Canadian side of Sault lock closed due to 'mechanical issue'
A “mechanical issue” has impacted the hydraulic systems that open and close the gates at the Sault Ste. Marie Canal National Historic Site recreational lock.
As a result, boaters looking to pass through the recreational lock at that juncture will need to change their plans for the time being.
A mechanical issue has impacted the hydraulic systems that open and close the gates at the Sault Ste. Marie Canal National Historic Site recreational lock. As a result Parks Canada closed the lock on August 22, 2024. The closed gates of the lock are pictured here on August 23, 2024. (Cory Nordstrom/CTV News Northern Ontario)
The recreational lock was closed Thursday, said Parks Canada in a news release, no timeline for reopening is currently available
Officials are investigating the cause and exploring solutions for repairs, the federal agency said in its news release.
"Parks Canada recognizes this temporary closure impacts water-based visitation to the national historic site, and appreciates the understanding from visitors," reads the release.
"Land-based visitation remains largely unchanged. Until the site closes for the season on Oct. 15, visitors are invited to explore the exhibits in the visitor centre, reserve their Tour with an expert, rent a fat bike, or explore the trail network.”
Access to the grounds, South St. Mary’s Island and Whitefish Island have not been affected by the lock closure.
The locks had only just reopened July 29 after being closed for months to allow infrastructure work to be done on the historic Powerhouse building.
A mechanical issue has impacted the hydraulic systems that open and close the gates at the Sault Ste. Marie Canal National Historic Site recreational lock. As a result Parks Canada closed the lock on August 22, 2024. The Sault Ste. Marie Canal National Historic Site lock is pictured here on August 23, 2024. (Cory Nordstrom/CTV News Northern Ontario)
"The Soo Locks on the Michigan side of the St. Mary’s River are open and can be used by recreational boaters and tourism operators,” said Parks Canada.
"There are no fees to pass through the Soo Locks, nor need to report with Customs for transient boaters who are not planning to moor or disembark their vessels."
Parks Canada said it will communicate further updates as more information about the mechanical issue and repair timeline becomes available, check back to CTVNorthernOntario.ca for updates.
With files from CTVNorthernOntario.ca journalist Cory Nordstrom
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