Vessel Traffic Service Lower Mississippi River (VTS LMR), in accordance with the Navigation Safety Regulations, Code of Federal Regulations Title 33, Subpart 161.11, will establish a Vessel Traffic Service (VTS) Measure for the waters of the Lower Mississippi River from Mile Marker (MM) 232.4 Above Head of Passes (AHP) to MM 233.4 AHP. This Measure is needed to protect persons and vessels from the potential safety hazards associated with the fiber cable replacement operations occurring across the full width of the River near MM 232.9, October 5, 2022 through October 8, 2022.
Wednesday, October 5, 2022 through Friday October 7, 2022, vessels shall not enter the area between MM 232.4 and MM 233.4 from 0800-1100 and 1400-1700 each day. This VTS Measure will remain in effect as long as the fiber cable replacement operations are taking place at MM 232.9. All vessels are prohibited from entering this area without permission from the Captain of the Port New Orleans or designated representative. Mariners are urged to transit at their slowest safe speed to minimize wake and proceed with caution after passing arrangements have been made.
The point of contact on scene is John Carpenter who can be contacted at (318) 816-0651 or the M/V Miss Elizabeth can be contacted on VHF channel 67.
For additional information, contact the following:
Coast Guard Sector New Orleans Command Center: (504) 365-2200
Coast Guard Sector New Orleans Waterways Management: (504) 365-2280
Coast Guard MSU Baton Rouge Waterways Management: (225) 298-5400 x230
Vessel Traffic Service Lower Mississippi River: (504) 365-2230, VHF FM Ch. 05A, 12, 67
