Coast Guard Approves Remote Operation for New Jersey Drawbridge
Published Date: 7/20/2026
Rule
Summary
The Coast Guard is updating the rules for the Lehigh Valley Drawbridge between Newark and Bayonne, NJ, so it can be operated remotely from Mount Laurel. This change won’t affect when the bridge opens but will help reduce wait times and make operations smoother. The new rule kicks in on August 19, 2026, and mainly impacts boaters and bridge operators with no extra costs involved.
Analyzed Economic Effects
5 provisions identified: 5 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
60-Minute Restoration Requirement
If the remote-control system is partially disabled or fails, the bridge must be physically tended and operated locally as soon as possible and no more than 60 minutes after the malfunction; mechanical bypass and override capability must be provided and maintained.
Bridge Can Be Operated Remotely
The Lehigh Valley Drawbridge (mile 4.6) may be operated remotely from the Conrail North Jersey Dispatch Center in Mount Laurel, NJ. The change does not alter the bridge's operating schedule and is intended to reduce delays and improve efficiency starting August 19, 2026.
New Communication and Equipment Rules
The bridge must operate closed-circuit television cameras at the site, maintain VHF-FM Radiotelephone Channel 13/16 with a push-to-talk button (vessels may push PTT five times on channel 13 to request an opening), have directional microphones and horns, post a phone number for mariners, and keep two 12-inch board gages showing vertical clearance. These equipment and communication requirements apply whenever the bridge is remotely operated.
Operating Schedule Remains Unchanged
The rule explicitly does not change the Lehigh Valley Drawbridge operating schedule published in 33 CFR 117.735; the bridge has a vertical clearance of 35 feet closed and 135 feet open, with about 28 daily train transits and an average of four daily openings for vessels.
No Significant Economic Impact on Small Entities
The Coast Guard certified under 5 U.S.C. 605(b) that this rule will not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities, noting that the operating schedule will not change and remote operation was tested as providing equal or greater capabilities.
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Key Dates
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