South Cook News

Gov. J.B. Pritzker said he plans to reopen the state nearly a year after issuing his first stay-at-home order.

The governor said he would use a Bridge Phase, which includes expanding capacity limits at museums, zoos and other places where people usually gather. He also changed the coronavirus vaccine qualification to all Illinois residents over 16 years of age starting Monday, April 12.

"Although we still are in the midst of a global pandemic, the end seems truly to be in sight," Pritzker said, the Chicago Sun-Times reported.

Michael E. Hastings, a candidate for Illinois Secretary of State, highlighted the news on his Twitter page.

"Great news. Governor Pritzker announced today the expansion of vaccine eligibility," Hastings tweeted on March 18. "Stay Healthy & Get Vaccinated Illinois!"

After the 28-day "bridge" phase, the state will reportedly proceed to a full reopening when 70% of all citizens who are 65 years of age and over have taken their first dose of the coronavirus vaccine.

The effort will allow anyone 16 and over can get vaccinated starting April 12.

The new phase will also increase indoor attractions from a 50 person capacity to 250. In addition, outdoor events will increase from 100 to a 500 person capacity.

Pritzker expressed encouragement, saying the state would revert to more normal processes and highlighted the 58% first-dose vaccination numbers for senior citizens as of March 18.

Also, the state must sustain a 20% or lower intensive-care-unit bed availability rate, as well. The state must hold a steady grip on COVID-19 and COVID-like illness hospital admissions, the Chicago Sun-Times reported. Mortality rates must also stay low over a 28-day monitoring period.

Meanwhile, amusement parks and carnivals will be able to expand capacity from the 25% restriction that was imposed in Phase 4 to 60%.