Muddy wet conditions challenge West Liberty Labor Day Festival

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Muddy, wet conditions at West Liberty Lions Club Park are creating challenges for festival-goers on Sunday following significant rainfall and flooding that affected the grounds Saturday.

The West Liberty Lions Club is strongly encouraging festival-goers not to park at the park.

Instead, visitors are asked to use parking available at area churches and take advantage of the trolley service.

The park remains muddy in areas, making on-site parking difficult.

Organizers are extending trolley hours Sunday to accommodate festival-goers following the evening concert.

For those who must drive directly to the park, organizers are asking visitors to use the main State Route 245 entrance only.

The Lions Club thanked everyone for their patience and understanding Saturday as organizers worked to keep the festival going despite the conditions Mother Nature brought to the area.

The flooding also prompted a public safety warning from the West Liberty Police Department Saturday.

Police asked residents and visitors to stay out of the river and open water located at and around the park.

Police said the area received a significant amount of rainfall overnight, with additional rain possible.

As a result, water levels were rising, and the current was much stronger and faster than it may appear.

The department urged people to avoid entering or attempting to cross open water and to give the river and flooded areas plenty of space.

The West Liberty Labor Day Festival continues through Monday, with numerous activities planned throughout the holiday weekend. Organizers will continue monitoring conditions and providing updates as needed.