Coronavirus update in New York City: NYC Epidemic Response Lab is home to researchers, analysts and technicians

KIPS BAY, Manhattan (WABC) -- New York City has a pandemic response lab staffed by more than 100 researchers, analysts and technicians.

Mayor Bill de Blasio got to see it firsthand, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

“This is a homegrown solution,” de Blasio said. "I want to be clear. It doesn't exist. It was made by New Yorkers in response to the coronavirus in New York City."

Staff and machines can analyze 20,000 coronavirus test results a day.

Even more impressive is the turnaround time, with test results available in less than 12 hours. That speed is absolutely necessary as many public school students return to classrooms starting Monday - and regular coronavirus testing will become their new reality.

“Not only do we have the ability to do weekly testing in schools, but we’re not taking away the important critical testing that we have to do in the community,” said Jeff Thamkittikasem, director of the Mayor’s Office of Operations.

De Blasio said schools would not be able to reopen without the facility.

"The Pandemic Response Laboratory has assured us that tens of thousands of tests can be completed and processed every day," he said.

The recent surge in coronavirus cases across the five boroughs means demand on labs is only set to increase, with labs ready to increase capacity to 30,000 tests a day.

A month from now, 100,000 tests a day — all those costs make financial sense for the city.

"We pay $28 per test at this lab," said James Patchett of the New York City Economic Development Corporation. "Compared to what most national labs charge, that's about $28 per test. for $100.”