91ÊÓÆµ Staff//September 29, 2017//

The architecturally-significant in Coos Bay will get a $9 million upgrade to repair extensive damage to its road deck and other elements.
The Isthmus Slough Rehabilitation Project will involve resurfacing and repairing the road deck, repairing welds, replacing bolts, modifying deck drains and reconstructing expansion joints.
The Oregon Route 241 drawbridge was built in 1931 to connect downtown Coos Bay and the Eastside community. Approximately 8,700 vehicles cross the bridge each day. Weight restrictions were added to the bridge, which was previously upgraded in 2012.
The bascule-style bridge has often required repairs; now, extensive work is needed, according to an Oregon Department of Transportation . The electrical and mechanical systems are old. Rebar is exposed on the west approach, truss elements have rusted, welds have broken and bolts are missing.
Traffic will be impacted as lanes are closed for construction.