Fort Lauderdale will test closing a bridge during rush hour to ease traffic

The US Coast Guard has temporarily changed the operating schedule for a drawbridge in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. This means the bridge will open less often during weekday rush hours, to see if it helps reduce vehicle traffic.

For decades, drawbridges have operated on fixed schedules, prioritizing boat traffic. This temporary change tests whether cities can prioritize vehicle traffic during peak hours without causing major problems for boats. If successful, it could set a precedent for other cities with similar traffic and waterway challenges.