[ST. PAUL, MN] – As part of the State of Minnesota’s COVID-19 Community Vaccination Program, Governor Tim Walz announced a new community vaccination site to launch this week at River’s Edge Convention Center in St. Cloud. The large-scale, permanent site will be the sixth of its kind, joining sites in Minneapolis, Duluth, Rochester, Bloomington and Saint Paul. In its first week, vaccinations will be offered to individuals representing all populations currently eligible for vaccines in Minnesota including 1b frontline workers.

“As we continue to expand eligibility statewide, our community vaccination sites help us to continue leading the nation in getting shots in arms,” said Governor Walz. “The state’s Vaccine Connector is working as planned to help connect more Minnesotans to their COVID-19 vaccine, and the River’s Edge Convention Center site further expands opportunities for Minnesotans to access this safe, effective vaccine.”

River’s Edge Convention Center previously served as a pop-up location in the state’s Vaccine Pilot Program. Approximately 4,800 doses of the vaccine were administered there between January 21 and February 22.

“The state’s all-of-the-above approach to vaccine administration has made it possible for folks to get back to doing more of the things they love most here in Minnesota alongside their fellow Minnesotans,” continued Governor Walz. “We still need more vaccine, but the steadily growing network of providers and state sites is key to delivering once federal supply ramps up. As we did with testing, we will expand access until every Minnesotan has easy access to the shot, regardless of where they live.”

Minnesotans will be contacted directly if selected to sign up for vaccine appointments.

“With this St. Cloud site, we are expanding vaccine access to even more communities,” said Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. “Once federal supply reaches the level of demand, we will be prepared to provide every Minnesotan the opportunity to receive the vaccine, no matter where they call home.”

On March 12, Governor Tim Walz announced that on March 15 Minnesotans can begin safely gathering with more friends and loved ones, supporting Minnesota’s small businesses, and visiting large venues. Learn more about the specific details of the updated guidance here: https://staysafe.mn.gov/

Last month, Governor Walz announced the launch of the Minnesota COVID-19 Vaccine Connector, a tool that helps all Minnesotans find out when, where, and how to get their COVID-19 vaccine. Minnesotans can sign up at https://mn.gov/vaccineconnector. Minnesotans unable to sign up online or who require translation assistance can call 833-431-2053 between 9:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m., Monday through Friday to sign up over the phone.

In addition to the Vaccine Connector, Minnesotans can search for local providers on the state’s vaccine finder map: https://mn.gov/covid19/vaccine/find-vaccine/locations/index.jsp. Locations and contact information for scheduling appointments, including through five pharmacies with dozens of locations participating in the Federal Retail Pharmacy Program launched last month, are accessible on the Vaccine Locator map.

The state continues to offer no-cost community testing for COVID-19 across Minnesota. Minnesotans are encouraged to schedule an appointment at https://mn.gov/covid19/get-tested/testing-locations/community-testing.jsp. Walk-ins are also welcome.