Coast Guard Locks Down Houston Channel for Bridge Build
Published Date: 12/29/2025
Rule
Summary
Starting December 29, 2025, the Coast Guard is setting up a safety zone around the Beltway 8 Bridge construction site on the Houston Ship Channel to keep boats and people safe. No one can enter this area without special permission until March 1, 2030, while the new bridge is being built and old parts are removed. This means boaters need to plan ahead and follow new rules to avoid fines or delays.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 3 costs, 0 mixed.
No-Entry Safety Zone for Beltway 8
Starting December 29, 2025, a safety zone around the Beltway 8 Bridge on the Houston Ship Channel prohibits any vessel or person from entering the zone without permission from the Captain of the Port. The zone covers the waters inside the four coordinates listed in the rule and stays in effect through March 1, 2030 unless the project ends sooner.
Short Channel Closures During Active Work
When construction or demolition happens over the main federal channel, the channel may be closed for short periods; these closures will be coordinated with stakeholders and are expected to be limited. The Coast Guard says the main federal channel is expected to remain open for the majority of the multi-year project.
Permission and Notice Procedures
If you need to enter the safety zone you must request permission from the Captain of the Port on VHF-FM channel 16 or by phone at 866-539-8114, and you must follow any lawful orders. The Coast Guard will give advance notice of enforcement times and areas through Broadcast Notices to Mariners, Local Notices to Mariners, and the Vessel Traffic Service.
Small-Business Economic Impact Finding
The Coast Guard certified that, although some small entities may intend to transit the safety zone, this rule will not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. The agency explains the main channel should remain open most of the time and closures will be coordinated in advance.
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Key Dates
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