Village helps restaurants prepare for reopening
*UPDATE 5.29.20 - TABLE RESERVATIONS ARE FULL AT THIS TIME.*
Bourbonnais, IL – On Sunday, May 24th, Governor Pritzker released new industry-specific guidelines to allow for a safe reopening of businesses as the state progresses into the next phase of the Restore Illinois plan. The governor stated all four regions in Illinois, including Kankakee County, were on track to move into Phase 3 on May 29. A major addition to the allowed activities under Phase 3 of the Restore Illinois reopening plan will now include outdoor dining at restaurants. Village of Bourbonnais officials are providing support to village restaurants by lending picnic tables for outdoor seating.
Due to quantity limitations, village-owned picnic tables will be available to restaurants located within the village on a first-come, first-served basis. Each business may reserve a maximum of three tables. Reservations may be arranged, effective immediately, by calling Village of Bourbonnais Public Works at 815-937-0817 during business hours Monday through Friday 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. For added convenience, Public Works will provide business delivery and pickup of all picnic tables.
“This is a difficult time,” explained Mayor Paul Schore. “There is no denying that. And although this isn’t the full reopen our restaurants were hopeful for, this is at least a step in the right direction.”
“We have 45 picnic tables not being utilized this summer, due to the postponement of the Bourbonnais Friendship Festival. Instead of the tables just sitting, why not use them to help our small businesses? It’s a no-brainer.”
Initial guidelines available for outdoor seating include tables must be six feet apart, away from sidewalks, and masks and distancing measures continue. Businesses are encouraged to reference the Illinois Department of Public Health and Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity for guidelines on safe re-opening and industry-specific business toolkits.
Village officials will revisit the table agreement on August 1st, based upon the current status and phase of the Restore Illinois reopening plan.
