25 Jul 2025

Brandon Road Lock and Dam, Des Plaines River: Navigation Approach Physical Model

Abstract: This physical model study of the Brandon Road Lock and Dam was conducted to evaluate the navigation conditions associated with the implementation of two proposed engineered channels and associated features in the downstream approach channel. A 1:100 Froude scale physical model was constructed to evaluate the navigation conditions for tows entering and exiting the lower approach. Features included in the scaled model include the lock, the gated spillway, roughly 2 mi of the Des Plaines River and surrounding topography, and two NRG Energy generating stations. Data were collected to evaluate tow tracks and current direction and velocity information. Videos and rough estimations were also collected to gain an understanding of the water that displaces upstream when a downbound tow transits through the engineered channels.