Massachusetts stadiums increase capacity and open amusement parks

FOXBORO, Mass. (WLNE) – The Bay State is set to take another step towards re-opening beginning Monday, and it holds a lot of promise for what summer could look like.

Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker announcing certain phase 4 industries can now resume operations or host larger crowds. These changes go into effect after Governor Baker announced COVID cases have fallen 20% since March.

Beginning today, large indoor and outdoor venues can increase capacity from 12% to 25%. That includes stadiums, arenas, and ballparks, including up to 9,400 fans at Fenway, 4,800 at TD Garden, and 16,500 at Gillette Stadium.

It’s also good news for amusement and water parks that will now be able to operate at 50% capacity after submitting safety plans to the Department of Public Health.

“It shows that summer and fun is back,” Jennifer McGrath with Six Flags New England said. “For us, specifically, kids have not had an easy year with remote learning or maybe missing a birthday party, I mean their worlds were forever changed. We’re opening with over 100 attractions and ride experiences on Friday. Not only are we getting bigger and better by hiring 3,000 people were offering jobs to, but we’re stimulating the economy by adding another ride and enhancing our property.”

On Friday, the amusement park will open for the first time in over 13 months with several safety measures in place like mask requirements and reserving your visit.

“We do contactless temperature screening and security check, we’re doing ride social distancing, which means you will not sit next to someone not in your party,” McGrath said.

On top of that, some sports are getting the green light to resume. Road races and other large, outdoor organized athletic events can start up again with staggered starts after submitting safety plans to a local board of health or the DPH.

Youth and adult amateur sports tournaments will be allowed for moderate and high-risk sports.

Singing will also be permitted indoors with strict distancing requirements at performance venues, restaurants, event venues and other businesses.

Restrictions will continue to lift into the summer. Beginning May 29th, gathering limits will increase to 200 people indoors and 250 outdoors. More industries can open, too, including festivals and parades at 50% previous capacity. Bars, breweries, beer gardens, and wineries can also open with certain restrictions.