Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf sharply limited dining room seating and ended bar service in response to an increase in the number of coronavirus cases.
The bar order, similar to the one from Delaware Gov. John Carney for eastern Sussex County, allows table service for drinks, but no sit-down bar service. Carney did not modify Delaware’s 60 percent limit on restaurant capacity.
The decision came on the same day that Philadelphia officials opened the window a crack on hopes of the NFL’s Philadelphia Eagles having a crowd at their games.
Mayor Jim Kenney said a ban on large gatherings that runs into February does not rule out fans at games at Lincoln Financial Field in South Philadelphia.
The public events moratorium announced yesterday was specific to those requiring a permit—like festivals and parades. Sporting events will be determined by the team and City based on current guidance as COVID-19 evolves. The Eagles will continue to communicate directly with fans.
— Jim #MaskUpPHL Kenney (@PhillyMayor) July 15, 2020
Outdoor stadiums are believed to be safer than indoor facilities, but carry the risk of carrying the virus, even with limited seating, since social distancing is difficult in many areas.
The Eagles have already given season ticket holders the ability to opt-out for this season.
Meanwhile, Wolf’s order imposed limits on indoor and outdoor gatherings, with mandated working from home if possible. The dining and bar limits will not affect Philadelphia, which is still restricting dining to outdoor space.
Govs. Wolf, Carney, and Maryland Larry Hogan have been concerned about the growing number of young people testing positive for coronavirus.
Pennsylvania earlier issued an advisory recommending that Delaware residents visiting the site to undergo a 14-day quarantine.
