New Lock at the Soo to Host Public Meeting on 2024-2025 Blasting Operations

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to detail test blasting for the New Lock at the Soo project in a public meeting on Nov. 21.

Public Meeting to Address Key Blasting Concerns

Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Detroit District and contractor Kokosing Alberici Traylor, LLC (KAT) are inviting the public to an in-person and virtual meeting on November 21, 2024, at 6 p.m. to discuss planned test blasting for the New Lock at the Soo project. This informational session will be held at Lake Superior State University’s Cisler Center and will also be accessible online.

The session aims to provide community members with crucial updates on the bedrock excavation phase of the project, set to commence this December and continue throughout 2025. The work will focus on breaking up existing bedrock within the decommissioned Sabin Lock area as part of the larger Soo Locks modernization effort.

Safety Measures and Environmental Precautions in Place

The blasting activities, which will occur during daylight hours from Monday to Saturday, are designed to minimize disruption beyond the project area. No impacts to public roads or land outside the facility are expected, according to Mick Awbrey, New Lock Chief. Marine traffic on the St. Marys River will face restrictions, with a 1,000-foot exclusion zone for general vessels and a 2,000-foot zone for hazardous Red Flag Vessels during blasting operations. Guards and alert systems will ensure public safety during blasts.

Rachel Miller, Contracting Officer’s Representative, emphasized that each detonation would be carefully monitored to ensure minimal impact on the surrounding community and environment. Hal Harrington, Detroit District Biologist, also highlighted specific measures to protect local fish spawning areas through strict control of vibration levels, ensuring they remain under the maximum limit of 1.0 inches per second.

Community Engagement and Transparency a Priority

The upcoming public meeting will feature a presentation by the Corps of Engineers, blasting consultants, and vibration specialists, followed by a Q&A session. Topics to be covered include seismic motion, airblast overpressure, and safety protocols. Interested parties can view the presentation materials on the Corps’ official website after the meeting.

The Corps has committed to issuing additional public notices if further blasting is necessary beyond the current timeline.

Related Infrastructure Projects and Regional Context

This phase of the New Lock at the Soo project is part of ongoing efforts to modernize critical infrastructure at the Soo Locks facility, vital for the regional and national economy. The project underscores the importance of balancing industrial progress with community and environmental safety, a growing focus as Michigan invests in infrastructure resilience.

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