Pennsylvania governor announces changes to venue guidelines, allowing fans inside stadiums

Fans will once again be allowed inside Subaru Park, thanks to Governor Tom Wolf amending current COVID-19 orders. Governor Wolf announced Tuesday that starting on Friday October 9, he “will allow the venue occupancy limits to play a bigger role in determining the number of people permitted both inside and outside of events or gatherings.” Once the new rule is implemented, it is up to the local government officials to determine if fans can attend sporting events.

The new change will mean the allowable occupancy rate for a Philadelphia Union game is no more than 2,775 people, or 15% of the stadium’s total capacity. Venues that do choose to open will be required to still follow social distancing guidelines and everyone will always be required to wear a mask. The state also said venues must implement best practices like timed entry, multiple entry and exit points, as well as hygiene stations.

Following the governor’s announcement, the Union’s front office released its own statement supporting the announcement. Within that statement the Union said they will be implementing a series of strict protocols and safety measures to ensure the health and safety of its fans. A more formal announcement of when the first game will be open for fans is expected shortly.

The Union play at home Wednesday night, but the earliest game this new announcement would potentially impact would be Sunday’s game against the Montreal Impact at Subaru Park. The Union II season ended on Saturday night in Pittsburgh.