Pennsylvania will join the tri-state area compact to set down a uniform set of orders for limiting movement and density in northeastern states to limit the spread of coronavirus, Gov. Andrew Cuomo on Wednesday announced. 

The move means that along with New Jersey, New York and Connecticut, the ability to "shop" or have people spread the virus to bars, restaurants, movie theaters, gyms and other venues where people to gether will be limited. 

"We are doing everything we can as states to reduce density and contain the spread of the virus," Cuomo said. "It is critical that we remain on the same page as our neighboring states, and so far we are the only region in the country partnering to create uniform, regional density reduction policies that prevent 'state shopping.' We will continue working together to update our regulations and guidance as the situation evolves while keeping a consistent standard across the region."

Pennsylvania and New York share the longest border of the four states.

Cuomo had previously announced this week denstiy reducing steps with New Jersey and Connecticut that closed businesses as part of a broader effort to reduce the spread of the virus, which has thousands of confirmed cases in the country. 

Cuomo has rejected a "shelter-in-place" for New York City or other communities as being unworkable, especially if nearby communities and states do not follow suit.