By Steve Seepersaud
While the Binghamton University campus is on pause from what had been its normal activity, it has a vital role in the reopening of the Southern Tier's economy. As part of Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo's commitment to test as many people as possible for COVID-19, the University is hosting a test site (pictured above). A Binghamton alumnus returned to campus to lead the effort.
Ronald Epstein, MA '90, executive deputy commissioner and chief financial officer for the New York State Department of Transportation (DOT), is managing the on-campus location. Since the site's opening in early May, several hundred people have made appointments each day for the rapid nasal swab test.
"The state testing site is capable of handling more people, up to 500 per day," said
Epstein (at left of photo with President Harvey Stenger). "The governor has made it
a priority to encourage healthcare professionals, first responders and essential workers
who interact with the public ― such as transit workers ― to come and get tested. While
the site is open to the public, individuals interested in being tested for COVID-19
are strongly encouraged to pre-register, which includes pre-screening criteria for
symptoms."
According to Epstein, setting up and running the site required tremendous teamwork from Binghamton University, the DOT, the New York State Department of Health (DOH), New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, New York Army National Guard and New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services.
The site occupies three parking lots; one is used for drive-through testing, another serves as the command center and the remaining lot has food for workers. Everything is self-contained within the parking lots, Epstein said; no campus buildings are used.
Epstein managed the test site at Anthony Wayne Recreation Area in Harriman State Park for nearly two months. Drawing upon that experience, he was able to quickly deploy resources to Binghamton University.
"I'm really proud of the way all the agencies have banded together," Epstein said. "Except for DOH, involved agencies are conducting health-related activities that typically fall outside of their core mission. We used the template from Anthony Wayne to get set up on campus. There are a lot of logistics that go into setting up a passive testing facility, including identifying clinical staff to administer testing; securing tents and supplies to operate and maintain the facility; and bringing in power, water and other related infrastructure to ensure site self-sufficiency. We made a conscious decision not to utilize campus facilities to avoid potential for cross-contamination. Generally, it took a day to line up everything we needed to commence operations because we had that experience from downstate. We were able to hit the ground running."
Epstein feels proud to, once again, make an investment into the Southern Tier's quality of life. In his role with the DOT, he facilitated major road upgrades such as the Prospect Mountain construction project and the Route 201 flyover between Johnson City and Vestal.
"I really appreciate my Binghamton University experience," Epstein said. "I went to school basically to join public service. My coursework helped prepare me for what we are managing today, and it taught me public ethic and the value of service. All of that, plus the relationships I built and still maintain, have helped me deliver the services that we are delivering today."
Experiencing symptoms? Go to a test site in your area. Make an appointment by phone at 1-888-364-3065 or online.
