The Alliant Energy Center (AEC) in Madison, Wisconsin, is well-known as a premier multi-building event space, hosting over 500 events annually. However, the 30,000-square-foot Pavilion Plaza, located between the New Holland Pavilion and the Arena/Coliseum, including the East Expo Mall, had become outdated and lacked modern amenities. Recognizing the need for revitalization, General Engineering Company (GEC) eagerly stepped in to support AEC’s efforts to modernize the Pavilion Plaza.
GEC provided a range of essential services, including site plan design, construction inspection, structural design, and topographical analysis. One significant aspect of GEC’s work was redesigning the sewer and water connections to better accommodate food trucks, enhancing the pavilion space as a central gathering area on the AEC campus. Additionally, GEC designed a new retaining wall that doubles as a sitting area for guests.
These crucial improvements were made possible by a $3.2 million American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Tourism Grant from the State of Wisconsin, awarded in 2022. The grant aimed to support agricultural activities and enhance the facilities within the Alliant Energy Center’s multi-building spaces.
The revitalized Pavilion Plaza now features modern amenities that elevate the visitor experience, transforming it into a vibrant hub for various events, including the World Dairy Expo, Midwest Horse Fair, CrossFit Games, and more. With its enhanced infrastructure, the Pavilion Plaza can seamlessly host events ranging from food truck festivals to large-scale agricultural exhibitions.
The AEC Pavilion Plaza project exemplifies innovative engineering solutions that transform community spaces. The updated Pavilion Plaza not only enriches the AEC campus but also ensures that AEC remains a premier event destination.
The Alliant Energy Pavilion Plaza before the renovations:
During construction:
Completed project, and ribbon-cutting:
General Engineering Company (GEC) had the pleasure of assisting the Wilderness Resort in Wisconsin Dells, WI, with a creative and unique project: the Aquavia Lumina, an enchanted night walk through a natural canyon of wonders. GEC has partnered with the Wilderness Resort since 1996, and this project marked another successful collaboration, utilizing our expertise in civil and structural engineering, including surveying.
The illuminated night walk offered many challenges and introduced unique concepts to the plans and designs. One constant throughout the project was the commitment to preserving the natural beauty of the area. The Wisconsin Dells area is renowned for its natural sandstone features with the way the land curves and cuts into the landscape. Leveraging the natural beauty was a simple choice, guiding the path that would lead night-walk goers through the canyon. This is where GEC’s services were called upon, and our team got to work.
Our survey team began by staking spots along the proposed pathway identified by the Wilderness crew. Each location was surveyed, determining approximate positions for bridges and structures. After receiving approval from the Wilderness crew, a detailed tree survey was conducted, mapping the location, size, and species of each tree along the path and surrounding areas. Additionally, our survey team conducted wetland delineations, ensuring markings for our civil and structural teams to design the pathway.
Once the path components were established, our civil team focused on securing permits for the project. Working with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR), we obtained permits for waterway crossings, wetland disturbances, and erosion control, essential due to the terrain’s natural spring system. To address the WDNR’s concerns about vegetation, they proposed a special seed mix to help the vegetation thrive in the deep canyon areas. Our structural team demonstrated creativity in designing bridge structures over wetland areas. In certain locations, rock formations required the bridge columns and abutments to be pinned to the rocks, rather than blasting and disturbing the wetland landscape.
Gabion baskets, which are large chicken wire baskets filled with rocks, were used to prevent erosion, and keep the stream beds stabilized. Our civil team performed extensive field fitting due to the tree coverage and natural environment, making it impossible to survey every point. Afterward, a walkthrough was performed with our team and the local fire department to review and ensure emergency access areas along the path, and that structures were designed large enough to accommodate utility vehicles, ensuring they could pass through the pathway.
The constructability of the project was unique and challenging since materials and equipment had to be transported into the canyon. Due to the terrain and trees, nothing larger than 24 feet could be designed, as the maximum beam size was limited to 24 feet. The conditions prevented dropping materials and equipment into the canyon. Additionally, a 10×10 box culvert, created out of concrete, was constructed for the pathway tunnel, adding to the complexity of the project.
Another unique aspect of this project was the utilization and cost-saving measure of Structure 9, which involved relocating an existing 100-foot-long bridge towards the final section of the walkway path. This relocation not only preserved resources but also ends the illuminated walk through an amazing final feature.
Drawing on our longstanding partnership with the Wilderness Resort, our team referenced past GEC designs from the 1990s and early 2000s, replicating the design for the present bridge abutment structures. Additionally, the stormwater pond designs at the pathway’s start and end locations, originally created in the early 2000s, were allowed to remain unchanged for this project, showcasing our client familiarity, expertise, and quality of past work.
The Aquavia Lumina project is a testament to GEC’s dedication to innovation and the preservation of natural beauty. Our collaborative efforts with the Wilderness Resort resulted in a magical night walk experience, blending engineering excellence with the stunning landscapes of the Wisconsin Dells.
Additional Notes About the Project:
- Throughout this project, GEC collaborated closely with Moment Factory, Creative Works, Inc., and Architectural Design Consultants, Inc. (ADCI). Moment Factory is a multimedia company specializing in immersive environments. Creative Works, Inc. is a full-service firm that designs, fabricates and installs immersive experiences. ADCI, headquartered in the Wisconsin Dells, focuses on architectural design, interiors, and construction administration. These partnerships were integral in merging the creative and engineering aspects of the night walk, ensuring a seamless and captivating experience for visitors.
- The total path length of the project was 4,500 feet, stretching from the pavilion and back, covering a total space of 2 acres.
During Construction Images
The Aquavia Lumina
As we begin another new school year, General Engineering Company (GEC) reflects on our summer interns as they wrap up their time with us and return to their studies. We had the pleasure of hosting three interns, each bringing unique skills and acquiring new ones throughout the summer.
GEC aims to provide interns with as much hands-on experience as possible, providing them with valuable skills and knowledge to carry into their careers after graduation. Our company appreciates the fresh perspectives and ideas they contribute to our projects, fostering a collaborative environment. As we know, the summer always goes too fast, and although we are saddened to see our interns go, we know that they will take what they have learned professionally and personally beyond these office walls.
Our 2024 summer interns:
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Profile 1: Lucas
Lucas interned with our survey department, where he assisted with fieldwork and data collection. This fall, he will return to Madison College to continue his studies in Civil Engineering Technology.
During his summer internship with GEC, Lucas gained new skills and deepened his understanding of the lessons from his coursework. Reflecting on his experience, he shared, “I developed many new skills that will help me along the way. I found the work very impactful and meaningful.”
One of Lucas’s responsibilities during his internship was staking locations for sidewalks and curbs before they were poured. He remarked, “There was pressure to get it exactly right, and I took that responsibility seriously to ensure it was accurate.”
When asked what advice he would offer others, Lucas said, “My advice is to always do your best and learn as much as you can, especially if you’re continuing your education.”
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Profile 2: Isabelle
Isabelle worked closely with our civil municipal team, gaining valuable experience in drafting, report writing, surveying, and more. She will be returning to UW-Madison this fall to continue her studies.
Isabelle found her internship work meaningful, particularly because of the interactions she had with local residents while on-site surveying. She enjoyed hearing their appreciation for the neighborhood improvements being made, and she felt rewarded for the positive impact she and GEC were contributing to. Throughout her internship, Isabelle worked on various aspects of projects, from collecting data for road projects to drafting plans. She said, “Seeing the project firsthand as it took shape was incredibly rewarding.” She added, “I didn’t expect the variety of work or how involved I would feel. I got to contribute to nearly every aspect of a project, which allowed me to develop far more skills than I anticipated.”
One significant takeaway from Isabelle’s internship at GEC was how much she valued seeing her work in person and connecting with the project site. She stated, “That’s something I now know I want to prioritize in my full-time career.”
What advice would Isabelle give to others? “Stay curious and eager to learn. Working closely with an experienced engineer is a huge opportunity,” she said. She also encourages others, “Don’t be afraid to ask questions, even if you’re unsure or worried about sounding inexperienced.”
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Profile 3: Adam
Adam was stationed with our structural team, learning about designing braced walls, beams, columns, and more during the summer. He attends UW-Platteville and is about to complete his final year.
We asked Adam what he enjoyed most about his internship with GEC, and he responded, “I enjoyed having the ability to learn about what I will be taught in college prior to taking the classes and getting to meet others in the structural group.”
During his internship, Adam acquired new skills, such as working with various CAD programs, including one not currently taught in college. Reflecting on his experience, he noted, “I learned how houses are basically built, from framing and roofing to the foundation.”
Adam shared that the internship has had an influence on him and will push him to become a better engineer. Before concluding his internship, we also asked him for advice for other students considering an internship. He responded, “Try to get into an internship as soon as possible, and learn as much as possible while on the job because it will help you out down the road.”
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As we conclude, we wish Lucas, Isabelle, and Adam all the best of luck with their studies. We thank them for their contributions and impact during their time here, and the value they held this summer while interning with GEC.
General Engineering Company (GEC) participated in the groundbreaking ceremony for the Manufacturing Residence Hall (MRH)-Portage housing project in Portage, WI on Tuesday, March 19. Collaborating with the City of Portage, Manufacturing Resident Hall (MRH), and Holtz Builders, GEC is enthusiastic about its involvement in this Affordable Workforce Housing initiative. While accessible to all, the project primarily aims to address the housing needs of manufacturing employees in the area.
The project comprises multiple phases. The first phase involves the construction of three 3-story multifamily dormitory-style buildings, providing a total of 81 units. Each unit will accommodate two residents and feature a full bathroom, microwave, and fridge. Additionally, each floor will offer a communal kitchen space. The buildings will be equipped with 24-hour on-site management, ensuring security around the clock.
Future phases will consist of up to two more dormitory buildings along with five traditional-style apartment buildings. Each apartment building will comprise of 16 units, with one- and two-bedroom units.
The MRH-Portage housing project marks the 6th collaboration between GEC, IRH/MRH, and Holtz Builders. Other notable locations where GEC has contributed its services include Dollywood in Pigeon Falls, TN, Silver Dollar City in Branson West, MO, Big Cedar Lodge in Ridgedale, MO, Foley, AL (adjacent to Gulf Shores), and Myrtle Beach, SC.
Since the retirement of Surveyor, Mark Carlson, PLS, GEC has acknowledged the need to continue to provide legal surveying services to our clients. Because of that, we could not be more excited to announce the recent additions we have made to our Team.
First, Dawn Horacek, Survey Project Manager, has joined the GEC team, bringing with her more than 15 years’ experience in surveying. Some of Dawn’s specialties include ALTA/ACSM Land Title Surveys, Major & Minor Subdivision Plats, Construction Layout Staking, Route Surveying, Control Network Analysis, Boundary & Topographic Surveys, FEMA Elevation Certificates, Mortgage Surveys, and Title Research.
Second, GEC has recently acquired Green Lake Surveying in Green Lake, WI. Don Lenz, PLS, owner of Green Lake Surveying, and his wife, Jeanne, will now be part of our General Engineering family. GLS has been in business since 1980, with Don becoming the owner in 2006. Jeanne Lenz has been working side by side with Don since 2006, and will be invaluable as we move forward.
Don has over 30 years of experience as a surveyor becoming licensed in 1989. His expertise lies in all legal surveying needs; ALTA/ACSM Land Title Surveys, Boundary Surveys, Certificate of Survey Maps, Certified Survey Maps, Subdivision Plats, and Condominium Plats.
Mr. Lenz has won several awards from the Statewide Mapping Contest held by the Wisconsin Society of Land Surveyors. He is a member of the Wisconsin Society of Land Surveyors, the Society of Southeastern Wisconsin Land Surveyors (Milwaukee Chapter Past President), and the American Congress of Surveying and Mapping. Don also serves as a Green Lake County Board Supervisor and the Green Lake County Land Surveyor.
We look forward to being able to serve our GEC clients, and now our Green Lake Surveying clients, with our surveying and engineering services for years to come.

General Engineering Company congratulates our newest Professional Engineer, Jim Nellessen. Nellessen joined GEC in early 2015 after graduation from UW-Platteville. He works in the structural engineering department and has proficiency in beam, column, and foundation designs for both residential and commercial projects.
Jim has worked on a variety of projects including a high school addition, dam rehabilitations, commercial truss designs, waterslide tower designs and inspections, adventure course structure designs and inspections, building foundation analyses, and retaining wall designs.