Metro to lift COVID-19 capacity restrictions on May 14

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — In less than a week, capacity restrictions will be lifted in Metro Nashville.

With crowds are picking up downtown, Mayor John Cooper says on May 14, Metro will be lifting the remaining COVID-19 capacity restrictions.

As of Friday, 42% of Nashvillians have now received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine.

May 14 marks six weeks since the vaccine became available to all adults in Nashville.

It's a big win for businesses like bars, restaurants and salons that have been shut down or operating with limitations.

Metro Public Health Department spokesperson Brian Todd said lifting the county restrictions may mean sports teams will implement their own rules though.

"More than likely like with the NHL playoffs coming up, probably won't be a surprise and expect the NHL to make a decision on what those rules are and I think many of the sports teams will do the same," said Todd.

The Grand Ole Opry will return to full capacity Friday for the first time in more than a year.

The Nashville Sounds Baseball Club is set to open First Horizon Park near 100% capacity starting on Friday as well.

Nissan Stadium will be near full capacity for Nashville SC's match on May 23.

One rule that will stay in place though is the indoor mask mandate.

Mayor John Cooper calls the capacity updates a "transitional moment for Nashville" as the city focuses on vaccinations and economic recovery.

Anyone seeking a COVID-19 vaccine appointment can visitcovid19.tn.gov or vaccinefinder.org to schedule an appointment with a local vaccine provider.