It's Wednesday, Feb. 3. Start your morning with some of our latest headlines:
Vaccinations Continue Statewide
More than 702,664 COVID-19 vaccines have been administered in Arizona as of Wednesday morning, according to the Department of Health Services. The latest data shows that Arizona has used less than 60 percent of the vaccine doses the state has received. Greenlee, Coconino, Pima and Yavapai Counties are currently leading the state in highest vaccination rates per 100,000 people.
Former Governor Jan Brewer announced she received her second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine at State Farm Stadium’s mass vaccination site early Tuesday morning.
New Appointments Open; Maricopa County Reports Wasted Doses
Arizona’s Department of Health Services opened registration Wednesday at 9 a.m. for additional COVID-19 vaccination appointments at the newly launched Phoenix Municipal Stadium site. Those who sign up for an appointment at Phoenix Municipal are guaranteed a second appointment at the same site, according to Ducey’s office. The newly opened appointments emerge after Governor Doug Ducey signed an executive order requiring counties to administer a certain percentage of doses before receiving more vaccine supply.
A report from Arizona’s Family found that 553 vaccine doses were thrown away between Dec. 17 and Jan. 20 in Maricopa County. Former State Health Director Will Humble told the station the number of wasted vaccines was relatively low compared to overall distribution. Ducey called the move “unacceptable” on Wednesday, and called on local leaders to prevent waste.
Wet Weather Could Damage Roads, Forest Officials Say
Prescott National Forest officials are asking visitors to avoid heavy use of roads and trails after the recent snowfall and rain showers across the region. Officials say the precipitation can make grounds vulnerable to damage when hikers, horseback riders, and drivers take to the roads. The National Forest on Tuesday released a map outlining areas that are susceptible to slight, moderate, and severe damage. Officials say damage of forest lands during wet weather could lead to six months imprisonment or result in a fine of up to $5,000.
Mountain Line Receives Millions To Bolster Accessible Infrastructure
The Arizona Department of Transportation has supplied a $5.5 million grant to Flagstaff’s Mountain Line transit system, according to the Arizona Transit Association. The funds are meant to bolster pedestrian and biking infrastructure to support commuters who walk or bike to city transit stops. Mountain Line also received $445,000 for technology upgrades, the ATA reports.
