New Coronavirus Testing Site Opens at RI Convention Center - See Who's Eligible

New Coronavirus Testing Site Opens at RI Convention Center - See Who's Eligible

The Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) announced that a new coronavirus testing site will open Tuesday at the Rhode Island Convention Center.

Who is Eligible for Tests

The testing site will be for symptomatic people and certain asymptomatic people. 

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People who are symptomatic can get a test scheduled for them by a healthcare provider. 

People who are asymptomatic can schedule a test if they work in a high-contact profession. Examples of people who work in high-contact professions include barbers, child care workers, clergy, cosmetologists, first responders, gym and exercise trainers, healthcare professionals, personal care services (nail technicians, massage therapists, tattoo artists, estheticians, cosmeticians, manicurists, body piercers, and tanning facility staff), public transit drivers, and restaurant workers. 

Asymptomatic Rhode Islanders who have recently traveled to a place with an elevated positivity rate can also be tested. To schedule a test, visit portal.ri.gov. 

Access Points and Details 
 
Testing at the Rhode Island Convention Center will happen in the parking garage, allowing testing to happen even during inclement weather. The testing site will be a drive-up site. Signage will direct people to the site. 

The access road connecting West Exchange and Sabin Streets will be restricted to test site traffic and emergency vehicles only. Because of the low clearance in the garage, trailers, RVs, and other oversized vehicles cannot be accommodated at this time. The site will operate Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Saturday through Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Tests are available by appointment only.

Addressing Testing Needs

According to the state, the location "will increase Rhode Island’s testing capacity. The Rhode Island Convention Center site will have capacity to do 1,500 tests a day. The RIC and CCRI sites were equipped to handle 600 tests a day each.

This site will replace the current testing site at RIC immediately; the testing site at CCRI will also be phased out in the near future.