NOVA Bioscience Center Recognized by Virginia Association of Counties

Prince William County has won a 2022 Achievement Award from The Virginia Association of Counties (VACo) for the public-private partnership and delivery of the Northern Virginia (NOVA) Bioscience Center.  

“This award is special to our team because VACo’s award is a recognition from our peers in local government leadership and development,” said Christina Winn, executive director of Prince William County Department of Economic Development (PWCDED). "Special thanks to our partner Holladay Properties for working with us to deliver on this vision for one the fastest-growing biotechnology clusters in the region."

Laboratory space is often too expensive for companies that are just starting up or are mid-size, and the cost per square foot for BSL-2 space can be difficult for smaller companies to build and maintain. The 30,000 square foot NOVA Bioscience Center commercial wet lab space opened in early 2022 and reflects more than $17.3 million in capital investment.  

Read the awards submission.

The timing and the tenacity of the partnership between PWCDED and commercial real estate developer and property management company Holladay Properties was tested by the pandemic multiple times. Prince William County officials did not waver in the support, including signing the government’s name on an 8,000 square foot master lease to secure the financing for the entire project. The center is almost completely leased today.  

With 100 submissions and 29 award winners, Prince William County also took home two additional honors, including Best Large County Achievement Award.

"The VACo Achievement Awards program’s mission of identifying and celebrating the innovative work by local government officials continues to resonate with our counties," said Dean Lynch, VACo Executive Director. "We thank all who participated and recognize those who won an award."