Chiquita Lock to re-open Friday then close in April for final shutdown
The final shutdown of the Chiquita Lock is expected to begin April 1, 2025, with work to last up to 81 days.
Wright Construction Group Vice President of Civil Operations Andrew Powell said the scope of work that began this week was to install the stop blocks and dewater the lock for FEMA inspection. That shutdown started on Oct. 21 withe water control device to reopen by the end of today, Oct. 25.
Two gates were removed on Tuesday, and the FEMA inspection was conducted.
Work will include the construction of a new seawall, excavating the site to the mean high-water line and removing the south seawall panels. It also includes dredging to permitted grade and removing the seawall panels to the north.
The notice to proceed occurred on Oct. 7, followed by mobilization, and securing the site on Oct. 16.
The following week, through Nov. 20 will be the topside demolition — gate house, upland structures, concrete and asphalt. The new seawall will be constructed from November 2024, through January 2025.
Powell said from January through March 2025 they will demobilize from the site.
There is no dredging of the waterway from November 15 through March 31, according to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers permit, to protect manatees and other aquatic life during peak breeding season.
The navigable waterway access will shut down again on April 1, 2025, and remain closed for up to 81 days. The anticipated reopen will occur in June 2025.
He said they will complete the final excavation between July and August. The substantial completion is expected in October 2025 with the final completion and closeout in November 2025.
“Safety is our top priority,” Powell said. “We currently have a security fence up on site and variable message boards shown on left and right to notify boaters.”
He said there are some potential concerns, which they aim to address proactively — the three-month closure. Powell said Cape Harbour Marina is a possible boat storage during the shutdown time.
The city has a list of marinas, additional information and updates that can be found on its website at capecoral.gov/chiquitalock.
To reach MEGHAN BRADBURY, please email news@breezenewspapers.com