East Coast Alert Update
By Mel Neale
Oct 21, 2009

Further Restrictions at the Gilmerton Bridge, ICW Mile 5.8: The Captain of the Port Hampton Roads advises all local mariners, vessels and facilities that needed fender system repairs have been extended at the Gilmerton Lift Bridge (US 13/460) across the Elizabeth River (Southern Branch), at AIWW mile 5.8, in Chesapeake, VA, that will restrict the normal operation of the drawbridge.  Restricted operations are scheduled to occur each weekend, on the following dates:

(1) from 7 a.m. October 30, 2009, through 7 a.m. on November 2, 2009;
(2) from 7 a.m. on November 6, 2009 through 7 a.m. on November 9, 2009; and
(3) from 7 a.m. on November 13, 2009 through 7 a.m. on November 16, 2009. 
            Drawbridge openings are scheduled every two hours on the hour.  All piloted vessel will be permitted to transit upon request to the bridge tender with a two hour notice.  The bridge tender may be contacted at (757) 545-1512 or via marine radio on Channel 13.  At all other times, the drawbridge will operate in accordance with the operating regulations set out in Title 33 Code of Federal Regulations Part 117.997(d).  Mariners should exercise caution when transiting the area.(From the USCG 5th District Bridge Branch)
            NOTE: This is in addition to the closure OCTOBER 23, 2009 AT 7 AM THROUGH 7 AM ON OCTOBER 26, 2009 already announced. I called the number given and was told that the scheduled opening every two hours would be on the even hour. I would check with the bridge tender before arrival at the bridge to verify.

This information is not to be used for navigation. Consult the latest charts and Local Notices to Mariners and use prudent seamanship. Conditions may change.  Any person or entity that uses this information in any way, as a condition of that use, agrees to waive and does waive and also hold authors harmless from any and all claims which may arise from or be related to this use.