High Speed Ferry Safety Task Force of Long Island Sound

Minutes of Meeting, October 22, 2007

The HSFSTF met at 1600 hrs at the U.S. Coast Guard HQ in New Haven, CT. on October 22, 2007. Present were Co-chairmen John Craine, FCCA and Bob Brill, USCG Auxiliary; LCDR Kevin Oditt, USCG; Chip Briscoe, Cross Sound Ferry; Doren Voeth, SeaConn; Mike Griffin, Norwalk Harbor Master; Mike Payton, CT DEP-Boating Div.; and Sandy McDonald, FCCA. The Task Force welcomed LCDR Oditt who has relieved LCDR Alan Blume as Chief, Prevention Dept., Sector Long Island Sound.

Operators’ Report. Chip Briscoe reported Cross Sound Ferry, operating ferries at 35 kts and 24 kts, that thermal imaging is not working well. They are encountering lobster pots which are sucked into the jets; and poor visibility of kayaks as their main concerns. The kayaks are coming out earlier, staying later in the season, and in greater numbers. They need brighter lights.

Doren Voeth stated there was no new report for SeaConn.

Stamford/Bridgeport/Glen Cove Plans. Urbitran has done a study for Stamford on ferry transportation with a draft given to the city. It should be published within 30 days. Stamford has been awarded federal funds for a shore terminal.

USCG & Broadwater LNG Update. FERC will next make its final Broadwater impact statement in 3 to 6 months. The USCG Harbor Safety Committee will probably be activated in the next 6 months. This is an outgrowth of the Broadwater harbor safety committee. Captain Dan Ronan and Commander Kevin Burke have also joined the Sector. Capt. Ronan is the new Captain of the Port and Commander Sector Long Island Sound.

Task Force Safety. A further discussion of kayak safety was held concluding that this is a major educational challenge. These boats do not pay for facilities, are not required to have safe boating certificates or licenses, and most do not attend the few training courses such as the Milford USCG Auxiliary offering. HS Ferries can now carry amber flashing lights to warn boaters. Who has the right of way was a question? The reports on the Ferry Coalition and Water Transportation studies were not discussed.

Next Meeting. The next meeting of the Task Force will be Monday, May 19, 2008 at the US Coast Guard HQ in New Haven.

Respectfully submitted,

Sandy McDonald, Secretary.