Hudson River Slow Zone Set for Bridge Demolition
Published Date: 7/6/2026
Rule
Summary
Starting July 12, 2026, the Coast Guard is setting up a special safety zone on the Hudson River near Albany to protect everyone during the construction and demolition of the Livingston Avenue Railroad Bridge. Boats must slow down and can only enter if they get permission from the Coast Guard. This rule lasts until October 31, 2029, and helps keep people, boats, and the environment safe without costing you a dime.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 3 costs, 0 mixed.
Temporary RNA and On‑Water Rules
Starting July 12, 2026, and running through October 31, 2029, the Coast Guard created a Regulated Navigation Area (RNA) on the Hudson River at mile 146.2 near the Livingston Avenue Railroad Swing Bridge in Albany, NY. While the RNA is in effect you must observe a ‘‘Slow‑No Wake’’ speed limit (no wake and no greater than 5 knots unless needed for steerage), you may not stop, fish, moor, anchor, loiter, or overtake another vessel in the RNA, and you must stay at least 20 feet from the bridge except when in the navigation channel.
Planned Full Closures and Channel Reduction
Intermittent full enforcement periods (during which no vessel transits are allowed without authorization) are anticipated between July 12, 2026 and October 27, 2027 with up to 20 closures planned (examples: up to five one‑day closures July–Dec 2026; up to six one‑day closures Sep 2026–Feb 2027; one 14‑day closure Aug–Sep 2027). Around October 2027, navigation opening will be reduced to 84 feet for an estimated 30‑ to 60‑day period while demolition occurs.
Authorization Requirement During Full Enforcement
When a full enforcement period is activated, only vessels authorized by the Captain of the Port (COTP) may enter or remain in the RNA; persons or vessels seeking to enter during a full enforcement period must request authorization from the COTP or the on‑scene representative on VHF‑16 or by phone at (718) 354‑4353.
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