There are calls for increased COVID-19 testing in Wayne County.

During last week’s Wayne County Board meeting, Alma Jenkins, a gastroenterologist in Goldsboro, was one of several to address the commissioners and suggest more test sites would help the area better control is coronavirus numbers.

Commissioner Ed Cromartie noted the racial disparities in coronavirus cases and deaths.

Wayne County Manager Craig Honeycutt says the county is working with Wayne UNC Health Care to try to determine where the best sites will be for wider testing operations.

That will likely include a testing site in Goldsboro and then moving into the northern and southern areas of the county.

Honeycutt also says the county has applied for $2.3 million in CARES (Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security) Act funding from the state.

The state has issued new guidance loosening the guidelines for who can be tested for COVID-19.