MIAMI (VINnews) — One of the largest emergency departments in the United States is set to open this week at Jackson Memorial Hospital, following a $400 million expansion aimed at transforming emergency care in South Florida.

The new 178,000-square-foot facility is about three times the size of the hospital’s existing ER, which is already among the busiest in the nation. Officials say the expansion is designed to reduce wait times, improve patient flow and provide greater privacy.

David Zambrana, CEO of Jackson Health System, said the rollout will take place in phases. The first phase will include 134 rooms, with capacity expected to grow to more than 200 beds. A 57-bed observation unit will allow patients to stay for short-term monitoring without full admission.

A second phase will introduce a pediatric emergency department with 24 beds.

The new facility also includes private waiting areas for families and an additional helicopter landing pad. Hospital officials said the expansion marks a significant step forward while the Ryder Trauma Center will continue handling Level I trauma cases.

The emergency department is scheduled to open Wednesday, with the full project expected to be completed in 2027.