CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker announced Tuesday greater restrictions for the entire state, including capacity limits on some businesses and the closure of others, to help slow the spread of COVID-19.
Beginning Friday, the entire state goes under a “Tier 3” model of mitigation. Retailers cannot have more than 25 percent of customer capacity in stores, and supermarkets and pharmacies cannot exceed 50 percent of that capacity. Cinemas, museums and casinos will be closed.
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But due to the fact that Lincoln Park Zoo functions as an outdoor venue, the zoo plans to remain open through the holidays and still host ZooLights.
Lincoln Park Zoo said safety is top priority, and measures will be in place, including limited capacity, facial covering requirements, and social distancing, to help keep everyone safe. They said they are confident these measures will protect staff, guests, and the animals in the zoo’s care.
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However, the zoo’s operations will shift after ZooLights. Lincoln Park Zoo will close to the public from Jan. 4-March 4.
Per city and state guidelines, Lincoln Park Zoo cannot open its buildings, which could present a safety risk to staff and guests who must remain outside in Chicago’s coldest months. In addition, many animals choose to stay in their indoor habitats in the wintertime, which would mean low animal viewing and a suboptimal guest experience.
During that time, Lincoln Park Zoo will remain committed to providing ways for Chicago to connect with nature and will have abundant programming across its social media channels, as well as virtual events and educational programming.