LAKEVIEW — A mass COVID-19 vaccination site could be launched near Wrigley Field if approved by the city.
Advocate Aurora Health confirmed Tuesday it is partnering with city leaders to open an indoor vaccination site at the conference center next to Wrigley Field.
If approved, the site would prioritize the most vulnerable people 65 and older and help the city boost its vaccination rollout.
Advocate Aurora Health would provide clinical staffing and technical infrastructure for the vaccine site, spokesperson Brigid Sweeney said in a statement.
“This location is being considered because it is a convenient option for people who do not own cars, as it is easily accessible via the CTA,” Sweeney said. “This is a part of our ongoing focus on partnership to ensure residents of disproportionately impacted communities have access to the vaccine as supplies are available.”
Ald. Tom Tunney’s office (44th) confirmed discussions about the center had taken place, but did not offer more details.
If approved, the site could launch later in March.
A United Center super site is opening March 10 and will provide up to 6,000 shots a day. Those doses will come directly from the federal government rather than being a part of the city’s or state’s normal supply.
About 110,000 appointments are available at the United Center, Dr. Allison Arwady, Chicago Department of Public Health commissioner, said Tuesday. People 65 and older will have priority access to the appointments on Thursday, and any remaining slots will be opened to other eligible populations on Sunday.
Chicagoans age 65 and older are eligible for the vaccine right now along with frontline essential workers, as Chicago is in Phase 1B of its vaccination campaign. Priority is given to people 75 and older, and those 65 and older with underlying medical conditions.
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