Harris Health System has commenced construction on a new $1.6bn hospital, set to become the next Level I trauma centre, in Northeast Houston in the US.

Expected to open its doors in late 2028, the new 12-storey hospital will replace the ageing Lyndon B Johnson (LBJ) Hospital.

It is a key component of Harris Health's $2.9bn investment plan.

This plan includes adding new Level-I capable trauma hospital, renovating the existing LBJ facility, expanding Ben Taub Hospital’s capacity, and constructing three new health centers across in Northwest, Southwest and Eastern Harris County.

Harris Health System president and CEO Esmaeil Porsa said: “LBJ and Ben Taub were built over 30 years ago, and in that time our community has grown exponentially.

“The addition of a Level I-capable trauma center will be the first of its kind in Harris County outside of the Texas Medical Center and is vital in meeting the growing needs of our region, as is the expansion of our primary care platform with new clinics."

Covering an area of approximately 1.3 million square feet, the new hospital will comprise 390 private rooms and offers option to add 60 more.

It will also include a rooftop helipad and 15 operating rooms, including an advanced hybrid operating room.

Harris Health System said the partnership with UTHealth Houston is significant, as the new hospital will provide an expanded clinical training site for McGovern Medical School's residents and faculty.

Harris Health System board chair Andrea Caracostis said: “This is the beginning of a monumental improvement in our medical infrastructure to provide state-of-the-art facilities and exceptional healthcare for all Harris County residents.

“The expansion of this hospital is way overdue and will go a long way to helping us better meet the needs of our staff, our patients and our Harris County residents.”