WASHINGTON — D.C. will allow more Washington Nationals fans to attend games at Nats Park, according to the team in a statement on Monday.
The team said D.C.'s Mayor Muriel Bowser and her staff sent down the news to the organization to start the week.
On May 14, the Washington Nationals will be allowed to have 36% capacity at its stadium. By June 11, Nats Park can be at full capacity, which aligns with D.C.'s new mandates.
“The Washington Nationals are delighted by Mayor Bowser’s announcement today, which will permit the ballpark to operate at full capacity beginning June 11. The team was also granted a waiver to expand seating to 36% effective May 14," said the Nationals in a statement on Monday. "We want to thank Mayor Bowser and her administration for their partnership and collaboration over the past several months as we worked together on a safe and comprehensive plan to get fans back into the ballpark. Our organization will continue to work diligently to ensure the safety of our players, staff, and fans as we welcome everyone back to Nationals Park.”
More fans have gradually started to trickle back into Nats Park as D.C. has lessened COVID restrictions amid fewer reported cases and more people getting the coronavirus vaccine.
The announcement means that Washington's next home series against the Philadelphia Phillies this week will have more fans.
The Wizards and Capitals will also have more fans in their stands at Capital One Arena come May 21.
The May 21 shift will lift all capacity restrictions on restaurants, gyms, schools, offices and houses of worship. Bowser said she expected to approve a waiver request from Monumental Sports, owners of the Capitals and Wizards, to immediately increase attendance capacity from 10% to 25% for potential playoff games. The Capitals are solidly in the NHL playoffs, while the Wizards are fighting for the final spot in the NBA’s Eastern Conference play-in tournament.