Safety Secured During Event
If you participate in the Wharf to Wharf Swim, the Coast Guard's rule would limit other people and boats in the swim course to protect you. The event is a 1-mile open-water swim planned for about 50 participants (with about 10 spectator craft) on August 16, 2025 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., and would be held annually on the third Saturday of August.
Coast Guard Finds No Major Small-Business Cost
If you own a small business or operate a small vessel, the Coast Guard certifies under 5 U.S.C. 605(b) that this proposed rule would not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. The agency notes some vessel owners may be small entities but concludes the short, one-day enforcement period would not impose significant economic effects.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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