The development of Gillett’s new campground, already slowed by the weather, experienced another delay recently when the excavator uncovered two, 300-gallon underground tanks at the site.
Although the tanks were empty, the Department of Natural Resources took samples of the soil nearby. Pending results of the soil samples, the worst-case scenario would be removing any contaminated soil and replacing it with new soil, said Rick Raatz, chairman of the ad hoc campground committee.
Since the only underground construction involves electrical and plumbing trenching, Raatz was hopeful that soil replacement would not be required.
Gillett’s Community Development Authority is developing the 20-site Nicolet Trail Campground on Washington Street to cater to ATV enthusiasts and others who use the Nicolet State Trail.
A late spring and wet weather delayed the opening of the campground, originally projected for July. Raatz said the excavator was late getting to the site because of weather delays on other projects.
Despite these delays, other aspects of the project are moving forward. The fire pits are ready to go in, and the picnic tables are being built. The excavator is scheduled to return to the site to finish the road, landscaping and berm work.
“The project is back on schedule,” Raatz said. “I’m hoping we’re ready by Aug. 1.”
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