Mobile testing site opening Sunday in Dedham as town sees spike in COVID-19 cases

DEDHAM, Mass. — Dedham Square was a little less busy on Friday.

“Well, it has been a quiet week," said Donna Menna, owner of Big Bear Café and Espresso Bar.

But Menna isn’t sure if it’s because it’s the end of summer or from concerns over COVID-19, after a spike in cases in Dedham.

“There are two clusters and a total right now, as of yesterday, of 26 positive cases," said Leanne Jasset, chairwoman of Dedham’s Board of Health.

One of those clusters is a group of high school kids who gathered to watch Bruin’s playoff games.

The resulting spike now makes Dedham a Red Zone and it’s also suspending school plans for a hybrid model according to Town Manager Leon Goodwin.

“As a result of the high risk category that is paused for the time being,” Goodwin said.

Chris and Katie Cardoza live in town and told Boston 25 News they’ll be playing it safe for now.

“Yeah usually we would have gone out to eat tonight and we’re going to stay in probably and cook for ourselves and hopefully this will be over soon,” Katie Cardoza said.

Town officials are offering free COVID testing starting on Sunday at the Endicott Estate at 656 East St. Complete information including testing hours can be found here.

“Every Dedham resident should get tested as far as we’re concerned,” Goodwin said.

As for Menna, she’s concerned but adds this may all be for the best.

“It’s also a positive thing, if that makes sense, because people are more aware now,” Menna said.

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