A major leap in public health infrastructure is taking shape in Providence, as construction continues on Rhode Island’s new state health laboratories at 150 Richmond Street.

The upgraded facility will offer 80,000 square feet of space—20% to 30% more room than the state’s current labs at Orms Street—enabling more efficient work and greater flexibility for staff.

Designed to support a wide array of critical functions, the new lab will serve as a hub for forensics, environmental sciences, clinical toxicology, and infectious disease response.

“This new space will allow the lab’s staff to work in a more comfortable setting and give them flexibility, as well as setting the labs up for the future,” officials said during a tour of the facility.

Gov. Dan McKee, flanked by media and public health officials, toured the construction site on June 24, signaling the administration’s commitment to upgrading public health readiness across the state.

The new facility is being built with future resilience in mind—anticipating emerging public health needs like pandemic preparedness, water and air quality monitoring, and advanced disease diagnostics.

Images from the site show construction crews installing critical infrastructure, including ventilation systems, lab cabinetry, and utility piping, as well as blueprints outlining the expanded workspace layout.

Inside the lab spaces, new cabinetry and equipment are taking shape, promising enhanced capabilities for both routine testing and rapid emergency response.

A Post-COVID Investment in Health Security

‍The new lab comes as states across the country reassess their public health infrastructure following the COVID-19 pandemic. Rhode Island’s investment signals a proactive shift toward laboratory modernization—especially for testing, data management, and biosecurity.

Strategic Location and Urban Integration

‍Located in downtown Providence, the facility benefits from proximity to major hospitals, Brown University, and public transit—enhancing collaboration and emergency responsiveness.

Economic and Workforce Impact

‍The project has generated jobs during construction and is expected to support long-term employment for scientists, technicians, and public health professionals once operational. It also positions the state as a competitive hub for bioscience and environmental health research.

Looking Ahead

‍Once completed, the state-of-the-art lab will give Rhode Island expanded capacity for addressing pressing issues like lead contamination, waterborne illness, opioid-related toxicology, and respiratory disease outbreaks—all within a centralized, future-ready facility.

Originally reported by The Providence Journal.