A railroad bridge in Oregon no longer has to open for boats

The Coast Guard changed the rules for a railroad bridge over the Umpqua River in Reedsport, Oregon. The bridge can now stay closed to river traffic, and it no longer needs fog signals.

Operating drawbridges costs money and time. Railroads want to keep bridges closed, while boat operators want them open. This change means the railroad can run more trains without stopping for boats. It also means fewer delays for trains and less maintenance for the bridge.