Construction of the Golden Meadow floodgate began in 1982 with completion in 1986.  The floodgate, which is located in Bayou Lafourche approximately 2 miles south of the Town of Golden Meadow, has an elevation of +13 ft., a gate width of 56 ft and gate depth of -13.8 ft.

     The floodgate was not sufficient to serve the boating community and was to be converted into a lock.  After many delays Phase 1 of the three-phase  project began in 2002.  This first phase involved planning and design of the lock itself.  Phase 2 consisted of constructing a pre-cast barge which weighed 2,952 tons and measured 136 ft. long, 55 ft. wide, and 30.5 ft. high.  The opening for boat traffic is 60 ft. wide.  The barge was 75% State funded and 25% local funds.  Also included in the 2nd phase are two steel sector gates, weighing 60 tons each.  The gates were 100% locally funded.

     The third and final phase is the completion of the lock itself and is now complete.  This phase has joined the existing floodgate with the new construction forming the lock.  The distance between the two is approximately 400 ft.  Completion is expected to cost just under $19M with $18M being State funded.

     The lock will now allow a greater amount of marine traffic to reach safety from approaching hurricanes.  In non hurricane times it will ensure a protected water access to Port Fourchon and LOOP from the Intracoastal Canal.  The Port receives 50% of its cargo through Bayou Lafourche and the floodgates.  The completion of the lock is a great asset to the boating community and industry alike.