NJ Drawbridge Goes Remote: Boaters Chat with Train Dispatchers
Published Date: 11/18/2025
Rule
Summary
Starting January 16, 2026, the Lehigh Valley Drawbridge between Newark and Bayonne, NJ, will be tested for remote operation to speed up openings and improve communication. This temporary change lasts until July 14, 2026, and could make bridge openings smoother without changing the current schedule. Boat operators and train dispatchers will benefit, and the Coast Guard wants your feedback by April 16, 2026.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Temporary Remote Bridge Test
If you operate a vessel or work on trains near Newark Bay, the Lehigh Valley Drawbridge will be tested for remote operation from 8 a.m. on January 16, 2026 through 7:59 a.m. on July 14, 2026. The test is meant to speed up openings and improve communication but will not change the bridge's published operating schedule.
Real-Time Bridge Status via AIS
During the test, the bridge will broadcast its status (OPEN, CLOSED, INOP) via AIS every two minutes and when the status changes, and will provide a dedicated phone line (856-231-2301) and push-to-talk on VHF-FM channel 13 for requests. This gives vessel operators more real-time information to plan transits.
On-Site Backup and Failure Safeguards
A bridge tender will be stationed on-site during the test and qualified personnel will return and operate the Lehigh Valley, Arthur Kill, and Hack Freight bridges within 60 minutes if the remote system fails. The remote system is considered failed if it cannot safely operate, visibility is degraded (all eight camera views required), sound/visual/radio communications fail, or AIS is inoperative.
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