[MANKATO, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and state Department of Public Safety officials today broke ground on a new regional law enforcement facility and forensic laboratory in Mankato. The facility will expand access to investigative, laboratory, and training services for law enforcement agencies throughout southern Minnesota. The facility will save local departments time and resources while improving response times in critical investigations.

“Funding this facility was a top priority last legislative session, and I’m proud of this investment to keep Minnesota one of the safest states in the nation,” said Governor Walz. “By giving law enforcement the tools and technology they need, we’re strengthening our communities’ public safety responses today and ensuring Minnesota remains a safe state for generations to come.”

“From crime scene response to forensic analysis to technology-driven investigations, our Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension professionals are dedicated to public service, to criminal justice and to the communities and people of Minnesota,” said Minnesota Department of Public Safety Commissioner Bob Jacobson. “This new regional office is a direct reflection of their commitment to excellence and the trust the people of Minnesota place in them.”

“This new facility will enable us to strengthen our services to southern Minnesota, but the entire state will benefit,” said BCA Superintendent Drew Evans. “Adding a third BCA laboratory will reduce the caseload for all of our labs, allowing us to process evidence faster and help agencies solve crimes faster.”

The new facility was funded through the 2025 infrastructure bill, signed by Governor Walz earlier this year. Once completed, it will house approximately 50 agents, forensic scientists, support staff, and a crime scene response team. The new regional office and laboratory is expected to be fully operational in early 2027.

Photos from the event can be viewed on Flickr. Additional materials, including aerial footage of the site, images, maps, and a project fact sheet can be downloaded from the Department of Public Safety’s ShareFile link.