[Federal Register Volume 62, Number 186 (Thursday, September 25, 1997)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Page 50253]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 97-25371]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Coast Guard

33 CFR Part 117

[CGD13-97-026]


Drawbridge Operation Regulations; Columbia River, OR

AGENCY: Coast Guard, DOT.

ACTION: Notice of temporary deviation.

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SUMMARY: Notice is hereby given that the Coast Guard has issued a 
temporary deviation to the regulations governing the operation of the 
twin, Interstate 5, drawbridges across the Columbia River, mile 105.6, 
between Vancouver, Washington and Portland, Oregon. The draws of the 
two bridges need not open for the passage of vessels from midnight, 
September 15 through midnight, October 7, 1997, to accommodate the 
replacement of a defective part in the lift machinery.

EFFECTIVE DATES: The period of deviation begins at midnight September 
15 and ends at midnight October 7, 1997.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Mr. John E. Mikesell, Chief, Plans and 
Programs Section, Thirteenth Coast Guard District. Telephone number 
(206) 220-7270.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: A recent survey of the operating machinery 
of the twin Interstate 5 Bridges across the Columbia River revealed 
serious defects in the trunion shafts of the lift mechanism. The shafts 
require immediate replacement to insure the continued safe operation of 
the lift spans. During the closure period, low water conditions will 
allow for the passage of most commercial navigation through an 
alternate high level fixed span at midriver.
    The District Commander has authorized a temporary deviation from 
the operation regulations from midnight, September 15, through 
midnight, October 7, 1997, during which the draws of the twin 
Interstate 5 bridges across the Columbia River need not open for the 
passage of vessels, while repairs are being made to the draw machinery. 
A concurrent action by the Coast Guard Captain of The Port establishes 
an Exclusionary Zone which restricts the entry of vessels into the area 
around the drawspans.
    This deviation from normal operating regulations (33 CFR 117.869) 
is authorized in accordance with the provisions of Title 33 of the Code 
of Federal Regulations, Sec. 117.35.

    Dated: September 9, 1997.
J. David Spade,
Rear Admiral, U.S. Coast Guard, Commander, 13th Coast Guard District.
[FR Doc. 97-25371 Filed 9-24-97; 8:45 am]
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