Thomas J. O'Brien Lock and Controlling Works
Key Takeaway
Thomas J. O'Brien Lock and Controlling Works is classified as high hazard in Illinois. It was completed in 1960 and is 66 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 Length | 430 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 9.7K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 0 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 0 acres |
| Drainage Area | 250 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 2,200 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1960 (66 years old) |
| NID ID | IL01013 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
USACE - Chicago District
Federal Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Thomas J. O'Brien Lock and Controlling Works?
Thomas J. O'Brien 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 Thomas J. O'Brien Lock and Controlling Works?
Thomas J. O'Brien 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 Thomas J. O'Brien Lock and Controlling Works built?
Thomas J. O'Brien Lock and Controlling Works was completed in 1960, making it 66 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 Thomas J. O'Brien Lock and Controlling Works?
Thomas J. O'Brien Lock and Controlling Works serves the following purposes: Navigation, Other, Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
When was Thomas J. O'Brien Lock and Controlling Works last inspected?
Thomas J. O'Brien Lock and Controlling Works was last inspected on April 5, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.