COVID-19 Philadelphia: the city eases some restrictions; some sports care is allowed

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) – Philadelphia officials announced on Friday that several restrictions imposed due to the COVID-19 pandemic will be eased as infection rates continue to fall and vaccination rates increase.

Among the announcements: some fans will be able to participate in sporting events.

However, Health Commissioner Dr. Thomas Farley said that relaxed restrictions depend on consistent use of a universal mask.

The following takes effect on Monday, March 1:

SPORTS EVENT

-Meetings will be allowed up to state limits
-2,500 people in total for outdoor events, 500 people in total for indoor events

This is good news for Phillies fans, considering that Citizens Bank Park is an outdoor location. The Phillies’ home debut is on April 1st.

However, fans will not be allowed inside the Wells Fargo Center for Sixers and Flyers games yet.

The total number of people allowed includes not only fans, but also employees. WFC said it requires more than 500 employees on site for a game when fans are present.

“We are in direct communication with city and state officials to determine when we can further increase our capacity and welcome fans back to the arena,” said Valerie Camillo, president of commercial operations for Philadelphia Flyers and Wells Fargo Center.

RESTAURANTS

– Up to 6 people are allowed per outdoor table and do not need to be from the same family
– Current internal capacity limits and requirements still apply

RETAIL STORES

– Increase to 20 people per 1,000 square feet

SENIOR CENTERS

-Allowed to open, but everyone will have to wear K-N95 masks or double mask
-No more than 25 people in any room or group

THEATERS

-Allowed to serve food in cinemas
-Groups no larger than 4

CALLED EVENTS

– Events with internal service are still prohibited
– Outdoor event limit increased to 100 people

RELIGIOUS SERVICES

– Increase to 20% of capacity

SEE TOO: Phillies fan group ‘Phandemic Krew’ honored with bobblehead