Researchers at the University of Washington are among the world’s leaders in studying infectious diseases. In 2004, the UW received over $56 million from NIAID to study various aspects of infectious diseases. The decision to apply for NIAID funding for a Regional Biocontainment Laboratory (RBL) was a natural extension of the original research grant. The type of facility needed to conduct research on many so-called 'priority pathogens' is very specialized and must be built to complex specifications for design, facilities, operations, maintenance, and operating procedures that ensure a high level of safety and security.   While the need for such a facility is compelling, a number of questions remain, including identifying additional sources of funding and siting issues. This public forum will include a panel of infectious disease experts and UW representatives. The public forums are the next step in the UW’s plan to broaden public discussion of the project among various constituencies including faculty, staff, students, and neighboring communities. All appropriate and necessary information will be gathered in this process before a final decision is made about proceeding with the project.