NCAA Restaurant Recap

Here locally is bringing a big benefit to local businesses.

More than a thousand visitors are expected be traveling to tippecanoe county.

News 18's micah upshaw is here in the studio this morning.

Micah, how are these owners planning to follow covid-19 safety guidelines?

This potential increase in customers does raise covid-19 safety concerns.

But as we're officially a year into this pandemic -- owners know exactly what they need to do to keep their space safe for customers.

Sergeant preston's started preparing its outdoor patio space for customers last week.

This downtown lafayette business has one of the largest outdoor patios in the state.

Owner karen hirsh- cooper says that'll be a huge help in following social distancing guidelines.

Red bird cafe's owner says they've been closing earlier everyday leading up to the first game.

This is helping them prepare the kitchen and restaurant for an increase in customers.

Trish brown says a main priority is keeping safy at the forefront.

We are still going to do social distancing through the guidelines we are required to do.

The most important thing i've done is increase our cleaning schedule.

Red bird cafe sits off the i-65 exit in dayton.

Brown says they're hoping to attract visitors through expanding their advertising by dropping off flyers at local hotels.

Even with this influx in customers -- businesses are required to continue following city covid-19 safety guidelines.

Breaking these rules could result in a fine or even having to close.

Reporting in studio, micah upshaw.

News 18.

Hoosiers 45 and older are now eligible for the covid-19 vaccine.

That's according to a