Work begins on $29M first-of-its-kind bio science center in North Charleston

Charleston, Berkeley and Dorchester County leaders broke ground recently on the Tri-County Biological Science Center, a 21,480 square-foot state-of-the-art facility that will help reduce DNA processing times by streamlining the local forensic analysis process, according to a news release.

This project is the first regional collaboration on DNA testing in state history, the release stated.

Once completed, the center, located at 3765 Leeds Ave., North Charleston, will include extensive laboratory and office space for forensic biology analysis, executive offices, and secure storage for evidence, according to the release. Additionally, the center will provide examination of physical evidence for law enforcement agencies, assist in the identification of bodily remains for coroners’ offices, and deliver expert testimony to the judicial system.

“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, ultimately, reduced turnaround times, all of which will help keep our communities safe and enhance our justice system,” said Charleston County Public Safety Chair Jenny Costa Honeycutt in the release. “I’d like to thank everyone at Charleston, Berkeley, and Dorchester Counties who made this project possible, and I look forward to seeing the positive impact I know it will have on our region.”

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Construction is expected to be completed in the 4th quarter of 2025, according to the release. Following construction, the center will begin its two-year accreditation process.

The total project budget approved by Charleston County Council is $29 million.

“This is a historic day not just for our three counties but for the state of South Carolina, and it wouldn’t have been possible without our dedicated partners who share our vision and understand our regional forensic analysis needs,” said Eric Watson, deputy county administrator for public safety, in the release. “Their continued commitment underscores the importance of this project and the need for collaboration to improve the criminal justice process. I look forward to growing our partnership in the years to come.”

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