Coast Guard Tweaks Beaufort Drawbridge Schedule for Smoother Traffic

2026-13137 — Marine Casualty Reporting on the Outer Continental Shelf

Starting July 30, 2026, companies working on the Outer Continental Shelf must report marine accidents based on who’s involved, not just where they happen. The rule raises the damage cost that triggers a report from $25,000 to $75,000, saving businesses money and making rules clearer and fairer. This change cuts industry costs by over $10,000 in 10 years and aligns U.S. rules with international standards for offshore activities.

2026-08699 — Shipping Safety Fairways Along the Atlantic Coast

The Coast Guard is making the Atlantic Coast safer for ships by setting up special shipping lanes from New York to Florida. They’re reopening the comment period until June 22, 2026, so everyone can share their thoughts before the rules are finalized. This affects ship operators and coastal communities, aiming to keep sea travel smooth and safe without extra costs right now.

2026-13763 — Special Local Regulations; Marine Events Within the Sector Columbia River Captain of the Port Zone

From July 24-26 and on September 5, 2026, the Coast Guard will enforce special rules on parts of the Columbia River during the Kennewick Hydroplane Races and Columbia Crossing Swim. Boat operators in these areas must follow patrol instructions and may face delays or restricted movement to keep everyone safe. These temporary changes help protect people and property without any extra fees.

2026-13681 — Safety Zone; Corpus Christi Ship Channel, Corpus Christi, TX

The Coast Guard is setting up a temporary safety zone in the Corpus Christi Ship Channel near Port Aransas from July 1 to July 8, 2026, to keep everyone safe during underwater diving and salvage work. Boats and people can’t enter this area unless they get special permission. This quick action helps protect workers, vessels, and the environment without causing delays or extra costs.

2026-13555 — Safety Zone; Fireworks Displays Within the USCG East District

On July 11, 2026, the Coast Guard will set up a temporary safety zone on the Potomac River near Fairview Beach, Virginia, to keep everyone safe during a fireworks show. Boats and people can’t enter this zone unless they get special permission. The zone will be active from 8:15 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., with a backup date on July 12 if the weather cancels the show.

2026-13619 — Safety Zone; Lake Michigan, Chicago, IL

On July 10, 2026, from 8:45 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., the Coast Guard will set up a temporary safety zone in Monroe Harbor and nearby Lake Michigan to keep people and boats safe during the Taste of Chicago fireworks and drone show. Only authorized vessels can enter this zone during that time. This quick action helps prevent accidents and protects the environment without costing anyone extra.

Previous: 2025-08988 — Pipeline Safety: Editorial Change To Reflect the Name Change of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America

Starting now, the 'Gulf of Mexico' is officially renamed the 'Gulf of America' thanks to a new executive order. This change updates pipeline safety rules to match the new name—no big costs or delays, just a fresh new label. Pipeline operators and safety folks should note the new name in all official documents and reports.

Next: 2025-09002 — Amendment of Domestic Very High Frequency Omnidirectional Range (VOR) Federal Airways V-1, V-29, V-38, V-139, and V-286; Eastern United States

The FAA is updating some air routes in the eastern U.S. because two key navigation stations in Maryland are shutting down. Pilots flying along V-1, V-29, V-38, V-139, and V-286 will see changes to keep flights safe and smooth. These updates support a bigger plan to modernize navigation without extra costs or delays.