WAUPACA, Wis. (WFRV) – A ribbon cutting for a new tunnel, that goes underground HWY E near Spencer Lake in Waupaca County, allows campers to travel safely, without having the risk of a camper getting hit, after a young camper in 2019 was struck by a truck, and had to get airlifted to Milwaukee.
Lilly Weiers returned to camp three weeks after and has continued to do so. In the wake of the accident, Spencer Lake Christian Center director Kent Falstad knew that something had to be done to prevent anything close to what happened to Lilly again.
Local lawmakers highlight $20 million investment into Port of Green Bay from 2025-26 State Budget
“I just couldn’t deal with if my daughter got struck by a vehicle like that, and knowing that there are things that could be done to avoid it,” says Falstad, “I am super proud that we are able to execute this project to avoid this happening to other families in the future.”
Kent dedicated the tunnel to Lilly, with metal art hanging on both sides of wild lily flowers, something Lilly’s father, Joseph, appreciated.
“The fact that Lilly touched Ken’s heart the way it did is very meaningful to us. It was a very interesting night, the night that it happened, as we are very grateful that we are here today.”
Watching the campers use the tunnel and then getting to walk through with his daughter, fully recovered and smiling from ear to ear, brought emotions to the forefront.
Bergstrom Automotive raises record $375,000 for Make-A-Wish Wisconsin
“It was emotional, I’ll say that it was emotional to know that seeing this project come to fruition, to see it get completed, is pretty significant for them,” says Joseph, “And for future generations that are going to experience this crosswalk is pretty amazing.”
Cutting the ribbon, all while smiling, making Lilly appreciate just how much the campground has meant to her, and her family.
“People who helped me out with my accident, I wouldn’t be here without Jesus, so I am very thankful,” says Lilly.
Wednesday was the first day the campers used the tunnel to cross between the camp and is set to be completed in about 12 to 13 weeks.
The entire project is set to cost around $1 million by the end of its completion.
