JACKSONVILLE, AL — RMC Health System (RMC), Jacksonville State University, the City of Jacksonville, and Developer Solutions and Facilities Development Company (DSF) have received final state approval to move forward with the planned freestanding emergency department (FED) in Jacksonville.
According to a release issued April 15, 2026, representatives met with the Certificate of Need Board in Montgomery to secure authorization for the project, which was originally announced in 2025. Approval from the board clears the way for groundbreaking and construction to begin.
“With this approval, we are well-positioned to move into the next phase of development,” said RMC CEO Keith Parrott. “This project reflects our continued investment in expanding access to emergency care and supporting the long-term health of our region.”
The planned facility is expected to include 11 emergency department beds, including a trauma bay. In addition to emergency services, the site will house the Jacksonville State University Student Health Center and provide onsite imaging services.
City officials emphasized the potential impact of the project on the community. “The freestanding emergency room project is a testament to what we can achieve when we work together with a shared vision,” said Jacksonville Mayor Mark Jones. “This addition to our city will save lives, and we’re excited to reach another milestone toward its completion.”
The project is intended to improve access to emergency care for residents in northern Calhoun County and surrounding areas. Officials stated that updates will continue to be provided as construction progresses.
