May 11 Start for Illinois/Chicago Bridge Phase, Two Vaccination Events

The Illinois Restaurant Association continues to engage with local, state, and federal officials to help employers and employees address concerns about COVID-19.

Please see the below resources and information for your business - updated as of 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 6.

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Illinois/Chicago Bridge Phase Coming May 14, State on Target for June 11 Start to Phase 5

Earlier today, Governor Pritzker announced that the state of Illinois will reach the Bridge to Phase 5 on Friday, May 14, and if COVID-19 metrics remain stable or decrease for a 28-day period, Illinois could reach the Phase 5 and fully reopen by Friday, June 11 - ahead of the July target announced earlier this week.

In the state of Illinois' Bridge to Phase 5, indoor standing area occupancy at restaurants and bars will be increased to 30%, and outdoor standing area occupancy will be increased to 50% (up from 25% currently). During Phase 5, Illinois restaurants and bars will have no capacity limits.

The IRA has confirmed that the city of Chicago will also soon announce that its own Bridge Phase will begin on Friday, May 14. More details will be made available from the city in the next few days.

In the city of Chicago's Bridge Phase, Chicago restaurants and bars will be permitted to have 75% occupancy (with 6 feet of social distancing between parties), table sizes up to 10, and standing areas will be allowed with 25% occupancy. We are strongly advocating for longer hours of operation for liquor licensees as well.

We expect Cook County to align with the city of Chicago on its Bridge Phase. Click here to review Cook County's current reopening regulations.

Read more from Crain's Chicago Business.

Two Vaccination Events in Chicago Next Week - Spread the Word!

The IRA has partnered with the city of Chicago on two additional vaccination events geared toward restaurant and hospitality workers next week. The events are open to everyone aged 21 or over - regardless of immigration or employment status or where they live. All are welcome to these vaccination events. It is not just limited to hospitality workers.

Take advantage of the free Johnson & Johnson (single-dose) COVID-19 vaccine on Monday, May 10 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the South Shore Cultural Center (7059 S South Shore Dr.) or Tuesday, May 11 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Humboldt Park Fieldhouse (1440 N Humboldt Dr) in Chicago.

Appointments are not required, and walk-ins are encouraged.

Please share this information with your team members, families , and colleagues.