DFS Forensics Lab

Chewning & Wilmer recently completed a $26 million electrical installation for the Virginia Department of Forensics Science for the New State Forensics Lab. This new 281,000 square foot facility will house the Virginia Department of Forensics Science and the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. Chewning & Wilmer’s scope of work for this facility included the full electrical installation, all raceways for Fire Alarm, Low Voltage, Security, and Audio-Visual Systems. This state-of-the-art facility includes specialty lab spaces including a Firearms Lab, Firearm Range, Specialty Bullet Analysis Labs, a CT Imaging Suite, Autopsy Suite, Specialty Evidence Receiving and Evidence Storage, specialty large classrooms and training centers, and a wide range of specialty lab spaces from Biology to Toxicology. The electrical installation is highlighted by (2) 4000A Services and Service Boards, (3) Distribution Boards, (1) 2.0 MW Generator, (7) ATS’s, (2)250KW UPS’s, (185) Panel boards, and (60) Transformers and 3953 Light Fixtures.

Project Details

Owner: Virginia Department of Forensic Science

Owner Rep: Skanska

Architect: SFCS

Location: Hanover, VA

Project Size: 281,000 SF

Project Value: $26.6 Million

Role: Electrical Contractor

Completion: December 2025

(Photo Credits: Tzu Chen Photography ©)