Macon one of four mass COVID vaccination sites across Georgia. What you need to know

The Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency announced plans to open four mass COVID-19 vaccination sites in Georgia on Feb. 22, including one in Macon.

The drive-through vaccination site can vaccinate 1,100 people a day, according to a release — 88,000 Georgians a week between the four sites.

The sites will be located in Macon, Hapeville, Albany and Clarkesville, open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

“(Our) efforts are designed to address the vaccination needs of underserved populations that have been hardest hit by COVID-19,” said Chris Stallings, GEMA and HS Director. “The four sites selected all have surrounding populations with high percentages of minorities and individuals with incomes below the poverty line.”

Macon’s site will be at the Macon Farmers Market (2055 Eisenhower Parkway). Only Georgians currently eligible under the state’s Phase 1A+ can schedule appointments, which includes healthcare workers, residents and staff of long-term care facilities, adults aged 65 and older and their caregivers and first responders. Appointments can be made through the MyVaccineGeorgia.com website.

“(The) mass vaccination sites will not accept walk-ups, and we are strictly adhering to the guidelines for who is eligible for vaccination,” said Stallings. “We highly encourage people to complete the registration process using a mobile device, which makes the intake process faster.”

Macon-Bibb County Mayor Lester Miller was at the Capitol for Gov. Brian Kemp’s announcement of the vaccination sites and the new registration website. He said he’s excited that Macon was chosen as one of the four vaccination sites, a reflection of the county’s strong relationship with its state partners.

“It’s going to be convenient for people in Bibb County,” he said. “The state owns that property on Eisenhower, and it’s a great location near two interstates. We’re fortunate to have that location.”

Miller encouraged Bibb County residents who aren’t eligible yet for the vaccine to register for updates via the MyVaccineGeorgia.com website.

“I know that Macon-Bibb County residents have had some of the same difficulties [receiving a vaccine] as the rest of the state,” he said. “I know we’ve had high call volume with the NCHD, and there’s some frustration there. The new website is very easy to use, and I hope people take advantage of it.”

Site locations

• Delta Air Museum, 1220 Woolman Place SW., Hapeville
• Albany Georgia Forestry Site, 2910 Newton Rd., Albany
• Habersham County Fairgrounds, 4235 Toccoa Hwy., Clarkesville
• Macon Farmers Market, 2055 Eisenhower Pkwy., Macon

This story was originally published February 18, 2021 at 4:55 PM.