Melvin Price Lock and Dam: An Engineering Marvel on the Mississippi

The Melvin Price Lock and Dam stands as a testament to modern engineering on the Upper Mississippi River. Located approximately 17 miles north of St. Louis, near Alton, Illinois, it replaced the original Lock and Dam No. 26, which was demolished due to structural deficiencies. Named after Illinois Congressman Melvin Price, who championed its construction, the facility is a vital component of the Mississippi River's 9-Foot Navigation Project.The dam features two locks: a 1,200-foot main lock and a 600-foot auxiliary lock, accommodating various sizes of vessels. Nine Tainter gates control the flow of the river through the dam. Visitors can observe towboats and barges as they navigate through the locks, offering a firsthand look at the mechanics of river navigation.The adjacent National Great Rivers Museum provides educational exhibits about the Mississippi River, its ecosystem, and the role of the lock and dam. Free guided tours of the lock and dam are available, offering insights into the structure's operation and importance. The tours involve walking and heights of approximately 80 feet. From the top, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the river and surrounding area. The area is also a prime spot for eagle watching during the winter months.Constructed in three phases, with the main lock opening in 1990 and full operation achieved in 1994, the Melvin Price Locks and Dam represents a state-of-the-art approach to river navigation control. It supports the continuous Mississippi Nine-Foot Navigation Project, ensuring a navigable channel for the transport of goods.