Bars and restaurants will be able to open outdoor seating, and all Illinois State parks will completely reopen May 29th under revisions to Phase 3 of the Restore Illinois Plan announced Wednesday.
‘’We are by no means out of the woods, but directionally, things are getting better,’’ said Governor J.B. Pritzker. ‘’And because of these advances, we are able to make some modifications to allow more activity,’’ added Pritzker.
Bars and restaurants will have the option to resume operations for outdoor seating only. Tables must be 6 feet apart and away from sidewalks, and masks and distancing measures for staff must continue to be followed, with other precautions and guidelines to be issued.
The measures will allow restaurants to re-open at a risk comparable to other outdoor activities, while giving the state’s hospitality industry a much-needed boost.
The Governor encouraged municipalities to help restaurants and bars in expanding their outdoor seating options. To date, the administration has delivered over $14-million dollars in small business grants averaging $20-thousand dollars to 699 bars, restaurants, and hotels in 270 cities across the state.
All State Parks – including Kickapoo State Park northwest of Danville – will completely reopen on May 29th (next Friday). All concession and camping areas will reopen. With the new ten person gathering limit for all activities in Phase 3, boating or camping with up to 10 people will be permitted.
Golf courses in Illinois will also be allowed to have foursomes out on the same tee times. Carts will also be permitted with one person per cart, or one immediate household per cart.
Also under Phase 3 – effective May 29th – health clubs, gyms, and fitness studios can provide one-on-one personal training in indoor facilities and outdoor fitness classes with up to 10 people.
Personal care services, such as barber shops, nail salons, tattoo shops, and spas will also be allowed to reopen with Illinois Department of Public Health safety precautions and capacity limits.
And all retail stores can open their doors to in-person shopping with Illinois Department of Public Health safety precautions and capacity limits.
Local governments retain the right to establish stricter restrictions in any areas.
