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May
21
Written by:
news editor
5/21/2010 1:00 AM
5/21/10 The historic locks along the Muskingum River are open for the season with the exception of Ellis Lock 11 and Philo Lock 9.
Ellis Lock on Muskingum River Remains Closed
Other Locks, except Philo Lock 9, Open for the 2010 Season
COLUMBUS, OH – The historic locks along the Muskingum River are open for the season with the exception of Ellis Lock 11 and Philo Lock 9, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR).
Ellis Lock 11, located south of Dresden, has been closed for more than a decade and needs major reconstruction. The work includes stabilization of the entire lock from erosion, shoring up or replacement of the riverside wall and new metal doors. Early estimates for the work were $2 million, but recent estimates range from $5 million to $7 million including significant dredging, according to Alan Ranck, manager of the Dillon Region State Parks, which includes the Muskingum River lock system.
Philo Lock 9 is temporarily closed for removal of a concrete wall that has fallen and an opening date has not been determined. Water levels will impact completion of the project. Depending on construction progress, the lock might open within the next month.
Spring operational hours for the locks are 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., closed from 2 to 2:30 p.m., on Saturdays and Sundays. Extended hours for the Memorial Day holiday are 9:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday through Monday of the holiday weekend, closing from 2 to 2:30 p.m. each day.
Summer operational hours will begin on June 4 and are 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., closed from 2 - 2:30 p.m., on Fridays and Mondays, and on Saturdays and Sundays, 9:30 a.m. to 8 p.m., closed from 2 to 2:30 p.m. For more information, contact the Dillon State Park Region office at 740-453-4377.
The 10 historic locks along the Muskingum River are operated by Ohio State Parks. They were built in 1841 and are still operated by hand cranking. In 2001 the lock system was designated as a National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark by the American Society of Civil Engineers.
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR Web site at ohiodnr.com.
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For further information, contact:
Dillon State Park Region
740. 453. 4377
Heidi Hetzel-Evans, ODNR Media Relations
614. 265. 6860
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