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Navigation Bulletin

NOTICE TO NAVIGATION INTERESTS

Controlling Depth in the Canal

Effective immediately the controlling depth of the Cape Cod Canal is reduced to 30 feet MLLW due to sand shoaling that has developed in several locations. The locations of known shoal areas includes: vicinity of canal station 455 at the eastern end of Hog Island Channel, vicinity of canal station 155 just west of the Sagamore Bridge, canal station 35 and canal station 05 at the east end breakwater. Vessels drawing greater than 22 feet should consult well in advance with the Marine Traffic Controller on Duty. The shoal at canal station 35 is at 26 feet MLLW and extends 100’ into the channel from the north limit. Due to the greater range of tide in this area, vessels with a draft of up to 30’ can be accommodated with careful planning and appropriate notice of transit. All vessels transiting with a draft greater than 22’ should contact and consult well in advance with the Marine Traffic Controller.

Bridge Vertical Clearance Reduction Notice

The available vertical clearance under the Bourne Bridge across the Cape Cod Canal is now reduced to 130 feet. As part of a construction contract to repair steel on the bridge, a work platform will be hung under the middle span of the bridge reducing the normal vertical clearance by 5 feet. The work platform is expected to be in place from January 9, 2012 through May 2012. Construction work that includes hot work will be performed on the work platform over the canal. Any concerns can be discussed with our Marine Traffic Controllers. Mariners should exercise caution while transiting below the construction work.

The steel repair contractor will also be working on the Sagamore Bridge across the Cape Cod Canal. Work on the Sagamore Bridge is expected to commence in April 2012 and continue through fall 2012. The work on the Sagamore Bridge will also include a vertical clearance reduction due to a hanging work platform.