FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: John Hall

New Orleans lock to get big crane

NEW ORLEANS --

What: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers installs new emergency crane with 120-foot boom. Installing this red, Manitowoc crane is the climax of a major construction effort. Cost, $2.1 million.

Where: Industrial Canal Lock at St. Claude Avenue. Enter at 4635 Urquhart Avenue, New Orleans.

When: 9 a.m. to noon, Thursday, March 23. During this period, we hope to install the main section. Time is subject to change, as this involves marine operations. Please call before coming.

How: A derrick barge operated by E.N. Bisso & Son Inc., New Orleans, will install the crane from the Industrial Canal.

Why: The original emergency crane, in service from 1921 until its recent removal, was obsolete and did not have modern safety features. If emergency closure of the lock is ever necessary, we don't want anyone hurt or anything dropped while emplacing the 90-ton "stop logs."

Lock status reports: issued daily for locks and flood-control structures on the Web site of the New Orleans District at www.mvn.usace.army.mil. Click on the "navigation" button.

(END)