Ballard Locks large chamber reopens after Stoney Gate Valve replacement work

The large chamber of the Ballard Locks has reopened after a long closure to work on the Stoney Gate Valve replacement project.

The large chamber closed February 12th to replace two Stoney Gate Valves that are original to the 102-year-old locks. This was the second long closure; the next scheduled closure is October 12th through December 3rd.

The valves, located underwater, require the chamber to be completely drained to replace. Once fully replaced, the valves — named for their inventor, Irish engineer Bindon B. Stoney — will be good for another 100 years.

As a reminder, the park and pedestrian bridge at the Ballard Locks are closed during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the locks will remain open to marine traffic.

Photo: Ballard Locks on Facebook