A line of cars wrapped around the parking lot at Miami Marine Stadium Tuesday morning and workers were dealing with technical issues as the newest COVID-19 testing site in Miami-Dade opened there.
At one point, internet service at the testing site went down, but Miami Mayor Francis Suarez said the system was rebooted and the glitch was fixed.
The walk-up and drive-through site is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily with no appointments necessary.
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Suarez said the opening of the site will help Miamians get better access to testing.
"Miami residents shouldn't have to make a choice between the time it takes to get tested and their health," Suarez said. "If you feel sick and need to get tested, this is one of the best tools in our tool belt to help keep yourself and your loved ones safe and healthy."
Suarez said the site will eventually offer vaccinations.
Among those seeking tests Tuesday were James Bartley, who said he wasn't feeling well and came as a precaution.
"I could have a cold or maybe omicron, I don’t know," Bartley said. "What I’m worried about now is if I have it then I don’t want to engage with anybody."
Andrea Cross said she went there because she's worried she may test positive for Covid after gathering with family and friends for New Year's.
"I have a sore throat, a cough, a runny nose and body aches," she said.
Other people, like Robin Stacy, said they need a negative test result to go back to work.
"I think it’s just getting to the point of being the new normal and it is what it is," Stacy said.
For more info or to schedule an appointment, click here.
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