CHICAGO – State Senator Patricia Van Pelt (D-Chicago) is excited thousands of people will be able to receive their COVID-19 dose at the United Center starting next month.

“I am excited that the United Center, which falls in the district I represent, will be home to a new mass vaccination site,” Van Pelt said. “Thousands of people will have access to this site, which will help increase the efficiency of the vaccine distribution in underprivileged areas like the ones I represent.”

The implementation of this site – which was announced by the governor Friday – is a joint collaboration with state, local and federal officials, and will open for 1B+ vaccinations starting March 10.

The United Center will be able to administer up to 6,000 vaccinations per day, which will be provided by the federal government.

“The demand for vaccinations is high, as many seniors and communities of color have the highest exposure to COVID-19,” Van Pelt said. “The faster people can get vaccinated, the better.”

Registration for seniors ages 65 and up will begin closer to the site’s opening date. Appointments are required, and will be available for more eligible Illinoisans only after seniors are covered.

The site will be open for vaccinations seven days a week, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. More information on the COVID-19 vaccine can be found at coronavirus.illinois.gov.