CLEVELAND, Ohio -- The Cleveland Cavaliers’ recent request for more fans at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse has been approved by the state, sources tell cleveland.com.
The Cavaliers were informed in a letter Thursday afternoon that they will be granted a second variance -- and slight increase in attendance -- that allows 2,720 spectators total, which is 14% of the arena’s capacity. This change goes into effect immediately, and the Cavs have already made more seats available for this weekend’s back-to-back series against the Milwaukee Bucks.
On Jan. 27, the organization held a Zoom call with key state officials, including Lt. Governor Jon Husted and members of the Ohio Department of Health, in hopes of boosting their attendance even more than the nearly 2,000 previously allowed.
During the second meeting in less than three months, the Cavs presented an enhanced plan and played a collection of supportive first-person video testimonials from initially hesitant fans who have attended games inside Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse this season, enjoyed the experience, felt safe and expressed interest in returning.
That day, the Cavs asked for their original variance request, submitted on Nov. 4, to be honored -- an allowance of 4,596 people, which is 23.65% of the arena’s typical 19,432-person maximum.
While they didn’t get that number, the slight increase shows that their protocols are respected by state officials, with the million-dollar enhancements separating the FieldHouse from other venues in Ohio that are part of the Governor’s order during the coronavirus pandemic.
Under an order given by Gov. Mike DeWine on Aug. 25, the current maximum allowance for indoor sports and entertainment venues, regardless of size, stature or safety features is 300, or 15% of fixed, seated capacity -- whichever is less.
To get that lifted, a variance request needs to be submitted and approved.
On Dec. 29, the Cavaliers’ initial request for more fans was approved by Ohio Department of Health Director Stephanie McCloud, who works for DeWine’s administration. But it was a bit lower than desired, allowing 1,944 spectators total -- 10% of the arena’s capacity.
Over the next few weeks, the Cavs will continue to make adjustments to their 86-page presentation -- The Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse Activation Plan: COVID-19 Fan Re-Engagement Strategy and Protocol Execution -- and focus on where other improvements can be made. They plan to keep a dialogue going in hopes of getting another attendance boost.
The Cavs spent months working with the Cleveland Clinic, the City of Cleveland, State of Ohio, NBA, as well as several other partners to devise the plan that prioritizes health and safety, maintains proper social distancing and, they believe, sets Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse apart. The proposal featured increased cleanliness, extensive space and technological elements lacking at most other sports and entertainment venues, with CEO Len Komoroski arguing against being held to the same strict rules of other lesser-equipped places.
Cleveland is one of eight NBA franchises allowing fans. The Atlanta Hawks opened the doors to State Farm Arena for the first time in late January. The Milwaukee Bucks may soon do the same. The Phoenix Suns are supposed to begin allowing fans next week. The Houston Rockets are at 25% capacity, the most in the league. Every team has strict protocols in place, including mandatory mask wearing and social distancing.
-
New Cavs face masks for sale: Here’s where you can buy Cleveland Cavaliers-themed face coverings for coronavirus protection, including a single mask ($14.99) and a 3-pack ($24.99). All NBA proceeds donated to charity.
More Cavaliers coverage
Daunting stretch begins with 121-99 loss to Clippers
Cavaliers not taking enough 3s and they know it; time to fix a broken offense
Sexton’s rapid rise into potential All-Star not surprising to Tyronn Lue
Love goes through individual workout, Cavaliers won’t rush return from calf injury
Who’d have thought it? Cavaliers actually defend and are watchable! Pluto
A tough road trip ahead; Drummond and Love rumors: Podcast
A look at future with Jarrett Allen, Collin Sexton and Darius Garland starring in win
Two-game losing skid ends with 100-98 avenging victory over Minnesota