Category: NEWS

Is There a Doctor in the House?

• MAPONY/NJ is most pleased to note that on JAN 27, 2017, our very own CAPT Brian A. McAllister, one of the most prominent names in the American maritime industry will receive an honorary doctorate from SUNY Maritime College. CAPT McAllister is the Chairman of the family’s 153 year old company, the firm he first joined in 1959. He received a B.S. degree in Marine Engineering and a USCG Third Assistant Engineer license upon graduation from SUNY Maritime in 1959. So…should we call him “Captain”?…or “Doctor”?. Either way…Congratulations, Brian!!!…Well deserved!

 

USACE

• USACE will undertake a NY/NJ Harbor Navigation Study to study possible anchorage, bend easing, and other navigation channel modifications following completion of the 50 ft project construction, to ensure navigation channels continue to meet Port of NY/NJ current and future requirements. The PANYNJ will be the Non-Federal partner in the 50/50 fed/non-fed cost. Final Feasibility Report scheduled for SEP 2018with Chief’s Report tentatively scheduled for MAR, 2019
• USACE will undertake a NY/NJ Harbor and Tributaries Study to evaluate the potential for coastal storm damage, including storm surge, wave attack, and erosion as well as intense rainfall-stormwater runoff events. The study will encompass more than 2,150 square miles mostly in the Harbor/Hudson River, and nearby tributaries. Study recommendations may include comprehensive solutions in addition to specific structural, non-structural, and natural measures to address impacted areas. The expected initial study funding is expected to be $3 Million and be completed in 2018. More information will be forthcoming regarding stakeholder and public meetings/hearings.

 

Bayonne Bridge

• Work is progressing nicely in the lifting of the Bayonne Bridge roadway.
• Concerned parties are now considering at what point in re-construction will the 14K ULCV be able to safely transit.
• The removal of the lower roadway will require the placement of barges adjacent to the channel for some portion of the work.
• The Deep Draft Working Group DDWG) must determine when navigational height and channel width will be sufficient to begin ULCV transits.
• It is currently estimated that the barges will be removed when removal to posts/sections 6 North and 6 South occurs. That may occur by some time in early/mid June 2017.
• The DDWG will work closely with the PANYNJ to monitor construction progress, and make a final determination regarding ULCV transit availability.
• The next update will be made at the HOPs Steering Cttee scheduled for February 8, 2017.
• Notification to al concerned stakeholders will be made at the earliest possible timing.

 

Hudson River Anchorages

• The extended public comment period closed on DEC 6, 2016, and approximately 10750 comments were filed.
• It remains expected that this proposed rulemaking will move to a public hearing format, possibly with a late Spring announcement
• It is expected that USCG will perform some Environmental Impact Study work, and then refine the proposal.
• In the interim period, Mariners are reminded that the currently applicable Marine Safety Information Bulletin remains in effect, and that it is required to make notice to USCG when anchoring in non-designated areas. USCG has received multiple photos of vessels allegedly anchored in non-designated areas.

 

Need a Pilot?

• We have received notice that two well known industry figures affiliated with the Sandy Hook Pilots will be retiring. Both Jack Olthius and Rick Schoenlank have decided to set a course for retirement. Both gentlemen were key players in making our Port safe, secure and efficient, and both will be missed! We wish them both fair winds and following seas on their new course!

 

Hudson River Tunnel Project

• The project will be designed to keep/repair the existing AMTRAK/NJT North River Tunnel while creating a second redundant tunnel.
• The new and old tunnels will have the same origin/destination points on land
• The old tunnel had been approx 12 ft below the river bottom, while the new tunnel will be deepest on the west side of the river and will gradually rise to approx 10 ft below the river bottom on the East side.
• An enclosed cofferdam will be used to “enrich” the shallow portion of the 550 ft section of impacted river bottom.
• The enrichment will be done via 15 proposed borings that will inject the bottom with a mix of “Soilcrete”. The borings will be made by 2 barge-mounted rigs working concurrently. The proposed start of the borings will be Feb/Mar 2017 and will continue for 11 weeks with the barges moving across the impacted area.
• All tunnel work will be conducted with boring machines.
• A complete safety plan must be submitted to USCG before work can begin.
• Due to the width of the navigable waterway, and the relative small size of the barges, no appreciable negative impact on the river’s navigable area is expected at this time.
• It is suggested that the barges be equipped with AIS while working in the river to enhance safety.

 

Resilient Industry Study

• On Jan 18, 2017, the NYC Dept of City Planning released the preliminary Resilient Industry Study which was formulated by the Technical Advisory Committee.
• The study was intended to find ways to: Reduce Flood hazards; Improve emergency preparedness; Identify cost-effective physical and operational strategies; and Identify financial and insurance challenges to businesses in industrial flood zones.
• The initial report is the culmination of the work done by various NYC Depts and agencies in conjunction with the TAC.
• The study commenced in Winter 2015, and it is now expected that the final report will be issued in Spring 2017, with distribution to interested stakeholders during Spring/Summer 2017. MAPONY/NJ will be a distributing partner.

USCG

• Noted that Frank Fiumano had a heart attack on 26 DEC 2016, and is currently recovering.
• On behalf of Frank, Frank Gorman reported on several USCG-related harbor security issues.
• USCG/USN/NYPD/NJPD have been conducting a Harbor Underwater Security Assessment. We are awaiting receipt of the USN report.
• The Gotham Shield project involves USCG with Northcom and FEMA and will be conducting various security-related exercises. Currently scheduled are a 23 APR 2017 exercise modeling a 10KT IED at the mouth of the Lincoln Tunnel, and a 3 JUL 2017 scheduled exercise modeling various active shooter/small boat/people in the water scenarios.
• The Port And Waterway Safety Assessment report is under review by Sector NY and will be released to stakeholders after review is finalized.
• The Ellis Island proposed rulemaking public comment period has been extended for 60 days.

 

USACE

• The Port Authority of NY/NJ has initiated a request for the USACE to initiate a study to examine the feasibility to review anchorage capacity, turn easements; etc after the 50 ft harbor deepening project has been concluded. Bryce will be the USACE contact and Omar will be the PANY/NJ contact. There will stakeholder meetings convened to determine the scope of the study.
• The East River Ferry permits are awaiting input from NY State.
• The East Rockaway Inlet is more than 50% finished
• Abandoned/derelict pipelines are still being removed from the Arthur Kill. USACE will issue a new controlling depth report when work is finished.
• Eastchester Creek has obtained a dredging subsidy from the Empire State Development Corp. This industrial secondary channel must be dredged in order to maintain navigational capability. It was noted that the proper reporting of volumes transported on such waterways is essential to obtaining USACE dredging funding.

 

NOAA

• Darren Wright of COOPS, NOAA HQ office attended the HOPS Steering Cttee meeting and relayed info regarding NOAA activity in the harbor.
• Noted that a new air-gap sensor is being deployed on the upper level of the Bayonne Bridge. The currently deployed sensor on the lower level will be removed as the construction schedule allows.
• NOAA is aware of the pending request that NOAA do a complete current survey to “re-calibrate” data in the area impacted by the completion of the 50 ft channel deepening project. The most critical area is the KVK, and special emphasis must be made for the Bergen Point area, due to the turning requirements at that location.
• NOAA advises that a full current survey would take almost 3 years to initiate/complete, with needs for scoping, data collection/analysis.
• The stakeholders indicated that it is critical to obtain accurate, real-time current data in the Bergen Point area. The previously stationed current meter had been removed during the 50 ft project
• NOAA advised that it could take up to 1 year for NOAA to successfully go through their process to obtain/deploy a real-time current meter. Darren noted that additional funding would have to be forthcoming from the local PORTS sponsor (PANYNJ) in order to proceed, and that it could be faster/cheaper if a local sponsor (USACE or PANYNJ) would directly contract with installers.
• PANYNJ has evidenced an interest in evaluating making a direct installation contract, and a meeting will be initiated among pertinent stakeholders (NOAA/Oceanographers/Contractors/Pilots, etc) to explore requirements.

 

Tappan Zee Bridge

• The construction contractors working on the TZ Bridge have advised that they will NOT be making the West Channel available for navigation despite having previously confirming that the West Channel would be available as necessary, and NOAA having performed a survey to ensure navigational capacity.
• USACE and USCG (Bridges) will follow up to determine whether making the West Channel available for navigation was part of the permit.
• All TZ construction related closures are now available on HOMEPORT.

 

Passenger Vessel Sub-Cttee

• The sub-committee will meet on 5 Feb 2017 with an emphasis on the impact of Post-Inaugural river closures due to POTUS/Family movements. It is expected that there will be regular Fri/Sun closure periods involving movements to/from the Wall St heliport.

 

Here They Come!

• The big ships are, indeed on the way. As previously advised, the NYSA and the PANY/NJ have collaborated to fund a training/simulation program for our Port Pilots in anticipation of the arrival of the Post Pamamax vessels which will be calling our Port now that we have achieved a 50 ft channel, and we are nearing completion of the Bayonne bridge reconstruction to give us a 215 ft air draft clearance. After successfully modeling a simulation environment, visiting US West Coast Ports to observe operations, and making repeated simulator evolutions, it was considered “timely” to examine local operational procedures and what impacts the large vessels may have on operational routines and guidelines. Accordingly, on 6 Dec 2016, a meeting was convened in the NYSA offices which included NYSA BoD members, Terminal Operators, Port Authority of NY/NJ, and MAPONY/NJ representatives.

Key discussion/presentation points included :

• This meeting is only a “preview” for NYSA BoD members. A full NYSA membership meeting will be held in FEB 2017 to make a more complete/formalized presentation.
• All current assumptions and projections are only “best estimates” and subject to refinement as the simulator training and then “real-time” experience is fully evaluated.
• ALL pilots are being scheduled for MITAGS simulator training. To date 2 classes have been completed, and 7 more classes will be completed between FEB-MAY, 2017
• The Pilots requested that the 14K ships be placed in rotation BEFORE the introduction of the 18k vessels to allow some “adjustment” time to observe real-time vessel handling.
• Noted that simulators are NOT real-time, and there will need to be possible adjustments to any plans should real handling expose any variances from simulator projections.
• 2 Pilots (1 SHP and 1 Docking) will be required at all times (including any movements to/from anchorage)
• Vessels will NOT be cleared for passage when: Visibility is less than 1.5mi @ Bergen Point/ Wind is more than 20kt @ Bergen Point
• Vessels will be able to transit during two 4 hour windows i.e.,1 hr on either side of slack tide @ Bergen Point
• PANY/NJ is working with NOAA and USACE to replace the KVK current meters that were in place during dredging.
• It may be decided that possibly only 2 Mega ships may transit during each window.
• It is estimated that inbound transits may take almost twice as long as present due to the need to travel at speeds of no more than 5 kts in the KVK
• Expected that no meet/pass zone will be enforced @ Bergen Point
• There will be particular problems at narrow channels (i.e. between Maher and PNCT/ Port Jersey, etc)
• Speeds will be limited to no more than 5 kts to avoid surge impacting other traffic, and possibly pulling berthed vessels off moorings
• In narrow areas, bunkering barges may be banned/restricted
• Crane arms must be bunched at mid-ships position to avoid collision with bow or stern flare if making an angled approach
• Longer lead lines are anticipated , thus impacting berth plans
• Berth bollards should be tested for adequate strength
• Pilots currently anticipating a need for 4 tugs per vessel/ 2 tractor tugs plus 2 conventional tugs-with 3 hooked, one standby/loose
• Noted the lack of adequate deep draft anchorages/pullout areas/turning basin.
• PANY/NJ, as the “private partner” in the 50 ft dredge project must conclude a post-project study, and then consider initiating a new dredge proposal and obtain funding to expand anchorages/pullout areas/turning basins, etc. It was noted that the original 50ft dredge project was initiated many years before the new generations of Mega-ships was designed or operational.
• It was noted that there will need to be extensive, detailed communications and procedures impacting all components of the port operations in order to successfully handle the operational exigencies required by the big ships. Delays could result in missed sailing/arrival windows/ unused labor/gang hours/ interrupted operations due to any need to raise crane arms/ movement of bunker barges to allow passage to inner berths/ etc.
• It is expected that a “HarborMaster” function may be necessary to ensure equitable decision making, and cost-sharing procedures. The HarborMaster function needs to be fully explored to determine: functionality/staff requirements/scope of authority/ funding methodology/ location/ and controlling body.
• It will be necessary to engage all operational partners in creating a full-harbor plan. It will be necessary to engage non-container vessel operators and terminals, bunker providers, longshore labor, tug operators, husbandry agents, chandlers, etc.
• A more developed concept will need to be discussed prior to the scheduled NYSA full-member meeting in FEB 2017.

 

Hudson River Anchorage Proposal

• On Dec 6, 2016, the public written comment period relating to the Hudson River Anchorage Proposal covered by the USCG Advance Notice of Proposed Rule Making Docket 2016-0132 was closed. Over 10,000 comments were filed.

MAPONY/NJ has been a very active and outspoken proponent of this proposal, and we have filed written comments in support, have written many letters of support to politicians and concerned citizens, have attended multiple legislator hearings, public hearings, and other organizational meetings ( On Monday, 21 Nov, 2016, I made a presentation to the Admiralty Attorney Committee of the NY Bar Association, in Manhattan, to a group of 21. On Tuesday, 29 Nov, 2016, I made a presentation to the Hudson River Boat and Yacht Club Association (HRBYCA) at the Newburgh Yacht Club in Newburgh, NY. The HRBYCA is an association of 35 boat and/or yacht clubs on the Hudson River between Yonkers and Albany. There were about 65 members in attendance.)

• Additionally MAPONY/NJ has been supportive in the media, having made supportive comments on several TV clips, and many newspapers.
• In consideration of the extensive comments, it is expected that after the USCG reviews all written comments, ther will be a public hearing schedule which might be expected to occur in 4-6 locations within the “impacted” area, presumable in the Spring of 2017 due to Federal Register filing requirements.
• MAPONY/NJ will continue a positive and supportive outreach program until this proposal is resolved.

 

SHIPPING 101

• We are pleased to advise that during the week of Nov 1418, 2016 MAPONY/NJ hosted our SHIPPING 101 Fall session.
• 15 students from diverse organizations and backgrounds attended.
• Our THANKS go out to NYSA/ILA  for allowing us to use their NYSA/ILA Training Room at 1210 Corbin Street, and to the folks at Global Container Terminal who once again conducted an on-site terminal tour of their state-of-the-art facility.

 

NYC City Council Waterfront Cttee Hearing

 

On Monday, 5 DEC 2016 I attended the New York City City Council Waterfront Cttee Hearing regarding “Boating Safety’.

 

The meeting was held at 250 Broadway, and commenced at 1300hr and concluded at 1450 hr.

 

The meeting was chaired by NYC Citycouncilwoman Debi Rose, and during the course of the hearing, the following other members of the Waterfront Cttee were present:

• Daniel Garodnyk
• Chaim Deutcsh
• Corey Johnson
• Joseph Borelli

 

The Chair opened the hearing with a statement that the purpose of the hearing was to explore ways to improve boating safety in NYC waterways. The Chair made specific mention of the recent incident involving a NY Waterway ferry and a group of 10 kayakers.

 

There were 7 parties who testified during the hearing:

• NYCEDC, representing City-Wide Ferries
• NYC DOT representing the Staten Island Ferry (John Garvey)
• NYC Parks Dept
• Waterfront Alliance (Roland Lewis)
• NY Water Trail (Rob Buchanan)
• MAPONY/NJ (Ed Kelly)
• Downtown Boathouse (Graeme Birchall)

 

Several of the main topics/concerns were as follows:

• NYCEDC made comments that the plans for the City-Wide Ferry were inclusive of contractual commitments for their provider, HORNBLOWER, to meet all required safety criteria, and that there were established procedures, standards, and reporting requirements that would ensure safe operations. They noted that the ferry involved in the cited incident was NOT a NYCEDC contracted vessel. They were highly favorable to the MAPONY Harbor Safety, Navigation and Operations Cttee HOPs) , and the underlying Passenger Vessel, and Harbor Education sub-committees.
• NYCDOT discussed the safety standards of the SI Ferry. They also highly regarded HOPs and the underlying sub-cttees.
• NYC Dept of Parks discussed their programs to allow access to the waterways. They gave statistical info regarding their launch permits, storage, etc. They advised that they posted “appropriate” notices at their launch sites, but that they did NOT require any proof of proficiency, licensing, registration, or other safety compliance certification.
• Waterfront Alliance gave their “usual” presentation advocating increased access to waterfront property and waterways, but did NOT endorse the need for recreational boater licensing/certification, but instead said that boaters should rely on safety “training” from boathouses, etc.. WA also was very complimentary to HOPs, and the sub-cttees. WA also cited the “SHARED HARBOR TOUR” that was conduced by our HOPs Harbor Education sub-cttee and utilized a NY Waterway ferry to host a 4 hour tour for approx 140 persons (included USCG/NYCEDC/Professional Mariners/Recreational boaters) which toured the Battery and lower East River area with discussions regarding safety, conflict area, communications, security zones, etc
• NY Water trail tried to discuss the NY Waterway/ Kayak incident, but was refused due to the pending investigation of that incident. He also did NOT endorse the need for recreational boating licensing/certification, but instead felt that it was sufficient to have boathouses, etc conduct safety training. He also asked for funding for the various boathouses, and the HOPs Harbor Education sub-cttee. (which he strongly praised)
• Downtown Boathouse is a free, kayaking organization which claims to have had more than 350,000 persons kayaking with their organization. He was very supportive of safety training for novices, but did NOT endorse licensing/certification. He was very supportive of increasing launch/landing locations, and recommended beach instead of hard surface or docks. He was very supportive of restricted areas for novice kayakers.
• The Chair noted the absence of the USCG, but recognized that the USCG would not be able to discuss any pending investigation. The Chair stated that it would be hoped that USCG would be involved in any continued effort to enhance waterway safety.

 

MAPONY/NJ Comments were as follows:

• Intro of MAPONY/NJ organization, membership, and mission to advocate for the Safety of marine navigation, Security of marine assets, Sustainability of the marine environment, and Competitiveness of our marine services.
• Discussed vessel traffic, i.e. in 2015 4298 deep draft arrivals (combined almost 8,600 arrival/departure transits) and USCG VTS reporting over 440,000 harbor transits per annum.
• Referred to recently completed USCG PAWSA, and although awaiting final report recognized that our harbor is: Congested, Mixed Use, and Physically challenging due to estuarine currents, geography, and extensive cross-traffic
• Confirmed our belief that “There is Room for Everyone”, but that SAFETY must be a paramount concern.
• Explained that Waterways are very similar to Roadways, in that BOTH systems require well-understood and respected RULES, and knowledgeable and responsible operators.
• Explained that Rules of the Road are legal requirements, and not just “guidelines”.
• Noted that ALL commercial mariners are required to have TWIC cards, and have valid USCG licenses, ratings, and certifications
• Noted that ALL commercial vessels are subject to stringent safety and integrity standards, and are routinely inspected by USCG

          Explained the dire need for better NY State recreational boater training and licensing/certification. Reviewed the current NYS requirement that only applies to those born after 1996 who operate motorized craft.

• Explained that in a manner similar to Roadway requirements, vessel rentals should also require proper licensing/certification (similar to Hertz and Avis requiring a valid operator’s license in order to rent vehicle). Stated that the only exception should be when rentals are operated in supervised, restricted areas.
• Postulated that it would be optimal to have a written RULES test, and a practical “water” test wherein potential operators could demonstrate operational capability, and possibly demonstrate an ability to adequately handle such phenomena as tide calculations, surge, wakes, etc.
• Offered the possibility that such licensing could be coordinated between NYS DMV and “qualified” boathouse personnel, thus creating “local” input, and possible revenue streams for boathouse-type organizations.

 

SUMMARY

• All parties expressed interest in enhanced boater safety in the Harbor, with primary focus on recreational boaters.
• All parties concurred on the need for adequate safety training, although recreational boaters resisted any formalized licensing/certification program, while commercial mariners promoted the idea.
• The Maritime Association of the Port of NY/NJ sponsored Harbor Safety, Navigation and Operations Cttee and the Passenger Vessel and Harbor Education sub-Cttees were roundly praised.
• The Chair will take all comments under consideration and after evaluation, will decide what if any, future steps may be taken to enhance boater safety.
• There were several “stakeholders” in the hearing room that did NOT testify, including NY Waterway, Hornblower, and Andrew McGovern of the Sandy Hook Pilots.

 

Port Environmental Listening Session

• On the evening (1800-2100hr) of Dec 8, 2016 the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Port Authority of NY and NJ (PANYNJ)conducted a Port Environmental Listening Session at the Hilton Newark Penn Station Hotel.
• The objective of the meeting was to solicit input from members of the public and all port industry, environmental and community partners to help form the latest framework of a collaborative plan to reduce port-related air emissions and improve air quality conditions in the port area.
• MAPONY/NJ attended the meeting
• Opening comments were made by Catherine McCabe, Deputy Regional Administrator, EPA Region 2; Molly Campbell, Director, Port department, PANYNJ; NJ State Senator Lesniak, and NJ State Assemblyman Wisniewski. All comments imparted a sense of cooperation and constructive planning.
• The session identified 3 steps: (1) Identify Concerns; (2) Find Possible Mitigations; and (3) Establish Next Steps
• EPA McCabe made comments regarding: the value of clean air:the continued improvements seen since the Clean Air Act was introduced; that there are still significant pockets of low quality air; and the need to listen to, and promote the needs of Environmental Justice Communities.
• PANYNJ Campbell made remarks regarding the success of greatly deceasing airborne pollutants while increasing cargo volume by 13%; Steps taken at PA properties;, and the PANYNJ objectives and Clean Air Strategy of reducing marine-related air emissions while experiencing continued port growth; striving to attain an annual net decrease of 5% in greenhouse gas; continued stakeholder engagement; and the listing of achieved Clean Air Strategy Implementation Project actions.
• Noted that realized Clean Air Strategy actions include:

1. Brooklyn Cruise Terminal Shore Power
2. Clean Vessel Incentive Program
3. Low Sulfur Fuel Incentive Program
4. Vessel Speed Reduction Program
5. Truck Replacement Program
6. Truck Phase Out Program
7. Increased Marine Highway and Rail options
8. Cargo Handling Equipment CHE) Replacement
9. CHE alternative power demonstration projects
10. Switching locomotive retrofit program
11. Harbor Craft Engine replacement/Retrofit program

• It was recognized that although major progress has occurred, more progress is needed.
• EPA noted the focus on Ozone and particulate matter; the improved cleanliness of newer trucks; and the need for additional replacement and retrofit of older equipment
• Public comments from a combination of organizations and individuals included: Possible adoption of US so Cal standards and regulations: continued/increased funding for truck replacement; reduced truck idling in long lines; employment of on-dock scrubbers and/or shore power installations (similar to PSW); the need to increase funding to local communities; forcing payments by cargo interests; demand input from local communities; reduce terminal lines by extending work hours; handling trucks during “non-traditional hours”; create grant programs to promote LNG/LPG power options; create fund for air filter availability for local homes, schools, and facilities; plant more trees in local communities; Teamster proposal to unionize truck drivers so they can afford new trucks; and various other ideas (virtually all of which required additional funding by PANYNJ.
• SUMMARY

All parties agreed to continue listening sessions, and seek practical opportunities to work together to improve air quality.

 

Goethals Bridge

• Work continues on the “new” Goethals Bridge (GB)
• As the ‘traveller” cranes move toward the channel center, air draft will be reduced to 132-133 ft from the “normal” air draft of 135 ft
• It was noted that the RR Lift Bridge max air draft remains at 135 ft
• USCG VTS will give advisory notice to any vessel approaching the GB construction with a projected air draft over 130 ft
• Updated info will be provided to all Pilot organizations every Monday AM
• If necessary, VTS can arrange for move-on-demand with a 2 hour notice (on shift), or 6 hr notice (off shift) to provide a full 250 ft channel clearance
• All info is filed to Notice To Mariners.
• Noted that the “finished” air draft will be 137.22 ft

 

Ellis Island inshore passage

• After discussion, it was decided that HOPs would write a letter in support of the proposed Ellis Island inshore passage. MAPONY/NJ will also write in support of the proposed inshore passage which will increase small vessel safety by allowing an inshore route behind Ellis Island which will allow passage without travelling in the deep water, more trafficked area off shore Ellis Island.

 

New York Wheel Update

• The engineering firm MAMMOET handling the NY Wheel project confirmed that the wheel project is on schedule. The Wheel will be 630 ft tall, have 36 pods which will accommodate up to 40 passengers each, and will provide a 38 minute ride.
• South Brooklyn Marine Terminal is being utilized as the landing/staging facility where components will be landed and sub-assembled prior to being moved to the Staten Island construction site.
• It is planned that WEEKS will make 60-61 one-way barge trips from SBMT to SI to transport the assembled components
• A spud barge will be utilized at SI, during the transport phase, and will be removed when transport is completed. The spud barge will be placed well outside of the channel, and will be positioned perpendicular to the SI shoreline.
• The first SBMT/SI barge operation will commence during JAN, 2017
• Noted that the extensive LED lighting is fully programmable, and lights will be used to present nightly “light shows”.
• It will be expected that these light shows will attract recreational boaters, private ferries, and dinner boats. HOPs members will closely monitor to determine whether this will pose any problem for safe navigation of commercial vessels.
• Opening day is scheduled for Mid-June, 2018 with operational hours of 1000-2400hr each day
• HOPs will meet with NY Wheel personnel in the MAR/APR 2017 to monitor progress.

 

PSEG Power LLC

• PSEG Power LLC plans to construct a major power generation plant at their Sewaren facility in NJ on the Arthur Kill. It will be named the Sewaren Unit 7 Combined Cycle project.
• The major components will be fabricated/assembled near Albany (Coeymans Industrial Park), and barged to the construction site on the Arthur Kill
• On-site construction began Dec 1, 2016.
• The main unit which will be moved on barge is a single unit weighing 7.5 Million lbs, with an air draft of 131ft. This unit will be moved on a 400X100 ft barge.
• A landing facility is being constructed in Sewaren to facilitate barge securing/unloading operations. The proposed landing barge securing plan “may” require additional support, i.e. spudded barge configuration.
• The applicable USACE permit has been filed, and expected approval is projected for Feb, 2017
• Staged transport of smaller components will commence Apr-Aug, 2017 with transport of the main unit scheduled for Jun/Jul, 2017.
• A follow-up meeting will be scheduled with HOPs in Apr/May of 2017.

 

USCG

• Noted that USCG will have a review meeting with the Tappan Zee Bridge re-construction team on 7 Dec, 2016. It will be stressed that the West Draw MUST be opened as originally planned
• Noted that the Ice Season officially opens on 12 Dec, 2016. The Ice Season planning meeting was held at the USCG Chapel with all interested parties on 17 NOV.
• Sector NY has received a “draft” of the PAWSA (Port And Water Way Safety Assessment), and after review will release same to all participants.
• USCG will attend an 18 Jan, 2017 meeting with the Federal Rail  and NEPA to have initial discussions regarding the possible concerns related to the construction of the new proposed Cross-Hudson Rail Tunnel.
• Developments related to President Elect Trump’s Manhattan residence were discussed. Of primary maritime concerns include: restricted navigation areas, projected 4-6/month helicopter arrival/departures, approx 20 people in Trump family who are entitled to security protection, and the possibility to use extensive water transport between heliport/midtown to reduce road congestion.

 

USACE

• East River South Brothers Is dredging will be completed this month.
• There was a 23ft “obstruction spot” noted by USACE in Feb, 2016 which was not reported until Dec, 2016. A survey has found that the “spot” was NOT confirmed, but issues were raised regarding better inter-agency communications between USACE, and NOAA, and timely notice to the maritime community.
• Permits were released for the Rockaways NYC City Wide Ferry service.
• Representatives of the CHPE cable project will meet with USCG and USACE to review problems posed by the USCG in relation to the CHPE proposed Navigation Assessment.

 

NOAA

• Noted that due to budgetary restraints, the proposed full KVK currents study has been postponed until the Summer of 2017.
• There was a robust discussion regarding the urgent need for updated current studies in the KVK because of the channel deepening, and the projected arrival of the large Post-Panamax vessels which will pose challenging navigational/safety issues.
• It was noted that it would be urgently necessary to replace current meter(s) in the Bergen Point area, and HOPs will follow up with NOAA HQ to ensure proper and timely placement of same. It is expected that these meter(s) will supplemental to our PORTS array, and may require some kind of additional cost.
• Noted that LCDR Megan McGovern will depart her duties as NOAA Area Navigation Manager, and will become Exec Officer on the NOAA vessel THOMAS JEFFERSON. A replacement has not yet been named. All Port personnel wish Megan fair winds and following seas!

 

Pipeline Removal Project

• Noted that WEEKS MARINE will commence the removal of the 2 defunct pipelines located south of the Goethals Bridge in the Arthur Kill on Monday, 12 Dec 2016. No adverse impact is expected due to the expected work schedule, the minimal channel obstruction, and the move-on-demand capability.

Hudson River Anchorages

• The pending USCG-2016-0132Notice of Proposed Rulemaking pertaining to the proposal to establish 10 new, federally designated anchorages in the Hudson River continues to face widespread public opposition.
• At last count, there were over 3300 public comments filed on this docket, and a review of the comments reveals that the overwhelming majority are against the proposal, with a VERY large number of the op[posing comments containing incorrect information/assumptions, or comments pertaining to off-topic rhetoric (ban all fossil fuels, global warming, etc).
• During this public comment period, our Tug & Barge Cttee, Hudson River Pilots Association, the American Waterways Operators, and MAPONY/NJ have continued to reach out to local government officials, community groups, and the media in an attempt to establish the FACTS regarding this proposal, to dispel mis-information, and to explain that SAFETY is the prime motivation behind this anchorage proposal.
• On the evening of October 19, 2016, the MAPONY/NJ Executive Director testified at a public hearing convened by New York State Senators Murphy, Serino, Larkin and Carlucci in Croton-On-Hudson. Testimony was on an invitation-only basis, and of the 18 speakers, I was the ONLY one to speak in favor of the proposal.
• The meeting was heavily attended with about 100-125 persons in attendance, plus fairly extensive TV and Radio media. Attached is a copy of the program. Please excuse my penciled-in start-stop times. I was trying to keep track of each speaker’s time allotment so that I could contest the issue if the chair tried to cut me off. That was NOT necessary, as once I completed my presentation (about 10 min.); the chair proceeded with Q&A from the panel for approx another 20 min.

 

Attached hereto please also find a copy of my “prepared” written testimony which was provided to each of the 3 Senators. My “spoken” comments were much shorter, and MAPONY/NJ background info, and trade statistical info were just referred to as being available in my written testimony.

 

My observations regarding the meeting are as follows:

• The conveners had a very pronounced “Con” bias, as did all of the speakers except me. At the sign-in table the staff was actively encouraging all attendees to sign the “Ban-The –Barges” petition.
• The conveners made much ado about there not being any representation from USCG, and that they had had no success in “getting answers” from USCG personnel.
• The conveners made much ado about the USCG not reaching out to all the potentially impacted local politicians and communities PRIOR to issuing the notice in the Federal Register. I found this to be rather disingenuous, and in my comments reviewed the “normal” Federal notice procedures, and how it is normal for most offices to monitor the Federal Register in order to discern matters that may impact them or their constituents.
• This is an election cycle for the Senators, and it was obvious that they were being very assertive that they called the meeting to give their constituents a voice, and for them to represent their interests.
• In addition to the listed speakers there were also several additional politicians in the audience (including NYS Assemblywoman Sandy Galef whose Safe Boating Education legislation we had previously supported, and several local mayors, etc)

 

During the speakers’ presentations several recurring themes emerged:

• The concern that the new “Long term” anchorages would result in extensive “parking lots” of barges storing crude oil awaiting market opportunities.
• The fear that anchored barges would become terror targets
• The expectation that the proposal was directly linked to the dramatic expected increase in southbound crude oil shipments which had originated in the interior USA.
• The fear that increased crude transport would increase the risk of oil spills
• Negative impact on viewsheds
• Depredation of fish habitats, especially endangered sturgeon.
• The threat that increased vessel traffic would adversely impact tourism and recreational attractions.
• Noise and light pollution.
• Many references to Federal and State legislation/regulations pertaining to preserving the Hudson River scenic beauty, clean ecosystems, etc
• The desire to have a full Environmental Impact Study performed before any action could be taken

 

In addition to the points raised in my written remarks, my main points were to stress SAFETY, SECURITY, ECONOMIC , and ECOLOGICAL advantages offered by the proposal.

Additionally, during Q&A, I de-bunked several mis-conceptions and disinformation:

• To the claim that there was no one to answer questions, I replied that if one actually read the Docket the proposal letter clearly indicated our name, address, phone number, and e-mail. I pointed out that we have been responsive to anyone who inquires of us, and that we have already met with several concerned parties/groups, and cited that I had personally attended a meeting convened by Ulster County legislators to discuss this proposal more than one month before this meeting.
• I explained that “Long Term” anchorage did NOT mean that vessels planned to stay at anchor for long periods of time, but that USCG used that terminology so as to differentiate from “Temporary” anchorages, such as are established during the Macy’s fireworks displays, America Cup, construction, etc.
• I explained that if you want to find the truth, you should follow the money, and explained that it would be exorbitantly expensive to attempt to store oil indefinitely at river anchorages due to the high cost of manning, tug, crew, and barge expense.
• I noted that although several speakers claimed that anchorages destroyed sturgeon nesting areas, I produced the actual report of the collaborative sturgeon research effort involving University of Delaware scientists, the Hudson River Foundation, and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, and noted that nowhere in the report is there any conclusion that anchorages are detrimental to sturgeon habitat. In fact based on my subsequent contact/correspondence with the scientist performing the study, he said, QUOTE At this point we cannot say if there is any impact to the bottom habitat with regard to sturgeon and we have been very careful to stay away from those linkages. END QUOTE
• To the concern that local first responders “might” not be prepared to respond to any possible “on-river” problem, I suggested that as local leaders I would think it would be incumbent upon them to actively determine local response capabilities, to initiate training exercises including Federal and State capacity, and to ensure that proper funding is allocated for any training/equipment issues.

 

I found that my remarks were generally well received, and I was thanked for providing factual information and explanations. I do NOT think that any significant number of “CON” interests were persuaded, and expect that they will continue to press opposition due to their fears, and local concerns.

 

I hope that we served to establish several key facts, and to de-bunk several mis-statements.

 

I expect that we will have to continue outreach, and make ourselves available as necessary to local groups in order to support our proposal.

 

I will keep all parties advised of progress on this issue.

If you wish to see a video of the actual hearing please visit: Check out this video: Senators Murphy, Serino, Amedore, Larkin And Carlucci Sponsor Hudson River Barge Hearing:  https://www.nysenate.gov/newsroom/video/terrence-murphy/senators-murphy-serino-amedore-larkin-and-carlucci-sponsor-hudson >.

The video link is also available on Senator Terrance Murphy’s website.

• If you have NOT yet filed a comment in support of this important Hudson River Anchorage proposal, please do so before the expiration of the extended filing deadline of 6 Dec, 2016.

Secondary Channels

 

Although we have just finished our 50 foot primary ship channel, our Port still faces many dredging challenges. Private dredging remains both difficult and expensive, and there are many secondary channels that are long overdue for maintenance dredging by the USACE.

 

Our Port has many Secondary Channels that are important to local maritime industrial interests. These channels are essential to allow tug/barge, and small vessel traffic to move commodities to/from maritime businesses that are situated on inlets/creeks such as Newtown Creek, Gowanus Creek, Eastchester Creek, Passaic River, Raritan River, and many more. Dredging is necessary to maintain adequate channel depth to support marine traffic.

 

Unfortunately, most of these secondary channels have not received necessary dredging in many years, and the continued shoaling of these channels is increasingly impeding navigational access, thus crippling small marine-dependent businesses.

 

There are several causes for the lack of required dredging including USACE budget restrictions and insufficient cargo movements.

 

NYCEDC has initiated a Secondary Channel program, and NJDOT Marine Resourced will follow with a similar program. NYCEDC hosted an introductory meeting in the Bronx on the evening of October 13, 2016.

 

MAPONY/NJ will work with both programs in an attempt to restore maritime-related businesses on our many area secondary channels.

 

CHPE

 

In the ongoing fight against the Champlain Hudson Power Exchange (CHPE) cable being placed in extensive portions of the Hudson River Navigation Channel, the USCG has decided NOT to accept the revised RNA presented by the CHPE proponents. This will pose another opportunity to stop this project.

 

SHIPPING 101

 

The Fall 2016 semester of SHIPPING 101 is set for the week of November 14-18, 2016, and will be held at the NYSA-ILA Training Facility located at 1210 Corbin Street. If you or your staff have NOT yet signed up for this semester, please contact us ASAP so we can ensure that you are registered in time for the class!

 

PAWSA

 

On October 26/27, 2016, the Port of NY/NJ will undergo a USCG Port And Waterways Safety Assessment (PAWSA). The PAWSA will have a dedicated USCG team visit the Port and meet with a broad cross-section of invited participants to perform a rigorous review of conditions in the Port and the established safety mitigations in place. Upon completion of the study, the USCG team will release their findings and recommendations on possible additional mitigating actions which may be activated to improve operational safety on our waterways. The meeting will take place at USCG Sector NY HQ on Staten Island.

 

MISNA

 

On October 18/19, 2016, MAPONY/NJ attended the Annual Meeting of Maritime Information Services of North America (MISNA) in Philadelphia, PA.

 

Maritime Information Services of North America (MISNA) is a coalition of non-profit maritime information service organizations dedicated to providing information, communications and related services to ensure safe, secure, efficient and environmentally sound maritime operations.

MISNA membership includes maritime exchanges and associations from throughout the United States, Canada and Europe.

 

As a MISNA member, MAPONY/NJ works with other MISNA members to collect and sell maritime vessel movement data, and to gather best-practice models from other Marine Exchanges.

 

MAPONY/NJ has held the Presidency of MISNA during 2016, and will turn the Presidency over to the San Francisco Marine Exchange at the close of the year.

 

MARACOOS

 

On October 6, 2016 MAPONY/NJ attended the Board of Directors meeting of the Mid-Atlantic Regional Association of Coastal Ocean Observing Systems (MARACOOS). MARACOOS members include academics, marine engineering concerns, commercial fishermen, and diverse maritime interests who are concerned with coastal ocean observations, weather data, marine modeling, and water conditions.

 

MAPONY/NJ participation ensures that adequate effort is expended to serve the needs of the marine industrial community in the New York Bight Coastal Area. All MAPONY/NJ expenses to attend these meetings are paid by MARACOOS through NOAA funding via the USA Integrated Ocean Observing System (IOOS). The most recent certification of MARACOOS observing data will prove to be a boon to marine data that is made available to mariners.

 

Tappan Zee Bridge

• As a follow-up to the earlier September meeting, the TZ Bridge engineering team returned to the HOPs Steering Cttee meeting held on October 5, 2016.
• It was confirmed that the deconstruction of the caissons will be removed to a minimum of 2 feet below the river bottom, and that the impacted river bottom will be contoured so as to match the natural bottom.
• Noted that during any required main channel closures, the West channel will remain open. The West channel must be properly marked and adequate contingency plans must be developed. It is recommended that NOAA conduct any/all necessary surveys to ensure accuracy of chart data.
• Noted that a well-coordinated communication committee has been very successful in accommodating the TZ Bridge construction work, it was recommended that the same group coordinate all de-construction communications.
• It is currently expected that the de-construction phase will commence on March 17, 2017, and the coordination group (TZ Bridge engineering/Tug&Barge Cttee/ Hudson River Pilots/Interport Pilots) should start their communication/planning process approximately 6 months before that date.

 

USCG

• Sector NY announced that they will host an Ice Season preparation meeting in the Chaplain on November 17, 2016. Full meeting data will be forthcoming soon, and MAPONY/NJ will distribute to all members for their information.
• Sector NY reported that in anticipation of the 2016/7 Ice Season 1 USCG icebreaker will be immediately available in Sector, while 1 icebreaker will be stationed in Maine (subject to re-positioning as necessary), and 1 icebreaker will be in the yard for repair/refitting.
• Sector NY will undergo a USCG Port And Waterways Safety Assessment (PAWSA) on October 25/26. Key members of the maritime community have been invited to participate in the meeting which will be held at the Sector NY base. MAPONY/NJ will be a participant, and will disseminate the results received from the PAWSA team after their analysis/release.
• The recent tragic collision between a kayaker and a ferry in the lower harbor was noted. USCG advised that it is customary that the incident result findings will not be available for approximately 12-15 months after the time of the incident. It was also noted that NTSB is conducting a study of human powered craft in commercial waterways, but that study was NOT directly linked to our most recent incident.
• Based on experience with the storm MATTHEW, USCG will perform a study to determine whether there was sufficient warning time provided before the declaration of status “X-Ray”.

 

USACE

• Noted that Newark Bay maintenance dredging should be completed by approximately October 20, 2016
• Noted that the East River/South Brother Island maintenance has commenced and should be completed by approximately Early/Mid-December, 2016
• Noted that with the 50 foot channel now considered “complete” the USACE is currently wrapping-up final sweep surveys to re-confirm conformity.
• Cheesequake Creek was discussed and it was noted that at this time there is no USACE intent to initiate dredging operations in that location for a variety of reasons, including: a lack of commercial activity; partial Superfund area; and a lack of necessary projected commercial activity which would create a satisfactory return on investment to justify USACE “asset management” criteria.
• USACE has a “Channel Management” tool which employs both reports and AIS tracking data.
• In the ongoing effort to complete the Sandy Hook Channel analysis, USACE is currently working with Fish & Wildlife to evaluate any impact on the nesting patterns of the Piping Plover in the impacted area.
• We await the outcome of the final study which will hopefully identify the long-term solution to this recurring rapid re-shoaling problem area.
• Noted that the New York State Mooring application for Jamaica Bay is still under discussion between USACE and the National Park Service (NPS)
• Noted that the NYCEDC permit application for the East River Ferry Service is still pending, but that the amended application currently does NOT include the controversial E 62nd St landing.
• Noted that the New York Energy Power barge/crane permit application is still pending.

 

NOAA

• Noted that in conjunction with the Tappan Zee Bridge replacement project NOAA has been updating all pertinent charts in the impacted area.
• All parties were reminded to file comments in the ongoing NOAA study pertaining to Atlantic Sturgeon habitat. MAPONY/NJ has already filed comments on behalf of membership.
• Noted that a NY/NJ Port “Current Study” was immediately needed in order to ensure that all waterway current data is updated and correct for usage in the currently underway simulation training being done at MITAGS to prepare for the onset of arrivals by 14 and 18K vessels when the Bayonne Bridge project attains navigational clearance status next year.
• It was recommended that NOAA perform a full Current Study after every significant deepening or widening project.
• It was suggested that NOAA perform a survey/study to determine whether the NEW Goethals Bridge should be equipped with an air-gap sensor.

 

USCG

• The USCG Meet and Greet was successfully held on Sep 9
• There will be consideration of the Security Zone currently in place around Ellis Island. A full notice will be forthcoming soon.
• A Marine Transportation System Recovery Unit (MTSRU) USCG staff person will be hired shortly. Full name/status/job description to follow shortly.
• The UN General Assembly Meeting was conducted with no incident.
• There will be an Ice Operations Meeting scheduled for November. Time/date/location to be announced shortly.

 

NJTPA (NJ Transportation Planning Authority)

• Will be conducting a study pertaining to the potential to support/expand maritime-related development on Northern NJ shorelines and estuaries. HOPs will remain in touch, but members are invited to visit the NJTPA website for further info.

 

Tappan Zee Bridge

• TZ Bridge engineering team made an early preview of the TZ Bridge de-construction process and sequencing at the HOPs Steering Cttee meeting. Good communications regarding basic planning, sequencing, and impacts.
• Noted that the de-construction plan WILL have significant impacts on navigation channel.
• It is expected that the primary impact to navigation will occur during the cutting/lowering phase of the center span.
• During main channel closure, the alternate channels will be available for use, and it was noted that those channels will need to be surveyed, marked, and kept clear for navigation usage.
• Indicated that shielding will reduce air draft by approx an additional 2 ft (in addition to the 8ft inspection platform reduction.
• Consultation will be made with the T&B Cttee and Hudson River Pilots to determine required channel width during the cantilever de-construction phase.
• Noted that there will be further study done to determine the proper removal of the old caissons. The maritime community wants the old caissons to be removed to a minimum of 2 ft below the river bottom, and to eliminate the existing caisson “bump” to restore a flat river bottom.
• Noted that thus far, the construction program has worked smoothly with good communications between the engineers and the T&B Cttee and Hudson River Pilots (primary impact parties)
• TZ Bridge engineers promises that they will expect to hold a series of communication meetings so as to allow de-construction to proceed as smoothly as construction operations have thus far proceeded.
• It is expected that the next meeting with TZ Bridge personnel will take place in October.

 

Passaic River

• Alice Yang of EPA presented an overview of the tentative plan to remediate the Passaic River.
• The current plan is to dredge, and then cap the contaminated sediment.
• The remediated area will focus on the lower 8.3 miles of the River.
• The maritime community voiced concern regarding the plan to reduce the authorized depth of the river to a limited area. The problem is that once capping is done, no further deepening may occur, and potential maritime-related development will be impossible.
• This is still at the early planning phase, and it is expected that cleanup will take at least 4 years, with dredging/capping taking an additional 6 years.
• Noted that all capping will be side-to-side in the river to allow terminal activity.
• Noted that a USACE Section 408 analysis would be necessary prior to any determination of channel revision.
• EPA will keep parties advised of project progress.

 

NOAA

• NOAA advised that the Hudson River survey season has ended, and expects to have survey assets available again next year.

 

USACE

• CHPE-noted that USCG District 1 has received the proposed Navigational Risk Assessment, and requires additional information to address some noted “problems”. All parties will continue to closely monitor this critical project.
• The New York State Highway Transportation Co proposed mooring buoy to be located in Jamaica Bay has received opposition from the National Park Service. Continues under USACE consideration.
• The NYCEDC East River Ferry application continues under review with a planned public comment period to be announced shortly. The NY Energy barge-mounted crane will expect to have public hearings; details to be forthcoming shortly.
• The 50 ft channel is FINISHED!!! A ceremony was held on Sept 1, 2016 to commemorate the conclusion of this generational infrastructure project. USACE is conducting spot after-dredge surveys and will publish official controlling depth reports shortly.
• The AK pipeline(s) removal project is still pending.
• USACE is conducting routine maintenance dredging operations in Newark Bay (70% Complete) and the East River.
• Noted that the US Navy dredging of Sandy Hook Channel has been completed. USACE will obtain USN survey data. It was noted that the maritime community has previously observed the rapid re-shoaling of this area, and that USACE has agreed to conduct a study to determine the reason for such rapid re-shoaling, and to implement a plan to address the problem.

 

PANY/NJ

• PANYNJ is planning to remove 140,000 cuyds of material from berths at PNCT, Maher, and APMT, and public berths 23/25/26/28.
• Berths are being dredged to existing design depths.
• Noted that some terminals are seeking permits to go to 50ft. Some affected berths may require pier reinforcement to go deep.
• Noted that the Bayonne Bridge project remains on schedule.
• Noted that the PNCT/Red Hook barge service is meeting with some success.
• Noted that with the arrival of larger vessels in the Port, there will be a need to re-define Berth designations.

 

NJDOT-Marine Resources

• Expect to conduct a Dredge Cost Reduction Study. More info to come soon.

 

NYCEDC

• Hornblower will hold public meetings pertaining to the operation of the East River Ferry. Public notice of meeting schedules will be made available shortly. Noted that the 2017 start-up schedule is still in place.
• A Waterfront permit process meeting will be held on 3 Oct at 26 Broadway to discuss the utility of the Waterfront Navigator application.
• On 13 Oct, NYCEDC plans to sponsor a meeting to discuss the potential for maritime-related development in NYC secondary channel locations. Detail to follow.

 

WeatherFlow

• Jay Titlow of WeatherFlow updated the need/use of wind and current sensors, and met with concerned parties to discuss/evaluate the need and possible positioning of additional sensors in the Port area.

 

MAPONY/NJ

• MAPONY/NJ made updates on various items as detailed in the separate MARITIME MATTERS for September-2016.

Contrary to our “usual” policy of not holding HOPs Cttee meetings in July or August, on July 6, 2016 our Harbor Safety, Navigation and Operations Committee (Harbor Ops) held a meeting of the Steering Committee at the USCG Sector NY conference room.

Key points of interest for the month of July, 2016 were as follows:

 

1. USCG

• As previously reported, CDR Ellis Moose will depart to assume his new duties at USCG NAVCEN. At this meeting he made his last “farewells”, and introduced CDR Nicole Vaughan who will take over his Sector NY Prevention duties. CDR Vaughan joins us from her last deployment which was in San Francisco.
• CDR Moose discussed the pending Hudson River Anchorages docket. He advised that he expected it to be a “complex rulemaking” due to expected conflicts with homeowners protesting intrusions on their viewshed, and protected fish habitats, especially the Hudson sturgeon. He noted that many of the submitted comments are requesting public hearings for this docket. USCG has solicited public comments regarding the District 1 consideration of a petition for additional anchorages to be established on the Hudson River. We firmly support this petition and MAPONY/NJ will submit written supporting correspondence. The deadline for submittal of public comments is September 7, 2016, and comments can be submitted under Docket number USCG-2016-0132 using the Federal eRulemaking Portal at: http://www.regulations.gov. MAPONY/NJ will circulate our comments to the full membership, and encourage all members to submit comments in favor of this important safety-related issue.
• It was advised that a Port and Waterways Safety Assessment (PAWSA) was being tentatively scheduled for the week of September 12-16. When noted that there was a conflict with the Tug& Barge Day scheduled for September 14, USCG advised that they would explore the possibility of scheduling change for the PAWSA, and would advise all parties accordingly.
• ADM Poulin (2 star), who has succeeded ADM Linda Fagan as Commander of District 1 joined the HOPs Stg Cttee meeting. Roundtable introductions were made, and a discussion ensued wherein ADM Poulin stated that he looked forward to working with all members, and that he shared the common interest in maritime safety, security, and environmental protection while supporting commercial maritime enterprises. He stressed that working partnerships were vital to success.
• USCG Sector NY is planning a meet-and-greet to be held on September 9, 2016 at USCG Sector NY headquarters on Staten Island in order to have the maritime community meet the new incoming USCG personnel. Further details regarding scheduling will be forthcoming shortly.
• The USCG Training Vessel EAGLE is still scheduled to visit NY/NJ August 5-7, 2016. Further information regarding visitation/viewing will be forthcoming.

 

2. USACE

• On May 1, 2016 the second “revised” Navigational Risk Assessment (NRA) for the Hudson River CHPE cable was submitted to USCG for their consideration. As previously advised, MAPONY/NJ continues to be adamantly OPPOSED to this project due to the petitioner’s plan to bury their power transmission cable in an extraordinarily long portion of the Hudson River navigational channel. At present, the USCG is still reviewing the submitted NRA. The CHPE cable submittal will also have to be evaluated in conjunction with the pending Hudson River Anchorage proposal.
• The petition for additional mooring buoys remains under consideration. MAPONY/NJ has submitted written comments in FAVOR of this proposal. At this time USACE advised that the Troy, NY permit has been approved, the Bay Ridge Flats South permit will be approved, but the Bay Ridge Flats North permit is still pending the closure of the public comment period. The Jamaica Bay permit remains pending while the National Parks Service has voiced dissent, despite the existence of extensive commercial activity in the area.
• Maintenance dredging is still planned for Newark Bay in early September 2016 and in the East River (near South Brothers Island) in mid-October 2016.
• Sandy Hook Channel has re-shoaled much more rapidly than expected and a study will need to be done to examine the possible causes for this, and mitigate the problem as is necessary.
• NYCEDC’s petition for landings for the new City-Wide-Ferry program remains under consideration. It was noted that due to the opposition by HOps, the 62nd street landing has been eliminated from the petition. NYCEDC will submit an “amended” proposal, but it was noted that the 62nd St location will always be subject to significant wake, surge, and exposure issues.
• Although NYCDEP has “officially” abandoned the water siphon between Staten Island and Brooklyn, the Great Lakes dredge barge No 54 that was scheduled to be re-positioned from Baltimore to complete the required removal/deepening, suffered damage to its’ crane, and the project has been delayed until the crane can be restored to service. It is now estimated that work will be re-scheduled, and the work will be completed in early September 2016. We will keep all members advised of the updated schedule. Upon “completion” of this project, the Port will have a final 50 ft channel.
• PANY/NJ is in discussion with Buckeye who is considering the need to place an electrical/fuel line near the Bay Ridge Anchorage. This would require a small (approx 2,000 yds) amount of dredging. Buckeye pumps aviation fuel to JFK airport. Details of planning will be made available when concluded. As a follow-up, USACE reported that the utility crossing would have a “minimal” (approx 150 ft) intrusion into the western portion of the navigation channel, and as such would not seem to pose any major problem.

 

3. NOAA

 

No report.

 

4. PANY/NJ

 

No report

 

5. NYCDOT

• Reported that they have been made aware that there is an artist who will be seeking to initiate an “art project” which will impact the 3rd Avenue Bridge. The project could begin installation in late 2017, and be in place through July/August of 2018.
• NYCDOT will bring this matter before the Passenger Vessel Sub-cttee for further discussion.

 

6. PILOT TRAINING PROJECT

• The pilot training program at MITAGS began on June 27, 2016. The program is designed to accurately simulate the transit of 14,000 TEU capacity vessels in the Port of NY/NJ.
• Noted that ADM Sam DeBow (NOAA, Ret), has been contracted to work with the NOAA team associated with the simulation training and modeling.
• It was reported that the Pilots are OK with the parameters, and that training/evaluation is proceeding as scheduled.

 

7. Energy Sub-Cttee

• Met with Williams regarding a potential for another pipeline to cross the Lower Bay.
• Noted that there “may” be another cable project that is looking at possible placement in the Hudson River.

 

8. Tug & Barge Cttee

• Reviewed the successful Brooklyn Tug & Barge Information Day
• Discussed operating restrictions pertaining to the ongoing Tappan Zee Bridge replacement project.
• Confirmed that the annual Tug & Barge Day will be held at Homeport on Sept 14, 2016

 

9. PILOT TRAINING PROJECT

• The pilot training program at MITAGS begins on June 27, 2016. The program is designed to accurately simulate the transit of 14,000 TEU capacity vessels in the Port of NY/NJ.
• Noted that ADM Sam DeBow (NOAA, Ret), has been contracted to work with the NOAA team associated with the simulation training and modeling.

 

10. MAPONY/NJ

• Reported on the Mid-Atlantic Regional Planning Body’s intent to present their Draft Ocean Action Plan, and recommended all parties to review same.
• Reported that the public comment period for the BOEM Proposed Sale Notice for Commercial Leasing for Wind Power on the Outer Continental Shelf Offshore New York, which was published in the Federal Register on June 6, 2016 has been extended from July 6 to July 13. MAPONY/NJ has already filed a written comment on this proposal.
• Reported the activities at the Posedonia Convention in Greece, and distributed copies of the PORT OF NY/NJ presentation that was distributed there which included articles supplied by MAPONY/NJ, NYCEDC, and others in the NY/NJ maritime community.

 

The following items are issues that should prove to be of interest to MAPONY/NJ Members. As always, should any Member want to get more detailed info regarding any of these issues, please feel free to contact Ed Kelly.

 

1. SHIP STATS

 

Attached hereto please find fact sheets detailing vessel movements for May, 2016 and comparative year-to-date JAN/May.

 

2. VESSEL JOHN W  BROWN VISITING NYC

 

We are pleased to advise that the vessel SS JOHN W BROWN will be making a visit to NYC.  This ship represents not only our nation’s maritime heritage but also New York’s maritime history as she served as a High School for 37 years. 

 

Donations are being solicited and the organizing group  is still  looking for sponsors. There are a few openings for evening parties and luncheons.  For more information please contact Karen Basciano at  kbasciano83@gmail.com or 410-560-8122. 

 

The ship will be berthed at Pier 36 East River by the Manhattan Bridge. It will be open for visitors every day from Friday September 9th to Monday September 19th. 

 

As a reminder, the Marine Society will be hosting a fundraiser aboard the BROWN Friday September 9th from 5-8PM. Cocktails and hors devours will be served. There will also be an auction and the ships store will be open.

 

On Sunday September 18th there will be a cruise in NY Harbor along with an air show and various entertainment. Tickets are currently on sale on the website. www.ssjohnwbrown.org. A promotional code will be sent out as well for discounted tickets to all members. 

 

If you have any questions or request additional information please reach out to Karen Basciano. 

 

3. BOEM OFFSHORE WIND PROJECT LEASE

• As separately reported in our HARBOR HAPPENINGS for June of 2016, BOEM is accepting public comments pertaining to their evaluation of leases to be made for the development of Wind Energy Power projects in the area between the Traffic Separation Scheme Lanes south of Long Island, NY and east of Sandy Hook, NJ.
• On the evening of June 20, 2016, Ed Kelly attended the public hearing held by BOEM in the Middle School of Long Branch, NJ.
• Ed publicly testified regarding the necessity of the safety of navigation, and went on the record as requiring:

1. Noting that wind towers have been demonstrated to interfere with radar signals, it would be required to establish a minimum of 2 miles setback from the Traffic Lanes, with a minimum of 5 miles setback from the northwestern entry/exit to the Lanes
2. That all lighting be shielded so as to eliminate/minimize any interference with mariner’s night vision.
3. That at least one pass-through corridor be established to allow the free passage of smaller coastal vessels.
4. That there be a demonstrated contingency plan for any incidents which would otherwise impede normal transit navigation.
5. That the towers be equipped with both AIS and cellular telephone transponders.
6. MAPONY/NJ will also submit written testimony prior to the July 6, 2016 deadline.

 

• Public comments regarding this project may be submitted electronically to : www.regulations.gov with the code: BOEM-2016-0038 until July 6, 2016.

 

4. VGM in NY/NJ

 

The International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) SOLAS VI/2 regulation on verified gross mass (VGM) takes effect on Friday, July 1, 2016, at ports worldwide. All terminals in the Port of New York and New Jersey will provide scale weights for use, at the carrier’s discretion, for export containers arriving to a terminal by truck without a VGM.

Under those conditions, a $10 fee may be assessed by the terminals to the ocean carrier. When a shipper has a VGM, please coordinate directly with your ocean carriers for the timing and format for transmitting.

 

Container weights provided by the railroads are not accepted for VGM purposes.

 

• For all exports received into Maher Terminals via ExpressRail Elizabeth, a VGM supplied by the ocean carrier via EDI will still be required before a container will be loaded onboard a vessel.

 

• At PNCT, APMT, GCT New York, GCT Bayonne and RHCT, any export container arriving via rail without a VGM will be assessed a $75 charge, weighed and the weight transmitted to the ocean carrier via EDI, once the charge has been paid.

 

If you have specific questions about your cargo, please contact your terminal operator

 

5. SCI FOOD TRUCK FEST

 

The Port Newark Food Truck Fest will take place at The Seamen’s Church Institute’s International Seafarer’s Center, 118 Export Street, Port Newark, on Tuesday July 12, 2016 from 3 to 7 p.m.

 

Come join truckers, longshoremen, terminal managers, and a host of other Port workers and residents for some good food and good times!

 

For tickets and information, email portfestival@seamenschurch.org, call 973-589-5828, or simply stop by the International Seafarer’s Center at the port. 

 

I hope to see you there!!

6. HUDSON RIVER ANCHORAGES

USCG has solicited public comments regarding the District 1 consideration of a petition for additional anchorages to be established on the Hudson River. We firmly support this petition and MAPONY/NJ will submit written supporting correspondence. The deadline for submittal of public comments is September 7, 2016, and comments can be submitted under Docket number USCG-2016-0132 using the Federal eRulemaking Portal at: http://www.regulations.gov. MAPONY/NJ will circulate our comments to the full membership, and encourage all members to submit comments in favor of this important safety-related issue.

 

7. 50 FOOT CHANNEL

 

Although NYCDEP has “officially” abandoned the water siphon between Staten Island and Brooklyn, the Great Lakes dredge barge that was scheduled to be re-positioned from Baltimore to complete the required removal/deepening, suffered damage to its’ crane, and the project has been delayed until the crane can be restored to service. It is now estimated that work will be re-scheduled, and the work will be completed in late August, or early September 2016. We will keep all members advised of the updated schedule. Upon “completion” of this project, the Port will have a final 50 ft channel. All parties are reminded that since virtually all NY/NJ berths are dredged to 50 foot, the “actual” draft limitation will be 49 feet due to USCG requirements to maintain at least a 1 foot underkeel clearance in order for the vessel to remain “afloat” while at the berth.

 

8. MARITIME CONFERENCES

 

The vibrant Port of NY/NJ commercial maritime industry activity has attracted several Maritime-Themed conferences to our area. The traditional Port Industry Day will be held on SEPT 26; for the first time the New York Maritime Forum will include maritime operational matters and will be held on SEPT 13; and for the first time a Northeast Waterways Conference to be held on a date to be advised soon. We will relay info regarding each of these events as it becomes available.

 

9. UNITED SEAMENS SERVICE

• On June 23, 2016 MAPONY/NJ attended the Annual Meeting of United Seamen’s Service. Since 1942, United Seamen’s Service (USS) has provided recreation, communication, counseling, dining and health services for thousands of seafarers at its eight centers worldwide and to those on ships, in hospital or detention.
• USS is the organization that hosts the annual AOTOS (Admiral Of The Ocean Seas) gala dinner which benefits their overseas service centers.
• A sister organization , the American Merchant Marine Library Association (AMMLA) collects donations of both new and used books, videos, CDs, etc and forwards same to American and Allied Merchant and Military ships. On several occasions, MAPONY/NJ has organized book drops that benefit AMMLA

 

10. NEWTOWN CREEK

 

On June 14, 2016 MAPONY/NJ attended a meeting of the Newtown Creek Citizen’s Advisory Group Steering Cttee. As previously advised the Newtown Creek CAG is an advisory group to the EPA as the EPA plans the remediation of the Newtown Creek superfund site. The meeting reviewed several water quality and health study results. MAPONY/NJ attends in order to represent and further the needs and requirements of the busy Newtown Creek commercial maritime operations located there.

 

11. MARITIME EDUCATION

• On June 2, 2016 the Urban Assembly School of Global Commerce held their Career Day so the students would have an opportunity to meet people engaged in Logistics/Transportation careers and explore their future career choices. Several MAPONY/NJ members attended the function and felt that it was a rewarding experience. Any MAPONY/NJ Member interested in attending future events should contact Ed Kelly for further info.
• On June 17, 2016, MAPONY/NJ presented the MAPONY/NJ Award to Midshipman Black at the US Merchant Marine academy Awards Convocation. Ed Kelly presented the award to MIDN Black.

 

12. 12. POSIDONIA

 

The International POSIDONIA 2016 Exhibition was held in Athens, Greece on June 6-10, 2016. MAPONY/NJ had created a white paper highlighting commercial maritime activity in NY/NJ which was included in the NYMAR presentation made in POSIDONIA.  NYMAR is composed primarily of legal and financial service providers, and made a presentation to attract maritime business to the NY/NJ area. The presentation was well received.

 

In June, 2016 our Harbor Safety, Navigation and Operations Committee (Harbor Ops) had meeting of the Steering Committee on June 1 and of the Full Committee on June 15. As is traditional, the Steering Cttee June meeting was held on the tug MIRIAM MORAN with MORAN hosting lunch aboard the tug. Many Thanks to MORAN for their continued support!

Key points of interest for the month of June, 2016 were as follows:

 

1. USCG

• ADM Poulin has succeeded ADM Fagan as Commander of District 1
• LCDR Bill Grossman has left Waterways Management and has been reassigned to USCG Battery, while LCDR Jake Hobson has assumed command of Waterways Management and will be stationed at Sector NY Staten Island.
• The plans for the 4th of July Macy’s Fireworks display will be essentially the “same” as for last year due to the fireworks barges being planned to be located in the same locations as last year. It is currently planned that 4 barges will be located in the East River near Randall’s Island while 2 barges will be placed near the Brooklyn Bridge. Restricted Navigation Areas (RNAs) will be in effect from 1700-2300 hrs on the day of the event. Full detail regarding barge locations and sanctioned viewing areas can be seen on USCG HOMEPORT website.
• The USCG Training Vessel EAGLE is still scheduled to visit NY/NJ August 5-7, 2016. Further information regarding visitation/viewing will be forthcoming.
• USCG Sector NY is planning a meet-and-greet to be held on September 9, 2016 at USCG Sector NY headquarters on Staten Island in order to have the maritime community meet the new incoming USCG personnel.
• Several buoys will be temporarily relocated to facilitate dredging in Sandy Hook Channel. Full detail is available on USCG HOMEPORT website.
• To accommodate construction at the Tappan Zee Bridge, there will be scheduled closings of the main channel for 6-8 hours once or twice a week. During these closures marine traffic can utilize the alternative channels which have been recently surveyed and updated by NOAA survey teams. Full detail regarding scheduled closures is available on USCG HOMEPORT website.
• USCG and PANY/NJ have met to identify navigational issues that may arise due to the construction of the “new” Goethals Bridge. Results of their meeting should be available shortly, and we will give updated info when received.
• USCG has solicited public comments regarding the District 1 consideration of a petition for additional anchorages to be established on the Hudson River. We firmly support this petition and MAPONY/NJ will submit written supporting correspondence. The deadline for submittal of public comments is September 7, 2016, and comments can be submitted under Docket number USCG-2016-0132 using the Federal eRulemaking Portal at: http://www.regulations.gov. MAPONY/NJ will circulate our comments to the full membership, and encourage all members to submit comments in favor of this important safety-related issue.

 

2. USACE

• On May 1, 2016 the second “revised” Navigational Risk Assessment (NRA) for the Hudson River CHPE cable was submitted to USCG for their consideration. As previously advised, MAPONY/NJ continues to be adamantly OPPOSED to this project due to the petitioner’s plan to bury their power transmission cable in an extraordinarily long portion of the Hudson River navigational channel.
• The petition for additional mooring buoys remains under consideration. MAPONY/NJ has submitted written comments in FAVOR of this proposal.
• Maintenance dredging is planned for Newark Bay in early September 2016 and in the East River (near South Brothers Island) in mid-October 2016.
• Sandy Hook Channel has re-shoaled much more rapidly than expected and a study will be done to examine the possible causes for this.
• NYCEDC’s petition for landings for the new City-Wide-Ferry program remains under consideration. It was noted that due to the opposition by HOps, the 62nd street landing has been eliminated from the petition.
• USACE confirmed that the derelict barges have been removed from Flushing Bay.
• Although NYCDEP has “officially” abandoned the water siphon between Staten Island and Brooklyn, the Great Lakes dredge barge that was scheduled to be re-positioned from Baltimore to complete the required removal/deepening, suffered damage to its’ crane, and the project has been delayed until the crane can be restored to service. It is now estimated that work will be re-scheduled, and the work will be completed in late August, or early September 2016. We will keep all members advised of the updated schedule. Upon “completion” of this project, the Port will have a final 50 ft channel.

3. NOAA

• Confirmed that full surveys of the “back” channels of the Tappan Zee Bridge have been conducted and all charts updated accordingly. This will accommodate the afore-mentioned construction-related main channel closures to be scheduled.
• Survey vessels are updating survey data in the Hudson River. The vessels are starting in Albany, and will move south as they survey.
• NOAA COOPs is planning to conduct a study to produce a model that will predict currents in the harbor. In the fall NOAA plans to place approximately 25 temporary buoys to capture data necessary to build the model. A committee of HOps members will “mark up” a chart to indicate key areas for study/prediction so that NOAA will place the buoys in the most critical areas.

 

4. PANY/NJ

• PANY/NJ is in discussion with Buckeye who is considering the need to place an electrical/fuel line near the Bay Ridge Anchorage. This would require a small (approx 2,000 yds) amount of dredging. Buckeye pumps aviation fuel to JFK airport. Details of planning will be made available when concluded.
• Maintenance dredging of PANY/NJ piers continues. The “Ribbon Cutting” ceremony for the completion of the 50 Ft. Channel will be scheduled after the finalization of the water siphon project completion.

 

5. NYCEDC

• Confirmed that NYCEDC will host the Tug & Barge Cttee Industry Information Day at the Brooklyn Cruise terminal on June 2, 2016.
• As part of a City-wide Freight transportation Study, NYCEDC will conduct a Heavy-Lift/Oversize Study in an effort to ensure that all Boros have adequate lift/land areas that will help to remove truck traffic from local neighborhoods.
• The City-Wide Ferry system continues to move ahead. A study to determine/minimize engine emissions is being initiated.
• The Waterfront Navigator website is full functional and is expected to be of great assistance to those seeking waterfront permits.
• There is continued interest to the South Brooklyn Marine Terminal RFP with several entities expressing interest in same.

 

6. ENERGY Sub-Cttee

• Reminded all attendees that when the CHPE proposal is examined it must be remembered that an almost identical cable in SFO Bay has been found to have been insufficiently buried, and has risen to the seabed thus creating a snagging hazard, and that in addition, a similar cable in LI Sound has been found to have 9 locations where the cable had to be re-buried. These findings reinforce the Industry position that the CHPE proposal must be compelled to bury their cable at a depth considerably deeper than they have proposed.
• BOEM has given preliminary notice that they will be opening a large tract of sea bed for lease which will be located 11 miles off the Long island coast between the Traffic Separation Scheme lanes. BOEM made a presentation at this meeting to outline their plan.

 

7.  EDUCATION Sub Cttee

• Reported that they had been in touch with the operator of the on-water Newtown Creek school whose canoe had capsized recently. Safety and precautionary measures were prescribed, and the operator was invited to HOps to have a further discussion.
• It was noted that there seems to be a very significant increase in the number of jet skiers in the Port. A pilot of a large commercial tanker was forced to take evasive maneuvering action in order to avoid striking a fallen skier.
• The cttee will prepare a proposal for a budget which would allow them to proceed with several projects that they are working on. Upon receipt of the proposed budget, the Full Cttee will consider various funding options.

 

8. TUG & BARGE Cttee

• Reported on their successful Industry Information Day which was sponsored by NYCEDC at the Brooklyn Cruise terminal on June 2, 2016. The event attracted a crowd of approximately 50 people who represented various local, state and federal electeds and agency staff. After a continental breakfast, a presentation proclaiming the importance and relevancy of the Tug & Barge industry was made. Following the presentation, all attendees were invited for a tugboat ride, during which industry mariners pointed out various maritime-related activities, locations, and facilities. Three tugboats participated in the rides, and thanks go out to Moran, Vane Brothers, and Wittich Brothers for providing boats and crews.
• Eric Johansson gave an overview of his attendance at the International Tug and Salvage Conference in Boston.
• A recap of the June 13 Tappan Zee Bridge construction meeting was made.
• It was pointed out that the HOps Cttee should create better cooperation with NYC OEM so as to fully understand opportunities to work together in the event of any emergency situation.

 

9. PILOT TRAINING PROJECT

• The pilot training program at MITAGS begins on June 27, 2016. The program is designed to accurately simulate the transit of 14,000 TEU capacity vessels in the Port of NY/NJ.
• Noted that ADM Sam DeBow (NOAA, Ret), has been contracted to work with the NOAA team associated with the simulation training and modeling.

 

10. PRESENTATION

• Ms Erin Trager, New York project Coordinator for the Bureau of Ocean Management (BOEM) made a presentation regarding the Proposed Sale Notice for Commercial Leasing for Wind Power on the Outer Continental Shelf Offshore New York, which was published in the Federal Register on June 6, 2016, and includes a 60 day public comment period.
• The indicated area is approximately 11 nautical miles south of Long Beach, NY, and approximately 16 nautical miles east of Sandy Hook, NJ. The area is located between the Traffic Separation Scheme lanes.
• The area currently provides for a 1 nautical mile setback from the traffic lane boundaries.
• The lease will comprise a 1 year preliminary term, a 5 year Site Assessment term, followed by a 25 year operational term to be followed by either a lease extension or a decommissioning period.
• Public hearings will be held in Long Branch, NJ, Hempstead and Westhampton, NY to provide information regarding the Environmental Assessment, and to solicit public input.
• For more information visit: www.boem.gov/new-york
• It was also noted that permits for cables to shore would be governed by USACE, and all work within 3 miles of shore would require State permits.
• HOps will file comments pertaining to safety of navigation.