Piscataqua River Gets Temporary Bridge Demo Rules
Published Date: 6/11/2026
Rule
Summary
Starting June 11, 2026, the Coast Guard is setting up special rules on the Piscataqua River near the General Sullivan Bridge in Newington, NH, because the bridge is being taken down. Boats must slow down, can’t be wider than 160 feet, and sometimes won’t be allowed through at all during risky demolition work. These rules will last until March 31, 2027, keeping everyone safe without costing boaters extra fees.
Analyzed Economic Effects
6 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 6 costs, 0 mixed.
160-foot beam transit limit
No vessel with a beam greater than 160 feet may transit the RNA in the vicinity of the General Sullivan Bridge. The navigational channel will be limited to 160 feet in width during part of the work.
Intermittent full closures (Aug 1–Sep 1, 2026 tentative)
During hazardous demolition operations (crane lifts over the channel), the COTP will implement full enforcement periods that prohibit all vessel entry. These intermittent full closures are anticipated between August 1, 2026, and September 1, 2026 (dates tentative). To enter during a full enforcement period you must get authorization from the COTP via VHF-16 or by phone at (718) 354-4353.
Channel narrowed and marked June–Dec 2026
The navigational channel width near the bridge will be reduced to 160 feet from approximately June 10, 2026, to December 1, 2026, and markings will be placed to show the new width per Private Aids to Navigation rules. These dates are tentative and may change due to weather or construction delays.
Temporary RNA effective dates
The Coast Guard's regulated navigation area (RNA) at the General Sullivan Bridge is enforced from 12:01 a.m. on June 10, 2026, through 11:59 p.m. on March 31, 2027. If the demolition finishes earlier, enforcement will be suspended and notice provided in the Local Notice to Mariners.
Slow-No Wake speed limit (5 knots)
While inside the RNA, all vessels must operate at a "Slow-No Wake" speed: no wake and no speeds greater than five (5) knots unless needed to maintain bare steerageway. This speed limit is enforced for the entire RNA effective period.
No stopping, fishing, or overtaking
Any vessel transiting the RNA must make a direct passage: you may not stop, fish, moor, anchor, loiter, or overtake another vessel inside the RNA at any time. Operators must follow lawful directions from the Captain of the Port or on-scene representatives.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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