Ohio is lifting some of its COVID-19 restrictions with spring around the corner.
Changes will be gradual, as the Buckeye State aims for herd immunity, according to cleveland.com.
Gov. Mike DeWine said Thursday (February 25) that indoor entertainment venues can allow 25% capacity and outdoor events can allow 30% capacity. Safety protocols — including mask requirements and social distancing — will still be in place.
New, eased restrictions also allow for proms, graduations and other events that typically draw crowds.
“There’s no reason these events can’t occur as long as they follow safety protocols,” DeWine said during a briefing on Thursday.
Separately, the Cleveland Indians announced in a press release that Progressive Field would open to 30% capacity beginning in April. The release also listed health and safety protocols, including hand sanitizing stations, frequent cleaning, air circulation for all indoor areas and more.
The Indians teamed up with the Cleveland Clinic to determine health protocols during the 2021 season.
“We are extremely fortunate to have one of the top medical centers in the world in our backyard to partner with and lead us in fan health and safety at Progressive Field,” said Neil Weiss, Cleveland Indians Senior Vice President, Ballpark Operations and Chief Information Officer. “We look forward to the day when we can welcome the best fans in baseball back to the ballpark.”
State officials will determine further COVID-19 guidelines for fairs, parades and other outdoor events. They also hope “things will be a lot better” by July for weddings and other gatherings, cleveland.com noted.
DeWine plans to release further information in the next few days.
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