SEATTLE -- The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Seattle District, is seeking public input for updating the Lake Washington Ship Canal (LWSC) Master Plan. The plan includes land management of Corps properties at the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks (Ballard Locks) and along the Lake Washington Ship Canal.
During the scoping period for master plan’s environmental assessment – June 1 through July 31– the public is encouraged to submit ideas and comments regarding management of natural and recreational resources that should be included in the Master Plan. Comments may be submitted via email at: LWSC.masterplan@usace.army.mil
With the current limitations on how information can be distributed due to the COVID-19 public health crises, the public is highly encouraged to review the information available on the LWSC Master Plan webpage at: https://www.nws.usace.army.mil/Home/Master-Plans/LWSC-Master-Plan.
The focus of the LWSC Master Plan revision is tied to the Natural Resources Management Program of the Corps of Engineers. We are accepting public comments on our Recreation, Cultural/Historic Resources and Natural Resources Management programs at LWSC. This plan will not encompass the navigation mission at the LWSC.
Topics in the master plan include:
- Carl S. English Botanical Garden
- Visitor Center
- Fish Ladder viewing Area
- Recreation Management
- Cultural/Historic Properties Management
- Public tours
- Public Use
- Partners
- Commuters
- Special events
- Special use permits
- Facilities
The current Master Plan was approved approximately 20 years ago and must be brought up-to-date. While the overall purpose and running of the Locks and its land has not changed, the Master Plan is a tool for the responsible stewardship of the natural and cultural resources within the area of responsibility of the LWSC. Over the past couple of decades, there have been natural changes to the existing project conditions, the zone of influence, and new special issues and unique concerns identified. The purpose of the Master Plan revision is to reflect the current project conditions and provide the projected future conditions of the project.
“We are looking for public input applicable to land use and outdoor recreation,” said the LWSC Master Plan project manager Katherine Cousins. “The public’s comments are required and very valuable in drafting the updated plan.”
The Master Plan is scheduled for completion in September 2021.
Release no. 20-025