Yikes Swinomish Channel Railroad Bridge Closings?-gctid819497

[mmichellich]

I just read that the railroad bridge on the Swinomish channel, north of La Conner, Wa will be closing for construction work. Anyone had any experience with these closings? Are they keeping to the hours of closure listed in the USCG Notice to Mariners? We are planning to go through there about 1 PM on Sat. The notice to mariners says it will be back open at 1:45 PM (+ or - 30 minutes), are they keeping to these schedules?

[Guest]

I can't say with certainty that they are keeping to those posted hours, but they certainly are actively working on it.

I went north on July 19th (Wednesday) about an hour after their posted opening time, and I went south on the 28th (Friday) about 2 1/2 hours before their posted closing time. On Wednesday I saw the barge on the water and on Friday I saw the work crew actively working under the bridge (the bridge was still open).

If you expect to be there 30 minutes prior to the posted opening time, I'd consider stopping in La Conner for lunch B) .

[njosephson]

I talked to someone today at LaConner marina and they said that they were shutting it down about on time and opening back up 1/2 - 1 hour late pretty consistently. I guess I'll have to give Deception pass a try...

[drewhaas]

Running Deception Pass is really pretty easy IF you're going with the tide. Pay attention to tables and plan your transit accordingly and you'll fly right thru.

When leaving La Connor make sure you stay in the channel until you pass the last marker. Don't be tempted to turn west early! At high tide it really looks like a waste of time to continue in the channel but believe me it's marked for a reason.

Have a great trip!

[bal734]

Just saw this on Waggoner internet supplement.

[stargazerwa]

I recommend that everyone subscribe to the notices to mariners, a link to our region is at: https://www.navcen.uscg.gov/?pageNam...rict&region=13

This has been in the last three notices and it seems like it has changed everytime, note that one of the channel buoys is also off station.