the bridge was built for rail traffic only, but was modified for use by both rail and vehicle traffic at a later date. rail service ended and the rails were removed in 1989. the bridge is now used for one lane of vehicular traffic, and still opens regularly to allow passage of boats. there are stoplights at each end both to regulate traffic in alternate directions and also (along with barricades), to provide protection when the bridge is open. the bridge is the only road access for members of the wasauksing first nation, as well as many summer cottages located on the island. a sidewalk has also been added to one side of the bridge.