Report: Massachusetts expected to announce reopening of stadiums, other large venues
It’s been nearly a year since Fenway Park, TD Garden, or Gillette Stadium hosted fans for a game. However, those closures could come to an end soon, according to a new report from The Boston Globe.
“Governor Charlie Baker plans to announce at a 1 p.m. event on Thursday that the administration will reopen large venues, those that accommodate more than 5,000 people, on March 22 with rules for reduced capacity,” according to The Globe. There was no indication in the report of how much the capacity will be reduced, which is something Baker is expected to explain during the event.
A March 22nd reopening of the local stadiums would mean having fans in attendance before the end of the season for hockey and basketball. The Bruins begin an eight game homestand on March 23, with the first game coming against the New York Islanders. Meanwhile, the Celtics are on the road that week, but could potentially play in front of fans by March 29, when they return home from that road trip and host the Pelicans. For the Red Sox, the timeline would mean fans in the stands for Opening Day, which is currently scheduled for April 1.
Down in Foxborough, a recent report indicated the Patriots are ‘very optimistic’ about having fans in attendance for their upcoming season. As for the Revolution, the MLS season is scheduled to start on April 17, meaning they could play their entire home slate in front of crowds as well.
This announcement comes as COVID numbers in Massachusetts have declined for four straight weeks. The state has also recently moved on to Phase 2 of its vaccination rollout plan, with Phase 3 expected to start in April.
Alex Barth is a writer and digital producer for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Thoughts? Comments? Questions? Looking for a podcast guest? Let him know on Twitter @RealAlexBarth or via email at [email protected].