Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker recently announced the state will enter Phase 3 of reopening which includes relaxing of restrictions due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Governor Pritzker said of the next phase of reopening Illinois, “We are by no means out of the woods, but directionally, things are getting better. And because of these advances, we are able to make some modifications to allow more activity during Phase 3 of our reopening plan Restore Illinois.”

Beginning Friday, May 29th bars and restaurants will be able to open to customers in outdoor seating areas. Tables in those areas will have to be six feet apart and away from sidewalks. Employees will have to wear masks and practice other safety precautions and guidance.

All state parks will reopen starting Friday. Concessions at state parks will also reopen and follow the same guidelines set for retail and food businesses.

Boating and camping in state parks will be allowed with up to 10 people allowed per boat/camp site.

Golf will be allowed to be played with foursomes and carts beginning Friday.

Indoor and outdoor tennis facilities can open as long as they follow the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) safety precautions and limits on capacity.

Starting Friday health clubs, gyms and fitness studios can begin holding outdoor classes of up to ten people and indoor one-on-one personal training.

Businesses that provide personal care like nail salons, hair salons, barber shops, tattoo shops and such can reopen as long as they follow IDPH safety precautions and capacity limits.

Retail stores can also open for customers following IDPH safety precautions and capacity limits.

If you are a business owner you can go to coronavirus.illinois.gov for guidance for reopening Friday, May 29th.

By: Buck Stevens