Mount Prospect Working with Businesses to Move to Phase 3 of Restore Illinois

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker announced on May 20th that the target date for Illinois to move to Phase 3 of the state's Restore Illinois Plan is May 29 (provided that the health metrics continue to meet the guidelines set in place).

Under Phase 3, many businesses will be allowed to reopen to the public with certain guidelines. The state released the details of the Phase 3 guidelines on May 22, and the Village of Mount Prospect is working in earnest with local business owners and business organizations, the Mount Prospect Downtown Merchants Association and Chamber of Commerce, on their plans for implementation. Links to the Restore Illinois guidelines for all business types are available at mountprospect.org/MPEI, and a list of Mount Prospect restaurants participating in Phase 3 outdoor dining will be available at experiencemountprospect.org.

"I am overjoyed that we have all done our part to control the spread of COVID-19, and that our restaurants can begin to offer outdoor table service in June. They are an important foundation of our community's ambiance and economy," said Mount Prospect Mayor Arlene Juracek. "I pledge that we will work with each of them to safely maximize the opportunity. I thank them for the sacrifice they have made the past two months, and I thank our residents for their overwhelming support of our restaurateurs. Bon appetit!"

In Phase 3, bars and restaurants will have the option to resume operations for outdoor table service only (while continuing to provide carry-out and delivery service). Tables must be six feet apart and away from sidewalks. Masks and distancing measures for staff must be followed. There is a 6 person per party limit, reserved seating is recommended, open congregate areas (waiting areas) must be closed and customers should wait for service off-premises.

Other elements permitted under Phase 3 of the Governor's Restore Illinois Plan include:

• Gatherings of 10 or fewer people will be allowed with face covering and/or social distancing measures, subject to change based on latest data and guidance.

• Health clubs, gyms, and fitness studios can provide one-on-one personal training in indoor facilities and outdoor fitness classes of up to ten people.

• Personal care services, such as hair, tanning and nail salons will be permitted to open with IDPH safety precautions and capacity limits.

• Retail stores will be allowed to open their doors to in-person shopping with IDPH safety precautions and capacity limits in place.

• Golf courses can allow foursomes out on the same tee times. Carts will also be permitted with one person per cart, or one immediate household per cart. Other outdoor activities such as fishing, boating and tennis also have new permissions.

Residents are reminded that in Phase 3, it is still important to continue to maintain social distancing and wear face coverings. As our communities begin to open up, safe and responsible behavior is the key to allowing us to move forward on the path to recovery.

For more details and updates, please visit the Village's web site, mountprospect.org.