In the model room, one can appreciate the scope of the entire project.  The actual dam is on the left side.  On the right, you can see the system of locks to allow ships to pass.  In the center is a narrow channel with a skinny tower next to the dam -- that is the ship elevator.  The model represents an area about three miles across.  The project was begun in 1993 and will take nearly 17 years to complete.