The Coast Guard is changing the regulations that govern the operation of the State Route 175 Drawbridge (Chincoteague Bridge), across the Chincoteague Channel at Chincoteague Island, Va.

The final rule that goes into effect Dec. 18, 2006, will provide for openings of the draw every 90 minutes from 6 a.m. to midnight every day. The bridge will open on demand between the hours of midnight and 6 a.m.  The rule does not change the requirement of not opening the bridge on the last consecutive Wednesday and Thursday in July.

Schedule : 6 a.m., 7:30 a.m., 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 12 p.m., 1:30 p.m., 3 p.m., 4:30 p.m., 6 p.m., 7:30 p.m., 9 p.m., 10:30 p.m., and midnight.

The changes are being adapted based on public recommendations received during comment periods and a public meeting.  Based on the comments received, this 90-minute schedule provides a reasonable balance between the needs of land-based vehicular traffic and the navigational needs of the waterway users.
To view a copy of the Final Rule as published in the Nov. 16, 2006, edition of the Federal Register, please visit: http://www.gpoaccess.gov/fr/index.html

Last Updated ( Friday, 17 November 2006 )