New reopening rules set for NY outdoor performing arts venues, sports stadiums

New York — Outdoor performing arts venues that can hold 2,500 people and up can reopen at 20{066dbc63777e5ed549f406789d72fdeebd77a32711d57f7b38ff2b35c4ba2a42} of their maximum capacity for concerts and other shows starting April 1, Gov. Andrew Cuomo said today.

Also on April 1, fans will be allowed to return to outdoor sports venues with a capacity of 2,500 people and up. Venues will be limited to 20{066dbc63777e5ed549f406789d72fdeebd77a32711d57f7b38ff2b35c4ba2a42} of their maximum capacity.

Indoor sports venues that can hold 1,500 people and up can reopen at 10{066dbc63777e5ed549f406789d72fdeebd77a32711d57f7b38ff2b35c4ba2a42} of their maximum capacity on April 1.

A negative Covid-19 test or proof of vaccination will be required for fans at any concert, show or sporting event.

Capacity limits at venues could rise as Covid-19 continues to decline, Cuomo said during an appearance in New York City.

“We have beaten this virus like no other state in the nation has,” he said. “And we’ve done it by being smart.”

In addition, statewide travel for sports and recreational activities will be allowed starting March 29. Currently, travel for sports is limited to contiguous counties and regions.

New York has been rolling out new reopening rules for various activities, events and businesses for several weeks. Cuomo dedicated a portion of his State of the State address in January to the concept of using testing to reopen faster.

The state previously released guidelines for large stadiums and arenas, but the rules announced today apply to much smaller venues as well. The capacity limit for outdoor events has also been increased from 10{066dbc63777e5ed549f406789d72fdeebd77a32711d57f7b38ff2b35c4ba2a42}.

Cuomo had also already outlined guidance for smaller arts and entertainment venues, but today’s rules will allow for bigger crowds at some sites.

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