CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- The State announced Sundau a new drive-thru COVID-19 testing facility will open in Waukegan on Sunday.
Similar to the five additional, community-based free testing sites throughout the state, the Waukegan site will be open seven days a week to test individuals with COVID-19 symptoms and first responders.
“By bringing COVID-19 testing into communities free of charge, we are to make testing more readily available and easier to access,” said IDPH Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike, in a statement. “Testing is essential to identify the prevalence of virus circulating in our communities. Through widespread testing, we can make science-based decisions that will help us end this pandemic.”
The site, located at 2161 Northwestern Ave., will be open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. or until they run through the allotted 500 daily tests.
It’s a vehicle emissions testing facility that’s now being staffed by about 60 members of the Illinois Army National Guard.
Anyone with symptoms of COVID-19 may get tested, as well as first responders, medical personnel and those who work in grocery stores and other critical infrastructure whether or not they show signs of the virus.
The Governor and the head of the department of public health have repeatedly said more testing is critical to determining when and how to reopen the state.
Community-Based Testing Sites:Harwood Heights (Chicago)
6959 W. Forest Preserve Road
7 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Available while daily supplies last.
Bloomington
1106 Interstate Drive
9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Available while daily supplies last.
Markham
3824 W.159th Place
8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Available while daily supplies last.
Aurora
1650 Premium Outlet Blvd.
8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Available while daily supplies last.
Rockford
1601 Parkview Avenue
8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Available while daily supplies last.
Waukegan
2161 Northwestern Avenue
8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Available while daily supplies last.
Know Before You Go
Anyone who will be tested must be seated at a functioning window. Once you get in line at the CBTS, you will not be permitted to exit your car. For the safety of the testing personnel, the drive-thru sites will not be able to accommodate walk-up individuals. Individuals must arrive in a vehicle.
While this is a free service, you will be asked to show 1) photo identification and 2) healthcare employee or first responder ID/badge, if applicable.
Dozens of additional commercial testing sites are also available throughout the state further adding to the state’s testing capacity. For the most up-to-date list of these sites, visit
https://coronavirus.illinois.gov/s/testing-sites. There residents can also find information on eligibility for testing and contact information for each testing site.
