Permanent UXO Safety Zone Established for Gravesend Bay

Brooklyn, New York In a notice published in the Federal Register, the Coast Guard announced the establishment of a permanent safety zone in the waters of Gravesend Bay due to the hazards associated with potential underwater UXO in the area. The rule which goes into effect on 30 June encompasses all waters of Gravesend Bay within 110-yard radius of position 40[deg]36'30'' N, 074[deg]02'14'' W (NAD 83), approximately 70-yards southeast of the Verrazano Bridge Brooklyn tower.

The permanent safety exclusion zone replaces the temporary zone established back in February following the discovery of approximately 1500 rounds of 20mm ammunition, one 3-inch diameter projectile and two cartridge casings in the area by divers. The Coast Guard reported that no comments were received on the draft rule and there were also no requests for a public meeting over the issue.

Access to safety zone is prohibited unless authorized by the Captain of the Port (COTP) New York. Maritime advisories will be made available to users of the waterway in the vicinity of Gravesend Bay to announce the rule.