Raleigh Water Opens State-of-the-Art Drinking Water Lab

This state-of-the-art facility will enhance water quality testing and ensure continued excellence in drinking water for over 650,000 residents in North Carolina. Images: Courtesy of City of Raleigh Communications Department

Raleigh Water celebrated the opening of its new, state-of-the-art Drinking Water Compliance Laboratory with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on April 9.

The 15,000-sf facility represents a significant investment in ensuring the continued safety and reliability of drinking water for more than 650,000 residents in Raleigh, Garner, Wake Forest, Rolesville, Knightdale, Wendell, and Zebulon, North Carolina.

After years of planning, design, and construction, the advanced laboratory marks a major milestone for Raleigh Water. Equipped with cutting-edge water testing equipment, the facility provides dedicated office space and ample storage to support the analysis of approximately 52,664 water samples annually.

Raleigh Water Director Whit Wheeler highlighted the laboratory's crucial role in safeguarding public health and fiscal responsibility during opening remarks at the ceremony.

"The tangible difference this new lab will make in the lives of those in our community is what's most exciting," said Wheeler. "This move to bring more of our analysis in-house is a key step that moves us forward in becoming a world-class utility, allowing us to be responsible with ratepayer dollars and ensure efficient use of our resources.”

Following the remarks, a dedication ceremony in the name of Vannessa P. Barnes was held, culminating in a ribbon-cutting to officially open the facility. Attendees, including local officials and Raleigh Water team members, toured the new laboratory and observed the sophisticated operations that ensure the quality of the community's water supply.

The newly operational Drinking Water Compliance Laboratory now functions as the central facility for all water quality testing and analysis within the Raleigh Water service area.

"Our hearts are full as we look forward to opening the doors to our new laboratory," said laboratory scientist supervisor Martesa Webb. "The increased space and smart functionality mean we're not just meeting today's requirements, but proactively preparing for the future, allowing us to adapt and innovate in our vital work."

The new Drinking Water Compliance Laboratory is now fully operational and will serve as the central hub for all water quality testing and analysis for the Raleigh Water service area.

"With the opening of this innovative laboratory, Raleigh Water is reinforcing its proactive commitment to the health and well-being of our community," stated assistant director Ed Buchan. "This facility equips our dedicated team with the cutting-edge tools necessary to not only meet today's stringent standards but also to anticipate future challenges and continue delivering exceptional drinking water quality for generations to come."