Governor Charlie Baker announced fans will be allowed to attend sporting events and other large venues in Massachusetts at a reduced capacity beginning in March amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
During a press conference Thursday (February 25), Gov. Baker said indoor performance venues, such as sports arenas and stadiums, concert halls, theaters and others, will be open to the public at a reduced capacity beginning March 22, CBS Boston reports.
The announced reopening take place just over a week before the Boston Red Sox's opening day game on April 1.
On Tuesday (February 23), Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker responded to a question of whether the state would soon allow fan attendance at sporting events with "stay tuned," via CBS Boston.
Prior to the announcement, the New England Patriots sent a letter to season ticket holders addressing the extension of the deadline for season ticket renewals amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, while also providing optimism related to having full crowds at Gillette Stadium.
“As we look ahead to the 2021 season, we are very optimistic that we will have fans in the stands and hopeful that we will be able to do so at full capacity,” the letter stated.
The Patriots credited "the success of sporting events at other large outdoor venues across the country" as a roadmap for a potential reopening plan next season.
The franchise also said it plans to "rethink various elements of our game day operations," which will include adjustments to paperless tickets and cashless payments for all concessions and merchandise in Gillette Stadium during Patriots home games.
The Patriots also mentioned the erection of a new video board, as well as a "completely reimagined food and beverage experience" that will "allow for greater traffic flow and a comfortable fan environment."
The Patriots will host nine home games at Gillette Stadium next year, including Tom Brady's first game back as a member of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
All 2021 matchups will be scheduled at a later date prior to the upcoming season.
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