Delivering a Next-Generation Public Health Laboratory for Allegheny County

A Public Health Asset Designed for the Future

The new Allegheny County Public Health Laboratory represents a major advancement in the region’s scientific capacity. The 46,000-SF building includes approximately 25,000 SF of advanced laboratory space, with 12,000 SF designated as Biosafety Level 3, supporting research, testing, and diagnostics for infectious diseases and environmental health threats.

Purpose-built to meet the County’s emerging needs, the facility’s design emphasizes flexibility, safety, and efficiency. Open lab planning allows teams to scale operations, add specialized environments, and expand capabilities as the region’s needs evolve.

Every detail—from airflow systems to secure circulation routes—was engineered to ensure scientific rigor, operational resilience, and the highest standards of safety.

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Delivered Through Collaboration, Precision, and Technical Excellence

To meet an aggressive delivery timeline without compromising quality, Elmhurst managed the project using Building Information Modeling (BIM) and a highly choreographed construction process. The building was stripped to shell condition, then rebuilt into a sophisticated laboratory environment with specialized mechanical systems, advanced filtration, biosafety equipment, and custom scientific infrastructure.

Elmhurst oversaw the integration of:

• BSL-3 laboratory suites
• High-capacity ventilation and environmental control systems
• Technical lab casework and research support infrastructure
• A modern office, meeting, and collaboration environment for ACHD staff
• Secure receiving, storage, and controlled-access zones

The project was funded in part by the American Rescue Plan Act, reflecting the national significance of strengthening public health capacity at the local level.

ACHD Chief Operating Officer Kim Joyce shared her perspective upon completion:

“We couldn’t have asked for a better project construction management team to build such an important public health project… We look forward to continuing that relationship with our new landlords for the next few decades.”
–Kim Joyce, ACHD Chief Operation Officer

Her words capture the essence of this partnership: aligned, purposeful, and deeply invested in the region’s health and safety.

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Strengthening Regional Preparedness and Community Resilience

The new laboratory is more than a building—it’s a critical public health asset for the next generation. With capacity for eight times more annual testing, the facility enables faster response to health emergencies, more accurate monitoring of environmental hazards, and improved protection for Allegheny County residents.

It also expands workforce capability, providing modern workspace, collaborative areas, and room for future scientific teams and training programs.

This project reinforces Elmhurst’s core belief: when we invest thoughtfully in essential infrastructure, we build stronger, safer, and more resilient communities.

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A Partnership Anchored in Service to Pittsburgh

Elmhurst is proud to support the Allegheny County Health Department and to play a role in advancing public health excellence for the region. This project reflects the power of long-term civic partnership, disciplined capital stewardship, and the belief that essential public institutions deserve exceptional spaces built to meet the challenges of tomorrow.

As Pittsburgh grows, Elmhurst remains committed to investing in the critical facilities, organizations, and partnerships that strengthen the city’s future.