In February 2021, Wold partnered with Kueny Architects for the design of the expansion and renovation of the existing Waukesha County Courthouse. The scope of the 151,000 square-foot project encompassed a full gut-job of the original 1959 structure, including partial demolition of the building’s north-south wing to accommodate a building addition that supports new, modern courtrooms designed to meet the National Center for State Courts standards.
On September 12, 2023, Waukesha County held a "wall-breaking" ceremony to kick-off the construction of the project. Members of the Kueny-Wold team were on hand along with Gilbane to celebrate as representatives from the County Board of Supervisors, County Administration, and the Waukesha Circuit Courts marked the occasion. The nearly $105M project was under construction for four years.
Significant phasing and construction sequencing was required to ensure continued operations of the facility throughout construction. Temporary systems were established, and departments shifted in anticipation of the initial phase.
The renovated and expanded facility supports five hearing rooms, seven courtrooms, two juvenile hearing rooms, and one juvenile courtroom. New Circuit Clerk Services, District Attorney, and Information Technology office suites provide improved staff efficiency and public service interactions. The facility accomplishes full three-way separation of circulation for public, court professionals (judiciary and staff), and in-custody persons.
A new combined building entrance for the courthouse and adjoining Administrative Center was constructed, as well as a new County Board Room.