JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The University of Florida broke ground Thursday morning for the new Leon L. Haley Jr. Emergency and Trauma Center, which was given its name to honor the former UF Health CEO who tragically died in a personal watercraft accident in July 2021.
According to the University of Florida, the center will “dramatically upgrade the region’s only Level I trauma facility” while also expanding the hospital’s emergency department.
The new project will almost double the capacity of the current facility by bringing the region’s Level 1 trauma center from 78 beds to 125.
Phase 1 of the project is expected to take 18 months to complete. That portion will add the increased beds.
Phases 2 through 5 will renovate the existing building with new equipment.
It’s a nearly $100 million investment between the city and the state.
But for some in attendance, the facility carries some extra significance.
Watch the full groundbreaking ceremony below
“The center is being named in honor of Dr. Haley, whose vision and passion for health care and the Northeast Florida community were crucial to the project,” UF said in a press release, adding that the facilities will add 35,000 square feet to the existing trauma center.
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Dr. Haley’s family attended the groundbreaking. His father spoke to a crowd of dozens and friends and colleagues.
“My wife and I miss our son deeply,” Leon Haley Sr. said, “But as long as his name is on this building, he will live in our hearts and yours as well. Thank you.”
His speech was met with a standing ovation.
Then, using shovels with Dr. Haley Jr.‘s name on it, a scoop of sand was tossed and his legacy carries on.
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