New Berkley Bridge lift schedule

NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY) - Operating schedule changes at the Berkley Bridge went into effect Wednesday, March 10. The Coast Guard has issued a temporary deviation from the previous schedule.

The deviation is necessary to test another change in the drawbridge operation schedule based on comments received from the first test , according to the Coast Guard.

The latest changes will allow the bridge to open anytime for vessels carrying hazardous cargo. It will also open for vessels with a draft of 18-feet or more, provided the vessel gives six hours notice.

The Coast Guard may also request an opening 30 minutes past the scheduled Berkley Bridge lifts, except at 2:30. According to the Coast Guard, the draw tender may only request a 20 minute delay for vessels wishing to pass.

Lifts are currently scheduled for 9 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 2:30 p.m., except on federal holidays.

This trial policy will run through September 3.

A vessel may make prior arrangements for a delayed opening by contacting traffic control at (757)494-2490.

Citizens interested in expressing their views on the lift schedule and changes may do so by sending their comments to:

Commander (dpb)
Fifth Coast Guard District
431 Crawford St.
Portsmouth, Va., 23704

Written comments on this proposal must be submitted on or before July 1, 2010.

Further questions and comments may be forwarded to Waverly Gregory, bridge administrator for the Fifth Coast Guard District, at (757) 398-6222 or e-mail at Waverly.W.Gregory@uscg.mil .

You may also submit your comments by following these links: USCG-2010-0083 and USCG-2009-0754