Rule2024-02704
Safety Zones; Delaware River Dredging, Marcus Hook, PA
Primary source
Metadata and text below are from the Federal Register, a public-domain U.S. government work. Always verify the official published version before relying on it for any legal matter.
Published
February 9, 2024
Effective
February 9, 2024
Issuing agencies
Homeland Security DepartmentCoast Guard
Abstract
The Coast Guard is establishing two temporary safety zones on the waters of the Delaware River, in portions of Marcus Hook Range and Anchorage 7 off Marcus Hook Range. The safety zones temporarily restrict vessel traffic from transiting or anchoring in portions of the Delaware River while maintenance dredging is being conducted within the Delaware River. The safety zones are needed to protect personnel, vessels, and the marine environment from hazards created by dredging operations. Entry of vessels or persons into these zones is prohibited unless specifically authorized by the Captain of the Port (COTP) or his designated representatives.
Full Text
<html>
<head>
<title>Federal Register, Volume 89 Issue 28 (Friday, February 9, 2024)</title>
</head>
<body><pre>
[Federal Register Volume 89, Number 28 (Friday, February 9, 2024)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 8994-8996]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [<a href="http://www.gpo.gov">www.gpo.gov</a>]
[FR Doc No: 2024-02704]
=======================================================================
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY
Coast Guard
33 CFR Part 165
[Docket Number USCG-2024-0128]
RIN 1625-AA00
Safety Zones; Delaware River Dredging, Marcus Hook, PA
AGENCY: Coast Guard, DHS.
ACTION: Temporary final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The Coast Guard is establishing two temporary safety zones on
the waters of the Delaware River, in portions of Marcus Hook Range and
Anchorage 7 off Marcus Hook Range. The safety zones temporarily
restrict vessel traffic from transiting or anchoring in portions of the
Delaware River while maintenance dredging is being conducted within the
Delaware River. The safety zones are needed to protect personnel,
vessels, and the marine environment from hazards created by dredging
operations. Entry of vessels or persons into these zones is prohibited
unless specifically authorized by the Captain of the Port (COTP) or his
designated representatives.
DATES: This rule is effective without actual notice from February 9,
2024 through April 30, 2024. For the purposes of enforcement, actual
notice will be used from February 6, 2024, through February 9, 2024
ADDRESSES: To view documents mentioned in this preamble as being
available in the docket, go to <a href="https://www.regulations.gov">https://www.regulations.gov</a>, type USCG-
2024-0128 in the search box, and click ``Search.'' Next, in the
``Document Type'' column, select ``Supporting & Related Material.''
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: If you have questions about this rule,
call or email Petty Officer Christopher Payne, Waterways Management
Branch, U.S. Coast Guard Sector Delaware Bay; telephone (267) 515-7294,
email <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#4e1d2b2d0a2b220c2f371919030e3b3d2d2960232722"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="6231070126070e20031b35352f22171101054c0f0b0e">[email protected]</span></a>.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
I. Table of Abbreviations
COTP Captain of the Port
CFR Code of Federal Regulations
DHS Department of Homeland Security
FR Federal Register
NPRM Notice of proposed rulemaking
Sec. Section
U.S.C. United States Code
II. Background Information and Regulatory History
The Coast Guard is issuing this temporary rule without prior notice
and opportunity to comment pursuant to authority under section 5 U.S.C.
553(b). This provision authorizes an agency to issue a rule without
prior notice and opportunity to comment when the agency, for good
cause, finds that those procedures are ``impracticable, unnecessary, or
contrary to the public interest.'' Under 5 U.S.C. 553(b)(B), the Coast
Guard finds that good cause exists for not publishing a notice of
proposed rulemaking (NPRM) with respect to this rule because it is
impracticable and contrary to the public interest. There is
insufficient time to allow for a reasonable comment period prior to the
start date for dredging operations. The rule must be in force by
February 6, 2024 to serve its purpose of ensuring the safety of the
public from hazards associated with dredging operations.
Under 5 U.S.C. 553(d)(3), the Coast Guard also finds that good
cause exists for making this rule effective less than 30 days after
publication in the Federal Register for the same reasons discussed
above.
III. Legal Authority and Need for Rule
The Coast Guard is issuing this rule under authority in 46 U.S.C.
70034 (previously 33 U.S.C. 1231). The COTP has determined that there
are potential hazards associated with dredging operations, such as
submerged and floating pipelines, booster pumps, head sections, and
support vessels with a restricted ability to maneuver. The purpose of
this rulemaking is to ensure the safety of personnel, vessels, and the
marine environment within a 250-yard radius of dredging operations and
all associated pipeline and equipment.
IV. Discussion of the Rule
This rule establishes two safety zones, both of which will be in
effect from February 6, 2024 through April 30, 2024. The safety zones
are necessary to facilitate annual maintenance dredging of the Delaware
River in the vicinity of Marcus Hook Range and Anchorage 7 off Marcus
Hook Range. (The location of the anchorage is described in 33 CFR
110.157(a)(8).) Dredging will most likely be conducted with the dredge
ESSEX, though other dredges may be used, along with the associated
dredge pipeline and booster pumps. The pipeline consists of a
combination of floating hoses immediately behind the dredge and
submerged pipeline leading to upland disposal areas. Booster pumps,
located between the dredge
[[Page 8995]]
pump and the discharge point, allow the dredge pump to operate more
efficiently. Due to the hazards related to dredging operations, the
associated pipeline and the location of submerged pipeline, safety
zones are being established in the following areas:
(1) Safety Zone One includes all navigable waters within 250 yards
of the dredge, which will be displaying lights and shapes for vessels
restricted in ability to maneuver, as described in 33 CFR 83.27, and
all related dredge equipment when the dredge is operating in Marcus
Hook Range, and Anchorage 7. This safety zone is being established for
the duration of the maintenance project. Vessels requesting to transit
the safety zone must contact the dredge on VHF channel 13 or 16 at
least 1 hour prior to arrival to arrange safe passage. At least one
side of the main navigational channel will be kept clear for safe
passage of vessels in the vicinity of the safety zone. At no time will
the entire main navigational channel be closed to vessel traffic.
Vessels should avoid meeting in these areas where one side of the main
navigational channel is open and proceed per this rule and the Rules of
the Road (33 CFR subchapter E).
(2) Safety Zone Two includes all the waters of Anchorage 7 off
Marcus Hook Range, as described in 33 CFR 110.157(a)(8). Vessels
wishing to anchor in Anchorage 7 off Marcus Hook Range while this rule
is in effect must obtain permission from the COTP at least 24 hours in
advance by calling (215) 271-4807. Vessels requesting permission to
anchor within Anchorage 7 off Marcus Hook must be at least 650 feet in
overall length. The COTP will permit, at maximum, only one vessel to
anchor at a time, on a ``first-come, first-served'' basis. Vessels will
only be allowed to anchor for a 12 hour period. Vessels that require an
examination by the Public Health Service, Customs, or Immigration
authorities will be directed to an anchorage by the COTP for the
required inspection. Vessels are encouraged to use Anchorage 9 near the
entrance to Mantua Creek, Anchorage 10 at Naval Base, Philadelphia, and
Anchorage 6 off Deepwater Point Range as alternative anchorages.
Preference is being given to vessels at least 650 feet in length in
Anchorage 7 while this rule is in effect, because vessels of this size
are limited in their ability to utilize other anchorages due to draft.
The depth of Anchorage 7 provides an acceptable depth for large vessels
to bunker and stage for facility arrival. Smaller vessels maintain a
host of other options to include, but are not limited to, Anchorage 9
and 10, as recommended above.
Entry into, transiting, or anchoring within safety zone one is
prohibited unless vessels obtain permission from the COTP or make
satisfactory passing arrangements with the operating dredge per this
rule and the Rules of the Road (33 CFR subchapter E). The COTP may
issue updates regarding the vessel and equipment being utilized for
these dredging operations via Marine Safety Information Bulletin and
Broadcast Notice to Mariners.
V. Regulatory Analyses
We developed this rule after considering numerous statutes and
Executive orders related to rulemaking. Below we summarize our analyses
based on a number of these statutes and Executive orders, and we
discuss First Amendment rights of protestors.
A. Regulatory Planning and Review
Executive Orders 12866 and 13563 direct agencies to assess the
costs and benefits of available regulatory alternatives and, if
regulation is necessary, to select regulatory approaches that maximize
net benefits. This rule has not been designated a ``significant
regulatory action,'' under Executive Order 12866, as amended by
Executive Order 14094. Accordingly, this rule has not been reviewed by
the Office of Management and Budget (OMB).
This regulatory action determination is based on size, location,
duration, and traffic management of the safety zones. The safety zones
will be enforced in an area and in a manner that does not conflict with
transiting commercial and recreational traffic. At least one side of
the main navigational channel will be open for vessels to transit at
all times. Moreover, the Coast Guard will work in coordination with the
pilots to ensure vessel traffic can transit the area safely.
Although this regulation will restrict access to regulated areas,
the effect of this rule will not be significant because there are a
number of alternate anchorages available for vessels to anchor.
Furthermore, vessels may transit through the safety zones with the
permission of the COTP or make satisfactory passing arrangements with
the dredge ESSEX, or other dredge(s) that may be used in accordance
with this rule and the Rules of the Road (33 CFR subchapter E). The
Coast Guard will notify the maritime public about the safety zones
through maritime advisories, allowing mariners to alter their plans
accordingly.
B. Impact on Small Entities
The Regulatory Flexibility Act of 1980, 5 U.S.C. 601-612, as
amended, 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 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.
While some owners or operators of vessels intending to transit the
safety zone may be small entities, for the reasons stated in section V.
A. above, this rule will not have a significant economic impact on any
vessel owner or operator.
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
call or email the person listed in the FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT
section.
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 about this rule or any policy or
action of the Coast Guard.
C. 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).
D. Federalism and Indian Tribal Governments
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
[[Page 8996]]
power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. We
have analyzed this rule under that Order and have determined that it is
consistent with the fundamental federalism principles and preemption
requirements described in Executive Order 13132.
Also, 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.
E. 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.
F. Environment
We have analyzed this rule under Department of Homeland Security
Directive 023-01, Rev. 1, associated implementing instructions, and
Environmental Planning COMDTINST 5090.1 (series), which guide the Coast
Guard in complying with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969
(42 U.S.C. 4321-4370f), and have determined 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 two
safety zones to protect waterway users that would prohibit entry within
250 yards of dredging operations and will close only one side of the
main navigation channel. Vessels can request permission to enter the
channel. It is categorically excluded from further review under
paragraph L60(a) of Appendix A, Table 1 of DHS Instruction Manual 023-
01-001-01, Rev. 1. A Record of Environmental Consideration supporting
this determination is available in the docket. For instructions on
locating documents mentioned in this preamble as being available in the
docket, see the ADDRESSES section of this preamble.
G. Protest Activities
The Coast Guard respects the First Amendment rights of protesters.
Protesters are asked to call or email 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.
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:
PART 165--REGULATED NAVIGATION AREAS AND LIMITED ACCESS AREAS
0
1. The authority citation for part 165 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 46 U.S.C. 70034, 70051, 70124; 33 CFR 1.05-1, 6.04-1,
6.04-6, and 160.5; Department of Homeland Security Delegation No.
00170.1, Revision No. 01.3.
0
2. Add Sec. 165.T05-1004, to read as follows.
Sec. 165.T05-1004 Safety Zones, Delaware River Dredging; Marcus Hook,
PA
(a) Location. The following areas are safety zones:
(1) Safety Zone One includes all waters within 250 yards of the
dredge displaying lights and shapes for vessels restricted in ability
to maneuver as described in 33 CFR 83.27, as well as all related dredge
equipment, while the dredge is operating in Marcus Hook Range. For
enforcement purposes Marcus Hook Range includes all navigable waters of
the Delaware River shoreline to shoreline, bound by a line drawn
perpendicular to the center line of the channel at the farthest upriver
point of the range to a line drawn perpendicular to the center line of
the channel at the farthest downriver point of the range.
(2) Safety Zone Two includes all the waters of Anchorage 7 off
Marcus Hook Range, as described in 33 CFR 110.157(a)(8) and depicted on
U.S. Nautical Chart 12312.
(b) Definitions. As used in this section--
Designated representative means any Coast Guard commissioned,
warrant, or petty officer who has been authorized by the Captain of the
Port to assist with enforcement of the safety zones described in
paragraphs (a)(1) and (2) of this section.
(c) Regulations. (1) Entry into or transiting within Safety Zone
One is prohibited unless vessels obtain permission from the Captain of
the Port via VHF-FM channel 16 or 215-271-4807, or make satisfactory
passing arrangements via VHF-FM channel 13 or 16 with the operating
dredge per this section and the rules of the Road (33 CFR subchapter
E). Vessels requesting to transit shall contact the operating dredge
via VHF-FM channel 13 or 16 at least 1 hour prior to arrival.
(2) Vessels desiring to anchor in Safety Zone Two, Anchorage 7 off
Marcus Hook Range, must obtain permission from the COTP at least 24
hours in advance by calling (215) 271-4807. The COTP will permit, at
maximum, one vessel at a time to anchor on a ``first-come, first-
served'' basis. Vessels will only be allowed to anchor for a 12 hour
period. Vessels that require an examination by the Public Health
Service, Customs, or Immigration authorities will be directed to an
anchorage for the required inspection by the COTP.
(3) Vessels desiring to anchor in Safety Zone Two, Anchorage 7 off
Marcus Hook Range, must be at least 650 feet in length overall.
(4) This section applies to all vessels except those engaged in the
following operations: enforcement of laws, service of aids to
navigation, and emergency response.
(d) Enforcement. The U.S. Coast Guard may be assisted by federal,
state and local agencies in the patrol and enforcement of the zone.
(e) Enforcement period. This rule will be in effect and subject to
enforcement from February 6, 2024 through April 30, 2024. If the
Captain of the Port determines that conditions no longer warrant
enforcement of the rule, he will provide notice to that effect via
Marine Safety Information Bulletin and Broadcast Notice to Mariners.
Dated: February 6, 2024.
Kate F. Higgins-Bloom,
Captain, U.S. Coast Guard Captain of the Port, Delaware Bay.
[FR Doc. 2024-02704 Filed 2-8-24; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 9110-04-P
</pre><script data-cfasync="false" src="/cdn-cgi/scripts/5c5dd728/cloudflare-static/email-decode.min.js"></script></body>
</html>Indexed from Federal Register on February 9, 2024.
This is legal information, not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always verify current law with official sources and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice on your specific situation.