Despite concerns raised by residents of a neighboring condominium development, a county advisory board this week approved zoning changes and variances that would allow Health First to build a new hospital and “wellness village” on Merritt Island.

The unanimous approval  from the Brevard County Planning and Zoning Board follows a similar unanimous vote on April 28 from the Merritt Island Redevelopment Agency. Health First’s proposal now goes to the Brevard County Commission for a potential final vote on May 26.

Health First wants to build a seven-story, 120-bed hospital with an adjoining medical office building and “wellness village” on a 15.05-acre site, across State Road 520 from Merritt Square Mall. The $508 million complex would replace the current six-story, 150-bed Cape Canaveral Hospital off State Road 520 in Cocoa Beach, which would close when the new hospital opens.

Source:  Florida Today