In February 2021, Wold began partnering with Kueny Architects for the design of expansion and renovation of the existing Waukesha County courthouse. The scope of the 151,000 square foot project encompasses 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 will support new, modern courtrooms designed to meet 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 will be under construction for the next four years.
Significant phasing and construction sequencing is required to ensure continued operations of the facility throughout construction. Over the past few months, temporary systems have been established and departments shifted in anticipation of the initial phase. Demolition activities have now commenced.
When completed, the renovated and expanded facility will support five hearing rooms, seven courtrooms, two juvenile hearing rooms, and one juvenile courtroom. New Circuit Clerk Services, District Attorney, and Information Technology office suites will provide improved staff efficiency and public service interactions. The facility will accomplish 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 will be constructed, as well as a new County Board Room.