Radio Social drops vaccine mandate due to ‘stabilization’ of Delta variant cases, increased vaccination rate

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WHEC)— Rochester’s Radio Social bar and bowling alley will no longer require proof of vaccination to come in, the business announced this week.

According to a post on its website, the change went into effect on Wednesday. It’s a move organizers say is due to rising vaccination rates and the "stabilization" of the Delta variant both regionally, and nationally.

The business first launched the policy in September, along with several other spots like Lux Bar, and the Abeline Lounge and Bar. The initial move was made in response to Centers for Disease Control guidelines, which said even vaccinated people should go back to wearing masks indoors in areas of the country with "substantial" or "high" COVID-19 community transmission.

According to data from the Monroe County Department of Health, the county still falls under "high" transmission of the virus, but is at a "moderate" level for positivity rate. Going further, stats from the Finger Lakes Vaccine Hub showed 66.9% of people in the region received at least one dose at the time News10NBC first did the story in August, now, that number stands at 70.3%

"We are proud to be a part of a community that is keeping one another healthy and safe," the website post read. "See you soon!"

As of last check, both Abeline and Lux still have vaccination policies. For a full look what locations have mask and/or proof of vaccine policies, check out our full list here.