Coast Guard to Niantic River Bridge: Open All Year, No Winter Blues
Published Date: 9/17/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
The Coast Guard wants to change how the Route 156 Bridge over Niantic River operates between Waterford and Niantic, CT. Right now, the bridge has special rules from November to April that limit openings, but the new plan would remove those limits and keep the bridge operating the same all year. This affects boaters and commuters, and the public can share their thoughts by October 19, 2026.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Year‑Round Openings for Commercial Vessels
The Route 156 drawbridge at Niantic, CT, will open on signal for commercial vessels year‑round. The rule keeps the weekday periods 7:00–8:00 a.m. and 4:00–5:00 p.m. (Monday–Friday, excluding holidays) when the draw remains closed to recreational vessels, but commercial traffic will be served at all other times.
No More Six‑Hour Night Notice for Boaters
From November 1 through April 30 the prior six‑hour notice requirement will be removed so the Route 156 drawbridge at Niantic, CT, will open on signal for recreational vessels year‑round. Recreational vessels still cannot use the draw from 7:00–8:00 a.m. and 4:00–5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding holidays.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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