Wisconsin Drawbridges May Soon Take Orders Remotely to Ease Traffic
Published Date: 10/22/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
The Coast Guard wants to change how two drawbridges in Manitowoc, Wisconsin, operate to help reduce traffic jams downtown. They’re planning to let the bridges be controlled remotely, making things smoother for drivers and boats. If you have thoughts, you’ve got until November 23, 2026, to share them—no cost changes are expected, just smarter bridge moves!
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
New drawbridge opening schedule and notice rules
The Eighth Street Bridge (mile 0.29) and Tenth Street Bridge (mile 0.43) will not open on signal during certain weekday times from April 1 through November 30: 7:00–8:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m.–noon, and 4:00–5:00 p.m. From 10:00 p.m. to 4:00 a.m. during that same period the bridges will open on signal only if given a 2-hour advance notice. From December 1 through March 31 the draws will open on signal only with at least a 12-hour advance notice.
Authorization for remote bridge operation
The rule would authorize remote operation of both bridges with a control house at each bridge so one drawtender can operate one or both bridges remotely. The bridges must maintain and operate a radiotelephone and a two-way public address system capable of responding to sound signals or voice communications between the operator and vessels. The Coast Guard completed a cybersecurity review and found owner-provided safeguards appear sufficient for approval of remote operations.
Coast Guard certifies limited small-entity economic impact
Under the Regulatory Flexibility Act the Coast Guard certifies that this proposed rule would not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. The agency based this determination on vessels being able to transit the bridges as if a drawtender were in attendance.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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