On-campus spaces see loosened capacity limits

By Alec Klusza, Assistant News Editor

Room capacity limits in some indoor spaces on Emerson’s campus were increased last week, a result of low positive COVID-19 tests and a declining positivity rate across the campus, administrators announced on Saturday.

The new capacity limits in reservable spaces, such as meeting spaces in 172 Tremont, are now reflected in Spacebook. Beginning next week, up to four people will be allowed to eat at tables in campus dining centers, the email from Assistant Vice President for Campus life and “COVID Lead” Erik Muurisepp said.

“Our case numbers remain low, with a rate of .2 percent and less than 10 active cases as of this communication,” Muurisepp said in the email. “Due to this, we are able to make these positive adjustments.”

As spring temperatures continue to rise, college officials also encouraged students to gather outside, where up to 25 people are allowed to congregate socially distanced with masks on.

The announcement comes even as the state’s 7-day positivity rate has increased to highs not seen since early February and new cases topping 2,000 three days in a row this week for the first time since Feb. 12.