The Coast Guard has issued a final rule to modify the operating schedule of the Amtrak Portal Bridge on the Hackensack River in New Jersey. This change is necessary to allow for the construction of a new bridge, Portal Bridge North, which is being built by Amtrak next to the current structure. The updated schedule will limit the horizontal opening of the bridge to 55 feet in the east channel, and the west channel will be closed to navigation to prevent the existing bridge's swing span from hitting the new bridge during construction. This new rule will be in effect from April 25, 2025, which will affect some vessels but was deemed necessary to balance the needs of both train commuters and marine navigation.
Simple Explanation
The Coast Guard is changing how a bridge in New Jersey opens up, so that workers can build a new bridge safely without the old one bumping into it. This new way of opening the bridge starts on April 25, 2025, and helps both trains and boats use the river safely.