Steady Growth of JC Biotech

Yunji Cho, staff writer

Across various cities and towns in Georgia, local governments are increasingly adopting policies that significantly facilitate the renovation and construction of biotechnology laboratories and manufacturing facilities. As Georgia’s life sciences sector continues its rapid expansion, the demand for BioReady-certified sites is also on the rise. 

“We need to challenge each other. We can push the ball forward at a grassroots level. And hopefully that’s going to mean a bigger ecosystem for this industry in our state,” said Johns Creek Mayor John Bradbury. 

Given the industry’s large footprint in Georgia including 78,000 direct jobs across 4,000 establishments, nearly 215,000 total jobs and over $50 billion in economic impact, Georgia cities and towns are increasingly adopting local policies that greatly ease the pathway for renovation or new construction of biotech laboratory and manufacturing facilities. 

Thanks to consistent and diligent efforts in advancing the life sciences, the city of John’s Creek achieved a remarkable milestone two years ago by becoming the first municipality in Georgia to be designated as a Gold-Level BioReady Community. This measure indicates that municipalities have existing experience permitting biotech laboratory and manufacturing facilities as well as the assurance that companies who choose to locate will be part of a greater ecosystem of biotech and life science uses. 

This prestigious recognition underscores the city’s exceptional readiness to support biotechnology development. Moreover, neighboring cities such as Alpharetta, Gwinnett County and Atlanta have also earned Gold-Level BioReady status, further reinforcing regional pride and commitment to scientific progress. 

Johns Creek is a city that values health, wellness and innovation, with the right infrastructure for new, and renovated biotechnology labs and manufacturing facilities. 

In addition, it is still showing signs of achieving various developments. For example, Boston Scientific, the medical device manufacturer announced a $62.5 million investment for a new manufacturing, research and development; and supply chain facility. Located in the new town center, the project was expected to create over 300 jobs and has been in development since 2022. The company, Boehringer Ingelheim, selected Johns Creek as the new home for its U.S. animal health headquarters. The 73,000-square-foot facility at the Medley mixed-use development is scheduled for completion in summer 2026.  

Another impact is that they focus on community and innovation. First, Johns Creek leverages its diverse, highly educated, and skilled workforce to attract investment from around the world. Second, Johns Creek provides a pro-business environment that supports both large corporations and smaller biotech companies. Lastly, the Georgia Life Sciences organization works to strengthen the ecosystem by fostering relationships between large companies, small startups, and universities. This includes programs and summits that encourage innovation and partnerships.  

This BioReady designation and the ongoing investments like the Medley redevelopment are intended to further the growth of the life sciences industry in Johns Creek, fostering a robust ecosystem for innovation and development. Researchers are still paying close attention to these developments. People firmly believe that this proud trajectory of growth will continue, hand in hand with future advancements in science and innovation.