👤 Who: Congressman Jimmy Patronis, U.S. Coast Guard, Okaloosa County Commissioner Drew Palmer
🛠️ What: Commitment to replace damaged Aids to Navigation (ATONs)
📅 When: Commitment announced January 9, 2026; contract planned for 2026
📍 Where: East Pass, Destin, Florida
⚓ Why: To improve maritime safety and protect a vital economic and recreational waterway
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Jimmy Patronis announced Friday that the U.S. Coast Guard has committed to restoring critical navigational infrastructure at East Pass, the heavily traveled waterway connecting Destin Harbor to the Gulf of America.
The commitment includes replacing damaged or missing Aids to Navigation, known as ATONs, which play a key role in guiding vessels safely through the pass. East Pass supports a high volume of commercial fishing boats, charter operations, recreational traffic, and emergency responders, making reliable navigation essential for both safety and economic activity in the region.
Patronis thanked the Commandant of the United States Coast Guard for prioritizing the issue, emphasizing the importance of the waterway to Northwest Florida’s coastal communities.
“These ATONs are essential to the safety of our mariners, first responders, and the residents and visitors who rely on our waterways every day,” Patronis said in a statement. “I am grateful to the Commandant for recognizing the importance of this issue and the men and women of the Coast Guard who protect our borders.”
Okaloosa County Commissioner Drew Palmer also praised the decision, noting the broader impact on tourism, military families, and residents.
“These ATONs are an essential component of our visitors, servicemembers, and community,” Palmer said. “We also thank the leadership of the U.S. Coast Guard for their continued commitment to maritime safety.”
According to Patronis’ office, the Coast Guard plans to award a contract in 2026 to replace the navigation infrastructure. The congressman said he will continue monitoring the project and keep constituents informed as the timeline develops.
Patronis formally requested the Coast Guard’s commitment to restore the ATONs in a letter sent on December 2, 2025.
Pro Communi Bono
St. Francis De Sales, Ora Pro Nobis!
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