Drawbridge Operation Regulations; Thames River, New London, CT, 61698-61701 [06-8814]

Download as PDF 61698 Federal Register / Vol. 71, No. 202 / Thursday, October 19, 2006 / Proposed Rules and the environment from the adverse effects of surface coal mining operations.’’ Section 503(a)(1) of SMCRA requires that State laws regulating surface coal mining and reclamation operations be ‘‘in accordance with’’ the requirements of SMCRA. Section 503(a)(7) requires that State programs contain rules and regulations ‘‘consistent with’’ regulations issued by the Secretary pursuant to SMCRA. Executive Order 13175—Consultation and Coordination With Indian Tribal Governments In accordance with Executive Order 13175, we have evaluated the potential effects of this rule on Federallyrecognized Indian tribes and have determined that the rule does not have substantial direct effects on one or more Indian tribes, on the relationship between the Federal Government and Indian tribes, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities between the Federal Government and Indian Tribes. The basis for this determination is that our decision is on a State regulatory program and does not involve a Federal program involving Indian lands. cprice-sewell on PROD1PC66 with PROPOSALS Executive Order 13211—Regulations That Significantly Affect the Supply, Distribution, or Use of Energy On May 18, 2001, the President issued Executive Order 13211 which requires agencies to prepare a Statement of Energy Effects for a rule that is (1) considered significant under Executive Order 12866, and (2) likely to have a significant adverse effect on the supply, distribution, or use of energy. Because this rule is exempt from review under Executive Order 12866 and is not expected to have a significant adverse effect on the supply, distribution, or use of energy, a Statement of Energy Effects is not required. National Environmental Policy Act Section 702(d) of SMCRA (30 U.S.C. 1292(d)) provides that a decision on a proposed State regulatory program provision does not constitute a major Federal action within the meaning of section 102(2)(C) of the National Environmental Policy Act (42 U.S.C. 4332(2)(C)). A determination has been made that such decisions are categorically excluded from the NEPA process (516 DM 8.4.A). Paperwork Reduction Act This rule does not contain information collection requirements that require approval by OMB under the Paperwork Reduction Act (44 U.S.C. 3507 et seq.). VerDate Aug<31>2005 15:01 Oct 18, 2006 Jkt 211001 Regulatory Flexibility Act The Department of the Interior has determined that this rule will not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities under the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601 et seq.). The State submittal that is the subject of this rule is based upon counterpart Federal regulations for which an economic analysis was prepared and certification made that such regulations would not have a significant economic effect upon a substantial number of small entities. Accordingly, this rule will ensure that existing requirements previously promulgated by OSM will be implemented by the State. In making the determination as to whether this rule would have a significant economic impact, the Department relied upon the data and assumptions for the counterpart Federal regulations. Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act This rule is not a major rule under 5 U.S.C. 804(2), the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act. This rule: (a) Does not have an annual effect on the economy of $100 million; (b) Will not cause a major increase in costs or prices for consumers, individual industries, geographic regions, or Federal, State or local governmental agencies; and (c) Does not have significant adverse effects on competition, employment, investment, productivity, innovation, or the ability of U.S.-based enterprises to compete with foreign-based enterprises. This determination is based upon the fact that the State submittal, which is the subject of this rule, is based upon counterpart Federal regulations for which an analysis was prepared and a determination made that the Federal regulation was not considered a major rule. Unfunded Mandates This rule will not impose a cost of $100 million or more in any given year on any governmental entity or the private sector. List of Subjects in 30 CFR Part 935 Intergovernmental relations, Surface mining, Underground mining. Dated: September 29, 2006. Michael K. Robinson, Acting Regional Director, Appalachian Region. [FR Doc. E6–17369 Filed 10–18–06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4310–05–P PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Coast Guard 33 CFR Part 117 [CGD01–06–122] RIN 1625–AA09 Drawbridge Operation Regulations; Thames River, New London, CT Coast Guard, DHS. Notice of proposed rulemaking. AGENCY: ACTION: SUMMARY: The Coast Guard proposes to temporarily change the drawbridge operating regulations governing the operation of the Amtrak Bridge across the Thames River, mile 0.8, at New London, Connecticut. This notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) would allow the bridge owner to open the bridge on a temporary opening schedule from November 15, 2006 through May 15, 2007. This proposed rule is necessary to facilitate bridge pier repairs. Comments must reach the Coast Guard on or before November 1, 2006. ADDRESSES: You may mail comments to Commander (dpb), First Coast Guard District Bridge Branch, One South Street, Battery Park Building, New York, New York 10004, or deliver them to the same address between 7 a.m. and 3 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The telephone number is (212) 668–7165. The First Coast Guard District, Bridge Branch, maintains the public docket for this rulemaking. Comments and material received from the public, as well as documents indicated in this preamble as being available in the docket, will become part of this docket and will be available for inspection or copying at the First Coast Guard District, Bridge Branch, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Ms. Judy Leung-Yee, Project Officer, First Coast Guard District, (212) 668–7195. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: DATES: Regulatory Information Under 5 U.S.C. 553(b)(B), the Coast Guard finds that good cause exists for publishing an NPRM with a shortened comment period of 15 days, and under 5 U.S.C. 553(d)(3), the Coast Guard finds that good cause exists for making this rule effective less than 30 days after publication in the Federal Register. Due to the urgency of the repairs, it is essential that this rule becomes effective on November 15, 2006. E:\FR\FM\19OCP1.SGM 19OCP1 Federal Register / Vol. 71, No. 202 / Thursday, October 19, 2006 / Proposed Rules The owner of the bridge, National Railroad Passenger Corporation (Amtrak), requested a temporary final rule to facilitate un-scheduled structural bridge repairs. On June 29, 2006, the bridge owner discovered that one of the main bridge piers had shifted as a result of pile driving for the new adjacent Amtrak Bridge. In order to perform corrective repairs, minimize structural impingement, and continue to provide for rail traffic, the bridge must remain in the closed position, except during specific time periods during which the bridge will remain in the full open position for the passage of vessel traffic. The Coast Guard published a temporary deviation in the Federal Register on July 24, 2006 [71 FR 41730], to allow immediate repairs to the bridge to commence. On September 6, 2006, Amtrak contacted the Coast Guard and requested a temporary regulation effective from November 15, 2006 through May 15, 2007, to facilitate the completion of the bridge repairs. The Coast Guard believes this shortened comment period and effective date is reasonable because the bridge repairs facilitated by this temporary rule are vital and necessary, thus, they must be performed with all due speed in order to assure the continued safe and reliable operation of the bridge. Request for Comments We encourage you to participate in this rulemaking by submitting comments or related material. If you do so, please include your name and address, identify the docket number for this rulemaking (CGD01–06–122), indicate the specific section of this document to which each comment applies, and give the reason for each comment. Please submit all comments and related material in an unbound format, no larger than 81⁄2 by 11 inches, suitable for copying. If you would like to know if they reached us, please enclose a stamped, self-addressed postcard or envelope. We will consider all comments and material received during the comment period. We may change this proposed rule in view of them. cprice-sewell on PROD1PC66 with PROPOSALS Public Meeting We do not now plan to hold a public meeting. But you may submit a request for a meeting by writing to the First Coast Guard District, Bridge Branch, at the address under ADDRESSES explaining why one would be beneficial. If we determine that one would aid this rulemaking, we will hold one at a time VerDate Aug<31>2005 15:01 Oct 18, 2006 Jkt 211001 and place announced by a later notice in the Federal Register. Background and Purpose The Amtrak Bridge across the Thames River, mile 3.0, at New London, Connecticut, has a vertical clearance of 30 feet at mean high water and 33 feet at mean low water in the closed position. The existing operating regulations are listed at 33 CFR 117.224. The owner of the bridge, Amtrak, requested a temporary change to the drawbridge operation regulations to facilitate repairs to one of the main bridge piers. On June 29, 2006, the bridge owner discovered that one of the main bridge piers had shifted as a result of pile driving for the new adjacent Amtrak Bridge. In order to perform corrective repairs, minimize structural impingement, and continue to provide for rail traffic, the bridge must remain in the closed position except during specific time periods during which the bridge will remain in the full open position for the passage of vessel traffic. Discussion of Proposed Rule This proposed change would allow the Amtrak Bridge to operate on temporary schedule from November 15, 2006 through May 15, 2007, to facilitate the completion of repairs to one of the main bridge piers damaged by nearby pile driving. Under this notice of proposed rulemaking, from November 15, 2006 through May 15, 2007, the Amtrak Bridge across the Thames River, mile 3.0, at New London, Connecticut, shall remain in the full open position for the passage of vessel traffic as follows: Monday through Friday: 5 a.m. to 5:40 a.m.; 11:20 a.m. to 11:55 a.m.; 3:35 p.m. to 4:15 p.m.; and 8:30 p.m. to 8:55 p.m. Saturday: 8:30 a.m. to 9:10 a.m.; 12:35 p.m. to 1:05 p.m.; 3:40 p.m. to 4:10 p.m.; 5:35 p.m. to 6:05 p.m.; and 7:35 p.m. to 8:40 p.m. Sunday: 8:30 a.m. to 9:20 a.m.; 11:35 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.; 1:30 p.m. to 1:55 p.m.; 6:30 p.m. to 7:10 p.m.; and 8:30 p.m. to 9:15 p.m. The bridge shall open on signal at any time for the passage of U.S. Navy submarines and escort vessels. At all other times the draw shall remain in the closed position. Vessels that can pass under the draw without a bridge opening may do so at all times. The Coast Guard believes this proposed rule is reasonable because the required repair work is vital and necessary in order to ensure the safe and continued reliable operation of the bridge. PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 61699 Regulatory Evaluation This proposed rule is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under section 3(f) of Executive Order 12866, Regulatory Planning and Review, and does not require an assessment of potential costs and benefits under 6(a)(3) of that Order. The Office of Management and Budget has not reviewed it under that Order. We expect the economic impact of this proposed rule to be so minimal that a full Regulatory Evaluation is unnecessary. This conclusion is based on the fact that the vessel traffic that normally transits this bridge should only be minimally affected as they will still be able to transit the bridge under the temporary opening schedule. Small Entities Under the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601–612), we considered whether this proposed rule would have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. The term ‘‘small entities’’ comprises small businesses, not-for-profit organizations that are independently owned and operated and are not dominant in their fields, and governmental jurisdictions with populations of less than 50,000. The Coast Guard certifies under section 5 U.S.C. 605(b), that this proposed rule would not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. This notice of proposed rulemaking would not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities for the following reason: The Thames River is navigated predominantly by recreational vessels and U.S. Navy vessels. The temporary opening schedule should not preclude recreational vessel traffic from transiting the bridge because the recreational vessels that normally use this waterway will be in winter storage for most of the time period this rule is in effect and the U.S. Navy submarines and associated vessels will be provided bridge openings on demand at any time. If you think that your business, organization, or governmental jurisdiction qualifies as a small entity and that this rule would have a significant economic impact on it, please submit a comment (see ADDRESSES) explaining why you think it qualifies and how and to what degree this rule would economically affect it. Assistance for Small Entities Under section 213(a) of the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement E:\FR\FM\19OCP1.SGM 19OCP1 61700 Federal Register / Vol. 71, No. 202 / Thursday, October 19, 2006 / Proposed Rules Fairness Act of 1996 (Pub. L. 104–121), we want to assist small entities in understanding this proposed rule so that they can better evaluate its effects on them and participate in the rulemaking. If the rule would affect your small business, organization, or governmental jurisdiction and you have questions concerning its provisions or options for compliance, please contact us in writing at, Commander (dpb), First Coast Guard District, Bridge Branch, One South Street, New York, NY 10004. The telephone number is (212) 668–7165. The Coast Guard will not retaliate against small entities that question or complain about this rule or any policy or action of the Coast Guard. Protection of Children We have analyzed this proposed rule under Executive Order 13045, Protection of Children from Environmental Health Risks and Safety Risks. This rule is not an economically significant rule and would not create an environmental risk to health or risk to safety that may disproportionately affect children. Indian Tribal Governments This proposed rule would call for no new collection of information under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 3501–3520.). This rule does not have tribal implications under Executive Order 13175, Consultation and Coordination with Indian Tribal Governments, because it would not have a substantial direct effect on one or more Indian tribes, on the relationship between the Federal Government and Indian tribes, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities between the Federal Government and Indian tribes. Federalism Energy Effects A rule has implications for federalism under Executive Order 13132, Federalism, if it has a substantial direct effect on State or local governments and would either preempt State law or impose a substantial direct cost of compliance on them. We have analyzed this proposed rule under that Order and have determined that it does not have implications for federalism. We have analyzed this rule under Executive Order 13211, Actions Concerning Regulations That Significantly Affect Energy Supply, Distribution, or Use. We have determined that it is not a ‘‘significant energy action’’ under that order because it is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866 and is not likely to have a significant adverse effect on the supply, distribution, or use of energy. The Administrator of the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs has not designated it as a significant energy action. Therefore, it does not require a Statement of Energy Effects under Executive Order 13211. Collection of Information Unfunded Mandates Reform Act The Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 (2 U.S.C. 1531–1538) requires Federal agencies to assess the effects of their discretionary regulatory actions. In particular, the Act addresses actions that may result in the expenditure by a State, local, or tribal government, in the aggregate, or by the private sector of $100,000,000 or more in any one year. Though this proposed rule would not result in such an expenditure, we do discuss the effects of this rule elsewhere in this preamble. Taking of Private Property cprice-sewell on PROD1PC66 with PROPOSALS This proposed rule would not affect a taking of private property or otherwise have taking implications under E.O. 12630, Governmental Actions and Interference with Constitutionally Protected Property Rights. Civil Justice Reform This proposed rule meets applicable standards in sections 3(a) and 3(b)(2) of Executive Order 12988, Civil Justice Reform, to minimize litigation, eliminate ambiguity, and reduce burden. VerDate Aug<31>2005 15:01 Oct 18, 2006 Jkt 211001 Technical Standards The National Technology Transfer and Advancement Act (NTTAA) (15 U.S.C. 272 note) directs agencies to use voluntary consensus standards in their regulatory activities unless the agency provides Congress, through the Office of Management and Budget, with an explanation of why using these standards would be inconsistent with applicable law or otherwise impractical. Voluntary consensus standards are technical standards (e.g., specifications of materials, performance, design, or operation; test methods; sampling procedures; and related management systems practices) that are developed or adopted by voluntary consensus standards bodies. This proposed rule does not use technical standards. Therefore, we did not consider the use of voluntary consensus standards. PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 Environment We have analyzed this proposed rule under Commandant Instruction M16475.1D and Department of Homeland Security Management Directive 5100.1, which guide the Coast Guard in complying with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) (42 U.S.C. 4321–4370f), and have made a preliminary determination that there are no factors in this case that would limit the use of a categorical exclusion under section 2.B.2 of the Instruction. Therefore, we believe that this rule should be categorically excluded, under figure 2–1, paragraph (32)(e), of the Instruction, from further environment documentation because this action relates to the promulgation of operating regulations or procedures for drawbridges. Under figure 2–1, paragraph (32)(e) of the Instruction, an ‘‘Environmental Analysis Checklist’’ is not required for this rule. Comments on this section will be considered before we make the final decision on whether to categorically exclude this rule from further environmental review. List of Subjects in 33 CFR Part 117 Bridges. For the reasons set out in the preamble, the Coast Guard proposes to amend 33 CFR part 117 as follows: PART 117—DRAWBRIDGE OPERATION REGULATIONS 1. The authority citation for part 117 continues to read as follows: Authority: 33 U.S.C. 499; 33 CFR 1.05–1(g); Department of Homeland Security Delegation No. 0170.1; section 117.255 also issued under the authority of Pub. L. 102–587, 106 Stat. 5039. 2. From November 15, 2006 through May 15, 2006, § 117.224 is amended by suspending paragraphs (a) and (b) and adding a temporary paragraph (c) to read as follows: § 117.224 Thames River. * * * * * (c)(1) The draw shall remain in the full open position for the passage of vessel traffic as follows: Monday through Friday from 5 a.m. to 5:40 a.m.; 11:20 a.m. to 11:55 a.m.; 3:35 p.m. to 4:15 p.m.; and 8:30 p.m. to 8:55 p.m. Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 9:10 a.m.; 12:35 p.m. to 1:05 p.m.; 3:40 p.m. to 4:10 p.m.; 5:35 p.m. to 6:05 p.m.; and 7:35 p.m. to 8:40 p.m. Sunday from 8:30 a.m. to 9:20 a.m.; 11:35 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.; 1:30 p.m. to 1:55 p.m.; 6:30 p.m. to 7:10 p.m.; and 8:30 p.m. to 9:15 p.m. (2) The draw shall open on signal at all times for the passage of U.S. Navy submarines, Navy escort vessels and E:\FR\FM\19OCP1.SGM 19OCP1 Federal Register / Vol. 71, No. 202 / Thursday, October 19, 2006 / Proposed Rules commercial vessels. At all other times the draw need not open for the passage of vessel traffic. Dated: October 13, 2006. Timothy S. Sullivan, Rear Admiral, U.S. Coast Guard Commander, First Coast Guard District. [FR Doc. 06–8814 Filed 10–17–06; 2:34 pm] BILLING CODE 4910–15–P ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY 40 CFR Part 63 [EPA–HQ–OAR–2002–0086, FRL–8231–8] RIN 2060–AN80 National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants for Semiconductor Manufacturing Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). ACTION: Proposed rule. AGENCY: SUMMARY: EPA is proposing amendments to the national emission standards for hazardous air pollutants (NESHAP) for Semiconductor Manufacturing, published on May 22, 2003. We are proposing amendments to the final rule to clarify the emission requirements for process vents by establishing a new maximum achievable control technology (MACT) floor level of control for combined hazardous air pollutants (HAP) process vent streams containing inorganic and organic HAP and adding new source requirements for combined HAP process vents. Requirements for existing combined HAP process vents would be no control, which is the MACT floor. The new source combined HAP process vent limit would be the same level of control as is currently required for new inorganic and organic HAP process vents. Comments must be received on or before December 4, 2006. Public Hearing. If anyone contacts EPA by November 8, 2006 requesting to speak at a public hearing, EPA will hold a public hearing on November 20, 2006. If you are interested in attending the public hearing, contact Lala Alston at (919) 541–5545 to verify that a hearing will be held. ADDRESSES: Comments. Submit your comments, identified by Docket ID No. EPA–HQ–OAR–2002–0086, by one of the following methods: cprice-sewell on PROD1PC66 with PROPOSALS DATES: VerDate Aug<31>2005 15:01 Oct 18, 2006 Jkt 211001 • https://www.regulations.gov: Follow the on-line instructions for submitting comments. • E-mail: a-and-r-docket@epa.gov, Attention Docket ID No. EPA–HQ– OAR–2002–0086. • Mail: U.S. Postal Service, send comments to: EPA Docket Center (6102T), Attention Docket ID No. EPA7– HQ–OAR–2002–0086, 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20460. Please include a total of two copies. • Hand Delivery: In person or by courier, deliver comments to: EPA Docket Center (6102T), Attention Docket ID No. EPA–HQ–OAR–2002–0086, 1301 Constitution Avenue, NW., Room B– 108, Washington, DC 20004. Such deliveries are only accepted during the Docket’s normal hours of operation, and special arrangements should be made for deliveries of boxed information. Please include a total of two copies. Instructions. Direct your comments to Docket ID No. EPA–HQ–OAR–2002– 0086. EPA’s policy is that all comments received will be included in the public docket without change and may be made available online at https:// www.regulations.gov, including any personal information provided, unless the comment includes information claimed to be confidential business information (CBI) or other information whose disclosure is restricted by statute. Do not submit information that you consider to be CBI or otherwise protected through www.regulations.gov or e-mail. Send or deliver information identified as CBI to only the following address: Mr. Roberto Morales, OAQPS Document Control Officer, EPA (C404– 02), Attention Docket ID No. EPA–HQ– OAR–2002–0086, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711. Clearly mark the part or all of the information that you claim to be CBI. The www.regulations.gov Web site is an ‘‘anonymous access’’ system, which means EPA will not know your identity or contact information unless you provide it in the body of your comment. If you send an e-mail comment directly to EPA without going through www.regulations.gov, your email address will be automatically captured and included as part of the comment that is placed in the public docket and made available on the Internet. If you submit an electronic comment, EPA recommends that you include your name and other contact information in the body of your comment and with any disk or CD–ROM you submit. If EPA cannot read your comment due to technical difficulties and cannot contact you for clarification, PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 61701 EPA may not be able to consider your comment. Electronic files should avoid the use of special characters, any form of encryption, and be free of any defects or viruses. For additional information about EPA’s public docket visit the EPA Docket Center homepage at https:// www.epa.gov/epahome/dockets.htm. Docket. All documents in the docket are listed in the www.regulations.gov index. Although listed in the index, some information is not publicly available, e.g., CBI or other information whose disclosure is restricted by statute. Certain other material, such as copyrighted material, will be publicly available only in hard copy. Publicly available docket materials are available either electronically in https:// www.regulations.gov or in hard copy at the EPA Docket Center, Docket ID No. EPA–HQ–OAR–2002–0086, EPA West Building, Room B–102, 1301 Constitution Ave., NW., Washington, DC. The EPA Docket Center Public Reading Room is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding legal holidays. The telephone number for the Public Reading Room is (202) 566–1744, and the telephone number for the EPA Docket Center is (202) 566–1742. A reasonable fee may be charged for copying docket materials. Note: The EPA Docket Center suffered damage due to flooding during the last week of June 2006. The Docket Center is continuing to operate. However, during the cleanup, there will be temporary changes to Docket Center telephone numbers, addresses, and hours of operation for people who wish to visit the Public Reading Room to view documents. Consult EPA’s Federal Register notice at 71 FR 38147 (July 5, 2006) or the EPA Web site at https://www.epa.gov/ epahome/dockets.htm for current information on docket status, locations, and telephone numbers. Mr. John Schaefer, EPA, Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards, Sector Policies and Programs Division, Measurement Policy Group (D–243–05), Research Triangle Park, NC 27711; telephone number (919) 541–0296; fax number (919) 541–1039; e-mail address schaefer.john@epa.gov. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Regulated Entities. Entities potentially affected by the direct final amendments to the national emission standards for hazardous air pollutants for semiconductor manufacturing are those semiconductor manufacturing facilities. Regulated categories and entities include: E:\FR\FM\19OCP1.SGM 19OCP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 71, Number 202 (Thursday, October 19, 2006)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 61698-61701]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 06-8814]


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DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY

Coast Guard

33 CFR Part 117

[CGD01-06-122]
RIN 1625-AA09


Drawbridge Operation Regulations; Thames River, New London, CT

AGENCY: Coast Guard, DHS.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking.

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SUMMARY: The Coast Guard proposes to temporarily change the drawbridge 
operating regulations governing the operation of the Amtrak Bridge 
across the Thames River, mile 0.8, at New London, Connecticut. This 
notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) would allow the bridge owner to 
open the bridge on a temporary opening schedule from November 15, 2006 
through May 15, 2007. This proposed rule is necessary to facilitate 
bridge pier repairs.

DATES: Comments must reach the Coast Guard on or before November 1, 
2006.

ADDRESSES: You may mail comments to Commander (dpb), First Coast Guard 
District Bridge Branch, One South Street, Battery Park Building, New 
York, New York 10004, or deliver them to the same address between 7 
a.m. and 3 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The 
telephone number is (212) 668-7165. The First Coast Guard District, 
Bridge Branch, maintains the public docket for this rulemaking. 
Comments and material received from the public, as well as documents 
indicated in this preamble as being available in the docket, will 
become part of this docket and will be available for inspection or 
copying at the First Coast Guard District, Bridge Branch, 7 a.m. to 3 
p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Ms. Judy Leung-Yee, Project Officer, 
First Coast Guard District, (212) 668-7195.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Regulatory Information

    Under 5 U.S.C. 553(b)(B), the Coast Guard finds that good cause 
exists for publishing an NPRM with a shortened comment period of 15 
days, and under 5 U.S.C. 553(d)(3), the Coast Guard finds that good 
cause exists for making this rule effective less than 30 days after 
publication in the Federal Register. Due to the urgency of the repairs, 
it is essential that this rule becomes effective on November 15, 2006.

[[Page 61699]]

    The owner of the bridge, National Railroad Passenger Corporation 
(Amtrak), requested a temporary final rule to facilitate un-scheduled 
structural bridge repairs.
    On June 29, 2006, the bridge owner discovered that one of the main 
bridge piers had shifted as a result of pile driving for the new 
adjacent Amtrak Bridge. In order to perform corrective repairs, 
minimize structural impingement, and continue to provide for rail 
traffic, the bridge must remain in the closed position, except during 
specific time periods during which the bridge will remain in the full 
open position for the passage of vessel traffic.
    The Coast Guard published a temporary deviation in the Federal 
Register on July 24, 2006 [71 FR 41730], to allow immediate repairs to 
the bridge to commence.
    On September 6, 2006, Amtrak contacted the Coast Guard and 
requested a temporary regulation effective from November 15, 2006 
through May 15, 2007, to facilitate the completion of the bridge 
repairs.
    The Coast Guard believes this shortened comment period and 
effective date is reasonable because the bridge repairs facilitated by 
this temporary rule are vital and necessary, thus, they must be 
performed with all due speed in order to assure the continued safe and 
reliable operation of the bridge.

Request for Comments

    We encourage you to participate in this rulemaking by submitting 
comments or related material. If you do so, please include your name 
and address, identify the docket number for this rulemaking (CGD01-06-
122), indicate the specific section of this document to which each 
comment applies, and give the reason for each comment. Please submit 
all comments and related material in an unbound format, no larger than 
8\1/2\ by 11 inches, suitable for copying. If you would like to know if 
they reached us, please enclose a stamped, self-addressed postcard or 
envelope. We will consider all comments and material received during 
the comment period. We may change this proposed rule in view of them.

Public Meeting

    We do not now plan to hold a public meeting. But you may submit a 
request for a meeting by writing to the First Coast Guard District, 
Bridge Branch, at the address under ADDRESSES explaining why one would 
be beneficial. If we determine that one would aid this rulemaking, we 
will hold one at a time and place announced by a later notice in the 
Federal Register.

Background and Purpose

    The Amtrak Bridge across the Thames River, mile 3.0, at New London, 
Connecticut, has a vertical clearance of 30 feet at mean high water and 
33 feet at mean low water in the closed position. The existing 
operating regulations are listed at 33 CFR 117.224.
    The owner of the bridge, Amtrak, requested a temporary change to 
the drawbridge operation regulations to facilitate repairs to one of 
the main bridge piers.
    On June 29, 2006, the bridge owner discovered that one of the main 
bridge piers had shifted as a result of pile driving for the new 
adjacent Amtrak Bridge.
    In order to perform corrective repairs, minimize structural 
impingement, and continue to provide for rail traffic, the bridge must 
remain in the closed position except during specific time periods 
during which the bridge will remain in the full open position for the 
passage of vessel traffic.

Discussion of Proposed Rule

    This proposed change would allow the Amtrak Bridge to operate on 
temporary schedule from November 15, 2006 through May 15, 2007, to 
facilitate the completion of repairs to one of the main bridge piers 
damaged by nearby pile driving.
    Under this notice of proposed rulemaking, from November 15, 2006 
through May 15, 2007, the Amtrak Bridge across the Thames River, mile 
3.0, at New London, Connecticut, shall remain in the full open position 
for the passage of vessel traffic as follows:
    Monday through Friday: 5 a.m. to 5:40 a.m.; 11:20 a.m. to 11:55 
a.m.; 3:35 p.m. to 4:15 p.m.; and 8:30 p.m. to 8:55 p.m.
    Saturday: 8:30 a.m. to 9:10 a.m.; 12:35 p.m. to 1:05 p.m.; 3:40 
p.m. to 4:10 p.m.; 5:35 p.m. to 6:05 p.m.; and 7:35 p.m. to 8:40 p.m.
    Sunday: 8:30 a.m. to 9:20 a.m.; 11:35 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.; 1:30 p.m. 
to 1:55 p.m.; 6:30 p.m. to 7:10 p.m.; and 8:30 p.m. to 9:15 p.m.
    The bridge shall open on signal at any time for the passage of U.S. 
Navy submarines and escort vessels. At all other times the draw shall 
remain in the closed position. Vessels that can pass under the draw 
without a bridge opening may do so at all times.
    The Coast Guard believes this proposed rule is reasonable because 
the required repair work is vital and necessary in order to ensure the 
safe and continued reliable operation of the bridge.

Regulatory Evaluation

    This proposed rule is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under 
section 3(f) of Executive Order 12866, Regulatory Planning and Review, 
and does not require an assessment of potential costs and benefits 
under 6(a)(3) of that Order. The Office of Management and Budget has 
not reviewed it under that Order.
    We expect the economic impact of this proposed rule to be so 
minimal that a full Regulatory Evaluation is unnecessary. This 
conclusion is based on the fact that the vessel traffic that normally 
transits this bridge should only be minimally affected as they will 
still be able to transit the bridge under the temporary opening 
schedule.

Small Entities

    Under the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601-612), we 
considered whether this proposed rule would have a significant economic 
impact on a substantial number of small entities. The term ``small 
entities'' comprises small businesses, not-for-profit organizations 
that are independently owned and operated and are not dominant in their 
fields, and governmental jurisdictions with populations of less than 
50,000.
    The Coast Guard certifies under section 5 U.S.C. 605(b), that this 
proposed rule would not have a significant economic impact on a 
substantial number of small entities.
    This notice of proposed rulemaking would not have a significant 
economic impact on a substantial number of small entities for the 
following reason: The Thames River is navigated predominantly by 
recreational vessels and U.S. Navy vessels.
    The temporary opening schedule should not preclude recreational 
vessel traffic from transiting the bridge because the recreational 
vessels that normally use this waterway will be in winter storage for 
most of the time period this rule is in effect and the U.S. Navy 
submarines and associated vessels will be provided bridge openings on 
demand at any time.
    If you think that your business, organization, or governmental 
jurisdiction qualifies as a small entity and that this rule would have 
a significant economic impact on it, please submit a comment (see 
ADDRESSES) explaining why you think it qualifies and how and to what 
degree this rule would economically affect it.

Assistance for Small Entities

    Under section 213(a) of the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement

[[Page 61700]]

Fairness Act of 1996 (Pub. L. 104-121), we want to assist small 
entities in understanding this proposed rule so that they can better 
evaluate its effects on them and participate in the rulemaking. If the 
rule would affect your small business, organization, or governmental 
jurisdiction and you have questions concerning its provisions or 
options for compliance, please contact us in writing at, Commander 
(dpb), First Coast Guard District, Bridge Branch, One South Street, New 
York, NY 10004. The telephone number is (212) 668-7165. The Coast Guard 
will not retaliate against small entities that question or complain 
about this rule or any policy or action of the Coast Guard.

Collection of Information

    This proposed rule would call for no new collection of information 
under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 3501-3520.).

Federalism

    A rule has implications for federalism under Executive Order 13132, 
Federalism, if it has a substantial direct effect on State or local 
governments and would either preempt State law or impose a substantial 
direct cost of compliance on them. We have analyzed this proposed rule 
under that Order and have determined that it does not have implications 
for federalism.

Unfunded Mandates Reform Act

    The Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 (2 U.S.C. 1531-1538) 
requires Federal agencies to assess the effects of their discretionary 
regulatory actions. In particular, the Act addresses actions that may 
result in the expenditure by a State, local, or tribal government, in 
the aggregate, or by the private sector of $100,000,000 or more in any 
one year. Though this proposed rule would not result in such an 
expenditure, we do discuss the effects of this rule elsewhere in this 
preamble.

Taking of Private Property

    This proposed rule would not affect a taking of private property or 
otherwise have taking implications under E.O. 12630, Governmental 
Actions and Interference with Constitutionally Protected Property 
Rights.

Civil Justice Reform

    This proposed rule meets applicable standards in sections 3(a) and 
3(b)(2) of Executive Order 12988, Civil Justice Reform, to minimize 
litigation, eliminate ambiguity, and reduce burden.

Protection of Children

    We have analyzed this proposed rule under Executive Order 13045, 
Protection of Children from Environmental Health Risks and Safety 
Risks. This rule is not an economically significant rule and would not 
create an environmental risk to health or risk to safety that may 
disproportionately affect children.

Indian Tribal Governments

    This rule does not have tribal implications under Executive Order 
13175, Consultation and Coordination with Indian Tribal Governments, 
because it would not have a substantial direct effect on one or more 
Indian tribes, on the relationship between the Federal Government and 
Indian tribes, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities 
between the Federal Government and Indian tribes.

Energy Effects

    We have analyzed this rule under Executive Order 13211, Actions 
Concerning Regulations That Significantly Affect Energy Supply, 
Distribution, or Use. We have determined that it is not a ``significant 
energy action'' under that order because it is not a ``significant 
regulatory action'' under Executive Order 12866 and is not likely to 
have a significant adverse effect on the supply, distribution, or use 
of energy. The Administrator of the Office of Information and 
Regulatory Affairs has not designated it as a significant energy 
action. Therefore, it does not require a Statement of Energy Effects 
under Executive Order 13211.

Technical Standards

    The National Technology Transfer and Advancement Act (NTTAA) (15 
U.S.C. 272 note) directs agencies to use voluntary consensus standards 
in their regulatory activities unless the agency provides Congress, 
through the Office of Management and Budget, with an explanation of why 
using these standards would be inconsistent with applicable law or 
otherwise impractical. Voluntary consensus standards are technical 
standards (e.g., specifications of materials, performance, design, or 
operation; test methods; sampling procedures; and related management 
systems practices) that are developed or adopted by voluntary consensus 
standards bodies.
    This proposed rule does not use technical standards. Therefore, we 
did not consider the use of voluntary consensus standards.

Environment

    We have analyzed this proposed rule under Commandant Instruction 
M16475.1D and Department of Homeland Security Management Directive 
5100.1, which guide the Coast Guard in complying with the National 
Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) (42 U.S.C. 4321-4370f), and 
have made a preliminary determination that there are no factors in this 
case that would limit the use of a categorical exclusion under section 
2.B.2 of the Instruction. Therefore, we believe that this rule should 
be categorically excluded, under figure 2-1, paragraph (32)(e), of the 
Instruction, from further environment documentation because this action 
relates to the promulgation of operating regulations or procedures for 
drawbridges. Under figure 2-1, paragraph (32)(e) of the Instruction, an 
``Environmental Analysis Checklist'' is not required for this rule. 
Comments on this section will be considered before we make the final 
decision on whether to categorically exclude this rule from further 
environmental review.

List of Subjects in 33 CFR Part 117

    Bridges.

    For the reasons set out in the preamble, the Coast Guard proposes 
to amend 33 CFR part 117 as follows:

PART 117--DRAWBRIDGE OPERATION REGULATIONS

    1. The authority citation for part 117 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 33 U.S.C. 499; 33 CFR 1.05-1(g); Department of 
Homeland Security Delegation No. 0170.1; section 117.255 also issued 
under the authority of Pub. L. 102-587, 106 Stat. 5039.
    2. From November 15, 2006 through May 15, 2006, Sec.  117.224 is 
amended by suspending paragraphs (a) and (b) and adding a temporary 
paragraph (c) to read as follows:


Sec.  117.224  Thames River.

* * * * *
    (c)(1) The draw shall remain in the full open position for the 
passage of vessel traffic as follows: Monday through Friday from 5 a.m. 
to 5:40 a.m.; 11:20 a.m. to 11:55 a.m.; 3:35 p.m. to 4:15 p.m.; and 
8:30 p.m. to 8:55 p.m. Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 9:10 a.m.; 12:35 p.m. 
to 1:05 p.m.; 3:40 p.m. to 4:10 p.m.; 5:35 p.m. to 6:05 p.m.; and 7:35 
p.m. to 8:40 p.m. Sunday from 8:30 a.m. to 9:20 a.m.; 11:35 a.m. to 
12:15 p.m.; 1:30 p.m. to 1:55 p.m.; 6:30 p.m. to 7:10 p.m.; and 8:30 
p.m. to 9:15 p.m.
    (2) The draw shall open on signal at all times for the passage of 
U.S. Navy submarines, Navy escort vessels and

[[Page 61701]]

commercial vessels. At all other times the draw need not open for the 
passage of vessel traffic.

    Dated: October 13, 2006.
Timothy S. Sullivan,
Rear Admiral, U.S. Coast Guard Commander, First Coast Guard District.
[FR Doc. 06-8814 Filed 10-17-06; 2:34 pm]
BILLING CODE 4910-15-P
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