In 2010, more than 50,000 patients needed care at Mount Nittany Medical Center's Emergency Department (ED). To accommodate and plan for a growing region, a renovated and expanded ED is a priority for this community and will be finished by 2013. The project will be completed in phases to ensure continuity of emergency and basic care services for patients.

The project includes new entrances to the ED as well as new parking areas and access roads in front of the Medical Center. A new main entrance and parking for visitors and patients will be updated as well. Outpatient labs and registration will be conveniently located at the main entrance.

• The expansion will add 26,000 square feet to the ED and main entrance as well as renovate 14,000 square feet in the existing ED. An additional facility of approximately 12,000 square feet will be added for the paramedic garage as well as office space for information technology and administration.
• The project adds 40 new rooms, each with its own restroom for patient privacy and comfort, with the ability to expand to 60 beds.
• Design is aimed at flexibility for seasonal and event-related fluctuations in the ED.
• New parking areas and access roads will improve accessibility for patients and visitors. The outpatient labs and registration will be moved from the existing waiting area of the ED and conveniently located inside the main entrance.
• A helicopter pad will be added to the roof of the ED with elevator access to the ED.
• The main entrance to the Medical Center will be aesthetically and functionally enhanced.
• Freeman-White, a specialized design and consulting firm focused on the healthcare industry, is guiding the planning and design.