PEORIA, Ill. — The hospitality industry is one of the largest employers in the nation. And, for Peoria, restaurants and bars are part of what makes the community stand out.
Chris Setti, CEO with the Greater Peoria Economic Development Council, told WMBD’s “The Greg and Dan Show”, he’s worried those businesses will suffer from COVID-related mitigation that begins Wednesday.
“At the other end of this, if some of our favorite places, that are unique to Peoria, don’t make it, that has an impact beyond just an economic one,” Setti said.
Setti said, at least outdoor dining is still an option for Peoria diners. That’s something that wasn’t allowed at the start of the coronavirus pandemic in March.
Setti encourages Peoria residents to get out to some of their favorite restaurants and bars this week, while the weather is still cooperating. Once the cold weather returns, that will be harder to do.
“Some of our restaurants have been able to adapt and create some more outdoor dining space with space heaters or temporary heaters. It looks a little different that in March, but it’s still going to be difficult,” Setti said.
Mitigation going into effect Wednesday across Illinois’ Region 2 will prohibit restaurants and bars from serving indoors. Outdoor seating will be available with a reservation.
All outdoor service must close at 11 p.m., the same time Illinois casinos will be required to close.
