Ada County Coroner’s Facility

Ada County, facing a massive increase in average caseloads and evolving staffing needs, sought a new Coroner’s Facility to centralize administration, medicolegal death investigation, and morgue operations. The project, located in the Seyam Development in Meridian, ID, was planned for a four-acre site at the southeast corner of Franklin Road and Touchmark Way. With a timeframe aligned to meet the county’s pressing needs, the new facility was designed as a two-story, 39,000-square-foot structure with modernized operational capabilities.

The county’s existing facilities were increasingly strained by a growing population and an expanding scope of forensic operations. The primary challenges included insufficient laboratory space to accommodate the rising caseload, outdated infrastructure that hindered efficiency in death investigations, inadequate safety measures for handling hazardous materials, and the need for a secure and well-organized facility to support forensic investigations. To address these challenges, our team developed a purpose-driven design that prioritized efficiency, safety, and future growth. The facility incorporated chemical-resistant countertops, stainless steel wall surfaces, and nonporous flooring for easy decontamination. Each individual workstation featured water and plumbed chemicals, along with independently controlled lighting and ventilation. Open sight lines and clear paths to safety showers and eyewash stations ensured rapid response capabilities. Properly fire-rated and ventilated storage areas minimized risks associated with hazardous materials.

In addition to these technical enhancements, the new facility was designed to balance security and accessibility. Visitor parking was strategically placed off Touchmark Way, while staff accessed the facility through a secure yard on the north side, featuring an 8-foot-high ornamental iron fence and vehicular gates. A drive-through vehicular bay and receiving dock streamlined operational efficiency, while an emergency generator ensured continuous functionality during power disruptions.

The new Ada County Coroner’s Facility successfully met its goal of centralizing operations while significantly improving the efficiency, safety, and scalability of forensic investigations. With an initial staff of 28, the facility now operates at a higher capacity, providing streamlined workflows and state-of-the-art resources that enhance forensic accuracy and case resolution speed. The long-term impact of the project extends beyond its immediate function—by planning for projected population growth and evolving forensic demands, Ada County has ensured that this facility will remain a critical asset for years to come. This project stands as a testament to forward-thinking design, where the built environment actively supports public service and community well-being.