HARBOR HAPPENINGS – April 2017
USCG
- Ellis Island proposed rulemaking extended written comment period closed on April 17, 2017. USCG will announce result after tabulation/consideration of all comments.
- Coast Guard City-Staten Island application already in process for consideration. Will await decision.
- PAWSA- (Port And Waterway Safety Assessment) has been reviewed by Sector NY. Currently being finalized at USCG HQ, and expect final report within several weeks.
- The Atlantic Coast Port Access Route Study (ACPARS) has been completed, but is not fully responsive to area needs, with only limited proposals regarding setbacks and traffic lanes.
- The NTSB report regarding boating safety that touches upon the recent incident between a ferry and kayakers in NY harbor has attracted some attention. The report will be evaluated/discussed by the HOPs Education Sub-Cttee with recommendations/comments back to the Stg Cttee. LCD Hobson will establish a POC for further discussion.
NYCEDC
- Still evaluating the Hallets Cove, Astoria landing area for City Wide Ferry (CWF).
- CWF held a rec-boater meeting to discuss current plans/options
- Any potential conflicts with established/traditional kayak launch/landing areas will be evaluated and mitigated in the coming months. HOPs will be kept updated on progress.
- There will be a USACE public comment period established before review of any USACE permit being granted.
USACE
- Sandy Hook and Newark Bay area maintenance will be performed this Fall.
- Cheesequake Creek testing/sampling project has not yet received funding.
- Sampling/testing at Ward’s Point Bend will commence with dredging projected to take place in approx 1 year.
- USACE is considering permits filed for CWF at LI City and Roosevelt Island landing areas.
- CHPE-USCG 1st District now evaluating the submitted Navigation Risk Assessment prior to any further movement by USACE.
NOAA
- Noted that the NOAA National Charting Plan is available for public comment.
PANYNJ
- Confirmed that the Spring soundings are being finalized, and should be available by mid-May.
BAYONNE BRIDGE
- The de-construction phase is proceeding smoothly
- A new PORTS air-gap sensor has been positioned on the upper roadway, and will be activated when navigational clearance has been established.
- Discussions regarding the replacement of necessary current sensors continues among PANYNJ/NJDOT/USACE/NOAA to determine proper requirements/hardware/software.
- Current sensor funding will be obtained through the Bi-State Dredge Fund.
NJDOT
- Now initiating studies to determine movement of area sediments
- Working with NYC to study needs/potential for area mass evacuation plans