New York Times (02/10/21) Deb, Sopan; Slotnik, Daniel E.; Sisario, Ben
New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo says a limited number of people will be allowed to attend sports and entertainment events at venues in the state with 10,000 or more seats. Seating must be limited to 10 percent of the venue’s capacity, and attendees will be required to show proof of a negative PCR coronavirus test taken within 72 hours of the event. The state’s Department of Health will be responsible for approving each venue. Cuomo has not offered details about ventilation requirements, but a news release from his office says sites have to "meet enhanced air filtration, ventilation, and purification standards" in order to reopen. Attendees also should not let their masks slip and must remain socially distanced. Even with the new rule, it is considered unlikely that live music events will take place in the state anytime soon. John Scher, a New York-area promoter, asserts, "At 10 percent, everyone (artists, promoters) will lose money." A few touring plans are targeting the summer or the fall for the first large-scale concerts, while several spring festivals, such as Coachella and the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, have been postponed. Cuomo says the Barclays Center in Brooklyn has been approved for hosting fans on Feb. 23 for the Brooklyn Nets' basketball game against the Sacramento Kings.
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