Declining COVID-19 numbers in Nevada coupled with the governor loosening capacity restrictions that have hampered the market since last year led to MGM Resorts’ decision concerning Mandalay Bay, Park MGM, and The Mirage.

The properties, which have been closed during the middle of the week, will completely reopen – 24/7 – on March 3. Casinos in Nevada were allowed to increase their visitor capacity to 35% on Monday from the 25% limit set in November when COVID-19 infections were surging in the state.

On Wednesday, Nevada reported its lowest one-day total infection in more than five months while the state’s two-week positivity rate has dropped to its lowest levels since mid-November.

“As we begin to see positive signs around the public’s sentiment about traveling, coupled with important progress on the vaccination front and decreasing COVID-19 case numbers, bringing Mandalay Bay, Park MGM and The Mirage back to full-week operations is an important step for us,” MGM CEO Bill Hornbuckle said in a statement.

“We remain optimistic about Las Vegas’ recovery and our ability to bring employees back to work as business volumes allow us to do so,” Hornbuckle added.

Casinos, as well as restaurants, bars, and other entertainment options, will increase to 35% capacity on March 15. The locations will continue to operate under the state’s COVID-19 health, safety, and cleaning protocols and as well as requiring mask wearing in public and social distancing guidelines.

MGM Resorts also announced several of its live entertainment shows will return to the stage in beginning this month and early in March.
Hornbuckle predicted last week a loosening of capacity restrictions could lead to a return of mid-week occupancy and would MGM to fully reopen the three properties to seven days a week operations.

He suggested during MGM’s fourth quarter conference call the company’s Strip occupancy figures at its 10 properties could see a bump from the NCAA’s March Madness basketball tournament and other Spring events, such as the opening of pool season.

However, Hornbuckle said the large meetings and conventions business that MGM books into many of its properties may not return the second half of the year. “October was our strongest month since reopening (casinos in Nevada in June),” Hornbuckle said.“Public health concerns dampened visitation over the course of the fourth quarter and this has continued into February. We remain confident in the long-term recovery of our business.”