Pinopolis Lock Reopens After Maintenance Closure

The lock connecting the Cooper River to Lake Moultrie was shut down for repairs earlier this year.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 8:54pm

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A textured oil painting in the style of Vincent Van Gogh, depicting a serene lakeside landscape with a small lock structure in the foreground, capturing the tranquil mood of the scene.The reopening of the Pinopolis Lock restores a vital connection between the Cooper River and Lake Moultrie, allowing boaters to resume their travels and recreational activities.Pinopolis Today

The Pinopolis Lock in Berkeley County, South Carolina, which connects the Cooper River to Lake Moultrie, has reopened after being closed for several months due to routine maintenance and unexpected repair issues. The closure had raised concerns among local boaters about difficulties traveling between the waterways and the impact on fishing activities.

Why it matters

The Pinopolis Lock is a critical piece of infrastructure that allows recreational and commercial boaters to move between the Cooper River and Lake Moultrie. Its closure disrupted travel and economic activity in the region, highlighting the importance of maintaining this aging but vital waterway connection.

The details

The initial closure of the Pinopolis Lock occurred in January 2026 for routine maintenance. However, in February, crews discovered unforeseen issues that required an extended shutdown to complete additional repairs. Santee Cooper, the state-owned utility that operates the lock, worked to resolve the problems and reopen the lock as quickly as possible.

  • The Pinopolis Lock was closed in January 2026 for routine maintenance.
  • In February 2026, the closure was extended to complete additional unexpected repairs.

The players

Santee Cooper

The state-owned utility that operates the Pinopolis Lock and the Santee Cooper Hydroelectric and Navigation Project, which the lock is a part of.

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What they’re saying

“We appreciate the public's patience and cooperation while the lock was closed.”

— Santee Cooper

The takeaway

The reopening of the Pinopolis Lock is a relief for local boaters and businesses that rely on the waterway connection, but it also highlights the ongoing need to maintain and invest in aging infrastructure to ensure reliable service and minimize disruptions.