On Wednesday, Lehigh Valley Health Network, part of Jefferson Health, hosted a groundbreaking ceremony for the expansion of Lehigh Valley Hospital (LVH)–Muhlenberg’s emergency room. The expansion will nearly double the size of the ER and enhance the trauma program at LVH–Muhlenberg. With 83 total emergency department beds on the first floor, two trauma bays and two resuscitation bays, the emergency department will be better equipped to provide specialized care in critical situations.

Key features of the new space include:

• A dedicated pediatric treatment area modeled after LVH–Hecktown Oaks

• Bariatric patient rooms to accommodate specialized care needs

• Expanded diagnostic capabilities, including new X-ray and CT scan rooms

• A café in the waiting area to improve patient and visitor experience

• A trauma recovery space with 26 beds, including a physical therapy gym

• A helipad for seamless emergency transport

“As our region continues to grow, so does the need for emergency services,” said Jim Miller, CRNA, president of Jefferson Health–Lehigh East Region. “This expansion is a direct response to increasing patient volume and the evolving demands of emergency medicine.”

LVH–Muhlenberg has a rich 60-year history of serving the community. The project builds upon the hospital’s designation as a Level II trauma center just four years ago.

“A larger, modernized emergency department means shorter wait times, improved patient flow and a more comfortable environment for those in need,” Keith Micucci, CRNP, MSN, chief operating officer, LVH–Muhlenberg, explained.

The new space will incorporate state-of-the-art technology, streamlined treatment areas and an efficient patient flow system. This will allow LVH–Muhlenberg to remain at the forefront of emergency medicine.

The expansion is anticipated to be complete in fall 2026, and renovations to the existing space will be completed in spring 2027.