FR 2024-31328

The document from the Federal Register highlights a proposed rule change by the U.S. Coast Guard regarding the operation schedule of the Blackburn Point Bridge located at mile 63.1 on the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway in Osprey, Florida. The proposal seeks to modify the bridge's opening schedule to help alleviate roadway congestion during peak traffic hours on weekdays, thereby aiming to balance the needs of both road users and marine traffic. Comments from the public on this proposed rule are invited until February 7, 2025.

General Summary

The Coast Guard is proposing to alter the weekday operating schedule of the Blackburn Point Bridge. Under the current rules, the bridge opens on demand whenever a vessel requests. The new proposal limits openings to three specific times each hour from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., during weekdays. This is intended to alleviate congestion on the roadways by reducing the frequency of bridge openings. At all other times, including weekends, the bridge would operate as it currently does, opening on demand.

Significant Issues or Concerns

One major issue is the complexity of the regulatory language used in the document, which might make it difficult for the general public to thoroughly understand the proposed changes and their implications. Additionally, while the proposal’s intention is to reduce traffic congestion, there is a lack of detailed data or studies presented that explicitly demonstrate how effective this operational change would be in mitigating traffic issues. This absence of transparency may lead to skepticism among stakeholders regarding the rule’s efficacy.

Public Impact

Generally, this proposed change could impact residents and commuters in the Osprey, Florida area by potentially easing congestion during peak traffic periods. For road users frustrated by the frequent bridge openings that halt vehicular traffic, the new schedule may prove beneficial. However, those navigating by water may face delays if they require bridge openings during the newly restricted times.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

Mariners and Vessel Operators: The proposed schedule might inconvenience mariners requiring timely bridge access, especially given concerns regarding tidal movements and holding positions. The rule tries to ease these concerns by allowing requests for openings at set intervals during peak hours and operating on-demand at other times.

Local Community and Road Users: Residents and commuters may see improved traffic flow and reduced wait times during peak hours. The measure could lead to a smoother daily commute by reducing the frequency of interruptions caused by bridge openings.

Small Businesses: There is a brief mention of the potential impact on small businesses, yet the analysis lacks specific examples or a detailed economic impact study. It remains unclear how significant these changes might be for businesses relying on efficient access across the bridge for deliveries or operations.

The Coast Guard encourages public participation in the rulemaking process to ensure that the proposed regulation aligns effectively with community needs and concerns. Stakeholders are invited to provide their input through comments, which will be considered in shaping the final decision.

The document from the Federal Register does not allocate specific funds or detail precise financial commitments. However, it includes a mention of the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act. This act requires federal agencies to evaluate how regulatory actions might financially impact state, local, or tribal governments, or the private sector, especially if expenditures exceed $100,000,000 (adjusted for inflation) in any one year.

Financial Summary and Context

While the document proposes changes to the operating schedule of the Blackburn Point Bridge, there are no direct mentions of the federal government or the Coast Guard allocating or spending money on these changes. Instead, the focus appears to be on regulatory adjustments that might affect traffic patterns and local economic conditions without specific funding attached to the proposal.

Relation to Identified Issues

The reference to significant expenditure thresholds under the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act is critical. It suggests that if changes were to cause large financial outlays by state, local, or tribal governments, a more detailed financial analysis would be necessary. However, the document does not assert that the proposed rule will reach such a financial impact level. Consequently, there is no visible detailed cost-benefit analysis, a point highlighted as an issue due to its absence, which might leave some stakeholders uncertain about the economic impact of the proposed changes.

Financial Implications for Small Entities

The document touches upon the impact on small entities, asserting that the rule would not significantly affect them economically. However, it does not provide specific financial data or examples, which could leave small businesses apprehensive about potential economic burdens. This lack of detailed financial context or analysis might lead stakeholders to request clearer information on how the rule could potentially affect their operational costs or economic environment.

In summary, while the document primarily covers regulatory amendments, the reference to substantial financial thresholds under the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act highlights the importance of understanding the economic implications. However, further detailed financial analysis or examples would benefit stakeholders, ensuring clarity and reassurance regarding the economic impacts.