Fort Lauderdale, Florida – Broward Health on Feb. 19 celebrated a major milestone with a groundbreaking ceremony to kick off the construction of the first freestanding emergency department in Lighthouse Point.
“This project underscores the importance of expanding access to high-quality emergency care close to home,” said Shane Strum, President & CEO of Broward Health. “In life-threatening emergencies, every second counts, and soon Lighthouse Point residents will have access to faster, lifesaving care right in their own community.”
The freestanding emergency department will be equipped with 10 exam rooms and will be supported by an additional 9 exam rooms on the second floor of the medical offices. Broward Health anticipates treating approximately 18,000 patients annually at the new facility.
“Beyond providing essential medical care, the freestanding emergency department is expected to generate a significant economic impact,” said Christopher Pernicano, chair of the North Broward Hospital District Board of Commissioners. “It’s expected to generate more than $15 million for the local economy and create 30 full-time jobs.”
This cutting-edge, two-story, state-of-the-art facility will handle the same level of care as a hospital-based emergency department, including specialized adult treatment and care. On average, discharge times at a freestanding Emergency Department are 90 to 120 minutes, compared to 220 minutes at a hospital.
“This facility will not only enhance emergency wait times but also bring peace of mind to families of Lighthouse Point knowing that high-quality healthcare is available close to home,” said Lighthouse Point Mayor Kyle Van Buskirk.
Key features of the new Lighthouse Point Emergency Department include:
- Staffed by board-certified emergency physicians and nurses.
- 24/7 hours of operation, 365 days a year.
- Specialized adult care, including trauma and resuscitation.
- Advanced diagnostics and radiology services, including mammography, ultrasound, CT scan, bone density, plain X-ray and Point of Care Lab.
- Continuity of care within the Broward Health system to ensure high-quality care across virtually any medical specialty.
The project, designed by HKS Architects and being constructed by The Beck Group is targeted for completion in Spring 2026.
“Building spaces that serve the community is at the heart of what we do at Beck,” said Bryan Wilson, director of Beck’s South Florida office. “This new emergency department is planned to meet the immediate healthcare needs of Lighthouse Point and the surrounding areas and provide a foundation for future growth and innovation. We’re proud to partner with Broward Health to deliver a facility that ensures timely, high-quality care for years.”
The 14,251-square-foot facility will consist of 9,418 square feet dedicated to the emergency department and 4,833 square feet for medical office space, with 41 parking spaces available for visitors and staff.
“As we begin construction on Thursday, we are deeply grateful for the hard work of so many individuals and organizations,” said David Clark, senior vice president of operations for Broward Health. “The unwavering support has been instrumental in bringing this project to life.”
About Broward Health
Broward Health, founded in 1938 and headquartered in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, ranks among the 10 largest public healthcare systems in the United States. Nationally recognized for its focus on high-quality care for the residents of Broward County and beyond, Broward Health boasts five hospitals, two trauma centers, a dynamic academic partnership with Florida Atlantic University, was the county's first statutory teaching hospital and has an ever-growing graduate medical education program. It includes more than 50 health centers and physician practices covering virtually every healthcare specialty.
Broward Health never stops working toward its mission of Exceptional Care, Extraordinary Compassion and Everyday Excellence. Driven by more than 11,000 talented employees and physicians who deliver care to all patients, regardless of their ability to pay, Broward Health is one of the largest employers in Broward County with an operating budget of $1.8 billion, and annually more than $470 million of charity and uncompensated care. For more information about Broward Health, visit BrowardHealth.org.