Montgomery County’s new forensic lab campus is engineered for long-term growth and continuous operation—supporting critical public safety functions with robust, future-ready infrastructure.
PROJECT DETAILS
Montgomery County is undertaking a significant investment in public safety infrastructure with the development of a new forensic lab facility on a greenfield site. Envisioned as a two-phase project, the plan includes two 70,000-square-foot buildings that will support the county’s growing need for advanced forensic analysis and investigation.
Phase I of the project involves the complete design and construction of the first 70,000-square-foot building, which will house a range of critical functions including autopsy and morgue spaces, a sally port, administrative offices, and a secure public entry lobby. This facility is supported by a 27-space parking lot and will serve as the foundation for future expansion.
Our team is providing comprehensive MEP infrastructure design services for both phases of the project. For Phase I, we are developing a mechanical yard that includes air-cooled chillers and emergency generators sized to support both buildings. The mechanical systems are designed to deliver chilled and hot water throughout the building via air handling units and terminal units to ensure consistent temperature control for the specialized functions housed within the facility.
In addition to HVAC, the scope includes design for domestic water, hot water, fire protection systems, storm and sanitary drainage, natural gas service, and full electrical distribution. An emergency power system ensures the facility’s ability to maintain continuous operations during utility interruptions.
Our forward-looking design approach also accounts for the full infrastructure needs of the Phase II building. During Phase I, we are implementing the necessary capacity for HVAC and electrical systems to streamline the future build-out. While the detailed MEP design for the second building will be completed during Phase II, the foundational systems will be in place from the outset to minimize disruption and maximize efficiency during expansion.
SERVICES
MEP Engineering
Construction Administration
SPECS
70,000 SqFt


Johnston is passionate about solving problems and creating irreplaceable value for our clients.