Gillette Stadium going smoke-free

FOXBORO, Mass. (WPRI) - The home of the New England Patriots is going completely smoke-free.

Gillette Stadium announced Monday that it will no longer offer designated smoking areas for fans during sporting events, concerts, and other functions.

The smoking ban will take effect with the New England Revolution soccer game on July 14.

The stadium is also teaming with Tufts Health Plan to offer fans information on how to quit smoking.  Smoking cessation literature will be available at guest services booths, and public service announcements about quitting smoking will be made during events.

In a news release issued Monday, Gillette Stadium executive James Nolan said the move was being made in response to feedback from fans, and to eliminate the public health threat posed by second-hand smoke.