Hoboken took another big step in fighting against the coronavirus by opening testing to all the city’s residents, regardless if they are exhibiting symptoms or not.

The city, in partnership with Riverside Medical Group, opened the rapid field testing to asymptomatic residents. Other doctor’s offices and medical groups in the city have come to do the same as more test kits became available. Officials say that increased testing will be essential to the eventual reopening of the state.

“We need a larger base of knowledge in order to make informed decisions in the interest of the public health and safety of residents and the only way to do that is to expand testing,” says Hoboken Mayor Ravi Bhalla.

But Bhalla says that the city does not want to provide a false sense of security or force a reopening before it is safe to do so.

“We’ve been ensured by Riverside that any resident who gets a negative will also get counseling about the fact that they could be positive in the future and should exercise precautions,” the mayor says.

The Riverside site remains drive-thru and walk up. Residents will still need an appointment to get tested. First responders, front-line workers and those with COVID-19 symptoms will get priority.

Riverside Medical will take insurance. For those who don't have any - Hoboken will cover the cost of the test. More information can be found on Hoboken's municipal website.