Coast Guard Locks Down Waters for Epic Bridge-Tunnel Makeover
Published Date: 12/31/2025
Rule
Summary
The Coast Guard is setting up safety zones around the Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel expansion near Norfolk to keep boats and people safe while construction continues. These zones block unauthorized vessels from entering certain waters from December 31, 2025, through December 20, 2030. If you’re boating nearby, expect some new rules to keep everyone safe during this big project!
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
New Harbor Safety Zones Block Boat Access
If you boat near the Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel, new safety zones will bar persons and vessels from entering specified waters unless authorized by the Captain of the Port, Sector Virginia or a designated representative. The safety zones are in effect from December 31, 2025 through December 20, 2030 (with actual-enforcement notices beginning December 25, 2025); some zone limits include areas within 300 feet of bridge trestles and other clearly marked perimeters.
Small Fishing Businesses May Be Excluded
If you operate a small commercial fishing vessel that used to fish or set traps inside the safety zones, you may be excluded from those areas and could face economic effects. The Coast Guard says a very small number of small entities might be affected but concludes the number significantly affected would not be substantial because the areas have been closed for over four years.
Safe Transit Corridors Allow Limited Passage
If you need to travel through parts of the safety zones (for example, residents north of the Willoughby Bay Bridge), HRCP may establish marked safe transit corridors that allow vessels to pass when permitted. Mariners must contact the HRCP designated representative (phone 7577036060) or use VHF-FM channels 13 or 16 to request permission and must follow instructions if permission is granted.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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