USCG: River closure MM-189.5 for tonight will take place as planned

The Mississippi River closure scheduled for tonight, October 21, 2022, at MM-189.5 AHOP, from 7:00 pm to 7:00 am will take place. The river closures will be extended every day from 21-24 Oct 2022 until opening 0700 Monday October 24, 2022. The following restrictions are in place.

All Southbound traffic shall check-in with VTS at MM 205 via land line at (504) 365-2512.

Exceptions may be granted ONLY AFTER contacting the Denis Glebe on the M/V Speedy at (601)604-5757 to arrange passage.

Northbound traffic shall check in with VTS at Sunshine bridge on VHF 5A.
VTS LMR will still monitor VHF Ch. 5A for the duration of the closure and conduct regular check-ins for 81 Mile Point AOR on Ch. 5A.
When the river is closed, the VTS Closure operator will maintain the southbound/northbound queue list and monitor VHF 67 to ensure traffic is making safe passing arrangements.

When the river re-opens, the VTS Closure operator will work with the VTS 81-mile point operator to de-conflict traffic, and then contact vessels via phone or VHF radio to clear the southbound and northbound queues.

Tows (>20 barges) should be mindful of limited safe mooring areas South of the I-10 bridge during closure periods.

For further information, contact VTS Lower Mississippi River on CH-5a or via land line at (504)365-2514.

//signed//

Watch Supervisor
U.S. Coast Guard
Vessel Traffic Service Lower Mississippi River
200 Hendee Street, Suite 300
New Orleans, LA 70114
504-365-2514