As Neighboring Hospitals Close, A Main Line Hospital Will Begin Major Expansion

PAOLI, PA — As neighboring communities deal with hospital closures, Main Line Health is planning major expansion for Paoli Hospital.

The five-story addition, which includes 108 new inpatient beds, was recently approved by Main Line Health's Board of Governors. Construction is slated to begin following regulatory approvals, with the new tower projected to open in 2029.

Expansion will also include:

• a dedicated diagnostic testing floor with radiology and perinatal services
• a rooftop heliport for trauma patient transport
• two new parking areas with more than 100 spaces, including 23 ADA parking spaces
• new connecting corridors linking portions of the hospital campus
• an expanded kitchen, more oxygen tanks and new emergency generators

Construction is expected to cost between $220-to-240 million.

The expansion plans come during a growing crisis of hospitals closing or risking closure around the nation. Greater Philadelphia has felt the impacts, as the closure of two Crozer hospitals exacerbated health care inequities for poor and working-class communities in Delaware County.

"While many communities face declining access to care, Main Line Health is moving forward with optimism, investing in this region's future and reaffirming our commitment to exceptional care where people live and work," Main Line Health CEO Ed Jiminez said in a statement. "The care provided at Paoli Hospital is exceptional, and this project will ensure that our facilities reflect that same standard of excellence for years to come."

Main Line Health says it's seeking opportunities to expand health care access. The system is also developing a new ambulatory care center in Downingtown that is expected to open in 2027 and has proposed a new hospital in the Collegeville area.

However, Main Line Health laid off 1.5 percent of its workforce in 2025 and recently closed its Women's Emotional Wellness Centers in Newtown Square and King of Prussia.