The northeastern waterway of the Upper Peninsula will have a fresh force to reckon with—a new Soo lock. Sault Ste. Marie will receive an additional lock, thanks to a bill signed by Gov. John Engler in late July, which will provide $4.7 million to cover initial construction costs. The lock will cost a total of $225 million, to be shared by eight Great Lakes states, including Minnesota and Wisconsin. Michigan's total share is $14.1 million.
The lock is expected to reduce transportation delays and accommodate a growing number of larger vessels that pass through the St. Mary's River waterway between lakes Huron and Superior. Engler anticipates the lock will ensure global shipping, as well as provide jobs and commerce for the U.P.
Currently there are four Soo locks. Two developed during World War I will be demolished to make room for the new lock, which will be constructed alongside the remaining two.
—Rosie Cataldo
