One of the big expenses that comes with attending an NFL game is parking your vehicle. The New England Patriots are taking that out of the equation for the 2020 NFL season.
Patriots announce free parking for fans attending games
In a letter sent to season-ticket holders Monday, the Patriots announced they will not charge fans for parking at Gillette Stadium this coming season.
“In order to show our appreciation for your commitment to the Patriots during this unique season — and in acknowledgment that it will be different than any other season we have ever experienced together — we want to share that we will provide free parking in all Gillette Stadium lots this year,” the letter read (h/t ESPN). “From both a safety and convenience standpoint, we hope this will simplify one aspect of your game-day experience in 2020 and serve to express our gratitude for your support.”
Additionally, per ESPN, the Patriots are making all ticket sales digital due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Season-ticket holders who are among those with elevated risk for the coronavirus are also being allowed to opt out of the 2020 season while not losing their seats for the 2021 campaign.
NFL still hoping to have fans in stadiums amid COVID-19 pandemic
The big question at this point is whether fans will be allowed in stadiums across the nation this fall. The past few weeks have shown that the coronavirus pandemic is still a massive problem in America. More states are seeing significant spikes than a decline in positive tests, with California, Arizona, Florida and Texas being the biggest contributors to 50,000-plus positive tests per day this past week.
Despite that, the NFL is still planning and hoping that fans can attend games. The reality of the situation, however, is that it’s an uncertain climate. Two preseason games have already been scrapped, and the NFLPA is asking the NFL to cancel the preseason altogether.
At the same time, there is increasing doubt brewing among coaches and executives that the 2020 NFL season will happen at all.