Corps Studying Remote Lock Operations
One of the more intriguing presentations at the Inland Waterways Users board meeting in Pittsburgh, Pa., April 13 concerned remote lock operations.
“Proven technology already exists,” said David Frantz, inland navigation program manager at Corps Headquarters. “Other nations are already remotely locking their inland waterways.”
The Corps has been studying remote lock operations for years. In 2021, a spokesperson said that remote lock operations would play an essential role in the Corps’ navigation mission in the future. According to Frantz’ charts, a “national assessment” phase will end this year, and a “regional analysis” phase will begin, with Phase 3 of implementation beginning in 2024. The regional analysis includes cost-benefit analyses and coordinating with stakeholders, as well as any possible staffing changes, infrastructure upgrades and addressing cyber risks.
A program delivery phase is already underway, as is a communication program to develop national standards and guidance. Implementation scenarios, with portfolios of possible changes, have been worked out for 192 lock sites. The scenarios include “status quo” or leaving operations as they are.
The benefits of remote lockage, he said, include modernizing Corps-operated locks; increasing resiliency; fostering continuity of operations; using common components; increasing workplace safety; and reducing operating costs. Frantz showed charts indicating that while operating six locks takes 66 employees today, in the future it might take only 12 staffers operating one control center, with a cost savings estimated at $3.3 million.
Frantz said not all locks can support remote operations. The Corps is committed to no involuntary separations due to a transition to remote operations, and to working closely with unions. He said money from the Inland Waterways Trust Fund would be used to implement the idea in new construction but not for retrofits. In response to a question from a Users Board member about what changes remote lock operation might bring for mariners, he said, “We haven’t identified anything yet that needs to change, but we are talking to industry about that.”
One remote center could control as many as six locks. If that happens, said Frantz, it would not be one person, but a rotation of three shifts at the control center. Furthermore, locks would still have maintenance crews. “It is not our intention to have a lock with nobody there,” he said. But, he added that the Corps must use labor efficiently. Some locks only have four transits a day. “It might make more sense to put some of that money into maintenance,” he said.
Frantz said he envisioned the transition to remote lock operations happening gradually, over a 30- to 50-year timetable. In some cases, remote operation could increase the working hours of locks. He said the Corps could apply lessons from remotely operated bridges. The Corps has also been remotely operating hydropower facilities with no incidents, he said.
