KIRO 7 Investigates the aging Ballard Locks (known formally as the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks) and the possible impact if the Locks fail, which could affect the Lake Washington floating bridges as well as the nearly 50,000 boats that travel through the Locks. The Locks main infrastructure and the visitor/tourist facilities (including the Fish Ladder) all need major updates and repairs.
The Corps is working on congressional funding to keep the Locks safe and operational but there are no plans to upgrade non-critical facilities. The Corps Foundation, Discover Your Northwest, both non-profit 501(c)3s, and Jones & Jones Architects have developed plans to improve visitor facilities by engaging public support.
Go to www.ballardlocks.org to learn more.
