JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The U.S. Coast Guard will enforce a temporary safety zone on the St. Johns River at Fulton Cut, in the vicinity of Blount Island, to support helicopter operations associated with transmission line construction and deconstruction activities.
The safety zone will be in effect intermittently from July 27, 2026, through March 5, 2027, during short periods when heavy-lift helicopters are operating over the water. Mariners will be notified of enforcement periods through Broadcast Notices to Mariners and are encouraged to monitor VHF-FM Channel 16 for safety information and updates.
During enforcement periods, no vessel or person may enter the safety zone without permission from the Captain of the Port or a designated representative. Mariners seeking authorization to enter the safety zone should contact the COTP via VHF-FM Channel 16.
The safety zone will encompass an area bounded by the following positions:
30° 23' 23.3" N, 81° 32' 11.2" W
30° 23' 0.30" N, 81° 32' 6.30" W
30° 23' 21.4" N, 81° 31' 1.60" W
30° 23' 34.0" N, 81° 31' 6.20" W
The transmission line installation is part of infrastructure improvements along the St. Johns River to support the continued growth of maritime commerce in Jacksonville. The capital investment from the City of Jacksonville, JEA, JAXPORT and the State for this project is over $117 million. Once completed, the clearance above high tide will go from 175 feet to 225 feet, allowing larger Post-Panamax vessels improved access to JAXPORT while supporting regional economic growth and future port operations.
The helicopter operations will support the installation of new transmission structures and associated wiring across the St. Johns River. The flights will be coordinated with port partners and harbor pilots to minimize impacts to commercial and recreational vessel traffic. During enforcement periods, maritime traffic may be temporarily restricted and controlled by Coast Guard and local law enforcement vessels.
The temporary safety zone is intended to ensure the protection of personnel, vessels, and the marine environment while helicopter operations are conducted.
“The Coast Guard’s priority is ensuring the safety of mariners, vessel traffic, and personnel involved in these operations while supporting the continued safe movement of commerce
on the St. Johns River,” said Coast Guard Sector Jacksonville Commander and Captain of the Port, Capt. Jason Aleksak. “We encourage all mariners operating in the area to remain aware of these temporary restrictions, monitor marine broadcasts, and follow directions from on-scene safety personnel.”
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