AUBURNDALE, Fla. (Saturday, July 25, 2026) — Progress is happening on AdventHealth’s new emergency department in Auburndale that’s leading to expanded, high-quality emergency care closer to home for families living in and around the area.
On July 24, AdventHealth leaders, construction leaders and crew members signed the final beam for a topping out ceremony at the new facility. The milestone celebrates the placement of the building’s final structural beam and continued work on a facility designed to improve access to care.
The new ER, being built at 1036 US Highway 92 West in Auburndale, will feature 12 private exam rooms, advanced imaging including X-ray, CT and ultrasound and a full-service lab to provide prompt test results. Families can also expect pediatric emergency care, pharmacy services and respiratory therapy, ensuring comprehensive, whole-person care for patients of all ages.
The project responds to the area’s rapid growth. A recent study from the University of Florida predicts the Polk County population could grow from about 850,000 people now to one million by 2030, years faster than previous predictions, increasing demand for accessible, comprehensive health care services.
“With the massive growth in Polk County, it is essential that we continue to work to ensure our community has access to exceptional emergency care close to where they live when they need it most,” said Jennifer Wandersleben, CEO for AdventHealth Southwest Florida region. “This new ER in Auburndale is about giving families living in and around this area peace of mind. We’re delighted to take this latest step and further grow our footprint here and be part of this amazing community.”
The 13,000+ square-foot facility is also expected to create more than 35 new jobs.
HuntonBrady is the architecture firm chosen for the project and Robins & Morton is managing the construction. The AdventHealth Auburndale ER project is just the latest in the longtime partnership between AdventHealth and Robins & Morton.
“Reaching this topping out milestone on the AdventHealth Auburndale ER is a meaningful moment for our team and for the Auburndale community,” Robins & Morton Division Manager Todd Watson said. “This new facility reflects the kind of thoughtful, patient-centered care environment that AdventHealth is known for delivering. We are proud of the work our team has put into this project and look forward to seeing it open its doors to serve the people of this community.”
The AdventHealth Auburndale ER, a department of AdventHealth Heart of Florida, is scheduled to open to new patients early next year.
Provided by AdventHealth
