As we celebrate 247 years of the greatest nation on the planet, I know that many of you will be taking advantage of a huge part of what makes our community great: spending time on the water.

This holiday is a test for Brightline and its plans for our community, especially regarding the St. Lucie River bridge.  While I believe the current test schedule is a good compromise for boaters, I would like to see more access for maritime traffic on weekends and federal holidays, like the Fourth of July.  I’m interested to see how this test deviation works - or doesn’t work - for our community as lots of folks are out celebrating on the water.

In the meantime, if you’re planning to spend the day out boating, here is some information to help you stay safe and enjoy the Fourth of July: 

• The U.S. Coast Guard is currently operating under the test deviation for the St. Lucie River bridge.  That means that the bridge should be open, at the very least, every hour around the :15 and :45 minute mark. 
• If there is a problem related to the bridge, mariners can contact the St. Lucie River bridge using Channel 9 VHF-FM marine band radio.  To contact Florida East Coast Railway, dial 904-538-6100. 
• To report a waterway issue, concern, or a hazardous condition, contact the U.S. Coast Guard Sector Miami Command Center by dialing 305-535-4300. 
  In case of a life-threatening emergency, dial 911.

No matter what your plans are, I hope you all have a wonderful and safe Fourth of July with family and friends!