The U.S. Coast Guard has eased restrictions on Texas waterways in the aftermath of Hurricane Ike.

The Houston Ship Channel from the Sea Buoy to the Turning Basin is open for all transits up to project depth, for both night and day transits.

The Coast Guard has also eased restrictions at the Port Freeport.  The waterway in Freeport is open to vessels with drafts of 38 feet or less during daylight hours, and is open to vessels with drafts of 30 feet or less during nighttime hours.

Mariners are advised that aids to navigation may be off station and it is recommended to use extreme caution when transiting through the area. Local, state and federal agencies are continuing to survey all navigable waterways impacted by Hurricane Ike.