Murfreesboro, TN - Rutherford County has long needed its own forensic center, and it is finally happening! The county commission approved construction of a $15 million facility in Smyrna. The creation of this forensic center marks more than just a new building—it’s a long-overdue investment in justice, compassion, and community resilience. For years, families in Rutherford County have waited weeks or even months for autopsy answers, relying on an overburdened regional facility. Now, with a state-of-the-art center right in Smyrna, law enforcement can act faster, grieving families can find closure sooner, and the judicial system can move with greater efficiency and transparency.

On Wednesday's WGNS' Action Line radio program, County Mayor Joe Carr told listeners... The Rutherford County Forensic Center is being built on county-owned land that's located on Weakley Lane in Smyrna. The site currently houses the County Court Clerk's office for the northern end of the county, but there is more than enough acerage to construct the forensic center there, along with adding an EMS ambulance station on site too.

Keep in mind, the forensic center will not only serve this county’s growing needs, but also surrounding counties. When other county's use Rutherford County's facility, they pay a fee. That makes the investment even more logical for local residents.

It’s also a powerful reminder that justice delayed is justice denied—and Rutherford County is no longer willing to wait.

WGNS News asked County Mayor Carr when the new facility will be completed... 

Despite being denied state funding, Rutherford County chose to lead boldly, funding the project independently and proving that local commitment can overcome bureaucratic hurdles. Carr notes that Rutherford is the only county denied state funding for this project...

County Mayor Carr said that Rutherford county is covering costs entirely out-of-pocket using reserves built-up over several years. Even better news--no tax increase or debt is required to fund the forensic center.

The new facility will cost $15-million to construct, along with an additional $4.4-million to expand the parking lot for the County Clerk's office at the same location, and to locate an EMS ambulance station there... Site preparation began this week, and as soon as the date for a groundbreaking is decided upon, NewsRadio WGNS will let you know.