Marking the observance of Forensic Science Week, the Healey-Driscoll Administration has announced plans to establish a new high-tech Crime Laboratory in Marlborough. The Commonwealth's Massachusetts State Police, in collaboration with the Division of Capital Asset Management and Maintenance (DCAMM), has chosen Greatland Realty Partners to develop the modern facility, as stated in recent news from the administration and published Massachusetts Government.
Spanning about 200,000 square feet, the facility's future site at 100 Martinangelo Drive was authorized under a 20-year lease term, with options to extend, designed to accelerate the delivery time by several years, compared to traditional public construction methods. The consolidation of the Maynard and Sudbury crime labs into this Marlborough location will not only bring more than 250 employees under one roof but also provide ample space for expansion. "Massachusetts is a national leader in forensic science," Terrence Reidy, the Secretary of Public Safety and Security, said in a statement obtained by Massachusetts Government.
Construction is slated to kick off in early 2026, with the opening of the Crime Lab anticipated in the first quarter of 2028. The facility aims to meet LEED Silver standards, aligning with the Massachusetts commitment to sustainability, and will offer brand-new systems and secure privacy courtesy of its set-back location. "This purpose-built facility has been made possible by the strong collaboration," Reidy emphasized to Massachusetts Government.
Accessibility, proximity to major highways, and the potential for job creation influenced the decision to choose the Marlborough site. Moreover, Mayor J. Christian Dumais told Mass.gov about the positive impact of the collaboration between state and local governments: "Our crime lab professionals play a vital role in investigations across Massachusetts," said Colonel Geoff Noble, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police, recognizing the unsung efforts of lab workers who provide critical scientific analysis for crime-solving, according to Massachusetts Government.
The Massachusetts State Police Crime Laboratory currently operates nine facilities and tackles a range of forensic disciplines. Their work includes not just lab testing but also crime scene response and expert testimonies. They recently maintained their national accreditation, showcasing their commitment to forensic excellence. As the new lab takes shape, it stands as a testament to the Commonwealth's dedication to science, justice, and innovation in public safety. "We are delighted to welcome this important public safety facility and its employees to Marlborough," Mayor Dumais said to Massachusetts Government, indicating the potential benefits for the local community and economy.
