What the future of stadiums would look like in a post-Covid world

Fans could have their every move scrutinized by cameras and lasers. There might be nobody in the next seat to high-five after a touchdown. The idea of passing cash to a beer vendor between innings will be a memory. Temperature screenings and medical checks could be mandatory. Virtual tickets will be the norm.

"There's a wealth of unanticipated casualties, I guess, that are going to be part of this, things we all took for granted as part of the live game-day experience," explained Nate Appleman, director of the sports, recreation and entertainment practice for Kansas City-based architectural firm HOK. "Some things we have yet to fathom but will become painfully clear once we are allowed back into venues and get back to truly human nature, which is to gather and celebrate community."

The biggest short-term change will be social distancing, which already has permeated everyday life. Ticket sales will be capped. Entire rows and sections blocked off. Seats on the aisle left open to keep a buffer from fans walking up the stairs. Fans will be given an entrance time to prevent crowding at the gates. Lines at restrooms and concessions will be limited. Congregating in the corridors will no longer be allowed.

It all sounds a bit Orwellian, like Big Brother is watching you. The systems dance a fine line between informative and intrusive. But they also could mitigate the threat of spreading a virus, and that could make it all worthwhile.