03-19497. Special Local Regulations for Marine Events; Patapsco River, Baltimore, MD

AGENCY:

Coast Guard, DHS.

ACTION:

Notice of implementation of regulation.

SUMMARY:

The Coast Guard is implementing the special local regulations at 33 CFR 100.515 during the 189th Defender's Day Celebration fireworks display to be held September 13, 2003, over the waters of the Patapsco River at Baltimore, Maryland. These special local regulations are necessary to control vessel traffic due to the confined nature of the waterway and expected vessel congestion during the fireworks display. The effect will be to restrict general navigation in the regulated area for the safety of spectators and vessels transiting the event area.

EFFECTIVE DATE:

33 CFR 100.515 is effective from 5:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. on September 13, 2003.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:

Ronald Houck, Marine Information Specialist, Commander, Coast Guard Activities Baltimore, 2401 Hawkins Point Road, Baltimore, MD 21226-1971, at [phone].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

The City of Baltimore will sponsor the 189th Defender's Day Celebration fireworks display on September 13, 2003 over the waters of the Patapsco River, Baltimore, Maryland. The fireworks display will be launched from a barge positioned within the regulated area. A fleet of spectator vessels is expected to gather nearby to view the aerial display. In order to ensure the safety of spectators and transiting vessels, 33 CFR 100.515 will be in effect for the duration of the event. Under provisions of 33 CFR 100.515, a vessel may not enter the regulated area unless it receives permission from the Coast Guard Patrol Commander. Spectator vessels may anchor outside the regulated area but may not block a navigable channel.

In addition to this notice, the maritime community will be provided extensive advance notification via the Local Notice to Mariners, marine information broadcasts, and area newspapers, so mariners can adjust their plans accordingly.

Dated: July 22, 2003.

Sally Brice-O'Hara,

Rear Admiral, Coast Guard, Commander, Fifth Coast Guard District.