Large event venues face challenges preparing to reopen with strict guidelines

LITTLE ROCK (KATV) — As the state moves forward with phase one of reopening,large venues such as arenas and stadiums are preparing to open doors with restrictions.

"Our industry has been hit particularly hard by the pandemic," CEO of the Little Rock Convention and Visitors Bureau Gretchen Hall said.

Hall says more than 100 events at LRCB managed facilities including the State House Convention Center, the Robinson Center, and the First Security Amphitheater has been canceled due to coronavirus concerns.

"We know there’s a pent-up demand, but we also want to open up in a very responsible manner and make it a safe environment for everyone," she said.

Under a directive by the governor, large venues are allowed to begin reopening with strict restrictions. However, Hall says it will be a slow process.

"Every event we’re going to have to look at by a case by case basis, depending on what that event set up is and how many people are expected or how many tickets are sold," she said.

In phase one, the governor's directive allows outdoor venues to open now, limiting an audience to 50 or fewer people with every other row unoccupied.

Large indoor venues will be allowed to open on May 18, and will face many of the same restrictions.

"We’re hoping that as restrictions continue to ease and we move into additional phasing, the capacities will be increased as well," Hall said.

If everything goes well, Hall expects a busy next few months.

"We know that re-opening these buildings and inviting these groups and events back into town is going to really help with the economic recovery here at home," she said.

Hall says the next scheduled event in one of the LRCB facilities is scheduled for late June, which will give them time to move through the guidelines and prepare to safely re-open.

Source:  KATV.com