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Tag: Barge

Washington

Washington

On January 28, the 170 foot long, 746 gt towboat Washington with 15 barges allided with the Interstate I-275 Carrol Lee Cropper Road Bridge on the Ohio River near Lawrenceburg, Indiana. Around 4 a.m. the Washington was proceeding slowly upriver with 15 barges loaded with coal when it struck the bridge.  Some of the barges broke free and drifted back downstream.  Nearby towboats came to the assistance and were able to retrieve all the barges. Reports state some of the barges sustained water ingress and required pumps to dewater.

Traffic remained open on the bridge. A later inspection by Kentucky authorities found no damage.  No reports of injuries or pollution released. The Coast Guard has launched an investigation into the incident.

Gay Head

Gay Head

Gay Head

On January 11, the 72 meter long, 980 gt ro-ro passenger ferry Gay Head allided with a construction barge at Woods Hole, Massachusetts. The ferry was backing into the terminal when strong winds caused the Gay Head to strike the barge. The barge and ferry only sustained light cosmetic damage. No reports of injuries.  The Coast Guard made an inspection of the Gay Head and allowed it to resume service later the same day.

Seven Runaway Vessels

Seven Runaway Vessels

Captain JP III
Photo: wnyt.com

On January 25, seven vessels broke free from their moorings on the Hudson River near Albany, New York. Five barges, one tugboat and the 140 foot long passenger ship Captain JP III broke free after rains and warming weather caused the water level on the river to rise and released several ice jams.  Pulled downstream, the Captain JP III drifted until it struck the railroad bridge.  The passenger ship was too tall to pass under the bridge and became wedged under the span.  Many of the other vessels were able to pass under the bridge without mishap, but several did strike the bridge.

Multiple tugs were dispatched and were able to free the Captain JP III and recover the other unmanned tugboats and barges.  No reports of injuries.

Authorities report the bridge did sustain some minor damage, but the bridge should remain in operation.  The Captain JP III sustained significant hull damage to its stern.