PPG Paints Arena Welcomes Back Pittsburgh Penguins Fans
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) - A limited number of fans watched the Penguins take on the Flyers after Gov. Tom Wolf loosened capacity limits.
Only 2,800 fans were allowed inside the arena to watch the Penguins beat the Flyers 5-2. It came after Wolf eased some restrictions Monday to allow for 15% capacity at indoor events and 20% capacity at outdoor events.
The gates opened an hour before game time, which was unusual compared to previous seasons. But fans were more than happy to see their team.
"Just thrilled we did it the right way, the safe way," said Adam Claus. "And we're back to cheer on our boys."
For those who plan on buying tickets for future games, here are few things to know.
WATCH: Bryant Reed Reports
Seating is limited to pods of two to four people. Fans are given specific times to show up and gates they have to enter to maintain social distancing and to prevent a big crowd in one area. Masks are required for everybody over the age of two. There are no bags allowed and anything you buy has to be paid with a debit or credit card, no cash.
Even with all the protocols in place, KDKA's Bryant Reed talked to some fans who said they would've done anything to get back into the arena no matter what the fan experience was.
"I don't think it will affect the experience at all. No matter what, you got to back your team and it feels good to be here. It's like home away from home, love to be here, the atmosphere is great and let's go Pens," said fan Michael Schroder II.
The Pens also have a few other safety measures in place like touchless faucets in the bathrooms and more than 200 sanitizing stations placed around the arena.
Local businesses hope to get a boost from the foot traffic returning to the area.
The Penguins have 11 more home games in March, and fans can't wait to start making this part of their normal routine.
