Damaged Seattle lock will take two weeks to repair

SEATTLE — An Army Corps of Engineers spokesman said the small lock at the Ballard Locks in Seattle will be closed for about two weeks for repairs after a boat hit the lock gate.

Spokesman Bill Dowell said maintenance staff and a structural engineer inspected the small lock on Monday. He says repairs are already under way and are estimated to cost $10,000 to $20,000.

The Seattle Times reported that a 60-foot boat hit the lock gate Sunday.

While the small lock is closed, boats can still use the large lock, although there may be some delays.

The locks raise and lower boats traveling between the Lake Washington Ship Canal and Puget Sound.