MSIB 13-12 UPDATE #1 MHA Safery Zone

Received October 9, 2012:
The US Coast Guard has established a safety zone around the Dredge ESSEX which will be in effect as early as Friday, October 12, 2012 while it operates within Marcus Hook Anchorage preparing for annual maintenance dredging operations within the range (33CFR165.555).

During this time period the upper portion of the anchorage shall be closed to all vessel traffic while the dredge lays submerged pipeline within the anchorage. Vessels desiring to anchor within the downriver portion of Marcus Hook Anchorage must obtain permission from the Captain of the Port at least 24 hours in advance, at (215) 271-4807 [33CFR110.157(b)(11)(i)]. The COTP will permit one vessel at a time in Marcus Hook Anchorage on a “first-come, first-serve” basis. Vessels are encouraged to use Mantua Creek Anchorage (Anchorage #9) and Deepwater Point Anchorage (Anchorage #6) as alternatives.

The operator of any vessel in the safety zone shall proceed as directed by the designated representative of the Captain of the Port and shall contact the Dredge ESSEX by phone at 757-353-0455 or on channel 13 or 16 VHF for passing information.