Pace ADA Paratransit customers prioritized at four City of Chicago testing sites
CHICAGO - To ensure that everyone has access to COVID-19 testing, the City of Chicago and Pace Bus have partnered to connect Pace ADA Paratransit customers with community-based COVID-19 testing sites at four locations across the city. The City of Chicago currently operates four static testing sites located at Douglass Park, Prosser Career Academy, Gately Park, and Parking Lot B at Midway Airport. All tests at City testing sites are offered at no cost to all people regardless of citizenship status and ability to pay.
“CDPH is committed to keeping Chicagoans safe as we continue our fight against COVID-19," said CDPH Commissioner Allison Arwady, M.D. "Testing is critical at this time, and we are excited to partner with Pace to ensure that those in need have access to our COVID-19 community-based testing sites.”
Testing sites will open 30 minutes before their standard operating times for Pace ADA Paratransit riders. In addition, anyone using Pace ADA Paratransit during normal testing site operation hours will be given priority testing. Days and time vary.
“We’re pleased to partner with the City of Chicago to ensure access to COVID-19 testing,” said Pace Executive Director Rocky Donahue. “Testing is a vital resource. Partnered with mask usage and vaccinations, we’ll save lives and get through this pandemic together.”
To utilize this service, Pace ADA Paratransit customers should call and reserve a trip as they normally would. Make sure to alert the scheduler of your appointment time. Appointments typically last 30-45 minutes so please schedule your return trip accordingly. Customers will be picked up where they are dropped off within the allowed 30-minute pick up window. Standard Pace ADA Paratransit fares ($3.25) apply. Registered ADA Paratransit riders should also consider the Taxi Access Program (TAP) for their trip. At this time, fares, normally $3, are waived and ADA Paratransit riders may use the service free of charge in the City of Chicago.
The TSA's new security directive states that riders must wear a mask over the mouth and nose when boarding, alighting, or traveling on a bus and when at a transportation center. Children under the age of 2 and people with disabilities who cannot wear a mask are exempted.
All City of Chicago static testing sites have both walk-up and drive-thru options. Pace ADA Paratransit riders must utilize the walk-up option as vehicles cannot stay on site during the test. All people seeking testing are encouraged to register beforehand at ChicagoCovidTesting.com to reduce wait times and dress for the weather to stay warm while waiting.
In addition to static testing sites, the City of Chicago partners with community-based organizations to operate mobile testing sites deployed throughout Chicago each week. For more information, please visit www.chi.gov/covidtesting.
