New Lab Keeps Md. On Cutting Edge Of Health & Technology
BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- Infectious diseases, pathogens and bioterrorism agents are all inside a new building downtown.
Jessica Kartalija explains it's great news for researchers at Johns Hopkins.
It's the newest addition to the Baltimore Science and Technology Park at Johns Hopkins. Inside, it's a state-of-the-art lab that will keep Maryland on the cutting edge of public health and technology.
"That's what Baltimore is, a place that is known for world class health facilities and world class research facilities," said Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake.
The state lab tracks epidemics of dangerous pathogens, infectious diseases and bioterrorism agents.
"This is another wonderful project that's going to make our city more livable and make our city better," said Congressman Elijah Cummings.
The new 17,000 square foot building will be equipped to handle potentially deadly pathogens.
"This would be 200 people coming every day to do the most important work of our government, which is to safeguard the lives of our people," said Governor Martin O'Malley.
The current lab is in an outdated building in West Baltimore. There was a special ribbon cutting this week with Maryland's top brass, touring the 234,000 square foot facility, which is also part of the redevelopment of the East Baltimore community.
"It's the synergy of what this east Baltimore development initiative is all about. It's jobs through healing and discovery, and it's all coming together," O'Malley said.
The lab's 200 employees will move into the new facility once all systems are in place.
The state first committed to the project financially in 2010, spending $6.45 million on design work. The facility was originally expected to open in September 2013.
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