By Jeff Lampe
Businesses across Illinois will breathe a sigh of relief today (May 29) – even if the breath they exhale is filtered by a state-mandated mask.
The long-awaited reopening of Illinois’ economy starts today following two months of closures due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
After meeting a variety of scientific thresholds in terms of COVID-19 cases, testing, etc., Illinois shifts into Phase 3 of the Restore Illinois plan, which spells out steps to reopen from restrictions.
A late addition to the list of businesses that can expand operations are bars and restaurants, which will be able to offer outdoor dining in addition to carry-out service. That change came last week as the Illinois Legislature met for the first time in months.
Bishop Hill reopening
BISHOP HILL – Experiencing cabin fever? Looking for a relaxing day trip? How about a picnic in a park? Then visit historic Bishop Hill.
Bishop Hill’s stores,restaurants, and museums will be reopening today, May 29. The Colony Store, VASA National Archives, Sweet Annie’s Primitives, Prairie Arts Center, Entwined, Twisted by Design and the Krans Kafe are just some of the places that will be open.
Bishop Hill’s four restaurants have either curbside delivery or outside seating available.
To learn more, call (309) 927-
3899, email bhha@mymctc.net,
or visit www.visitbishophill.
com.
Also coming from that session was legislation that will allow bars to sell pre-mixed drinks to go. House Bill 2682 passed through the House and Senate during last week’s special session.
Gov. JB Pritzker said he is waiting for the final version of the bill to
sign into law. “I’ll sign it as soon as it comes to my desk,” Pritzker said Tuesday.
Businesses that will be reopening include barbershops, salons and non-essential retail stores, which will open with certain restrictions in terms of customer limits and spacing. Customers will also be required to wear
masks.
Gatherings of 10 or fewer people will also be allowed under Phase 3.
The state has released health guidelines for businesses and industries opening in Phase 3. Visit:www2.illinois.gov/dceo/
