The home stadium of the New York Mets, Citi Field, is eliminating the need for a negative COVID test upon entry.

As restrictions have continued to loosen across the country, this stepping stone towards normalcy is a big celebration for many Mets fans.

Vaccine distribution has ramped up among the tri-state area, and COVID cases have also trended downwards. This led to the change in policy, as entering the ballpark becomes much easier without needing to get tested.

According to the official Mets’ website, there will be select vaccinated sections for people who have received their final dose at least two weeks prior to gameday. Roughly ten percent of all sections will be marked vaccinated only, where fans will not have to spread out. The other remaining sections will be filled to 33% capacity and socially distanced.

All fans, regardless of section, will need to be masked unless actively eating or drinking.

Other Major League Baseball teams around the country have lifted restrictions, most notably the Texas Rangers and Atlanta Braves going to full capacity. Only time will tell if or when the Mets follow suit, but eliminating a test is a huge step.

For those worried about safety, as previously mentioned, the non-tested fans are socially distanced. The outdoor setting, in addition to masks, allows for greater airflow and minimal risk of a viral infection.

The New York Mets will offer vaccines at the game, incentivizing the shot with free tickets. Anyone who receives the shot at the game will have the ability to sit in vaccinated sections two weeks later.

Regardless of the Mets’ future COVID plan, the fans will be absolutely rocking Citi Field as the Mets currently sit atop first place in the National League East.