The City of Kenosha is ushering in a new era of growth and entrepreneurship with the Kenosha Innovation Center, a three-story, 64,000-square-foot business incubator and technology hub. As the anchor development within the $1 billion Kenosha Innovation Neighborhood (KIN), a transformative redevelopment of the former 107-acre Chrysler Engine Plant site, the KIC is designed to foster entrepreneurship, research, and innovation while creating lasting economic opportunities for the community.

Set for its grand opening in October 2025, the $23.5 million facility will provide tenant space, dry labs, maker spaces, and collaborative event areas for startups and innovators. Designed by Eppstein Uhen Architects (EUA) and constructed by Miron Construction, the center was funded through significant public investment, including a $14 million grant from the State of Wisconsin, federal stimulus funds, and local tax incremental financing.

Lee Mechanical’s Role

Under the leadership of Project Manager Adam DeBaere, Lee Mechanical delivered a comprehensive plumbing scope for the Innovation Center:

  • Sanitary & Storm Systems – Installed new underfloor and above-floor sanitary and storm piping.

  • Domestic Water & Gas – Provided new domestic water and gas piping systems, including a new water service connection for both domestic use and fire protection.

  • Model Integration – While not responsible for BIM coordination, Lee utilized the provided 3D model on iPads to improve installation efficiency and precision on site.

The Lee team consisted of three plumbers, one superintendent, one project manager, and a plumbing prefab specialist.

Overcoming Unique Challenges

This project was built on the former AMC factory grounds, where unstable soils and environmental contamination added layers of complexity. The foundations had to be deeper and oversized to support the structure, while contaminated soils required strict on-site mitigation. An extensive vapor barrier system was installed to control underground contaminants.

In addition, heavy foundation work delayed above-floor plumbing until the winter months. With the glass exterior unfinished, crews worked in sub-zero Wisconsin conditions. Concrete floors turned to ice, stairwells filled with snow, and extreme cold threatened tools and equipment. Lee’s plumbers adapted with ice cleats for mobility and heated coolers to keep batteries charged, ensuring progress stayed on track despite the elements.

Impact & Future

The Kenosha Innovation Center represents far more than just a building. It is a catalyst for economic development and innovation in Southeastern Wisconsin, offering a collaborative home for entrepreneurs, researchers, and startups.

For Lee Mechanical, this project underscores both technical expertise and resilience. By overcoming difficult site conditions and delivering reliable plumbing infrastructure, the team has helped lay the groundwork for Kenosha’s next generation of growth.