COMDTINST 16003.2C — Marine Planning Of The Marine Transportation System (mts)

COMDTINST 16003.2C governs Coast Guard policy, roles, and responsibilities for marine planning of the Marine Transportation System.

Search COMDTINST 16003.2C

  • Publication number: COMDTINST 16003.2C
  • Title: MARINE PLANNING OF THE MARINE TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM (MTS)
  • Date: 9/26/2025
  • Proponent: USCG

View COMDTINST 16003.2C on armypubs.army.mil


It addresses waterways analysis, navigation safety risk assessments, waterway suitability, port access routes, marine planning entities, and ports and waterways safety assessments. It requires Coast Guard personnel covered by the instruction to comply with its policies and establishes duties for marine planning officials and participating representatives.

Applies to: All Coast Guard unit commanders, commanding officers, officers-in-charge, deputy/assistant commandants, and chiefs of headquarter directorates must comply with the policies contained.

Topics covered

  • Waterways Analysis and Management System
  • Navigation Safety Risk Assessment
  • Waterway Suitability Assessment
  • Port Access Route Studies
  • Marine Planning Guidelines
  • Marine Planning Entities
  • Ports and Waterways Safety Assessments

Questions and answers

What does a Waterways Analysis and Management System study focus on?

The WAMS study focuses on the existing ATON system, channel framework, marine casualty information, port/harbor resources, changes in marine vessel usage (both recreational and commercial), user capabilities, training and carriage requirements, available technology, environmental considerations, stakeholder feedback, and planned developments. (paragraph 1)

Who may coordinate, execute, and submit a Navigation Safety Risk Assessment?

Depending on the project's scope, the NSRA may be coordinated, executed, and submitted by either the applicable U.S. Coast Guard unit (i.e., Sector, District, Area, or Headquarters), or the project proposal applicant. (paragraph 1)

What risks do navigation safety priorities consider in marine planning deliberations?

Will the flow of commerce and/or navigation safety be impeded or negatively impacted based on the placement of alternative activities in maritime regions (keeping in mind that navigation safety and safe flow of commerce is paramount)? (paragraph 2)

What is a Ports and Waterways Safety Assessment?

A Port and Waterways Safety Assessment (PAWSA) is a two-day Coast Guard facilitated dialogue among maritime stakeholder hosted in person at a selected port. (paragraph 1)

What does the Coast Guard promote through marine planning?

The Coast Guard will promote a safe, secure, efficient, environmentally sound, and resilient MTS by focusing on risk management and hazard prevention, including development and enforcement of routing measures, safety and security standards, contingency planning, and incident management.

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