Barnstable County Urges Continued Engagement as Coast Guard Updates Buoy Proposal
BARNSTABLE, MA (August 20, 2025) — Barnstable County officials welcome the U.S. Coast Guard’s decision to extend its review of the proposed plan to remove hundreds of navigational buoys across New England waters. The Coast Guard has confirmed it is completing a review of thousands of public comments and will publish a revised proposal this fall, followed by additional opportunities for public input.
In June, both the Barnstable County Board of Regional Commissioners and the Assembly of Delegates issued strong opposition to the buoy removal plan, citing navigational safety risks and the need for thorough stakeholder input. The County is encouraged that the Coast Guard has taken this feedback seriously and is reaffirming its commitment to transparency. Read the joint letter from Barnstable County Commissioners and the Assembly of Delegates.
In an August 12 letter from U.S. Coast Guard Director of Marine Transportation Systems Michael Emerson to Senator Angus King—released publicly by the Senator’s office on August 18—Emerson confirmed the agency had received thousands of public comments and would update its Coastal Buoy Modernization Initiative accordingly. The letter states that a revised proposal is expected this fall, followed by an eight-week public comment period and additional engagement before any changes are finalized. Implementation is not anticipated before 2026.
“We are encouraged that the Coast Guard listened to the concerns of Cape Codders and others across New England. The upcoming revised proposal is about more than just buoys — it’s about making sure every mariner, from our fishing fleets to recreational boaters, can navigate our waters safely. We will continue to advocate for a balanced approach that values both modernization and safety,” said Mark Forest, Vice Chair of the Barnstable County Board of Regional Commissioners.
“The Coast Guard’s decision shows that public input matters. Reliable navigation aids are essential for the safety of our fishing fleets, recreational boaters, and coastal communities. We encourage residents to participate in the upcoming comment period when the revised plan is released this fall so Cape Cod’s perspective continues to be heard,” said Randi Potash, Speaker of the Barnstable County Assembly of Delegates.
About Barnstable County Regional Government of Cape Cod: Barnstable County provides exemplary government functions and services to keep our community healthy and safe, promote sustainable growth, and offers a proactive, open government that enhances the quality of life for the citizens of Barnstable County. Learn more at www.capecod.gov.
