Cheboygan Lock reopens after flood-driven two-month shutdown in Michigan

The Cheboygan Lock in Michigan has officially reopened after a two-month closure. Rising water levels in April led to its temporary shutdown, along with other boating access sites in the area. The reopening marks a return to normal operations for seasonal waterway traffic. In April, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer declared a state of emergency for Cheboygan County. The emergency followed rising water levels at the Cheboygan Lock and Dam Complex, forcing its closure. Scheduled repairs and new mechanical issues also contributed to the shutdown.

Water levels began to drop in mid-April, allowing work to progress. Sandbags used during the closure were removed once repairs finished. The lock reopened on Friday, joining the Garfield Road and Lincoln Street boating access sites, which also resumed operations that day. The Crooked River Lock in Emmet County reopened as well.

The Cheboygan Lock supports seasonal access for commercial and recreational vessels. It will remain open daily through 28 September, with adjusted hours until its seasonal closure on 21 October. Michigan DNR director Scott Bowen commended staff for their work in safeguarding people and property during the incident. The reopening restores access to the Inland Waterway for boats. Seasonal operations will continue until October, with daily openings until late September. The closure period allowed for necessary repairs and flood management measures.