Corps will replace lock gate at Lower Monumental

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will replace the downstream navigation lock gate at Lower Monumental Dam, near Kahlotus, following an infusion of funds from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

In recent years, inspections of the gate revealed structural fatigue and required annual welding repairs to continue reliable operations. The repairs are projected to cost over $10 million.

A Corps of Engineers’ press release said replacing the gate will employ an estimated 523 people. The project includes fabrication and construction work.

Fabrication of the gate is estimated to take seven to 1...