Storms may delay park's reopening

LESTERVILLE, Mo. -- Winter storms and recent rains could delay the opening of Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park outside of Lesterville, Mo., according to the Park Hills Daily Journal.

The Department of Natural Resources wanted to open a section of the park for swimming from Memorial Day weekend until Labor Day.

But due to snow and rain, construction has not progressed as planned on a new trail and boardwalk that would be accessible to people with disabilities. Weather conditions also hindered installation of underground utility lines.

The state park was damaged by the Taum Sauk reservoir breach in December 2005.