The Kentucky Wildcats return to Rupp Arena on Wednesday night and two concerts are booked for next month. So what can those of you lucky enough to have a ticket expect amid the pandemic? When the media walked into Rupp Arena Monday morning to see a run-through of the latest procedures, we were greeted by the polished hardwood, emboldened with the word Kentucky under two opposing baskets and the beloved blue and white UK logo center court. Only about 3-thousand fans will get inside to see the Cats take on the Morehead State Eagles, but not until they've gone through several safety steps.
Bill Owen, President of the Central Bank Center said plans are in place and they will follow and enforce all COVID-19 guidelines. That includes temperature checks, social distancing, mobile ticket scanning and regular cleaning. “We felt like with those changes we have taken significant steps for sanitization following all requirements by CDC and Governor Beshear’s Healthy in Kentucky,” Owen said, “so I guess the word that I would want to share is here at Rupp Arena Central Bank Center we are prepared for this week’s games to begin.”
Masks will also be required and Owen said security will be monitoring to make sure everyone in the building complies. If someone cannot wear a mask because of medical reasons they will need to provide sufficient proof. Because indoor dining has been halted in the Governor’s latest restrictions, plans are still being made for concessions. Owen said even at 15% capacity, he’s “Excited to put the building back to work. Basketball, concerts, whatever we can do. We are in the business doing events and after being essentially shuttered for eight months it’s nice to have something scheduled.”