Governor Pritzker has announced a new mitigation plan to prevent the resurgence of COVID-19 in Illinois. The plan focuses on maintaining the progress Illinois has made in bending the curve while continuing to urge vigilance in following medical recommendations. The plan, developed by the Illinois Department of Public Health, outlines three tiers of general and industry-specific mitigation efforts that can be acted upon to prevent a renewed spread of COVID-19. Illinois has been divided into an expanded 11 regions (La Grange is in the Suburban Cook region) and metrics will be used to determine when the spread of the virus in a region requires additional mitigation.
The Governor has also announced that Illinois is experiencing a weekly average of more than 33,000 tests per day, recently surpassing 2 million tests total. The state has also worked to expand its contact tracing operation, with approximately 1,450 contact tracers now working across Illinois.
In late June, Illinois reached Phase 4 of the Restore Illinois Plan. The Revitalization Phase (Phase 4) of the Plan includes gatherings of up to 50 people, businesses reopening and increased capacities. A new Disaster Proclamation from Governor Pritzker has been issued.
Under the new provisions, indoor dining can reopen with groups of 10 or less, with tables spaced 6 feet apart, and with minimized standing areas. Health and fitness businesses may resume indoor operations at 50% capacity and retail operations will remain at the current 50% of occupancy at this time. According to the State, capacity restrictions will be reassessed based on the latest science and public health metrics on an ongoing basis throughout Phase 4.
The Village’s COVID-19 plan provides for the Village Hall to begin reopening with proper health and safety measures after the State reaches Phase 4 under the Restore Illinois Plan. The Village Hall is open for in-person services beginning July 6. Face coverings are required for entry. On-line service options remain available and are encouraged. Residents may also contact the Village Hall via phone or email with any questions.
Block parties may be reserved using the on-line reservation portal although certain policies and procedures are required for any dates under Phase 4 of the Restore Illinois Plan.
The Revitalization Phase of the Plan requires continued social distancing, hand washing and face coverings to maintain progress in overcoming COVID-19.
For more information regarding COVID-19 and the Village’s response and resources, please visit the Village website at www.villageoflagrange.com or the Illinois Department of Public Health.