Honorable James Oberstar                    XXXXXXXXX(b)(7)(c)
231 Federal Bldg.                           XXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Duluth, MN 55802                            Duluth, MN XXXXX

Re: 33 CFR # 117.11                         June 7, 1993



Dear Congressman Oberstar:

If I may Sir, I would like to bring to your attention the above
federal regulation, having to do with the Aerial Lift Bridge here
in Duluth and I'm sure other bridges in the United States also.

My basic understanding of this reg. is that all non-essential
navigational equipment must be lowered if at all possible to avoid
unnecessary raising of the bridge(s).

What I find void in this regulation is consideration for disabled
and elderly people. I personally was instructed to lower my antennas
on my radar arch on  May 16, 1993 in 4/5 foot swells at lakeside of
the lift bridge. I am 100% disabled. I feel this request was
nothing less than reckless endangerment of my craft and crew. If I
may add, my radio was out and I could not inform the bridge of my
personal problem. However, radios are not required.

If I may, could I suggest that provisions be afforded in these reg.
for disabled and elderly people. Our Twin Ports here have many, many
disabled and elderly boaters!

To prompt honesty for identification purposes for elderly and disabled
people, might I also suggest a flag, or a sticker visible, identifiable
for bridge operators ....... such as I have for my car for parking
purposes.

Sir, I thank you for your time and consideration in the above matter
and await your response.

                                   Sincerely,
                                   XXXXX(b)(7)(c)




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