March 18, 2021

Dear Gurnee Business Partner:

Today, Governor Pritzker announced a new “Bridge” Phase between the current Phase 4 and Phase 5 of the Restore Illinois Plan and an expansion of vaccine eligibility, beginning April 12, for any Illinois resident 16 and over.

In an update to current Phase 4 guidelines and the new Bridge to Phase 5, individuals with proof of full vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test (PCR) 1-3 days prior to an event or outing do not count against capacity limits. Details of Phase 4 adjustments and the new Bridge Phase can be found here along with the press release from today’s announcement.

Barring any significant resurgences in positivity rates, hospitalizations, or mortality, the Bridge will start when 70 percent of Illinois residents over the age of 65 have received at least one vaccine dose; this metric currently stands at 58 percent.  Given the current pace of vaccinations in the State, it is estimated that the Bridge phase could be reached within 12-14 days but this is subject to change.   After we move into the Bridge phase, a 28-day monitoring period will begin.    The State will move into Phase 5 when 50 percent of residents 16 and over have received at least one vaccine dose.    The Governor stressed that this trajectory is dependent upon continued progress and no resurgences in the aforementioned metrics. 

All regions of the State will move through the Bridge Phase and ultimately to Phase 5 together.   The Statewide mask mandate will continue in accordance with CDC guidelines, and Illinoisans are urged to continue practicing the 3 W’s – wear a mask, watch your distance, and wash your hands.   

Today’s news is welcomed and hopeful; thank you for all that you have done, and continue to do, to keep our community healthy and prosperous.

Sincerely,

Mayor Kristina M. Kovarik
Village of Gurnee