Brandon Road Lock And Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Brandon Road Lock and Dam, located on the Des Plaines River in Joliet, Illinois, is a critical piece of infrastructure owned and operated by the US Army Corps of Engineers.


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Summary

Completed in 1933, this concrete dam stands at a hydraulic height of 34 feet and plays a primary role in navigation along the river. With a dam length of 14,250 feet and a storage capacity of 4,500 acre-feet, the dam also serves as a key component in managing water levels and flow downstream.

Despite its age, Brandon Road Lock and Dam remains a high-hazard structure, requiring regular inspections and risk management measures to ensure its structural integrity and functionality. The US Army Corps of Engineers actively monitors and maintains the dam, engaging with local emergency managers and the public to raise awareness and preparedness for potential dam-related emergencies. With a robust emergency action plan in place and ongoing maintenance efforts, the dam continues to serve its crucial role in the region's water resource management.

Year Completed

1933

Dam Length

14250

River Or Stream

DES PLAINES

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Length Of Locks

600

Hydraulic Height

34

Drainage Area

1506

Nid Storage

4500

Structural Height

45

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 6, Tainter (radial) - 21, Uncontrolled - 0, Vertical Lift - 16

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

45
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.