Sep 26, 2025

UPDATE: The Coast Guard closed the comment period for the Coastal Buoy Modernization Proposal on October 21, 2025.

The U.S. Coast Guard received nearly 3,000 public comments on its spring/summer Coastal Buoy Modernization Proposal (CBMP), enabling the Coast Guard to assess and adjust Proposed changes.

Because of this feedback, the course of action changed for more than half of the original CBMP buoys:

  • 121 aids were removed from proposed discontinuation
  • 71 aids remain proposed for discontinuation with supporting changes to nearby buoys (relocations, lighting, sound signal additions and/or AIS virtual AtoNs)
  • 162 buoys remain proposed for discontinuation without additional proposed changes

In the Data Explorer, the map layer with revisions to the CBMP is labeled “Coastal Buoy Modernization Candidate (USCG Proposal September 2025)” and can be viewed under Marine Transportation > Navigation. Click on each candidate buoy to view its name and Light List Number Record (LLNR).

Marine Transportation Icon
Marine Transportation

Data Provider(s):

  • US Coast Guard (USCG)
Screenshot of
Screenshot of "Coastal Buoy Modernization Candidate (USCG Proposal September 2025)" map layer, including an example of the info box that displays when the user clicks on a buoy.
Launch Interactive Map

Public comments can be submitted to the Coast Guard on the revised CBMP in writing, either personally or through their organization by November 15, 2025. To best align feedback to the Proposal Update data needs, please include: the formal aid name (with LLNR; see instructions above), your vessel type (recreational or commercial), and how you use the specific signal to locate good water in relation to hazards, shifting shoals, strong currents, narrow passages/entrances or reduced visibility, along with any additional nearby buoy signal changes you recommend. Refer to Project No. 01-25-015 and submit directly in the body of the email (in lieu of .pdf/excel attachments) to maximize analysis effectiveness (D01-SMB-DPWPublicComments@uscg.mil).

For all Proposal details and other navigation safety information, view through the Coast Guard’s Local Notice to Mariners interactive tool at: Maritime Safety Information Products. Track the status of the proposal on the Portal’s Coast Guard Proposed Actions page.