Willis Avenue Bridge
Swing drawbridgeWillis Avenue Bridge is a swing drawbridge with 25 ft of clearance closed, measured to mean high water. It opens to unrestricted height.
Clearances are from NOAA chart US5NYCFH, measured to mean high water. Actual clearance is lower whenever the water stands above that level, as at higher tides and in storm surge. Always confirm against your vessel's air draft and the posted clearance gauge before transiting.
Pathr nautical charts
Willis Avenue Bridge on the chart
Find the bridge and its charted vertical clearance in one view. Select a pin to compare nearby bridges, see open and closed clearances where charted, and open its operating details.
How to request an opening
Willis Avenue, mile 1.5,
Source: US Coast Guard drawbridge regulations, 33 CFR 117.789 (Harlem River). Confirm before transiting.
Frequently asked
What is the clearance under Willis Avenue Bridge?+
Willis Avenue Bridge is a swing drawbridge with 25 ft of clearance closed, measured to mean high water. It opens to unrestricted height. These figures are from NOAA chart data. Real clearance drops whenever the water stands above the level they are measured to, so leave a margin for your air draft.
How do I get Willis Avenue Bridge to open?+
Contact the bridge tender on VHF-FM, or sound the required signal. Operating schedule: Willis Avenue, mile 1.5,
Tides & conditions at this crossing
Clearance under Willis Avenue Bridge shrinks as the water rises. Check the water level and marine conditions at the nearest NOAA station, Harlem River, Randalls Island (0 mi away).
