Waterway traffic analysis of the Chicago River and lock

Abstract

The vessel-carrying capacity of the Chicago River, Illinois, is restricted by a lock. separating the river from Lake Michigan. Currently, vessels passing through the lock experience long delays during summer months. An investigation and analysis of this system determined that although the system is now generally operating below capacity, the peak periods during summer weekends do approach capacity, and the situation is likely to deteriorate in the future. In addition, the river and lock have safety and traffic conflict problems that need attention. Recommendations to mitigate these problems are described.