A Compromise in the Battle of the Bridges

A Coast Guard proposal that would support fair and equal access for all boating interests on central Florida’s Okeechobee Waterway is being opposed and requires a vigorous outpouring of support.

The Marine Industries Association of the Treasure Coast and marine businesses were joined by the Marine Industry Association of Southwest Florida & Tampa Bay in a lawsuit last winter opposing a plan that would allow Florida East Coast Railroad and Brightline trains to restrict marine traffic under a low railroad bridge on the Okeechobee near Stuart.

As originally proposed, the Brightline rail passenger service would have kept this low bridge in the down position for 45 minutes of every hour, essentially wiping out reasonable navigation on the waterway. (I wrote about this in May.)

The negative economic impact on marine businesses and boat owners from both Florida coasts was identified and declared, given that this waterway is the main route across central Florida between the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic.

The Coast Guard responded by determining that equal access is appropriate and that the bridge must remain open for 30 minutes each hour. However, Brightline and the Florida East Coast Railroad, which owns the bridge, balked, claiming the proposal is “unacceptable” and pitting itself against the marine community.

With the lawsuit and great support from Congressman Brian Mast, whose 21st District includes the Treasure Coast, the Coast Guard agreed to implement a trial period.

During the trial period, the Coast Guard is asking for comment, and it is critical that the industry step up to show how important this issue is to businesses. Take a few minutes to express your feelings.

Here is the link to the comments page.

Indicate that you support the Coast Guard’s 30-minute rule and ask that the Okeechobee Waterway remain open and not allow train traffic to unfairly come against all marine interests. Moreover, urge the agency to extend the comment period and strive to find a long-term solution that makes fair access for safe navigation a priority.