A barge that was intentionally grounded off Bonnet Shores in Narragansett, R.I., was successfully refloated and is now under tow to a commercial facility at Quonset, R.I.
The incident began Sunday when the 68' Intra Marine Group tugboat Challenger and its barge were transiting from Virginia to Boston to deliver pilings to Logan International Airport, and the crew observed the barge taking on water and developing a list to port. The tug crew decided to intentionally soft-ground the barge northeast of Point Judith, R.I., to prevent it from sinking or obstructing the navigation channel.
Coast Guard Sector Southeastern New England said it was notified of the incident at approximately 1:46 p.m.
No pollution was reported, and the barge remained in a "non-distress status" throughout, the Coast Guard said.
On Monday morning, salvage crews dewatered the barge's void spaces, returning the vessel to a floating condition for its tow to a commercial facility at Quonset.
The Coast Guard said it is coordinating with the contracted salvage company to locate and mark submerged pilings left at the grounding site, which pose a hazard to navigation.
Mariners are urged to keep clear of the area until further notice. Navigation warnings have been issued via Broadcast Notice to Mariners and the Local Notice to Mariners.
Initial assessments revealed no visible structural damage to the barge, though a full inspection will be conducted upon arrival at Quonset. Crews will also re-secure remaining cargo at that time.
The incident remains under investigation, the Coast Guard said, noting that it is coordinating response efforts with the barge operator, the American Bureau of Shipping, and commercial salvors.
Following the completion of all required inspections and recovery of lost cargo, the barge is expected to resume its transit to Boston.
