SAULT STE. MARIE (MPRN)-- Sault Ste. Marie is celebrating the Poe lock’s birthday. Officials say Michigan's largest lock turns 50 this year.
The lock was originally built in 1896, but the one visitors see today was built in 1969. Officials say the lock was rebuilt to be larger and deeper to move modern freighters through the Great Lakes.
Currently, the Poe transports 89 percent of boats that pass through the Soo locks. Officials say the lock also transports nearly all the iron ore used in the country.
Nick Nolan is with the Sault Ste. Marie Conventions and Visitor Bureau. He says the Poe has a big effect on businesses across the nation.
“On a local level as well as a national level it is pretty vital. It is a driving force for the U.S. Corps of Engineers here. It is where they put most of their time and effort because it is the only lock here that is capable of carrying freighters that are over 730 foot.”
Nolan says he is happy to see the Poe last this long and hopes he can celebrate more lock birthdays in the years to come.