Honolulu eases COVID-19 restrictions starting next week



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Governor David Ige and Mayor Rick Blangiardi held a joint press conference today to announce the return of “managed events” to Oahu next week, while imposing security measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

“We sincerely thank all those who have been vaccinated and who have helped to stop the increase in the number of COVID-19, thereby reducing the pressure on our hospitals and our health workers,” said Mayor Blangiardi. “It’s about recognizing the efforts of the majority of our employees who have done their part to keep our communities safe.

“I think it’s now fair to say that we fully recognize that we all need to learn to live with COVID-19, as we rebuild our local economy and balance our global public health. “

As of Wednesday, outdoor entertainment events, including sports arenas and concert halls, are permitted at 50% capacity, or a maximum of 1,000 participants, whichever is less. All participants should be vaccinated, masked and physically distanced, and a mitigation plan is required. Other than water, no food or drink will be allowed to be consumed. People working on the event must adhere to Safe Access Oahu protocols.

Children under 12 will not be allowed to attend the next University of Hawaii home football game on October 23, which will only allow friends and families of both teams and will not be charged for admission, Blangiardi said.

“It’s kind of a beta test,” Blangiardi said. Children under the age of 12 could be allowed to attend the last two UH games and Blangiardi has said he hopes the general public will be able to purchase tickets for 1,000 seats which will likely be available at the stadium. Ching with 9,000 seats.

Additionally, Blangiardi announced:

>> UH Wahine indoor volleyball matches will be limited to 500 fans with the same restrictions from October 20. The same rules will also apply to other indoor entertainment venues.

>> On the same day, interactive outdoor events, including traditional gatherings such as weddings and funerals, will be allowed at 50% capacity or a maximum of 150 vaccinated participants and event staff, depending on the smaller of the two, and all must be masked. A mitigation plan will be required. Food and drink will be allowed, as will masked exchanges and interactions. People working on the event must adhere to Safe Access Oahu protocols. Children will be admitted.

>> Golf tournaments will be allowed for fully vaccinated golfers from Wednesday. Safe Access Oahu limits must be observed for indoor events related to all golf tournaments.

>> Road races and triathlons will be authorized with a maximum of 500 vaccinated participants, with staggered departures for groups of up to 25 people from Wednesday.

>> In bars and restaurants with valid alcohol permits, the alcohol service will be extended until midnight, with immediate effect.

The size of social gatherings for all other events will follow the current guidelines of 10 people indoors and 25 people outdoors.

“I look forward to the next two weeks,” said Ige.

But he stressed: “This is not a clear signal. The pandemic is far from over. Many members of our community, family members, friends and colleagues are still seriously ill, still hospitalized, and unfortunately some still die. “

In August, Ige urged visitors to stay away until the end of October, just before the start of the traditional holiday travel season.

Today, Ige said he is working with the visitor industry and will be making “a more specific announcement next week. … We will definitely be working on a more cohesive message.


Editor’s Note: This story is under development and will be updated as more information becomes available.




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