Saints games at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome will go on without fans, New Orleans city officials announced Friday.
During a morning press conference, Mayor Latoya Cantrell stated that fans will not be allowed at home games including Sunday's game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the September 27th game against the Green Bay Packers.
"We cannot allow 20,000 people to gather in a crowd at all," the Mayor said. "That would be dangerous, irresponsible and not aligning with the phase 2 guidelines in the city of New Orleans."
The Mayor also announced that tailgating on city property would not be permitted. Large gatherings are limited under the city's Phase 2 guidelines.
NOPD Superintendent Shaun Ferguson says that officers are ready to address large crowds. Fans will not be allowed downtown to tailgate and no tailgating may take place on city property.
Ferguson said that those who choose to watch the game on private property should wear a mask and practice social distancing.
Police say that they will also continue to monitor pop up second lines which were reported over the weekends. They will identify leaders of these second lines and ask them to comply.
Those not complying with Phase 2 guidelines may be issued a summons or arrested, he said.
Those wishing to report gatherings that go against city guidelines should call 311. Indoor gatherings are limited to 25 people while outdoor gatherings are limited to 50. Masks and social distancing are required. Restaurants and other establishments will continue to operate at 50 percent under the city's Phase 2 guidelines.
Governor John Bel Edwards announced on Thursday, September 10, that the state would enter in Phase 3 on Friday. He will issue more details on those guidelines Friday at a 2pm press conference.
See the entire press conference below:
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