TX: Galveston Channel, bridge closure
The following is from the CG 8th District NTM 50/13.
Construction has begun and is ongoing on the Pelican Island Causeway Bridge across the Galveston Channel, Mile 4.5, GIWW at Mile 356.1, WHL, at Galveston, Texas. The purpose of the closure is to conduct major repairs on the mechanical portions of the bridge to improve operation and safety.
The Commander, Eighth Coast Guard District has issued a temporary final rule deviation from the regulation in 33 CFR 117.966 governing the
operation of the Pelican Island Causeway Bascule Span Bridge across the Galveston Channel, Mile 4.5, GIWW at Mile 356.1, WHL, at Galveston,
Texas. This temporary final rule 33 CFR 117.T966 allows the bridge to remain closed to navigation continuously from May 6, 2013 through July 8,
2014, a period of 14 months. HOWEVER, due to delays, the construction did not begin until on or about October 1, 2013. The contractor has
estimates that the work will be complete 14 months later. The temporary final rule will be extended as necessary to accommodate the new
termination date of the scheduled work.
The current expected completion date is December 31, 2014. For up-to-date information, regarding changes in the work will be published in the
Local Notice to Mariners when it becomes available.
The bridge will be inoperable even for emergencies, including hurricanes. If the work planned is completed prior to the scheduled end date, the
bridge will be returned to service and the temporary final rule cancelled.
Mariners with vertical clearance requirements of less than 13 feet above mean high water may transit beneath the closed structure; however all
other vessels will be required to transit through the GIWW around the island.
Alternate routes are available.
