In 1917, canal engineers realized Erie Barge Canal docks along the Genesee River would not be ready for the opening on May 15, 1918. The Junction Lock was hurriedly constructed to allow boats to continue using the Enlarged Erie Canal through Rochester. The earthen walls of this section of the old canal were raised 3 feet, and concrete abutments were built at each end to hold wooden gates. On the north side, a wooden walkway supported by 2 stone-filled cribs was built between the abutments to secure boats while locking through.