TALLMADGE, Ohio — Editor's note: Video at the top of this story was originally published on March 25, 2021.
Although its debut has been delayed by a few days, we now know mass COVID-19 vaccinations are set begin at the Summit County Fairgrounds starting Saturday, April 3. The site, which will be open for three to four days per week depending on dose allocation from the state, is scheduled to be operation for two months. It was previously expected to open March 29.
Appointments will be available starting at noon on Wednesday, March 31 by using the state's "Get the Shot" site HERE. You can locate these appointments by using this address: 1050 North Avenue in Tallmadge. If you don't see the address available upon your search, that means no more appointments are currently available. Those needing assistance with making an appointment are asked to call 330-926-5795. Officials say the location will have the ability to give up to 5,000 appointments per week.
This mass vaccination site will only provide Johnson & Johnson vaccines, which is a one-dose shot.
Summit County Public Health, METRO RTA and Summit County Executive Ilene Shapiro have also collaborated to make sure transportation isn't an issue for anybody who wants a vaccine.
"Beginning March 29, METRO will provide free rides on all fixed route, demand response services to COVID-19 vaccine appointments at any location to individuals with proof of an appointment," officials said. "For appointments at the fairgrounds, the fixed route service will take riders to the transit center near Chapel Hill Mall where a shuttle will then take them to the fairgrounds."
The mass vaccination site comes as vaccine eligibility opens to all Ohioans ages 16 and older starting March 29.
MORE HEADLINES:
Editor's note: Video in the player above was originally published on March 24, 2021.