SECTOR COMMANDER
U.S. COAST GUARD
SECTOR DELAWARE BAY
1 WASHINGTON AVE
PHILADELPHIA, PA 19147
TEL: (215) 271-4800
FAX: (215) 271-4899

MARINE SAFETY INFORMATION BULLETIN

[MSIB # 48-14]

December 19, 2014

MARCUS HOOK RANGE DREDGING OPERATIONS

The U.S. Coast Guard has amended the safety zone found in 33 Code of Federal Regulations 165.555 for dredging operations in Marcus Hook Range in the Delaware River. This amendment extends the safety zone through February 28, 2015. During this time, the Dredge ESSEX will be operating within the upriver portion of Marcus Hook Range, north of the Sunoco Marcus Hook Industrial Complex. The safety zone includes all waters within a 150 yard radius of the Dredge ESSEX and all related dredging equipment. Vessels requesting to transit Marcus Hook Range shall contact the Dredge ESSEX on VHF channel 13 or 16, 30 minutes prior to arrival. Vessels shall transit around the dredge project, through Marcus Hook Anchorage, operating at the minimum safe speed necessary to maintain steerage and reduce wake.

During this time period, the regulations in 33 Code of Federal Regulations 110.157 (b)(11)(i) will be in effect. Vessels desiring to anchor within Marcus Hook Anchorage must obtain permission from the Captain of the Port (COTP) at least 24 hours in advance, at (215) 271-4807. The COTP will permit one vessel at a time in Marcus Hook Anchorage on a "first-come, first-served" basis. Vessels will not be permitted to occupy the anchorage beyond 12 hours. Vessels that require an examination by the Public Health Service, Customs, or Immigration authorities will be directed by the COTP to an anchorage for inspection. 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. For passing information contact the Dredge ESSEX on VHF channel 13 or 16.





B. A. COOPER
Captain, U.S. Coast Guard
Alternate Captain of the Port, Delaware Bay