Need the Bridge Open at Night? Ask Four Hours Ahead
Published Date: 6/9/2025
Proposed Rule
Summary
The Coast Guard wants to change when the Dorset Avenue Bridge in Ventnor City, NJ, opens. Starting soon, the drawbridge will only open between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m. if you give at least four hours' notice. This affects boaters who use the bridge and aims to reduce unnecessary openings without extra costs or delays during the day.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Nighttime bridge openings need 4‑hour notice
If you boat through Inside Thorofare at the Dorset Avenue Bridge in Ventnor City, the drawbridge will only open between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. if you give at least four hours' advance notice. The Coast Guard notes the bridge opened 42 times in 2022, 51 times in 2023, and 29 times in 2024 during those hours, and the proposed rule would make the four‑hour notice requirement year‑round.
Small boats under 9‑ft clearance may pass anytime
If your vessel can fit under the Dorset Avenue Bridge's closed vertical clearance of 9 feet at mean high water, you may pass under the bridge at any time without requesting an opening.
Agency finds no significant small‑business impact
The Coast Guard certified under the Regulatory Flexibility Act that this proposed rule would not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities, while noting some vessel owners or operators may be small entities.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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