Construction is officially underway on Arkansas’ new State Crime Laboratory, marking a major investment in public safety and forensic science. The groundbreaking ceremony took place Friday, June 6, in North Little Rock on a nearly 19-acre site acquired by the Department of Public Safety (DPS) last year.

“The opportunity to build a new Arkansas State Crime Laboratory is truly once in a lifetime – a moment that will shape the future of forensic science in our state for decades,” said ASCL Director Dr. Theodore Brown. “We understand the critical role our laboratory has on the lives of Arkansans we serve, often during their most difficult and vulnerable moments.”

The new 190,000-square-foot lab will feature cutting-edge forensic equipment and infrastructure to support a wide range of services including toxicology, drug and DNA analysis, forensic pathology, latent fingerprint identification, ballistics, and digital forensics. Officials say the lab will play a central role in solving crimes faster and with greater accuracy.

“This new facility represents more than just a building; it’s a commitment to delivering timely, accurate, and reliable forensic science,” Brown added. “Our team is dedicated to meeting the highest standards of science, quality, and service, and we are confident that the new laboratory will not only support our mission – it will elevate it.”

The project is valued at $200 million and is being constructed by Nabholz Construction, with architectural design led by WER Architects. Completion is slated for 2027.

In April 2024, the state purchased the land between 5301 Northshore Drive and 5300 Northshore Cove for $4.095 million. The Arkansas Legislative Council approved funding for the acquisition earlier that year, signaling the legislature’s support for modernizing the state’s forensic capabilities.

“We understand that many people hope they never have to rely on the criminal justice system, but if the need arises, it’s vital that they can trust it to serve them effectively,” said Arkansas Public Safety Secretary Col. Mike Hagar. “Our goal is to ensure that our citizens feel supported and know that we are committed to making the necessary investments to provide the best possible service. We truly believe that this facility will help us achieve that mission.”

Founded in 1981, the existing Arkansas State Crime Lab has served law enforcement for over 40 years but has reached its operational capacity. The new facility aims to alleviate that strain while also preparing the state to handle an increasing volume and complexity of forensic evidence in the years ahead.

In addition to its role in criminal investigations, the lab provides critical forensic death investigations, assisting medical examiners and law enforcement agencies across Arkansas. With rising demand for these services, officials see the new lab as a much-needed expansion that will ensure both speed and accuracy in the state’s forensic operations.

Originally reported by Magnolia Reporter.