USCGProposed Rule

Safety Zone; Patapsco River, Francis Scott Key Bridge

TransportationEnvironment

Summary

The Coast Guard is proposing to create a restricted water zone around the Francis Scott Key Bridge on the Patapsco River to protect the bridge and ensure public safety. This would limit boat traffic and activities in the area while the bridge is being rebuilt after the 2024 collapse.

Key Points

  • 1A safety zone would restrict vessel access and activities in specific areas of the Patapsco River near the Francis Scott Key Bridge
  • 2The restriction is designed to protect reconstruction work and prevent accidents or interference with bridge rebuilding efforts
  • 3Boaters and water users in the Baltimore area would need to avoid the designated safety zone or request special permission to enter
  • 4The public has until September 29, 2025 to submit comments about the proposed rule
  • 5The regulation would remain in effect during the bridge reconstruction period

Impact Assessment

If you are a transportation company or business operating on the Patapsco River, this means you will need to reroute vessels and operations around the restricted safety zone during bridge reconstruction, increasing transit times and operational costs.

Impact Level
Significant
Geographic Scope

State-specific

Compliance Cost

Moderate

Who is Affected
Transportation CompaniesSmall BusinessesImporters/Exporters

Key Dates

Published

September 5, 2025

Comment Deadline

September 29, 2025

Google Cal

Regulatory Connections

Amends CFR Sections
33 CFR Part 1

This summary is for informational purposes only. It may not capture all nuances of the regulation. Always refer to the official text for authoritative information.

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