By Heart of Illinois ABC
NORMAL – With the state ready to enter Phase 4 of the Restore Illinois plan, officials in Normal said it will continue its outdoor dining options for restaurants.
Phase 4 allows for restaurants to allow indoor dining once again, but with restrictions on capacity and the size of groups in each party.
Mayor Chris Koos said in a statement Monday the outdoor dining option has been going well and restaurants won’t have to reapply for approval by the town once Phase 4 begins.
“Outdoor dining has worked extremely well since its implementation in late May. The restaurant owners have been operating these outdoor spaces in a very safe manner, and the customers have clearly enjoyed the opportunity to get out and support them. The outdoor dining extension will continue to be a great help in the early stages of Phase 4, when indoor seating will be limited,” said Mayor Chris Koos.
However, if business owners who would like to apply for a new outdoor dining operation should contact Town Clerk Angie Huonker at [email protected] for an application.
The outdoor dining extension leaves in place all the regulations implemented in late May. These regulations include but are not limited to the following:
- No smoking permitted
- No amplified sound allowed
- Patrons must have access to indoor restrooms (Portapotties not allowed)
- Open alcohol may not be removed from the designated outdoor dining areas
- Outdoor dining areas will close at 10 p.m.
- All regulations by the State or the County Health Department apply
- ADA accessibility and accessible parking must be maintained
These changes will remain in effect until August 2.
“I so appreciate the Town’s assistance in trying to keep our business alive through the COVID pandemic. Outdoor dining has been greatly appreciated,” said Tim Strader, financial officer for Ft. Jesse Café.
Heart of Illinois ABC can be reached at [email protected].
