New COVID-19 cases in Pa. reach lowest total since November; locals ready for return to ‘normal’

PITTSBURGH — New COVID-19 cases across Pennsylvania have reached a low that we haven’t seen since November.

The state’s numbers are beginning to get back to the low totals from fall 2020.

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So, with fewer cases and more people getting vaccinated each day, what does that mean for normally bustling areas of Pittsburgh, like the North Shore and Strip District? The Pittsburgh Pirates are welcoming fans back inside PNC Park for Opening Day on April 8.

For bars, restaurants and shops in the area, it’s a relief that business will be getting aback to somewhat normal soon.

“It’s really nice, people being able to get out and about -- especially with the help from the vaccine... people are more comfortable coming out,” said Don George, a city resident.

Jim Coen, who owns “Yinzers” and is also the president of the business association there, told Channel 11 the city is ready to reopen.

“The weather with the sun makes a big difference,” said Coen. “Once we start getting different venues where people can go see a movie or go to a concert or go to a stadium, it’s really going to open things up.”

The official number of fans who will be allowed at Pirates games has not yet been announced, but the team cannot hold more than 20% capacity -- which would be about 7,600 people.

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