The U.S Army Corps of Engineers, Nashville District, has launched a new website, <http://www.lrn.usace.army.mil/pao/chickamaugalock/>, to inform and educate the public about the new lock recently authorized by Congress.

The website will provide information on why a new lock is needed, a tentative schedule and detailed project information.  The site has a photo gallery, a multimedia presentation, conceptual artwork, project status reports and frequently asked questions.  The site will be updated regularly as the project goes through the design and construction phases.

"Replacing the Chickamauga Lock is a massive undertaking and I appreciate the Army Corps of Engineers dedicating a section of its website to keep East Tennesseans informed of the progress," said U.S. Rep. Zach Wamp (R-Tenn.).  "This is one of the largest construction projects that Chattanooga has ever seen and people will want to keep track of what is going on.  I appreciate the great work being done by TVA and Army Corps of Engineers and the support from all the stakeholders involved in this project."

Congress authorized the $321M project in February.  Design for the new 100-foot by 600-foot lock has begun and a proposed construction start is tentatively schedule for 2004.

"The website allows those interested in the project to find immediate answers to questions regarding design and construction schedules and is a resource for project issues" said Wayne Huddleston, project manager.  "We hope the media and the public, including students, use the site to obtain information they are searching about the new lock project."

The website also provides information on the critical need for the new lock and will provide information on impacts to the public during construction.

For more information on the website contact Bill Peoples at (615) 736-7834 and for more information on the new lock contact Wayne Huddleston (615) 736-7842.