Coronavirus statistics are suggesting restrictions in place in the Governor's reopening plan can be loosened as we get set to enter phase 3 later next week.

Governor JB Pritzker, back in Springfield to join the Illinois legislature's return to work, says the diligent work of Illinoisans along with encouraging news in the healthcare system is the reason for the Governor's reasoning for loosening his restrictions in phase 3 of his 'Restore Illinois' plan.

Governor Pritzker is allowing for outdoor seating to be available at bars and restaurants. 

State parks will reopen May 29 along with the concessions at the parks. 

According to Governor Pritzker, fitness centers will remain under the same guidelines and retail stores can reopen.

The boating restrictions will be lifted and now up to ten people can be on a boat of an appropriate size.

The Governor points out local governments can pull back on these restrictions if they see it necessary. Additionally, he cautions against letting up in the diligence of social distancing and points out other states that have opened up have seen spikes in cases and hospitalizations. 

The Illinois Department of Public Health announced 2,388 new cases of COVID-19 including 147 new deaths which brings the total amount to 100,418 cases including 4,525 deaths in 100 of the 102 counties in Illinois. IDPH tested 21,029 people in the last 24 hours and overall have tested 642,713 people. The state 7-day rolling positivity rate is 14%.

Listen every afternoon Monday through Friday at 2:30 for Governor Pritzker’s press conferences on the coronavirus on NEWSTALK WTIM and its many platforms. For local numbers click on the icon for coronavirus cases by county and for the latest closings, cancellations, and businesses that are open visit Taylorville Daily News.