Groundbreaking Held to Expand LVH-Muhlenberg Emergency Department

On June 4, 2025, community members, hospital leaders and distinguished guests gathered to celebrate a monumental milestone: the groundbreaking for the expansion of Lehigh Valley Hospital (LVH)–Muhlenberg’s emergency department. This expansion signifies a commitment to the highest quality emergency care and ensures every patient in the Lehigh Valley receives expert treatment in their moment of greatest need.

With 83 total emergency department beds on the first floor, two trauma bays and two resuscitation bays, the emergency department will double in size to 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

Brian A. Nester, DO, MBA, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Jefferson, opened the ceremony with a warm welcome. He shared how excited he is to see LVH–Muhlenberg emergency care expand. This is personal for Dr. Nester, who started his Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN) career 27 years ago to lead the emergency department at LVH–Muhlenberg. Jim Miller, CRNA, President of Jefferson Health–Lehigh East Region, acknowledged the unwavering dedication of colleagues, medical teams and partners who have helped bring this project to life. Miller emphasized that the expansion isn’t just about bricks and mortar—it’s about strengthening LVH–Muhlenberg’s promise to provide lifesaving care with efficiency, compassion and expertise.

“As our region continues to grow, so does the need for emergency services,” Miller said. “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. As patient demand for trauma services, cardiology and stroke care rises, it became clear that LVH–Muhlenberg must grow to ensure timely, expert care for every patient.

“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.

“This expansion is not just about today. It’s about ensuring LVH–Muhlenberg remains prepared for the challenges of tomorrow,” Miller emphasized. “Whether responding to public health emergencies or advancing new medical treatments, we are committed to delivering world-class emergency care.”

As construction progresses, LVHN remains focused on its mission of providing expert care, backed by unwavering dedication to the community. This expansion ensures that, in moments when seconds matter most, LVH–Muhlenberg is ready to serve.

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

Stay tuned for updates on this exciting project and the future of emergency care at LVH–Muhlenberg.