Pacemaker Fishing Forum

WASHINGTON - The U.S. Coast Guard has proposed closing the Potomac and Anacostia rivers for the 11 days surrounding the inauguration.

The U.S. Coast Guard says the restrictions are needed to "safeguard human life, vessels and waterfront facilities against sabotage or terrorist attacks."

The closure on the Potomac River would apply to all boats from the Key Bridge in Georgetown down river to below the Wilson Bridge at Rosier Bluff. Boats already docked or anchored in that area before Jan. 14 could stay.

The Anacostia River would have the same restrictions from New York Avenue/Route 50 to the the Potomac River.

It's likely the the closures will go into effect at 4 a.m. Jan. 14 and last until 10 p.m. Jan. 25.

The proposal, which as yet to be finalized, says the restrictions will help the Coast Guard prevent people from bypassing security measures on shore.

The Coast Guard may grant waivers or exemptions through the captain of the Port of Baltimore.