7/24/25

Why is the North Bend Swing Span Bridge out of service?

The bridge is temporarily out of service due to damage to its electrical power cable caused by a vessel. This power system is essential for safely operating the bridge swing mechanism, which enables both marine and rail traffic to pass. In addition, the bridge’s signal system is also inoperable. Until funding is secured to fully repair and modernize these systems, the decision has been made to suspend rail service over the bridge.

How old is the bridge?

The North Bend Swing Span Bridge was built in 1914 and is considered legacy infrastructure. It is a registered historic structure, which places limitations on the types of repairs and modernization efforts that can be undertaken.

Who owns and maintains the bridge?

The bridge is owned and maintained by the Oregon International Port of Coos Bay. The Port acquired the Coos Bay Rail Line—including the bridge—in 2009–2010 after its former owner, Central Oregon & Pacific Railroad (CORP), shut down operations in 2007 with a single day notice to customers. Since then, the Port has invested more than $25 million in the bridge ($15 million since 2021) and over $100 million into the entire rail system.

What kind of freight moves across the bridge?

The Coos Bay Rail Line carried 5,302 carloads in 2024, which is equivalent to over 16,500 semi-truck loads. The line primarily supports Oregon’s timber industry, with 89% of volume tied to timber, and helps move an estimated $460 million in freight annually. The CBRL has ten total customers currently, and three active rail customers are located south of the bridge, including one that accounts for approximately 40% of the system’s total carload volume.

What happens if the bridge stays closed?

Without rail access across the bridge, the Port is unable to serve customers south of the bridge via rail. This not only disrupts freight movement but could also increase truck traffic and greenhouse gas emissions. Each rail carload replaces 3.3 truckloads, so the loss of rail service creates both logistical and environmental setbacks. The Port is working with its customer base south of the swingspan bridge on alternative options to ensure their product continues to get to its destination.

What has the Port done to maintain the bridge?

The Port has made significant investments, including:

●     Over $25 million invested in bridge repairs since 2009
 

●     Hiring a full-time bridge inspector in 2024
 

●     Conducting annual inspections of all 121 water crossings on the Coos Bay Rail Line
 

●     Performing ongoing routine maintenance and emergency repairs
 

Despite these efforts, the bridge continues to require millions of additional dollars annually to replace aging components to preserve its function. The compounding effect of these additional unexpected expenses to the power system on top of the ongoing repairs has put the Port and CBRL in this difficult situation.

Is the bridge part of the Pacific Coast Intermodal Port (PCIP) project?

No. The North Bend Swing Span Bridge and the section of the Coos Bay Rail Line south of it are not currently part of the PCIP project footprint. The PCIP rail improvements focus on areas north of the bridge, from the North Spit to Eugene. Additionally, PCIP project funds are restricted and cannot be used for bridge repairs or general rail maintenance.

What’s the long-term solution?

The CBRL is a non-profit railroad, as such its main funding source for major infrastructure repairs is state and federal grants or appropriations. The revenue generated from its carload operations is enough to sustain operations, but not fund major infrastructure investments. The Port and CBRL are continuing to work with its state and federal partners on funding opportunities for the bridge. Until a sustainable funding strategy is implemented, the bridge will remain out of service for rail traffic. However, it will continue to be turned periodically to maintain operational integrity.

To learn more about the history of the railroad go here:

https://www.portofcoosbay.com/about-the-railroad

For a general CBRL FAQ:
https://www.portofcoosbay.com/frequently-asked-questions-about-the-coos-bay-rail-line

If you have additional questions you think we should add or answer, we'd love to hear from you and will do our best to answer them.

Who can I contact with questions?

For questions or additional information, please contact us at:
portcoos@portofcoosbay.com
 (541) 267-7678
www.portofcoosbay/contact-us