During the April 15 regular meeting, the St. Johns County Board of County Commissioners approved a request to draft an economic development incentive agreement with AdventHealth to build a 12-bed freestanding emergency department of approximately 13,700 square feet that will create 56 new health care jobs in the community and have an estimated $5.5 million economic impact on the local economy.
“St. Johns County is excited to support and invest in AdventHealth’s first venture into St. Johns County,” said Sara Maxfield, director of economic development. “Health care represents the county's third largest employment base and the third largest job growth sector. A vital component to strengthening our local economy is attracting employers and industries that match our community's workforce skills and needs. The additional job opportunities AdventHealth brings to the county further solidify our reputation as a health care destination. We look forward to partnering with AdventHealth on this project and many more in the future.”
The medical facility will be located southwest of the intersection at State Road 207 and Wildwood Drive. The total anticipated investment for building, site improvements and equipment is more than $18 million. The average annual wage of the 56 new jobs will be $68,000.
The county's first annual rebate payment to AdventHealth is anticipated during the fiscal year 2027. The estimated annual payout is $84,790. The incentive's total capped value is $222,374.
“St. Johns County is growing quickly, and so are the needs of the people who live here,” said Denyse Bales-Chubb, president and CEO, AdventHealth Flagler and St. Johns market. “Emergency care should never be out of reach, which is why we will soon begin construction on a 12-bed emergency department on State Road 207. We are committed to making health care more accessible and are proud to work alongside local leaders to support the residents and visitors to St. Johns County.”
