Ballard Locks

Ballard Locks being cleaned and repaired leaving some chambers empty

shaneh — Thu, 26 Mar 2015 23:35:10 +0000

shaneh Thu, 03/26/2015 - 4:35pm

Empty chamber at the Ballard Locks.

Shane Harms

The Ballard News-Tribune stopped by the Ballard Locks and discovered there is a repair project afoot.

Chambers of the locks have had the water fully pumped out so crews can make repairs to doors and other parts of the locks.

Ballard Locks staff told the BNT that when they drain the chambers, some fish are trapped, and so they have to collect them by hand and get them back into the water as soon as possible. Despite there efforts, there was a foul fish odor in the air.

Other parts of the facility are closed as well, including the salmon viewing room.

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Chittenden Locks in Ballard schedules October-November closings

Guest — Mon, 28 Oct 2013 19:39:23 +0000

Guest (not verified) Mon, 10/28/2013 - 12:39pm

From U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

The Hiram M. Chittenden Locks in Ballard will close to much or all marine traffic at various times Oct. 31, Nov. 1 and Nov. 5-20.

Vessel operators should pay close attention to times, vessel-size restrictions and impacts caused by railroad bridge maintenance.

On Oct. 31 and Nov. 1, U.S. Navy divers are scheduled to prepare the Adult Salmon Exclusion Structure for normal winter operations. Both locks are scheduled to be closed on Oct. 31 a maximum of four hours from 8 a.m. to noon. The large lock only is scheduled to be closed from approximately 8 a.m. to noon Nov. 1.
The large lock at the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks in Ballard is scheduled to close to all marine traffic from 9 a.m., Nov. 5, to 5 p.m., Nov. 20, for annual maintenance. The small lock will still be available for vessels less than 115 feet in length and 26 feet in width throughout the large lock maintenance period.

Please note, however, that in conjunction with the Lock closure, BNSF Railway will make structural upgrades to the Ballard railroad bridge which crosses Lake Washington Ship Canal west of the Locks. High mast vessels able to use the small lock will not be able to pass the bridge during the four BNSF Railway closures from 9 a.m. to midnight, Nov. 5, 7, 12 and 14.

The scheduled repairs to the large lock are part of an annual general maintenance program.

The Adult Salmon Exclusion Structure, immediately upstream of the locks, prevents salmon from entering the locks' saltwater return intake in late spring. Navy divers from Naval Base Kitsap close 10, 10-foot-by-6-foot doors and inspect the 30-by-60 foot curved-front, mesh screen structure. The Navy regularly supports the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers with this procedure before salmon migration season begins mid-June. Now in autumn, divers will open the Adult Salmon Exclusion Structure until next spring.

Prior to installation of the large screen structure in 2008, adult salmon sometimes entered a diffuser well beneath the fish ladder. The well does not have an exit and entering it led to salmon migration delay, injury or death. The Adult Salmon Exclusion Structure in front of the saltwater drain improves viability of salmon using the fish ladder returning upstream to spawning grounds.

The inspections require Lock closure to all but emergency vessels on emergency calls. The staff will complete work as quickly and safely as possible. Monthly inspection closures will be posted at least a week prior on the Seattle District's public web site at http://bit.ly/BoaterInfo and on the Locks on Facebook and Twitter sites at www.facebook.com/chittendenlocks and http://twitter.com/ChittendenLocks.

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Ballard Locks reopen after government shutdown ends

Guest — Tue, 01 Oct 2013 16:56:32 +0000

Guest (not verified) Tue, 10/01/2013 - 9:56am

Update, Oct. 17

With the end of the government shutdown, the Ballard Locks has reopened to the public today.

The Senate voted yesterday 81-18 and the House voted 285-144 on a measure to avert a U.S. Default.

It should be noted that the deal is only a temporary fix. It funds the government until Jan. 15 and raises the debt ceiling until Feb. 7, so the Ballard Locks -- and the U.S. government -- could face another shutdown early next year.

Original, Oct. 1

The long arm of the much-dreaded government shutdown has found its way to Ballard today.

The Ballard Locks will be closed to the public, according to an announcement sent out by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, who run the Locks. Vessel navigation will still be available, albeit limited.

Here is their announcement in full:

"The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is curtailing some services and closing its campgrounds and day-use parks nationwide beginning today, due to the lack of fiscal 2014 funding legislation. The following Seattle District locations and services to the public are affected until funding becomes available:

Vessel navigation will remain available through the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks in Ballard, however staffing limitations may cause longer locking times.
The park grounds at the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks in Ballard will be closed, starting at 4 p.m. today. As an example, cyclists and walkers won't have access to or through the park beginning 4 p.m. today, nor any subsequent days until funding restoration. "

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Chittenden Locks in Ballard schedules closures Oct. 2-3

Guest — Fri, 27 Sep 2013 17:31:16 +0000

Guest (not verified) Fri, 09/27/2013 - 10:31am

From U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

The Hiram M. Chittenden Locks in Ballard is scheduled to close to all marine vessels 7:30-11 a.m., Oct. 2 and to close the large lock 8-11 a.m. Oct. 3, allowing U.S. Navy divers to prepare the Adult Salmon Exclusion Structure for normal winter operations.

The structure, immediately upstream of the locks, prevents salmon from entering the locks' saltwater return intake earlier in the year. Divers from Naval Base Kitsap, previously closed 10, 10-foot-by-6-foot doors and inspected the 30-by-60 foot curved-front, mesh screen structure in June. In the fall, the divers open the doors and remove the sensor cables to prepare for winter operations.

The divers will also prepare structures for a later de-watering in November.

The operation requires the Locks be closed to all but emergency vessels on emergency calls. The staff will make maximum efforts to complete the work as soon and as safely as possible. Boaters may call the lockmaster on duty at 206-783-7000 to verify the locks are open.

For more information about activities at the Locks, visit the Locks' Web site at http://bit.ly/BallardLocks. Also follow the Locks on Facebook and Twitter: www.facebook.com/chittendenlocks and http://twitter.com/ChittendenLocks.

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Ballard Locks to close to marine traffic Aug. 28

Guest — Thu, 22 Aug 2013 23:55:59 +0000

Guest (not verified) Thu, 08/22/2013 - 4:55pm

From U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

The Hiram M. Chittenden Locks in Ballard will close to all marine traffic 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., August 28 to complete last week’s monthly saltwater drain screen structure inspection.

U.S. Navy divers from Naval Base Kitsap will finish inspecting welds and pressure washing the screen, items they didn’t have time to complete during the July 17, five-hour closure. The structure, immediately upstream of the locks, prevents salmon from entering the locks’ saltwater return intake. The divers, closed 10, 10-foot-by-6-foot doors and inspected the 30-by-60 foot curved-front, mesh screen structure June 6. Monthly inspections are required until the doors are opened mid-September.

For more information about activities at the Locks, visit the Locks’ Web site at http://bit.ly/BallardLocks. Also follow the Locks on Facebook and Twitter: www.facebook.com/chittendenlocks and http://twitter.com/ChittendenLocks.

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Installing cameras in heron habitats, yea or nay?

Guest — Mon, 19 Aug 2013 17:05:24 +0000

Guest (not verified) Mon, 08/19/2013 - 10:05am

Give your input in community survey

Herons started nesting in Commodore Park last spring after eagles started destroying their eggs.

Photo by Erik Haugen-Goodman

The Heron Habitat Helpers are conducting a survey to see if people would want cameras installed to view herons in their natural habitat.

Cameras were installed in what is now a former heron habitat at the Kiwanis Ravine. Last spring the herons were run out of their nests there when eagles started taking and destroying their eggs. Since then, the herons have moved to Commodore Park, on the Magnolia side of the Ballard Locks.

Now, HHH are considering installing cameras in their new habitats, at Commodore Park and in Discovery Park.

To take the survey, visit http://www.heronhelpers.org/heronwatch_survey.html

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Ballard Weekend: Children's theater at Ballard Locks, Great Glasses Play Day at Carkeek Park

Guest — Thu, 01 Aug 2013 20:57:38 +0000

Guest (not verified) Thu, 08/01/2013 - 1:57pm

Friday, August 2

Emerald Contra Dance

What: All dances taught. No partner necessary. Please, no cologne, perfume or other scented products. $8 General Admission; $7 Seniors, PNA
members, SFS members; $5 Students.

Where: Phinney Neighborhood Association Community Hall-lower brick building (6532 Phinney Ave N)

When: Beginner’s workshop 7 p.m., dance 7:30-10 p.m.

More info: 206-440-9839 or emeraldcitycontra@pobox.com

Comedy Sportz

What: ComedySportz is improv comedy played as a sport. The show pits two teams of comedians against each other in a variety of games, in which they compete for audience laughter.

Where: Ballard Underground (2220 NW Market St)

When: 8 p.m. and 10:30 p.m.

More info: http://comedysportzseattle.com/

Saturday, August 3

Coffee Cupping at Tony's Coffee Bar

What: Try different coffees from around the world, learn about the complexities of each coffee, become a knowledgeable coffee genius in an hour. For free!

When: Noon

Where: Tony’s Coffee Bar (7001 3rd Ave NW)

More info: http://tonyscoffeebar.tumblr.com/

Concerts at the Locks

Enjoy free music while you visit the Ballard Locks. On Saturday, Cherie Blues will be performing.

Where: Ballard Locks

When: 2 p.m.

More info: http://www.nws.usace.army.mil/Missions/CivilWorks/LocksandDams/Chittend…

Children's theater at the Ballard Locks Botanical Garden

What: theater simple returns to the parks of King County with wit, puns a rolling pea-green boat and a ukelele. "The Adventures of Owl and Pussycat" illuminate the adventures of love, as well as a love of adventure for Owl & his amour, Pussycat. Fur, feathers, and puns will fly. (Pigs will not.)

Where: Ballard Locks Carl S. English Botanical Garden

When: 5 p.m.

More info: http://www.theatersimple.org/

Comedy Sportz

What: ComedySportz is improv comedy played as a sport. The show pits two teams of comedians against each other in a variety of games, in which they compete for audience laughter.

Where: Ballard Underground (2220 NW Market St)

When: 2 p.m. Kids Matinee and 8 p.m.

More info: http://comedysportzseattle.com

Sunday, August 4

Great Glasses Play Day

What: Celebrate children who wear glasses, contacts and patches! It's a morning of fun and support, with story time, glasses-themed activities, and Trophy Cupcakes.

Where: Carkeek Park (950 North West Carkeek Park Road), meet at the picnic tables by the playground and play field

When: 10 a.m.-Noon

More info: https://www.facebook.com/events/482442521833283/

Ballard Farmers Market

What: Ballard Farmer's Market is open year-round and features fresh produce from local farmers, flowers, trinkets, street entertainment and more.

Where: Ballard Ave NW, between Vernon Pl NW and 22nd Ave NW

When: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

More info: http://ballardfarmersmarket.wordpress.com/

Concerts at the Locks

Enjoy free music while you visit the Ballard Locks. On Sunday, the Ballard Sedentary Sousa Band will be performing.

Where: Ballard Locks

When: 2 p.m.

More info: http://www.nws.usace.army.mil/Missions/CivilWorks/LocksandDams/Chittend…

Children's theater at the Ballard Locks Botanical Garden

Where: Ballard Locks Carl S. English Botanical Garden

When: 5 p.m.

More info: http://www.theatersimple.org/

Ballard Elks Lodge Ballroom Dancing

What: Ballroom Dancing every Sunday. Live music by The Eddy Fukano Band. For singles and couples. $7 per person.

Where: Ballard Elks Lodge (6411 Seaview Ave NW)

When: 7-10 p.m.

More info: www.ballardelks.org or call 206-784-0827

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Ballard Locks closing to Marine traffic Thursday, July 25

Guest — Wed, 24 Jul 2013 19:27:32 +0000

Guest (not verified) Wed, 07/24/2013 - 12:27pm

From 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., Locks will close to finish monthly inspection

From U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

The Hiram M. Chittenden Locks in Ballard will close to all marine traffic 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., July 25 to complete last week’s monthly saltwater drain screen structure inspection.

U.S. Navy divers from Naval Base Kitsap will finish inspecting welds and pressure washing the screen, items they didn’t have time to complete during the July 17, 5-hour closure. The structure, immediately upstream of the locks, prevents salmon from entering the locks’ saltwater return intake. The divers, closed 10, 10-foot-by-6-foot doors and inspected the 30-by-60 foot curved-front, mesh screen structure June 6. Monthly inspections are required until the doors are opened mid-September.

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A look at summer walks in Ballard

Guest — Thu, 18 Jul 2013 18:55:11 +0000

Guest (not verified) Thu, 07/18/2013 - 11:55am

When it comes to walking, Ballardites have it good.

Photo by Gustavo Veríssimo (Flickr/CC)

Let's face it, when it comes to walking, Ballardites are spoiled. After all, we are the city's fifth most walkable neighborhood. But more than that, we have some of the city's most attractive parks and, of course, the best farmers market.

ActivelyNorthwest, for their Urban Walking Workout series, recognized this fact and profiled Ballard for one of their walks. they shared with the Ballard News-tribune three places that make for a great walk. See those below.

But with a neighborhood full of walkers, there are bound to be more routes not mentioned below. What is your favorite urban walk? Let us know in the comments below. (No registration for commenting is necessary.)

Ballard Locks

You can’t profile Ballard without highlighting one of Seattle’s top tourist attractions. The Ballard Locks link the Puget Sound with Lake Union, allowing boats to go back and forth between the salt and fresh water. In addition to the locks, kids will be mesmerized by the fish ladder, where you can watch spawning fish head upstream. After you’ve taken in the scene, explore the beautiful botanical gardens or cross the locks to Commodore Park in Magnolia for a picnic on the grassy hill.

Golden Gardens Park

To continue this Seattle outdoor adventure, head left at the entrance of the Ballard Locks onto the Burke Gilman trail, a designated biking and pedestrian path, and walk just under two miles along the marina until you reach Golden Gardens Park. Once you’re at the park, you can explore a vast stretch of sandy beach that’s immensely popular in the summer. After you’ve worn out the kids at the beach, head back to your car at the Ballard Locks. You’ll have walked nearly five miles! It’s a great way to get active with your family and have fun while doing it.

Ballard Farmers Market

If you want to add a detour to explore the historic streets of Ballard, there’s no better time than Sunday. The farmers market takes over Ballard Avenue from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. year round with a bustling mix of flower, food and craft vendors. Even the best Seattle walks can be made better with the smell of fresh donuts and the sight of vegetable stands bursting with color. You’ll have a hard time finding a better way to take in the culture of Ballard. Try coming up with a healthy meal idea before you head to the market – that way, you can pick up fresh, flavorful ingredients for your Sunday dinner.

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Cavanaugh House at Ballard Locks turns 100

Guest — Wed, 17 Jul 2013 22:59:24 +0000

Guest (not verified) Wed, 07/17/2013 - 3:59pm

The 100-year-old Cavanaugh House has been overseeing operations since the beginning above the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks.

Photo courtesy of U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

From U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Hiram M. Chittenden Locks

Like an empress overseeing her nation, a 100-year-old house has been governing since the beginning above the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks.

In mid-1913, the Lockkeeper’s House, now called the Cavanaugh House, was completed on the grounds of the Locks. Built in 75 days at a cost of $7,840, it was the first completed structure of the Lake Washington Ship Canal, and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers officials honored her centennial during a ceremony July 16.

Originally built for the Lock’s electrician, offering around-the-clock availability in the event of electrical failure, the house was renamed and dedicated Jan. 16, 1967, to honor Col. James B. Cavanaugh, the Seattle District Engineer who oversaw the Lake Washington Ship Canal construction, which began Nov. 10, 1911.

Cavanaugh graduated first in his class from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point in 1892 and served in a variety of technical and tactical assignments, starting with Michigan’s Soo Locks expansion from 1895 to 1897. He served in the Philippines for a year during the Spanish American War, commanding three engineer companies that built many ports, roads and bridges.

“The next 10 years and four assignments, Cavanaugh taught or practiced engineering, preparing him for construction of the largest locks north of Panama, a remarkable feat in that day,” said Seattle District Commander Col. Bruce Estok.

Cavanaugh arrived just three months before the massive project began, leading the district for nearly six years, and leaving just a few weeks before the Locks’ official opening July 4, 1917.

Early photos show an isolated home on a barren hill, but Corps Gardener Carl S. English Jr., changed the view considerably with his vision. The Cavanaugh House now functions as a private home, and a plaque installed in 1974 at the front gate lists the former and current occupants’ names.

It has undergone some renovations over the years, but despite some changes the house retains its original character and any work now performed complies with historic property law and policy. The Locks, canal and structures, including Cavanaugh House, constitute a National Historic District and are listed in the National Historic Register.

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