Gillette Stadium going smoke-free

Gillette Stadium is going completely smoke-free. The home of the New England Patriots and New England Revolution had some designated smoking areas near pedestrian ramps, but they will be eliminated. Stadium officials were expected to make an official announcement of the change next week. “The feedback we’ve received from our customers suggests that the majority now prefer a fully non-smoking environment,” James Nolan, Gillette Stadium senior vice president of administration, operations and finance, said.

“The decision is made much easier by considering the overwhelming evidence of the negative health effects of smoking, especially in light of Gillette Stadium’s goal — as a sports-centric business — of promoting health and wellness.” Employees were informed through a stadium newsletter. “Beginning the week of July 9, Gillette Stadium will become a fully smoke-free facility, with all areas inside the stadium gates designated as non-smoking. This new policy will apply on both event and non-event days,” the newsletter states.

The newsletter said feedback from customers led to the change. “The first in-bowl stadium event under the new policy will be the Revolution game on July 14. We will communicate this change to all of our customers via direct mail, e-mail newsletter, stadium signage and other means,” the newsletter stated. In partnership with Tufts Health Plan, new signs will be erected throughout the stadium, smoking cessation literature will be available in the stadium’s Guest Services Booths and public service announcements will be made during events.