Lockport Lock and Controlling Works

CHICAGO SANITARY & SHIP CANAL· Will, Illinois· Built 1933· Concrete·
High Hazard Navigation Hydroelectric Flood Risk Reduction Federal Government

Key Takeaway

Lockport Lock and Controlling Works is classified as high hazard in Illinois. It was completed in 1933 and is 93 years old. Its primary use is navigation. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Length1,100 ft
Dam TypeConcrete
Max Storage25.0K acre-ft
Normal Storage0 acre-ft
Surface Area2,112 acres
Drainage Area740 sq mi
Max Discharge36,000 cfs
Year Completed1933 (93 years old)
NID IDIL00007

Safety Information

High Hazard

Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: March 1, 2020
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: IDNR

Ownership

USACE - Chicago District

Federal Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Lockport Lock and Controlling Works?

Lockport Lock and Controlling Works is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Lockport Lock and Controlling Works?

Lockport Lock and Controlling Works is owned by USACE - Chicago District (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Lockport Lock and Controlling Works built?

Lockport Lock and Controlling Works was completed in 1933, making it 93 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.

What is the primary purpose of Lockport Lock and Controlling Works?

Lockport Lock and Controlling Works serves the following purposes: Navigation, Hydroelectric, Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

When was Lockport Lock and Controlling Works last inspected?

Lockport Lock and Controlling Works was last inspected on March 1, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.