Source: https://regulations.justia.com/regulations/fedreg/2013/05/21/2013-12033.html
Timestamp: 2019-12-15 21:23:09
Document Index: 230041077

Matched Legal Cases: ['art 117', 'art 165', 'art 165', 'art 165', 'ART 165', 'art 165', '§ 165', '§ 165', 'art 84', 'art 165', 'art 84']

Regulated Navigation Area; Waldo-Hancock Bridge Demolition, Penobscot River, Between Prospect and Verona, ME, 29648-29651 [2013-12033] :: Coast Guard :: Department Of Homeland Security :: Regulation Tracker :: Justia
Justia Regulation Tracker Department Of Homeland Security Coast Guard Regulated Navigation Area; Waldo-Hancock Bridge Demolition, Penobscot River, Between Prospect and Verona, ME, 29648-29651 [2013-12033]
Regulated Navigation Area; Waldo-Hancock Bridge Demolition, Penobscot River, Between Prospect and Verona, ME, 29648-29651 [2013-12033]
Download as PDF 29648 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 98 / Tuesday, May 21, 2013 / Rules and Regulations DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Coast Guard 33 CFR Part 117 [Docket No. USCG–2013–0348] Drawbridge Operation Regulation; New Jersey Intracoastal Waterway (NJICW), Atlantic City, NJ Coast Guard, DHS. Notice of deviation from drawbridge regulations. AGENCY: TKELLEY on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with RULES ACTION: SUMMARY: The Coast Guard has issued a temporary deviation from the operating schedules that govern the Route 30/ Absecon Boulevard Bridge across Beach Thorofare, NJICW mile 67.2 and the US40–322 (Albany Avenue) across Inside Thorofare, NJICW mile 70.0, both at Atlantic City, NJ. This deviation allows the drawbridges to remain closed-to-navigation to accommodate the free movement of vehicles during the 2013 Vet Rock Concert. DATES: This deviation is effective from 8 a.m., on Saturday June 1, 2013 until 1 a.m., on Sunday June 2, 2013. ADDRESSES: The docket for this deviation, USCG–2013–0348 is available at http://www.regulations.gov . Type the docket number in the ‘‘SEARCH’’ box and click ‘‘SEARCH.’’ Click on Open Docket Folder on the line associated with this deviation. You may also visit the Docket Management Facility (M–30), U.S. Department of Transportation, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: If you have questions on this rule, call or email Terrance Knowles, Environmental Protection Specialist, Fifth Coast Guard District; telephone 757–398–6587, email Terrance.A.Knowles@uscg.mil. If you have questions on viewing the docket, call Barbara Hairston, Program Manager, Docket Operations, telephone 202–366– 9826. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The New Jersey Department of Transportation requested a temporary deviation from the current operating regulations of the Route 30/Absecon Boulevard Bridge across Beach Thorofare, NJICW mile 67.2 and the US40–322 (Albany Avenue) across Inside Thorofare, NJICW mile 70.0, both at Atlantic City, NJ. The temporary deviation has been requested to ensure the safety of the heavy numbers of pedestrians and vehicular traffic that would be transiting over the VerDate Mar<15>2010 13:11 May 20, 2013 Jkt 229001 bridges for the Vet Rock Concert at Bader Field located within the city limits. Under this temporary deviation both drawbridges will be closed to vessels, from 8 a.m. until 11 a.m. on Saturday June 1, 2013 and again from 10 p.m., on Saturday June 1, 2013 until 1 a.m., on Sunday June 2, 2013. From 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., on Saturday June 1, 2013 the drawbridges need only open on the hour. Route 30/Absecon Boulevard Bridge The current operating regulation for the Route 30/Absecon Boulevard Bridge across Beach Thorofare is outlined at 33 CFR 117.733(e) which requires that the bridge shall open on signal if at least four hours of notice is given; except that from April 1 through October 31, from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., the draw need only open on the hour; on July 4, the draw need not open from 9:40 p.m. until 11:15 p.m. to accommodate the annual July 4th fireworks show. Should inclement weather prevent the fireworks event from taking place as planned, the draw need not open from 9:40 p.m. until 11:15 p.m. on July 5th to accommodate the annual July 4th fireworks show; and on the third or fourth Wednesday of August the draw will open every two hours on the hour from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. and need not open from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m. to accommodate the annual Air Show. In the closed position to vessels, the vertical clearance for this bascule-type bridge is 20 feet, above mean high water. US40–322 (Albany Avenue) Bridge The current operating regulation for the US40–322 (Albany Avenue) Bridge across Inside Thorofare is outlined at 33 CFR 117.733(f) shall open on signal except that year-round, from 11 p.m. to 7 a.m.; and from November 1 through March 31 from 3 p.m. to 11 p.m., the draw need only open if at least four hours notice is given; from June 1 through September 30, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., the draw need only open on the hour and half hour; and from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., the draw need not open; on July 4, the draw need not open from 9:40 p.m. until 11:15 p.m., to accommodate the annual July 4th fireworks show. Should inclement weather prevent the fireworks event from taking place as planned, the draw need not open from 9:40 p.m. until 11:15 p.m. on July 5th to accommodate the annual July 4th fireworks show; and on the third or fourth Wednesday of August, the draw will open every two hours on the hour from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. and need not open from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m. to accommodate the annual Air Show. In the closed position to PO 00000 Frm 00038 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 vessels, the vertical clearance for this bascule-type bridge is 10 feet, above mean high water. The majority of the vessels that transit the bridges this time of the year are recreational boats. Vessels able to pass through the bridges in the closed positions may do so at anytime. Both bridges will be able to open for emergencies. The Atlantic Ocean is an alternate route for vessels unable to pass through the bridges in closed positions. The Coast Guard will also inform the users of the waterways through our Local and Broadcast Notices to Mariners of the closure periods for the bridge so that vessels can arrange their transits to minimize any impact caused by the temporary deviation. In accordance with 33 CFR 117.35(e), the drawbridges must return to its regular operating schedules immediately at the end of the designated time period. This deviation from the operating regulations is authorized under 33 CFR 117.35. Dated: May 7, 2013. Waverly W. Gregory, Jr., Bridge Program Manager, Fifth Coast Guard District. [FR Doc. 2013–12027 Filed 5–20–13; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 9110–04–P DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Coast Guard 33 CFR Part 165 [Docket Number USCG–2012–0394] RIN 1625–AA11 Regulated Navigation Area; WaldoHancock Bridge Demolition, Penobscot River, Between Prospect and Verona, ME Coast Guard, DHS. Temporary final rule. AGENCY: ACTION: SUMMARY: The United States Coast Guard is establishing a regulated navigation area (RNA) on the navigable waters of the Penobscot River between Prospect and Verona, ME, under and surrounding the Waldo-Hancock Bridge in order to facilitate the removal of the trusses, cables, and towers of the WaldoHancock Bridge. This temporary final rule (TFR) is necessary to provide for the safety of life on the navigable waters during bridge demolition operations which include hot work and heavy lift operations. This rule implements certain safety measures, including speed restrictions and the temporary suspension of vessel traffic, during E:\FR\FM\21MYR1.SGM 21MYR1 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 98 / Tuesday, May 21, 2013 / Rules and Regulations demolition operations that could be hazardous to nearby vessels. DATES: This rule is effective with actual notice on May 10, 2013 through April 30, 2014. This rule is effective in the CFR on May 21, 2013 through April 30, 2014. ADDRESSES: Documents mentioned in this preamble are part of docket [USCG– 2012–0394]. To view documents mentioned in this preamble as being available in the docket, go to http:// www.regulations.gov, type the docket number in the ‘‘SEARCH’’ box and click ‘‘SEARCH.’’ Click on Open Docket Folder on the line associated with this rulemaking. You may also visit the Docket Management Facility in Room W12–140 on the ground floor of the Department of Transportation West Building, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: If you have questions on this temporary rule, call or email Ensign Elizabeth V. Morris, Waterways Management Division, Coast Guard Sector Northern New England, telephone 207–767–0398, email Elizabeth.V.Morris@uscg.mil or BMC Craig D. Lapiejko, First Coast Guard District, telephone 617–223– 8351, email Craig.D.Lapiejko@uscg.mil. If you have questions on viewing or submitting material to the docket, call Barbara Hairston, Program Manager, Docket Operations, telephone 202–366– 9826. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Table of Acronyms TKELLEY on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with RULES COTP Captain of the Port DHS Department of Homeland Security FR Federal Register NPRM Notice of Proposed Rulemaking RNA Regulated Navigation Area TFR Temporary Final Rule A. Regulatory History and Information On July 16, 2012 the Coast Guard provided the public with prior notice and opportunity to comment when it published a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) entitled Regulated Navigation Area; Original WaldoHancock Bridge Removal, Penobscot River, Bucksport, ME, in the Federal Register (77 FR 41717). No comments were received. This TFR is the outgrowth of that NPRM. As compared to the NPRM, Coast Guard seeks only to adjust the dates of the originally proposed RNA so as to account for the delay in demolition efforts as reported by The Maine Department of Transportation. This adjustment does not substantially change the intent of the RNA and does not necessitate a new VerDate Mar<15>2010 13:11 May 20, 2013 Jkt 229001 comment period. In addition, the Coast Guard has determined there is a public safety need to enforce this regulation during the demolition activities, which may begin fewer than 30 days after publication in the Federal Register. For this reason, the Coast Guard finds that good cause exists for making this rule effective fewer than 30 days after publication in the Federal Register under 5 U.S.C. 553(d)(3). B. Basis and Purpose Under the Ports and Waterways Safety Act, the Coast Guard has the authority to establish RNAs in defined water areas that are determined to have hazardous conditions and in which vessel traffic can be regulated in the interest of safety. See 33 U.S.C. 1231 and Department of Homeland Security Delegation No. 0170.1. The purpose of this proposed rule is to ensure the safe transit of vessels in the area, and to protect all persons, vessels, and the marine environment during demolition operations of the original Waldo-Hancock Bridge. C. Discussion of the Final Rule The removal of the Waldo-Hancock Bridge involves large machinery and construction vessel operations above and in the navigable waters of the Penobscot River. The ongoing operations are, by their nature, hazardous and pose risks both to recreational and commercial traffic as well as to the construction crew. In order to mitigate the inherent risks involved with the removal of a bridge, it is necessary to control vessel movement through the area. The purpose of this TFR is to ensure the safety of waterway users, the public, and construction workers for the duration of the Waldo-Hancock Bridge demolition. Heavy-lift operations are sensitive to water movement, and wake from passing vessels could pose significant risk of injury or death to construction workers. In order to minimize such unexpected or uncontrolled movement of water, the RNA limits vessel speed and wake of all vessels operating in the vicinity of the bridge removal zone. A five knot speed limit and ‘‘NO WAKE’’ zone will be enforced in the vicinity of the WaldoHancock Bridge demolition and will allow for the Captain of the Port (COTP) to suspend all vessel traffic for emergent situations that pose imminent threat to waterway users in the area. The RNA will also protect vessels desiring to transit the area by ensuring that vessels are only permitted to transit when it is safe to do so. PO 00000 Frm 00039 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 29649 The Coast Guard may close the regulated area described in this rule to all vessel traffic during circumstances that pose an imminent threat to waterway users operating in the area. Complete waterway closures will be made with as much advanced notice as possible. Please note that specific closure dates and times will be posted in the Local Notice to Mariners and disseminated via a Safety Marine Information Broadcast during each closure. The COTP Sector Northern New England will cause notice of enforcement, suspension of enforcement, or closure of this RNA to be made by appropriate means to ensure the widest distribution among the affected segments of the public. Such means of notification may include, but are not limited to, Broadcast Notice to Mariners and Local Notice to Mariners. In addition, the COTP maintains a telephone line that is staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The public can obtain information concerning enforcement of the regulated navigation area by contacting Coast Guard Sector Northern New England Command Center at 207–767–0303. D. Regulatory Analyses We developed this rule after considering numerous statutes and executive orders related to rulemaking. Below we summarize our analyses based on these statutes and executive orders. 1. Regulatory Planning and Review This TFR is not a significant regulatory action under section 3(f) of Executive Order 12866, Regulatory Planning and Review, as supplemented by Executive Order 13563, Improving Regulation and Regulatory Review, and does not require an assessment of potential costs and benefits under section 6(a)(3) of Executive Order 12866 or under section 1 of Executive Order 13563. The Office of Management and Budget has not reviewed it under those Orders. We expect the economic impact of this rule to be minimal because this regulated navigation area only requires vessels to reduce speed through a limited portion of the Penobscot River, therefore causing only a minimal delay to a vessel’s transit. In addition, periods when the RNA is closed to all traffic are expected to be of limited number and duration, and we will give advance notice of such closures. 2. Impact on Small Entities The Regulatory Flexibility Act of 1980 (RFA), 5 U.S.C. 601–612, as amended, E:\FR\FM\21MYR1.SGM 21MYR1 29650 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 98 / Tuesday, May 21, 2013 / Rules and Regulations requires federal agencies to consider the potential impact of regulations on small entities during rulemaking. The term ‘‘small entities’’ comprises small businesses, not-for-profit organizations that are independently owned and operated and are not dominant in their fields, and governmental jurisdictions with populations of less than 50,000. The Coast Guard received zero comments from the Small Business Administration on this rule. The Coast Guard certifies under 5 U.S.C. 605(b) that this rule will not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. (1) This rule will affect the following entities, some of which might be small entities: owners or operators of vessels intending to transit, fish, or anchor in the vicinity of the Waldo-Hancock Bridge. (2) The rule will not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities for the following reasons: periods when the RNA is closed to all traffic are expected to be during seasons of low traffic volume, also, vessels will be required to reduce speed through a limited portion of the Penobscot River, and, therefore, will only be caused a minimal delay. Notifications will include, but are not limited to, the Local Notice to Mariners and Broadcast Notice to Mariners to inform the public before, during, and at the conclusion of any RNA enforcement period. TKELLEY on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with RULES 3. Assistance for Small Entities Under section 213(a) of the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act of 1996 (Pub. L. 104–121), we want to assist small entities in understanding this rule. If the rule would affect your small business, organization, or governmental jurisdiction and you have questions concerning its provisions or options for compliance, please contact the person listed in the FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT, above. Small businesses may send comments on the actions of Federal employees who enforce, or otherwise determine compliance with, Federal regulations to the Small Business and Agriculture Regulatory Enforcement Ombudsman and the Regional Small Business Regulatory Fairness Boards. The Ombudsman evaluates these actions annually and rates each agency’s responsiveness to small business. If you wish to comment on actions by employees of the Coast Guard, call 1– 888–REG–FAIR (1–888–734–3247). The Coast Guard will not retaliate against small entities that question or complain VerDate Mar<15>2010 13:11 May 20, 2013 Jkt 229001 about this rule or any policy or action of the Coast Guard. 4. Collection of Information This rule will not call for a new collection of information under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 3501–3520). 5. Federalism A rule has implications for federalism under Executive Order 13132, Federalism, if it has a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between the national government and the States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. We have analyzed this rule under that Order and determined that this rule does not have implications for federalism. 6. Protest Activities The Coast Guard respects the First Amendment rights of protesters. Protesters are asked to contact the person listed in the FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT section to coordinate protest activities so that your message can be received without jeopardizing the safety or security of people, places or vessels. 7. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act The Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 (2 U.S.C. 1531–1538) requires Federal agencies to assess the effects of their discretionary regulatory actions. In particular, the Act addresses actions that may result in the expenditure by a State, local, or tribal government, in the aggregate, or by the private sector of $100,000,000 (adjusted for inflation) or more in any one year. Though this rule will not result in such an expenditure, we do discuss the effects of this rule elsewhere in this preamble. 8. Taking of Private Property This rule will not cause a taking of private property or otherwise have taking implications under Executive Order 12630, Governmental Actions and Interference with Constitutionally Protected Property Rights. 9. Civil Justice Reform This rule meets applicable standards in sections 3(a) and 3(b)(2) of Executive Order 12988, Civil Justice Reform, to minimize litigation, eliminate ambiguity, and reduce burden. 10. Protection of Children We have analyzed this rule under Executive Order 13045, Protection of Children from Environmental Health Risks and Safety Risks. This rule is not an economically significant rule and PO 00000 Frm 00040 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 does not create an environmental risk to health or risk to safety that may disproportionately affect children. 11. Indian Tribal Governments This rule does not have tribal implications under Executive Order 13175, Consultation and Coordination with Indian Tribal Governments, because it does not have a substantial direct effect on one or more Indian tribes, on the relationship between the Federal Government and Indian tribes, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities between the Federal Government and Indian tribes. 12. Energy Effects This action is not a ‘‘significant energy action’’ under Executive Order 13211, Actions Concerning Regulations That Significantly Affect Energy Supply, Distribution, or Use. 13. Technical Standards This rule does not use technical standards. Therefore, we did not consider the use of voluntary consensus standards. 14. Environment We have analyzed this rule under Department of Homeland Security Management Directive 023–01 and Commandant Instruction M16475.lD, which guide the Coast Guard in complying with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) (42 U.S.C. 4321–4370f), and find that this action is one of a category of actions that do not individually or cumulatively have a significant effect on the human environment. This rule involves the establishment of an RNA and we have determined that this action will not result in significant environmental impacts. Therefore, it is categorically excluded from further review under paragraph 34(g) of Figure 2–1 of the Commandant Instruction. An environmental analysis checklist supporting this determination and the Categorical Exclusion Determination are available in the docket where indicated under ADDRESSES. We seek any comments or information that may lead to the discovery of a significant environmental impact from this final rule. List of Subjects in 33 CFR Part 165 Harbors, Marine safety, Navigation (water), Reporting and recordkeeping requirements, Security measures, Waterways. For the reasons discussed in the preamble, the Coast Guard amends 33 CFR Part 165 as follows: E:\FR\FM\21MYR1.SGM 21MYR1 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 98 / Tuesday, May 21, 2013 / Rules and Regulations PART 165—REGULATED NAVIGATION AREAS AND LIMITED ACCESS AREAS 1. The authority citation for Part 165 continues to read as follows: ■ Authority: 33 U.S.C. 1231; 46 U.S.C. Chapter 701, 50 U.S.C. 191, 195; 33 CFR 1.05–1, 6.04–1, 6.04–6, and 160.5; Pub. L. 107–295, 116 Stat. 2064; Department of Homeland Security Delegation No. 0170.1. 2. Add § 165.T01–0394 to read as follows: ■ § 165.T01–0394 Regulated Navigation Area; Waldo-Hancock Bridge Demolition, Penobscot River, between Prospect and Verona, ME. (a) Location. The following area is a Regulated Navigation Area (RNA): All navigable waters of Penobscot River between Prospect, ME and Verona, ME, from surface to bottom, within a 300 yard radius of position 44°33′38″ N, 068°48′05″ W. (b) Regulations. (1) The general regulations contained in 33 CFR 165.10, 165.11, and 165.13 apply within the RNA. (2) In accordance with the general regulations, entry into or movement within this zone, during periods of enforcement, is prohibited unless authorized by the Captain of the Port (COTP) Sector Northern New England. (3) Persons and vessels may request permission to enter the RNA during periods of enforcement by contacting the COTP or the COTP’s on-scene representative on VHF–16 or via phone at 207–767–0303. (4) During periods of enforcement, a speed limit of five knots will be in effect within the regulated area and all vessels must proceed through the area with caution and operate in such a manner as to produce no wake. (5) During periods of enforcement, vessels must comply with all directions given to them by the COTP or the COTP’s on-scene representative. The ‘‘on-scene representative’’ of the COTP is any Coast Guard commissioned, warrant or petty officer who has been designated by the COTP to act on the COTP’s behalf. The on-scene representative may be on a Coast Guard vessel; Maine State Police, Maine Marine Patrol or other designated craft; or may be ashore and communicating with vessels via VHF–FM radio or loudhailer. Members of the Coast Guard Auxiliary may be present to inform vessel operators of this regulation. (6) During periods of enforcement, upon being hailed by a U.S. Coast Guard vessel by siren, radio, flashing light or other means, the operator of the vessel must proceed as directed. (7) All other relevant regulations, including but not limited to the Rules of the Road (33 CFR part 84—subchapter E, Inland Navigational Rules) remain in effect within the regulated area and must be strictly followed at all times. (c) Enforcement Period. This regulation is enforceable 24 hours a day with actual notice from May 10, 2013 through April 30, 2014, and enforceable based on constructive notice from May 21, 2013 through April 30, 2014. (1) Prior to commencing or suspending enforcement of this regulation, the COTP and designated onscene patrol personnel will notify the public whenever the regulation is being enforced and whenever enforcement is lifted, to include dates and times. The means of notification will include, but are not limited to, Broadcast Notice to Mariners and Local Notice to Mariners, Marine Safety Information Bulletins, or other appropriate means. (2) Violations of this RNA may be reported to the COTP at 207–767–0303 or on VHF-Channel 16. Dated: May 10, 2013. V.B. Gifford, Captain, U.S. Coast Guard, Acting, First Coast Guard District. [FR Doc. 2013–12033 Filed 5–20–13; 8:45 am] 29651 DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Coast Guard 33 CFR Part 165 [Docket No. USCG–2013–0282] Safety Zone; Fireworks Events in Captain of the Port New York Zone AGENCY: Coast Guard, DHS. Notice of enforcement of regulation. ACTION: SUMMARY: The Coast Guard will enforce safety zones in the Captain of the Port New York Zone on the specified dates and times. This action is necessary to ensure the safety of vessels and spectators from hazards associated with fireworks displays. During the enforcement period, no person or vessel may enter the safety zones without permission of the Captain of the Port (COTP). The regulation for the safety zones described in 33 CFR 165.160 will be enforced on the dates and times listed in the table in SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION. DATES: If you have questions on this notice, call or email Lieutenant Junior Grade Kristopher Kesting, Coast Guard Sector New York; telephone 718–354–4154, email Kristopher.R.Kesting@uscg.mil. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: The Coast Guard will enforce the safety zones listed in 33 CFR 165.160 on the specified dates and times as indicated in Table 1 below. This regulation was published in the Federal Register on November 9, 2011 (76 FR 69614). SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: BILLING CODE 9110–04–P TABLE 1 • Launch site: A barge located in approximate position 40°42′57.5″ N, 074°01′34″ W (NAD 1983), approximately 375 yards southeast of Pier D, Jersey City, New Jersey. This Safety Zone is a 360-yard radius from the barge. • Date: June 30, 2013. • Time: 9:00 p.m.–10:10 p.m. 2. Chad Hudson Events Fireworks Display, Pier 90, Hudson River Safety Zone, 33 CFR 165.160(3.8). TKELLEY on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with RULES 1. Heritage of Pride Fireworks Display, Pier D, Hudson River Safety Zone, 33 CFR 165.160(4.2). • Launch site: A barge located in approximate position 40°46′11.8″ N, 074°00′14.8″ W (NAD 1983), approximately 375 yards west of Pier 90, Manhattan, New York. This Safety Zone is a 360-yard radius from the barge. • Date: July 14, 2013. • Time: 22:00 p.m.–23:10 p.m. VerDate Mar<15>2010 13:11 May 20, 2013 Jkt 229001 PO 00000 Frm 00041 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 E:\FR\FM\21MYR1.SGM 21MYR1
[Pages 29648-29651]
[FR Doc No: 2013-12033]
[Docket Number USCG-2012-0394]
Regulated Navigation Area; Waldo-Hancock Bridge Demolition,
Penobscot River, Between Prospect and Verona, ME
SUMMARY: The United States Coast Guard is establishing a regulated
navigation area (RNA) on the navigable waters of the Penobscot River
between Prospect and Verona, ME, under and surrounding the Waldo-
Hancock Bridge in order to facilitate the removal of the trusses,
cables, and towers of the Waldo-Hancock Bridge. This temporary final
rule (TFR) is necessary to provide for the safety of life on the
navigable waters during bridge demolition operations which include hot
work and heavy lift operations. This rule implements certain safety
measures, including speed restrictions and the temporary suspension of
vessel traffic, during
demolition operations that could be hazardous to nearby vessels.
DATES: This rule is effective with actual notice on May 10, 2013
through April 30, 2014. This rule is effective in the CFR on May 21,
2013 through April 30, 2014.
[USCG-2012-0394]. To view documents mentioned in this preamble as being
temporary rule, call or email Ensign Elizabeth V. Morris, Waterways
Management Division, Coast Guard Sector Northern New England, telephone
207-767-0398, email Elizabeth.V.Morris@uscg.mil or BMC Craig D.
Lapiejko, First Coast Guard District, telephone 617-223-8351, email
Craig.D.Lapiejko@uscg.mil. If you have questions on viewing or
On July 16, 2012 the Coast Guard provided the public with prior
notice and opportunity to comment when it published a notice of
proposed rulemaking (NPRM) entitled Regulated Navigation Area; Original
Waldo-Hancock Bridge Removal, Penobscot River, Bucksport, ME, in the
Federal Register (77 FR 41717). No comments were received. This TFR is
the outgrowth of that NPRM. As compared to the NPRM, Coast Guard seeks
only to adjust the dates of the originally proposed RNA so as to
account for the delay in demolition efforts as reported by The Maine
Department of Transportation. This adjustment does not substantially
change the intent of the RNA and does not necessitate a new comment
period. In addition, the Coast Guard has determined there is a public
safety need to enforce this regulation during the demolition
activities, which may begin fewer than 30 days after publication in the
Federal Register. For this reason, the Coast Guard finds that good
cause exists for making this rule effective fewer than 30 days after
publication in the Federal Register under 5 U.S.C. 553(d)(3).
authority to establish RNAs in defined water areas that are determined
to have hazardous conditions and in which vessel traffic can be
regulated in the interest of safety. See 33 U.S.C. 1231 and Department
of Homeland Security Delegation No. 0170.1.
The purpose of this proposed rule is to ensure the safe transit of
vessels in the area, and to protect all persons, vessels, and the
marine environment during demolition operations of the original Waldo-
Hancock Bridge.
The removal of the Waldo-Hancock Bridge involves large machinery
and construction vessel operations above and in the navigable waters of
the Penobscot River. The ongoing operations are, by their nature,
hazardous and pose risks both to recreational and commercial traffic as
well as to the construction crew. In order to mitigate the inherent
risks involved with the removal of a bridge, it is necessary to control
vessel movement through the area. The purpose of this TFR is to ensure
the safety of waterway users, the public, and construction workers for
the duration of the Waldo-Hancock Bridge demolition. Heavy-lift
operations are sensitive to water movement, and wake from passing
vessels could pose significant risk of injury or death to construction
In order to minimize such unexpected or uncontrolled movement of
water, the RNA limits vessel speed and wake of all vessels operating in
the vicinity of the bridge removal zone. A five knot speed limit and
``NO WAKE'' zone will be enforced in the vicinity of the Waldo-Hancock
Bridge demolition and will allow for the Captain of the Port (COTP) to
suspend all vessel traffic for emergent situations that pose imminent
threat to waterway users in the area. The RNA will also protect vessels
desiring to transit the area by ensuring that vessels are only
permitted to transit when it is safe to do so.
The Coast Guard may close the regulated area described in this rule
to all vessel traffic during circumstances that pose an imminent threat
to waterway users operating in the area. Complete waterway closures
will be made with as much advanced notice as possible. Please note that
specific closure dates and times will be posted in the Local Notice to
Mariners and disseminated via a Safety Marine Information Broadcast
during each closure.
The COTP Sector Northern New England will cause notice of
enforcement, suspension of enforcement, or closure of this RNA to be
made by appropriate means to ensure the widest distribution among the
affected segments of the public. Such means of notification may
include, but are not limited to, Broadcast Notice to Mariners and Local
Notice to Mariners. In addition, the COTP maintains a telephone line
that is staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The public can
obtain information concerning enforcement of the regulated navigation
area by contacting Coast Guard Sector Northern New England Command
Center at 207-767-0303.
This TFR is not a significant regulatory action under section 3(f)
We expect the economic impact of this rule to be minimal because
this regulated navigation area only requires vessels to reduce speed
through a limited portion of the Penobscot River, therefore causing
only a minimal delay to a vessel's transit. In addition, periods when
the RNA is closed to all traffic are expected to be of limited number
and duration, and we will give advance notice of such closures.
requires federal agencies to consider the potential impact of
50,000. The Coast Guard received zero comments from the Small Business
(1) This rule will affect the following entities, some of which
transit, fish, or anchor in the vicinity of the Waldo-Hancock Bridge.
(2) The rule will not have a significant economic impact on a
substantial number of small entities for the following reasons: periods
when the RNA is closed to all traffic are expected to be during seasons
of low traffic volume, also, vessels will be required to reduce speed
through a limited portion of the Penobscot River, and, therefore, will
only be caused a minimal delay. Notifications will include, but are not
limited to, the Local Notice to Mariners and Broadcast Notice to
Mariners to inform the public before, during, and at the conclusion of
any RNA enforcement period.
Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) (42 U.S.C. 4321-4370f), and find that this
rule involves the establishment of an RNA and we have determined that
this action will not result in significant environmental impacts.
Therefore, it is categorically excluded from further review under
paragraph 34(g) of Figure 2-1 of the Commandant Instruction. An
environmental analysis checklist supporting this determination and the
We seek any comments or information that may lead to the discovery
of a significant environmental impact from this final rule.
Authority: 33 U.S.C. 1231; 46 U.S.C. Chapter 701, 50 U.S.C.
191, 195; 33 CFR 1.05-1, 6.04-1, 6.04-6, and 160.5; Pub. L. 107-295,
116 Stat. 2064; Department of Homeland Security Delegation No.
2. Add Sec.  165.T01-0394 to read as follows:
Sec.  165.T01-0394  Regulated Navigation Area; Waldo-Hancock Bridge
Demolition, Penobscot River, between Prospect and Verona, ME.
(a) Location. The following area is a Regulated Navigation Area
(RNA): All navigable waters of Penobscot River between Prospect, ME and
Verona, ME, from surface to bottom, within a 300 yard radius of
position 44[deg]33'38'' N, 068[deg]48'05'' W.
(1) The general regulations contained in 33 CFR 165.10, 165.11, and
165.13 apply within the RNA.
(2) In accordance with the general regulations, entry into or
movement within this zone, during periods of enforcement, is prohibited
unless authorized by the Captain of the Port (COTP) Sector Northern New
(3) Persons and vessels may request permission to enter the RNA
during periods of enforcement by contacting the COTP or the COTP's on-
scene representative on VHF-16 or via phone at 207-767-0303.
(4) During periods of enforcement, a speed limit of five knots will
be in effect within the regulated area and all vessels must proceed
through the area with caution and operate in such a manner as to
produce no wake.
(5) During periods of enforcement, vessels must comply with all
directions given to them by the COTP or the COTP's on-scene
representative. The ``on-scene representative'' of the COTP is any
Coast Guard commissioned, warrant or petty officer who has been
designated by the COTP to act on the COTP's behalf. The on-scene
representative may be on a Coast Guard vessel; Maine State Police,
Maine Marine Patrol or other designated craft; or may be ashore and
communicating with vessels via VHF-FM radio or loudhailer. Members of
(6) During periods of enforcement, upon being hailed by a U.S.
Coast Guard vessel by siren, radio, flashing light or other means, the
operator of the vessel must proceed as directed.
(7) All other relevant regulations, including but not limited to
the Rules of the Road (33 CFR part 84--subchapter E, Inland
Navigational Rules) remain in effect within the regulated area and must
be strictly followed at all times.
(c) Enforcement Period. This regulation is enforceable 24 hours a
day with actual notice from May 10, 2013 through April 30, 2014, and
enforceable based on constructive notice from May 21, 2013 through
(1) Prior to commencing or suspending enforcement of this
regulation, the COTP and designated on-scene patrol personnel will
notify the public whenever the regulation is being enforced and
whenever enforcement is lifted, to include dates and times. The means
of notification will include, but are not limited to, Broadcast Notice
to Mariners and Local Notice to Mariners, Marine Safety Information
Bulletins, or other appropriate means.
(2) Violations of this RNA may be reported to the COTP at 207-767-
0303 or on VHF-Channel 16.
Captain, U.S. Coast Guard, Acting, First Coast Guard District.
[FR Doc. 2013-12033 Filed 5-20-13; 8:45 am]