Comment Submitted by Kyle Mullen

I support the Coast Guard's proposal to establish this temporary safety zone on the Ohio River during the scheduled fireworks display. The proposed rule is narrowly tailored to address a specific, time-limited public safety concern. According to the notice, the safety zone is needed because fireworks launched from a barge present hazards including accidental discharge, dangerous projectiles, falling hot embers, and other debris. The Captain of the Port determined that these hazards pose a safety risk to anyone within approximately one-half mile of the display, making temporary navigation restrictions appropriate to protect people, vessels, and the marine environment. The proposed restriction is also limited in both duration and geographic scope. It would apply only from 7:15 p.m. to 9:15 p.m. on September 28, 2026, and only to a one-mile section of the Ohio River between mile markers 457.5 and 456.5 near Cincinnati. Vessels may still request permission to enter the safety zone from the Captain of the Port or a designated representative. The Coast Guard also determined that the rule is not expected to have a significant economic impact on small entities because it affects only a small area for a short period during a time when vessel traffic is normally low. In addition, the agency will issue Broadcast Notices to Mariners and allows vessels to coordinate entry into the regulated area, helping minimize disruption while maintaining public safety. Because the proposed safety zone is temporary, narrowly focused, and designed to reduce foreseeable risks associated with an over-water fireworks display while minimizing impacts on navigation, I support the Coast Guard's proposal.