Coast Guard Okays Train Yard to Remotely Open Texas Drawbridge?
Published Date: 8/7/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
The Coast Guard proposes to modify the operating schedule that governs the Union Pacific Railroad (UPRR) drawbridge that crosses the Old Brazos River, mile 5.3, near Brazoria, TX. UPRR has proposed to remotely operate the drawbridge from their train yard located in Brazos, TX. The Coast Guard temporarily changed the regulation to test this system. During the test the drawbridge continued to operate safely and provided boats and mariners with a reasonable ability to use this waterway. We invite your comments on this proposed rulemaking.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Fail-Safe: Draw Must Stay Open on Remote Failures
The proposed rule requires UPRR to place and keep the draw in the open-to-boat position immediately if camera, thermal imaging, microwave sensor, communications, weather visibility, safety, cybersecurity, dispatcher evacuation, or other listed failures prevent safe remote operation. The draw may only resume closures to pass trains after an onsite bridge operator arrives and the Coast Guard approves returning to remote operation.
Bridge Now Remotely Operated
The rule proposes the Union Pacific Railroad drawbridge over the Old Brazos River to be maintained in the open-to-boat position and remotely operated (the proposed Sec. 117.975 text says remote operation by the CSX yard supervisor in Freeport, TX). Boats can contact the remote bridge tender on VHF-FM Channel 9 or by the telephone number posted on the bridge. At mean high water the bridge has a 10-foot vertical clearance closed, 71-foot vertical clearance open, and 228-foot horizontal clearance; the bridge currently closes to pass trains about 1–3 times per day.
No Significant Impact Found for Small Entities
The Coast Guard certifies under the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 605(b)) that this proposed rule would not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. If your small business or organization believes it would be significantly affected, the Coast Guard invites comments explaining how and to what degree.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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