Temporary navigation restrictions at McAlpine Locks and Dam for LG&E power line replacement

This week, a contractor for Louisville Gas and Electric (LG&E) will perform maintenance on power lines that cross over the Portland Canal, just upstream of McAlpine Locks and Dam at Ohio River Mile 605 in Louisville, Kentucky.

The work is scheduled to occur Oct. 15–23, 2025, Monday through Friday, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. (EST).

To ensure marine safety, navigation traffic through the canal will be temporarily restricted at specific times as listed below:

•    Oct.15–16: Intermittent river closures, up to 8 hours per day (7 a.m.–7 p.m. EST)

•    Oct. 17–19: No impact to navigation traffic

•    Oct. 20–21: River closures up to 8 hours per day (8 a.m.–4 p.m. EST)

•    Oct. 22: No impact to navigation traffic

•    Oct. 23: River closure up to 8 hours (8 a.m.–4 p.m. EST)

It is anticipated that most of the work will take place on land, but a helicopter will be used to install ropes on the towers. A safety boat will be stationed at the upstream end of the canal to enforce a safety zone beneath the power lines during the closure periods.

The vertical clearance under the power lines will remain at or above the normal 95.1-foot clearance at normal pool when the river is open to navigation.

All navigation traffic should follow the direction of McAlpine Lock operators regarding lockage procedures and river closures. 

For more information, contact the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Louisville District Public Affairs Office at (502) 315-6767.
    
        
   -30-