BUFFALO, N.Y. (WBEN) - Large arenas and stadiums can reopen at 10% capacity beginning February 23, Governor Andrew Cuomo said Wednesday.
Large arenas and stadiums have more than 10,000 seats. All visitors at venues must test negative for COVID-19 within 72 hours of the event. Face coverings, social distancing, and temperature checks will be required.
"The testing to me is key," Cuomo stressed. "I can go see the president of the United States, take a test, and if I pass the test, walk into the Oval Office. Why? Because if you’re negative, you are negative. So the testing is the key."
The governor lauded testing efforts for Buffalo Bills playoff games ahead of his announcement Wednesday.
"The Buffalo Bills demonstration program...was an unparalleled success," Cuomo said. "7,000 people in a stadium. Everyone tested. Only stadium to open up for football with testing, believe it or not, was what we did here in New York. The testing to me is key. I can go see the President of the United States, take a test, and if I take a test, walk in to the oval office."
The first home game for the Buffalo Sabres after February 23 is on February 25 against the New Jersey Devils.
Other venues that will be allowed to reopen under a limited capacity are Bills Stadium and Sahlen Field. Venues that have fewer than a 10,000 person capacity will not be allowed to reopen.
In a statement, the Buffalo Sabres said the announcement "is a great step forward."
"We continue to work closely with the New York State and Erie County Departments of Health to ensure a safe, healthy, and fan-friendly environment to enjoy Sabres hockey," the team said. "Ticketing information and game-day safety protocols will be announced as they become available."