Swampscott To End Resident Coronavirus Testing, Focus On Vaccine

SWAMPSCOTT, MA — Following weeks of wrestling with how to fund resident coronavirus testing following the expiration of the CARES Act, Swampscott officials on Friday said that the town will discontinue testing and shift the focus to planning vaccination sites.

The town cited a lack of funding in its decision to begin to charge $70 for the testing for the first time this week through Cataldo Ambulance after offering it for free through CARES Act funds since September. But less than a week into that program, officials opted to make Saturday the final day of resident-only testing in town.

"Due to the recent openings of several free, efficient and safe testing facilities in our neighboring communities, the town of Swampscott will be transitioning all testing services to these 'Stop the Spread' sites," the town said, "and refocusing our efforts on preparing for a community vaccination program."

Officials suggested residents go to the Project Beacon COVID-19 Express Training site at 398 Blossom Street in Lynn. Tests here are performed using a "self-swabbing method in a quick, drive-thru format.

There are also the two "Stop the Spread" sites in Salem — the drive-thru site at Salem High School and walk-in site at Old Town Hall — that have been extended three months until at least March 31.

"We want to thank Cataldo Ambulance for being such a great partner during the last few months of testing," the town said. "We will keep the community updated as other opportunities for testing arise and as we get more information from the state regarding vaccinations."

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