Wood Dale starts COVID assistance program for restaurants and bars

In an effort to partner with and provide assistance to Wood Dale restaurants and bars facing financial difficulties as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Wood Dale City Council has approved a plan to assist these businesses with reopening for outdoor service in accordance with Gov. Pritzker's Restore Illinois Plan.

Beginning May 29, businesses wishing to reopen under the new Phase 3 guidelines of the Restore Illinois plan can receive a 50/50 cost share reimbursement up to $2,500 for expenses associated with providing outdoor service.

These expenses can include, but are not limited to: rental or purchase of tables, chairs, barricades, provision of signage or any other needs that come with establishing outdoor dining. The city has set aside funding for the program that would have been otherwise utilized for Prairie Fest and other city-sponsored special events.

In addition, the city has amended city codes to allow service to occur in parking lots and adjacent areas to restaurants and bars, and is offering a no-fee COVID liquor license to allow alcoholic beverages to be purchased for outdoor consumption. Liquor license holders will be expected to strictly enforce the prohibition of removing liquor from the premises, and ensuring appropriate measures for verifying age compliance are in place.

The Wood Dale City Council remains fully committed to meeting the needs of the community during and after this crisis, is dedicated to empowering local businesses and seeing them succeed, while also keeping the safety and well-being of citizens and visitors at the forefront of all planning efforts.