MARLBOROUGH, Mass. – Massachusetts will soon see the construction of a major new public safety facility, as state leaders confirmed plans to begin building a $200 million Massachusetts State Police Crime Laboratory (MSPCL) in Marlborough in early 2026.
The announcement, timed to coincide with Forensic Science Week, underscores the administration of Gov. Maura Healey and Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll’s commitment to strengthening forensic science infrastructure across the state. The project is being managed by the Division of Capital Asset Management and Maintenance (DCAMM) and the Massachusetts State Police, in partnership with Greatland Realty Partners, a Boston-based developer with experience in laboratory and life science projects.
Located at 100 Martinangelo Drive, the four-story, 200,000-square-foot facility will consolidate the state’s existing crime labs in Sudbury and Maynard into one modern site. The new lab is projected to open in the first quarter of 2028, housing 300 permanent jobs, including 50 newly created positions.
Marlborough officials praised the project’s long-term benefits.
“We are delighted to welcome this important public safety facility and its employees to Marlborough,” said Mayor J. Christian Dumais. “When state and local governments work together, the outcomes are always stronger. I look forward to partnering with both Greatland and state officials to ensure this project delivers meaningful economic, workforce and community benefits for our city.”
The development was further supported by a 20-year Tax Increment Financing (TIF) agreement, which the Marlborough City Council approved in June. The deal provides tax incentives to Greatland while boosting local development. “I want to stand on my desk and clap,” said Ward 1 Councilor Mike Vital. “We’re the envy of the area.”
State leaders emphasized the project’s importance for public safety and justice.
“Our crime lab professionals play a vital role in investigations across Massachusetts. We're incredibly proud of their behind-the-scenes work and their deep commitment to delivering unbiased, science-based evidence to inform investigations and detect crime patterns,” said Col. Geoff Noble, superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police. “This new cutting-edge crime lab will enhance our ability to uphold national standards of forensic excellence, support law enforcement statewide and provide justice for victims and families.”
Public Safety and Security Secretary Terrence Reidy added:
“Massachusetts is a national leader in forensic science. Beyond the critical infrastructure, this project represents our continued commitment to scientific excellence, justice and public safety innovation. This purpose-built facility has been made possible by the strong collaboration between State Police, DCAMM and Greatland Realty Partners. I want to thank everyone involved for their continued partnership as this vision becomes a reality.”
DCAMM Commissioner Adam Baacke noted the lab reflects the state’s broader mission:
“This project is a great creative example of DCAMM's commitment to assisting the Commonwealth's agencies in obtaining modern, high-performing facilities that support the vital public services they provide to their constituents.”
The new lab will be designed to meet LEED Silver standards, comply with the latest Massachusetts energy codes, and prioritize sustainability. Its location—set back for security and privacy—was chosen for accessibility to major highways, supporting regional connectivity.
Greatland Realty Partners Managing Principal Kevin Sheehan said:
“Greatland is pleased to partner with the state in developing the new Massachusetts State Police Crime Laboratory. Marlborough is an outstanding location in a business-friendly community, with access to major transportation arteries. We look forward to delivering this critical public safety facility, and an ongoing partnership with the Commonwealth and the City of Marlborough.”
The MSPCL already operates nine locations statewide, providing services such as DNA analysis, drug chemistry, toxicology, firearms testing, arson investigations, and forensic testimony. Its professionals also maintain breath alcohol testing devices and manage DNA samples for the national database.
In 2022, the lab earned renewal of its accreditation from the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB), demonstrating compliance with international forensic standards. The MSPCL will again seek renewal in 2026, ensuring continuity of its high standards during the transition into the new facility.
With construction set to begin in 2026, the project is expected to create jobs, consolidate operations, and reinforce Massachusetts’ position as a national leader in forensic science.
Originally reported by Construction Equipment Guide.