As part of the Main Street reconstruction project in downtown West Bend, Wisconsin, KL Engineering provided complete electrical design services for a wide range of public infrastructure improvements, including electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, LED street lighting, public Wi-Fi, streetscape audio, electrical kiosks, decorative power systems, and modifications to existing traffic signal infrastructure. The project modernized the downtown corridor through the implementation of advanced electrical technologies designed to improve connectivity, enhance the visitor experience, and support future community events.
A key component of the project was the design and implementation of public EV charging infrastructure. KL Engineering designed the electrical systems necessary to support two EV charging pedestals with charging capacity for up to four vehicles at each location. The project required extensive coordination with We Energies to participate in the utility’s EV pilot program, which provided reimbursement for eligible electrical service installation costs. The design team also coordinated EV charging infrastructure with existing streetscape improvements, lighting systems, communication technologies, and traffic signal modifications to ensure a cohesive and efficient electrical network throughout the corridor. KL further evaluated multiple charger ownership, operation, and maintenance models, helping the City identify a long-term solution that balanced operational responsibilities, user accessibility, and lifecycle costs. The completed project expanded public EV charging access while creating a technology-forward downtown environment that serves residents, visitors, and local businesses.
In addition, this project evaluated multiple alternatives for lighting unit selection, a new sound system, as well as City-provided public Wi-Fi. Heavy coordination was required between the City, the Board of Business Development, and various product manufacturers to ensure all alternative were properly examined so the client could receive the optimal solutions and installation.
CFI Grant Application
KL Engineering partnered with the City of West Bend to prepare a Round 2 Charging and Fueling Infrastructure (CFI) Community Grant application focused on expanding the City’s public EV charging network. Building upon the City’s existing charging infrastructure, the proposed project included the installation of DC Fast Charging stations at five strategic locations throughout the community, including the local high school, community college, a parking lot serving nearby multifamily housing, a museum, the Riverwalk Trail, and the Wild Goose Trail. KL Engineering assisted with site evaluation, infrastructure planning, and grant development to identify locations that would maximize charging accessibility and community benefit. While the application was not selected for funding during this grant cycle, the effort established a framework for future EV infrastructure expansion and demonstrated the City’s continued commitment to supporting transportation electrification.
