The tow rail system is integral to the operation of Mississippi River Locks and Dams 2 through 10. At each lock, a tow rail system is attached to the top of the lock guidewall to help guide tows through the lock chamber. Each system is comprised of an operating unit, rail, and traveling kevel or “mule.” The tow rail systems of Locks and Dams 2 through 10 have been deteriorating over the past several years, requiring rehabilitation of these systems.

Location

Locks and Dams 2 and 3.

Description

The tow rail systems of Locks and Dams 2 through 10 have been deteriorating over the past several years. Two failures at Lock 7 identified the need for a project to address serviceability and safety issues. Although interim repairs at Lock 7 were completed in 2014, this project aims to repair the tow rail systems of Locks and Dams 2 through 10 over the next 50 years. Repairs were completed at seven of the ten locks and dams from 2019 to 2022, outside navigation season; the order of these repairs was determined by prioritization based on assessment of their condition.

All sites will have the same design to ensure the navigation industry can operate the tow rail systems in the same way and for commonality of components and design for standardized maintenance. The rehabilitation also ensures safe working conditions for the navigation industry as well as the lock and dam staff.

Status

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Inland Navigation Design Center provided guidance and recommended rehabilitating the original design and incorporating a continuous rail.

Locks and Dams 2 and 3 will be addressed under a design-build contract award anticipated in fiscal year 2026. The anticipated construction start date is in fiscal year 2026, and the anticipated construction complete date is in fiscal year 2027.