STEAMBOAT SPRINGS, COLORADO-April 14, 2020-Howelsen Hill will serve as the site for two upcoming community test days on Wednesday, April 15, and Saturday, April 18. Community Testing is anticipated to run from 9am to 3pm on both days and Howelsen Park will be closed to recreation during that time.
“Howelsen Hill will be closed to all recreation on these two days to accommodate drive-through testing,” said Parks & Recreation Director Angela Cosby. “We’re asking the public to avoid Howelsen Park so that public health can administer the tests in the most efficient way and with the least amount of public impact.”
With the increased access to testing kits, two community testing days have been scheduled by appointment with the expectation of conducting 100 tests each day. All drive-through testing candidates must be screened in advance and should contact Routt County Public Health at 970.870.5577 between 9am to 4pm on Tuesday, April 14, to secure a Wednesday appointment, and on Thursday, April 16, for a Saturday appointment. No walk-ins will be permitted.
The Howelsen Park complex including Howelsen Hill, associated parking lots and the historic lodge will be closed to the public during community testing. The closure also includes the Howelsen Rodeo Arena, ski area base area, trails from these areas and Howelsen Parkway from the 5th Street bridge to the ski area. The Yampa River Core Trail along Howelsen Parkway will be CLOSED, and trail users should detour over the 5th Street Bridge to Yampa Street to reconnect with the Core Trail.
“Police officers will provide traffic and security for the community test days and we’re asking for the public’s assistance in ensuring a smooth and safe event,” commented Police Chief Cory Christensen. “Only come to Howelsen Hill on these days if you have made a testing appointment in advance, otherwise, please avoid this area.”
The Steamboat Springs Police Department will provide site security including traffic control. Please follow instructions from officers as you approach Howelsen Hill and the testing center. When you arrive to Howelsen Hill, follow signage, keep vehicle windows up and have identification ready.
At the first checkpoint, you will be asked for confirmation of your appointment. Once confirmed, pull forward or follow line of vehicles to the white tent with windows up. Only individuals with appointment should be in the vehicle.
From here, your vehicle will be routed through the test center, where public health nurses will conduct the nasal swab test. A public health nurse will contact you with test results, typically within 24 to 36 hours. If you are getting tested, please take necessary precautions to protect others around you.
-WeServeTheCity-
Contact
Cory Christensen, Police Chief, 970.879.4344 or email
Angela Cosby, Parks & Recreation Director, 970.879.4300 or email
Michael Lane, Communications Manager, 970.871.8220 or email