Coast Guard Locks Down Chickahominy River for Rowing Race Safety
Published Date: 8/28/2026
Rule
Summary
On September 20, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., the Coast Guard will temporarily block off part of the Chickahominy River near Williamsburg, VA, to keep everyone safe during a rowing event. Only people or boats with special permission can enter the area during this time. This means boaters should plan ahead to avoid the zone and stay safe without any extra costs.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Temporary boating exclusion on Chickahominy
If you plan to boat on the Chickahominy River near Williamsburg, VA, you may not enter, transit through, anchor in, or remain in the waters between the Highway 5 Chickahominy River Bridge and Shields Point from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on September 20, 2026, unless the Captain of the Port Virginia (COTP) or their designated representative gives you permission.
Protected waters for race participants
If you are a registered participant in the Williamsburg Boat Club rowing event (about 400 participants), the regulated area between the Highway 5 bridge and Shields Point will be reserved and enforced for your safety from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on September 20, 2026. The rule defines a "participant" as persons and vessels registered with the event sponsor.
How to request access during the event
If you need permission to enter the regulated area during the event, you must obtain authorization from the Captain of the Port Virginia or their designated representative by contacting them on VHF-FM channel 16 or by phone at 877-722-5727. This permission procedure applies during the enforcement period of 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on September 20, 2026.
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Key Dates
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