BUFFALO, N.Y. -- BUFFALO, N.Y. — The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Buffalo District will conduct a geotechnical investigation in the Black Rock Lock from November 4 through mid-December, causing an interruption to traffic through the lock.
During this time, commercial and recreational vessels must give 48 hours’ notice to the Lockmaster to coordinate travel through the lock. Commercial vessels will be given preference to ensure the flow of commerce between Lake Erie, the Black Rock Channel, and the upper Niagara River.
The Lockmaster and Black Rock Lock staff can be contacted by phone at 716-879-4403 and by radio at VHF-16.
The geotechnical investigation will include drilling for 12 hours each day by barge. The barge will be unable to move during the 12-hour period.
The investigation will assess the operational efficiency of the lock as part of regular maintenance and phased updates to ensure safe navigation for the thousands of commercial and recreational vessels that pass through it each year.
For more information about the Black Rock Lock visit: https://www.lrd.usace.army.mil/Recreation/Article/3638223/black-rock-lock/
Release no. 24-154