Most New York Capacity Restrictions To End May 19th

Things are going to start feeling a lot more normal in the middle of the month.

In tandem with the Governors of New Jersey and Connecticut, Governor Cuomo announced earlier today that most capacity restrictions in New York will end on Wednesday, May 19th. Based on declining infection rates and all the vaccinations that have already been administered, the only guideline that will remain in place is business owners will still have to maintain space for six feet of social distancing between patrons. This guidance will apply to "... commercial settings, including retail, food services, gyms and fitness centers, amusement and family entertainment, hair salons, barber shops and other personal care services" according to the Governor's announcement.

Now I know the one major question popping up in your head - how does this apply to large gatherings like Country concerts? As of May 19th for large indoor arenas, there will still be a limit of 30 percent capacity and outdoor venues will be capped at 33 percent. COVID protocols will still apply, and attendees must show proof of a negative COVID test or of vaccination. The Governor's office says indoor venues will be capped at 250 people but that number can be exceeded utilizing a negative test or vaccination validation from attendees.

So for concerts, while we are still not quite there yet, we are getting close. I would guess once we hit a 50 percent capacity limit for big concert venues we will really start to see shows happening again. At this point, it is just a matter of time. We are finally taking some big steps towards normal!