Published May 29, 2020
Friday, May 29 marked the first day of Phase 3, the next step in the gradual, safe reopening of the state economy under the Restore Illinois plan. In Phase 3, restaurants, service businesses, and retailers may reopen with extended services provided public health and safety protocols are followed. Business owners, employees, and customers are encouraged to familiarize themselves with all guidelines for safe shopping, including wearing face coverings inside stores, maintaining a safe social distance from others, and practicing good hand hygiene.
To learn about services your favorite shop, salon, or restaurant may be offering during Phase 3, please contact that business. A directory of businesses is available on the City's website.
Please see below for an overview of some changes you will see implemented by local businesses and the City:
Street closures: To facilitate safe outdoor dining opportunities and to maximize service to customers, the City has closed certain streets in the Central Business District and the Ravinia Business District. A map of closures is available on the City's website. Please note that detours around these closures are in place. A detour map has been posted. Please drive with caution in these areas as the City anticipates additional foot traffic.
Outdoor dining, table-service: Restaurants who desire to utilize outdoor seating areas may apply for a Temporary Outdoor Expansion Permit. There are no application or permit fees for this purpose.
Outdoor dining, picnicking: The City has designated certain areas throughout downtown Highland Park and the Ravinia District as spaces for residents to enjoy carryout meals from local restaurants. A map showing these areas is now available to download. Please pay attention to all posted signage and detours.
Retail stores reopen to foot traffic: Beginning today, retail stores may reopen to in-store shoppers. However, stores must remain in compliance with reduced capacity guidelines to ensure safe shopping for all. Capacity varies by store.
Outdoor merchandising, displays, and seating: Business owners may apply for a Temporary Outdoor Expansion Permit to use public spaces adjacent to their store to display or sell merchandise, provide seating for customers, etc. Applications and permits are available on the City's website and there is no fee.
Outdoor fitness classes: Fitness businesses may now offer outdoor classes for groups of 10 or less. One-on-one personal training may also resume. Fitness businesses without suitable outdoor space adjacent to their facility may also apply for a Temporary Outdoor Expansion Permit for Fitness Classes.
Personal care businesses: Hair and nail salons, barbershops, and other personal care businesses may reopen for service with certain safety protocols in place.