Much work needs to be done before Big Spring Lodge and Cabins at Ozark National Scenic Riverways can fully reopen for guests/NPS

Too few dollars and too many needs at Ozark National Scenic Riverways in Missouri means it will be some time before Big Spring Lodge and Cabins fully reopens for guests, according to the National Park Service.

The lodge has been closed since late 2014 due to extensive deterioration "caused by decades of use and deferred maintenance," the agency said. Key among the needs are some health and safety repairs, it added.

While the Park Service wants to reopen the lodge, "it appears the major funding needed to restore the lodge and cabin buildings is still some years away."

In a release this week, the Park Service said that, "(B)ecause of the historical significance of the Big Spring Lodge and Cabins, planning and design work to make modifications and improvements to the structures and surrounding landscape is a very complex process. Just as the original construction was a lengthy task, restoration of those same structures will require similar care and attention. The Big Spring Historic District, of which the buildings are a key component, is on the National Register of Historic Places. Planning, including architectural and engineering design for several of the projects has been underway for some time, and a schedule for completion of each of the major projects has been tentatively established."

That tentative schedule calls for:

* Summer 2016: Flood damage repair work on Big Spring Bridge, ensuring safe bridge operation until the bridge is replaced. Flood damage repair of the Big Spring Picnic Shelter.

* July 2016: Begin the complex process of development of a short-term, temporary concession contract to re-open Big Spring Lodge and Cabins in May 2017 with basic dining and lodging services. During construction activities, portions of the facilities may need to be closed.

* August 2016: Work begins on development of a new long-term concession contract prospectus for operation of Big Spring Lodge and Cabins.

* October 2016: Completion of the Cultural Landscape Report for the Big Spring area, which is required before restoration work on the Lodge and Cabins can begin.

* August 2017: Construction begins for the replacement of failing Big Spring area electrical and sewer systems.

* September 2017: Replacement of the Big Spring Bridge begins.

* September 2018: Replacement of electrical and sewer systems complete.

* September 2018: Big Spring area water system replacement begins.

* Summer of 2018: Completion of Big Spring Bridge replacement.

* 2019 and 2020: Construction begins to rehabilitate the Big Spring Lodge and Cabins. Completion date to be determined.

* 2020: Begin construction to stabilize and restore two stone retaining walls, stone walkways, boat ramp, and benches damaged from repeated flood events. Completion date to be determined.

“We understand and share the frustration felt by many of our visitors over the closure of the Big Spring Lodge and Cabins. There is great passion for this place, as both a traditional destination and a significant part of the local heritage," said Riverways Superintendent Larry Johnson. "It is our intention to bring back the former glory and popularity of the Big Spring area, which includes getting the Lodge and Cabins back in operation as soon as possible. We ask for your continued patience as we work through the complex planning and funding process.”