First Free Coronavirus Testing Site In Western Pa. Opens
MCKEESPORT (KDKA) -- Testing for COVID-19 is now underway in McKeesport. It is an area county leaders say will help the Mon-Valley community.
The large site was made possible thanks to CARES Act funding, which was sent directly to the county with support from the state and National Guard.
The new testing site is located along Industry Road. The facility is capable of performing 250 tests per day, with results available in 48 hours.
The site's spacious parking lot can hold hundreds of waiting vehicles, and public transit stops are just steps away.
"You'll be here for five minutes for the testing," Patrick Moore, of Pennsylvania Emergency Management, said. "It goes very quickly. Doesn't take a long time for it to get done."
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KDKA was there Monday when county leaders gave a tour.
They say having the ability to increase testing is one way we're fighting the virus.
"Because there's still a lot of folks that haven't been tested in some of the areas of the Mon Valley," State Sen. Jim Brewster said. "It's important they can get here, not worry about insurance and be able to come in."
They say many in the area are elderly, minority and lower income, and it's those communities that have been hit hard by the coronavirus pandemic.
The testing site is open weekdays, from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.
It is strongly encouraged to register in advance if you wish to be tested.
Information on how to make an appointment can be found online.