PITTSBURGH — The Pittsburgh Penguins are hoping to implement vaccinated sections for fan seating at PPG Paints Arena in response to the excitement building as the team pushes for a 15th consecutive playoff berth.
According to an email sent to season ticket holders on Tuesday, the Penguins petitioned the state government and the Pennsylvania Department of Health to consider the option of creating vaccinated sections at the arena.
“Vaccinated sections would allow fans with proof of vaccination to sit closer in a protected environment. We are encouraged by the number of people in and around the region that have been vaccinated and feel that this would be a safe and effective way to allow more fans access to attend games,” the email states.
There would still be sections for non-vaccinated fans and vaccinations will not be a requirement to attend Penguins games. However, until the CDC and the Pennsylvania Department of Health rules otherwise, masks will still be required and all existing COVID-19 safety and cleaning protocols will remain in effect, the email states.
“We want you to know that we are making plans for the best fans in hockey. We see the demand for tickets increasing and we are doing our best to increase capacity going forward. Your safety remains our top priority,” Pens CEO and President David Morehouse wrote in the email. “On behalf of the team, we wanted to thank you for your ongoing support. Those of you who have already been able to come to games have been a huge lift and a big reason why we have the best home record in the NHL. Let’s keep that going in the playoffs!”
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