The Structural Engineers Association of Illinois (SEAOI) honored the Baird Center expansion with the Best Neighboring State Project award at its 2025 Excellence in Structural Engineering Awards. This annual competition celebrates innovative structural design and contributions that advance the profession.

GRAEF provided structural engineering services for the $456 million expansion, part of the Wisconsin Center District in downtown Milwaukee. Completed in May 2024, the project included lowering the exhibit floor, cantilevering the hall over a sidewalk, and constructing a full-height truss system. A column-free ballroom was also added above, supported by deep steel trusses and transfer girders—transforming the decades-old facility into a modern, large-scale event venue.

These changes addressed major engineering challenges while transforming the center into a state-of-the-art venue while preserving its functionality and architectural integrity.

Learn more about the Baird Center Expansion.