The expansion comes as Brevard County continues to experience rapid population growth, increasing from about 544,000 residents in 2010 to more than 650,000 in 2024, according to U.S. Census Bureau estimates. Viera has been a major driver of that growth, with projections indicating the community’s population could double to 77,400 by 2045.
The potential project emerges at a time when Health First is moving forward with major changes of its own that includes nearly doubling the facility’s size and constructing a new five-story tower.
The Brevard County healthcare provider unveiled plans on Sept. 2 to increase the hospital’s capacity from 98 to 214 beds, adding new facilities and services to keep pace with the area’s rapid population growth.
The closure has created immediate challenges for residents in Central Brevard County, particularly in accessing emergency services.
Construction begins in 2026, and the expanded hospital is set to open in 2028. This project marks a major step forward in meeting the healthcare needs of our growing community.