Braddock Locks And Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 10, 2025

Located in Braddock, Pennsylvania, the Braddock Locks and Dam, also known as Monongahela River Pool 02, is a Federal-owned structure managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1905, this gravity dam spans 960 feet across the Monongahela River and has a hydraulic height of 33 feet. With a primary purpose of navigation, this structure features two locks, each measuring 720 feet in length and 110 feet in width, contributing to its significant role in managing water levels and facilitating transportation on the river.

The dam has a moderate risk assessment due to its limited water storage capacity and the potential for severe weather events to impact its operations. To manage these risks, the US Army Corps of Engineers continuously monitors the dam's condition, prioritizes maintenance activities, and collaborates with local emergency managers to develop emergency action plans. The agency also engages with the public to raise awareness about the dam and ensure preparedness in case of a dam-related emergency. Regular updates to the emergency action plan and ongoing maintenance efforts help to keep the Braddock Locks and Dam functioning effectively and safeguard the surrounding areas from potential flood risks.

With a history dating back over a century, the Braddock Locks and Dam remains a vital infrastructure for water resource management and navigation on the Monongahela River. As the US Army Corps of Engineers continues to enhance its risk management measures and maintain the structure's integrity, the dam serves as a crucial component of the region's waterways, ensuring safe and efficient transportation while mitigating flood risks for the surrounding communities.

Year Completed

1905

Dam Length

960

River Or Stream

MONONGAHELA RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

1190

Length Of Locks

720

Hydraulic Height

33

Drainage Area

7342

Nid Storage

13700

Structural Height

33

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 4

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

33
       
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.