BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. — A new state-of-the-art hospital is in the works in mid-Brevard County, replacing the only one serving the beachside community for more than 60 years.

It was a step in a new direction as Health First leaders turn dirt and break ground on the new Cape Canaveral Hospital on Thursday.

For longtime nurse Annie Clayton-Orrison, the facility represents a bright future, building on an already rich past. One that’s personal for her.

“I was actually born here in 1985,” Clayton-Orrison said.

She went on to serve as an oncology nurse, then worked her way up to nurse manager. Her three children were born there as well.

“My children had issues when they were younger and I really realized it’s the registered nurse at the bedside that makes all the difference in the care. It was just a way for me to invest in people and my community,” said Clayton-Orrison.

The $400 million, 260,000 square foot project will have 120 inpatient beds, 25 ER rooms and six operating rooms.

It’s designed to withstand a Category 4 hurricane and will be built 13 feet above sea level to ward off storm surge.

It’s one that Health First Foundation President Michael Seeley says will stand tall for years to come.

“This is an extremely talented team I have the honor to work with, and I’m thankful for the work they do now and in the future in this building,” Seeley said.

Clayton-Orrison sees the change as a big benefit to the space coast.

“It’s just a new feel and I think that the community is going to love we have modern, current healthcare right here in Brevard County that we just haven’t had before,” she said.

Construction is expected to be completed by late 2026 and open in early 2027.

Health First is working with state leaders to determine the future of the current Cape Canaveral Hospital in Cocoa Beach, which is located in a special taxing district.