Safety Zone Established for Blank Cannon Fire on Virginia Canal

The Coast Guard is creating a temporary safety zone in the Albemarle and Chesapeake Canal near Chesapeake, Virginia. The zone covers a specific stretch of water around the bridge on Battlefield Boulevard. It will be in place from June 19 through June 21, 2026.

Why it matters: This is a routine maritime safety measure triggered by a specific public event. It ensures that spectators, boaters, and wildlife are not injured by cannon debris during the ship’s demonstrations. The impact is narrow and temporary, limited to a small section of the canal during the listed hours.

Who it affects

• Recreational boaters and commercial vessels navigating the Albemarle and Chesapeake Canal near Great Bridge

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This final rule was published by the U.S. Coast Guard, Sector Virginia, and is available in the Federal Register under FR Doc. 2026-10176; verify the original text for exact coordinates and contact details before making navigation plans.

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