AASHTO Journal - Michigan DOT Joins COVID-19 Travel Testing Pilot Program

In an attempt to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, in partnership with the Michigan Department of Transportation and select Michigan airports, plans to launch a “Travel Points Testing” program this spring – bringing COVID-19 antigen testing to locations with high volumes of travel.

[Above photo by the Michigan DOT]

The agency said it will offer “quick and cost-free testing” at several Michigan welcome centers and airports statewide as part of this pilot program, with results available in as few as 15 minutes – accommodating walk-ups as space allows while offering an option to register online while in line via a mobile device.

Photo by the Cherry Capital Airport in Traverse, MI.

Insurance is not required and MDHHS said it will send results via text, email, or uploaded to the traveler’s patient portal. Testing trailers will be located on the grounds of Michigan welcome centers, with testing stations located at multiple locations inside Michigan airports, the agency added.

“As we head into the summer with vaccines ramping up and a light at the end of the tunnel, I am so proud of this partnership between Michigan DOT and MDHHS to keep Michiganders safe,” said Gov. Gretchen Whitmer (D) in a statement.

“We are excited to provide space at our select welcome centers for immediate COVID-19 testing,” added Paul Ajegba, Michigan DOT’s director.

“Our welcome centers are a gateway to thousands of travelers coming into the state each day, making them ideal locations to help prevent the spread of this horrible virus,” he noted. “Just look out for the COVID testing signs before the appropriate centers along the freeways.”

“We are pleased to partner with Michigan DOT and offer simple, quick COVID-19 testing for Michiganders and travelers to Michigan,” said Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, chief medical executive and chief deputy for health at the MDHHS.

“With growing concerns of new, more contagious variants, testing for COVID-19 is more important than ever,” he said. “If you are engaging in any travel, we encourage you to take advantage of this testing when you re-enter or travel across the state.”