Lockport Lock And Controlling Works Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lockport Lock and Controlling Works, located in Joliet, Illinois, is a crucial facility for maintaining navigation in the Chicago Sanitary & Ship Canal.


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Summary

Completed in 1933, this Federal-owned structure serves multiple purposes, including flood risk reduction, hydroelectric power generation, and navigation. With a high hazard potential, the facility's dam and controlling works play a vital role in managing water levels during intense rain events to prevent flooding in the Chicago metropolitan area.

To mitigate risks, the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) has implemented various measures, including continuous on-site staff presence, rapid communication with neighboring locks and dams, and close coordination with the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District (MWRD). A major rehabilitation project was completed between 2008 and 2015 to enhance the facility's infrastructure, including the construction of a concrete cutoff wall and reinforcement of the canal wall. With an Emergency Action Plan in place and ongoing monitoring, efforts are focused on ensuring the safe operation and maintenance of Lockport Lock and Controlling Works to prevent potential economic losses and life-threatening situations in case of a dam failure.

Overall, Lockport Lock and Controlling Works serve as a critical component in the water resource management of the Chicago area. Through effective risk management measures, collaboration between agencies, and ongoing maintenance efforts, the facility plays a pivotal role in safeguarding the surrounding communities from the impacts of potential dam failures and ensuring the efficient operation of navigation services and flood risk reduction in the region.

Year Completed

1933

Dam Length

1100

River Or Stream

CHICAGO SANITARY & SHIP CANAL

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

2112

Length Of Locks

600

Hydraulic Height

42

Drainage Area

740

Nid Storage

25000

Structural Height

65

Outlet Gates

Vertical Lift - 7

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

65
       
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.