Coast Guard Proposes Safety Zone for Mackinac Bridge Swim on July 18, 2026

The Coast Guard is proposing a temporary safety zone around the Mackinac Bridge for a swim event scheduled for July 18, 2026. The zone would cover all navigable waters within 100 yards of the bridge’s center span from 7 a.m. to noon.

Why it matters: This action establishes a temporary exclusion zone for boats while the swim takes place. The Coast Guard states that vessel traffic can safely go around the area, so the impact on navigation is limited to a small section of the waterway for a few hours. The rule also allows vessels to request permission to enter the zone if needed.

Who it affects

• Boaters and vessel operators in the Straits of Mackinac on July 18, 2026.

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The U.S. Coast Guard published this proposed rule in the Federal Register under docket number USCG-2026-0360. Check the original document for the full text and comment instructions.

Agency: Homeland Security Department, Coast Guard
Source: Federal Register — read the official document