Groundbreaking efforts are underway for the $29 million Tri-County Biological Science Center in North Charleston, marking the first project of its kind in South Carolina. This state-of-the-art facility, a joint venture of Charleston, Berkeley, and Dorchester County leaders is set to revolutionize the forensic analysis process in the region.
The 21,480 square-foot center, located at 3765 Leeds Ave., North Charleston, is an ambitious undertaking aimed at streamlining the local forensic analysis process and greatly reducing DNA processing times. The facility constitutes the first regional collaboration on DNA testing in the state’s history. When completed, the facility will offer extensive laboratory and office space for forensic biology analysis, executive offices, and secure storage for evidence.
In addition to housing sophisticated DNA testing capabilities, the center will also render services such as the examination of physical evidence for law enforcement agencies, assistance in identifying bodily remains for coroners’ offices, and provision of expert testimonies to the justice system.
Potential Impact of the Center
The all-encompassing nature of the services provided by the Tri-County Biological Science Center intends to tackle current inefficiencies and delays in forensic analysis whilst offering improved resources. In essence, the establishment of the center represents a strategic effort to enhance public safety and streamline the judicial process.
Charleston County Public Safety Chair Jenny Costa Honeycutt expressed her optimism about the center’s potential saying, “This cutting-edge facility and the outstanding team tapped to run it will transform the forensic analysis process in the tri-county region. That means increased resources, streamlined processes, and a reduced turnaround times, all of which will help keep our communities safe and enhance our justice system.”
Projected Timeline and Partnership
Construction of the Tri-County Biological Science Center is slated for completion in the 4th quarter of 2025. Following completion, the facility will commence a two-year accreditation process. The total project budget approved by Charleston County Council stands at $29 million.
Eric Watson, deputy county administrator for public safety, emphasized the historic nature of this day, not just for the tri-county region, but for the whole of South Carolina. He expressed gratitude for the dedicated partners who shared in their vision and understanding of regional forensic analysis needs. Watson added, “Their continued commitment underscores the importance of this project and the need for collaboration to improve the criminal justice process.”
This center underlines the commitment of North Charleston and the tri-county region to invest in technological advancements and solutions for the betterment of public safety and the justice system. With its primed location and state-of-the-art infrastructure, the Tri-County Biological Science Center is poised to become an epicenter of forensic biology analysis, supporting both the law enforcement agencies and the judicial system in South Carolina.
