Upcoming Project Milestones
- Upstream approach walls contract completed by fall 2026
- Delivery of approach wall beams scheduled for August 2025
- Chickamauga Lock completion expected by 2031
The Chickamauga Lock Replacement Project, a vital component of the Tennessee River navigation system, is making significant progress towards completion. The Nashville Engineer District has recently announced the successful delivery of the second nose pier, a crucial structure for guiding vessels safely into the new lock chamber. **Crews Deliver the Second Nose Pier**
The second nose pier, measuring 29.5 feet in height, began its journey in Iuka, Mississippi, and was transported via barge on the Tennessee River. It passed through several locks, including Wilson Lock, Wheeler Lock, Guntersville Lock, and Nickajack Lock, before arriving at the Chickamauga Lock site. This significant delivery is a testament to the strong coordination between the project team, the contractor, and the barge industry. “The highlight of this delivery was the strong coordination between our team, the contractor, and the barge industry,” said Bob Winters, project manager for the Nashville District. “Prioritizing the nose pier’s passage through Wilson Lock was critical to keeping the project on schedule and reflects our commitment to efficient, well-executed construction.”
With the second nose pier now in place, the Nashville District remains on track to complete all work related to this contract by fall 2026. The next major phase will involve the delivery of the approach wall beams, which are currently stored at Watts Bar. These massive beams, measuring up to 120 feet long and weighing as much as 450 tons, are scheduled for delivery by barge in August 2025 in a complex logistical operation. **The Importance of Approach Walls**
Approach walls are essential structures that guide vessels safely into the lock chamber. They act like a funnel, directing barges away from turbulent waters that can flow over the Chickamauga Dam spillway during high-water events. The upstream approach walls contract is a critical step towards realizing the full potential of this critical infrastructure project. “The Chickamauga Lock is a vital component of the nation’s inland waterway system,” Winters said. “The upstream approach walls contract is an important step toward realizing the full potential of this critical infrastructure project.”
The Corps of Engineers plans to award the downstream approach walls and decommissioning contract next, which is the final phase of construction. The Chickamauga Lock Replacement Project is expected to be complete by 2031. **Project Highlights and Impact**
The Chickamauga Lock Replacement Project is critical to ensuring the long-term reliability and efficiency of the Tennessee River navigation system. The existing lock, built in 1940, currently accommodates one barge at a time and supports the movement of about 1.5 million tons of cargo annually. The new 110-foot-wide by 600-foot-long navigation lock, expected to be operational in 2028, would hold nine barges per lockage. It is projected to increase capacity by 80 percent and significantly reduce transit times for commercial vessels, providing a major boost to both the regional and national economies.
The Chickamauga Lock Replacement Project is a shining example of the importance of investing in critical infrastructure. By enhancing the navigation system, it will have a lasting impact on the economy and the environment.
The project will not only benefit the local economy but also contribute to the nation’s overall growth and development. As the project nears completion, it is essential to recognize the hard work and dedication of the project team, contractor, and barge industry workers.
The project’s success is a testament to the Corps of Engineers’ commitment to delivering complex infrastructure projects on time and within budget. As the project moves forward, it will be essential to continue to monitor its progress and address any challenges that may arise.
The Chickamauga Lock Replacement Project is a vital component of the Tennessee River navigation system, and its completion will have a lasting impact on the region and the nation.
Technical Details
| Structure | Description |
|---|---|
| Nose Pier | 29.5 feet in height, essential for guiding vessels safely into the new lock chamber |
| Approach Wall Beams | Up to 120 feet long, weighing as much as 450 tons, scheduled for delivery in August 2025 |
| Lock Chamber | 110-foot-wide by 600-foot-long, expected to be operational in 2028 |
The project is expected to increase capacity by 80 percent and significantly reduce transit times for commercial vessels, providing a major boost to both the regional and national economies.
Definitions
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