FRANKLIN FURNACE — The Greenup Locks and Dam extension project received $448,000 in federal stimulus monies to assist in lengthening the waterway’s 600-foot auxiliary chamber.

Secured this week by U.S. Rep. Charlie Wilson, (OH-6), the financial boost is intended to help in the construction of a second 1,200-foot chamber.

Currently the dam has only one full sized chamber and the 600-foot auxiliary. The current configuration results in delays for barges attempting to navigate through the locks.

The funding, allocated through the Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act, is part of $1.3 million Wilson’s district received.

“I’m proud to have secured nearly $1.3 million in funding for my district,” Wilson said. “We are creating jobs, spurring local economies, and working to meet the infrastructure, commercial, and transportation needs of Ohio’s Sixth District.”

“While we are making these excellent investments, we are also looking closely at every line of our budget to eliminate and cut programs that don’t work,” Wilson added. “This reduces our deficit spending and puts us on a path toward fiscal responsibility.”

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is overseeing the expansion project.