Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding and Pennsylvania State University College of Agricultural Sciences Dean Troy Ott broke ground on a $65 million, 46,000-square-foot, two-story addition to the university’s Animal Diagnostic Laboratory (ADL).
On the heels of last week’s groundbreaking on a $94 million new lab at University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine (Penn Vet), and the opening of the Keystone Animal Diagnostic Center (KADC) on PSU’s Beaver Campus in May, this is the third expansion of Pennsylvania’s world-class veterinary lab system this year.
“Supporting cutting-edge research, diagnostic testing, and agricultural education at our land-grant universities like Penn State is critical to our nation’s economy, food security, and public safety. It is one of America’s most important and enduring public policies,” Sec. Redding said. “The investments the Shapiro Administration is making — not just today, but year-round — strengthen our capacity to detect and prevent disease, respond quickly in crisis, and protect and grow the industry that feeds our economy and our families.”
Constructed in 1956 and last renovated extensively in 1999, ADL provides advanced diagnostic testing for animal health, disease surveillance, food safety and public health. The laboratory plays a critical role in Pennsylvania’s preparedness and response to animal disease threats.
The new addition will increase lab capacity and provide modern diagnostic infrastructure, including new Biosafety Level Three (BSL-3) space.
Source : pa.gov