(WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- Here are latest developments in the coronavirus outbreak in Illinois on Thursday, May 14, 2020:
- Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker on Wednesday warned that local governments and businesses that reopen too soon in defiance of his administration's strategy will face potential consequences that could affect their bottom lines. Pritzker said counties that jump ahead of his phased "Restore Illinois" plan may not be reimbursed for emergency expenses that stem from their actions. He said licensed businesses could face discipline from state regulators, including the Liquor Control Commission or the Department of Professional Regulation, if they ignore his public health mandate. MORE DETAILS HERE.
- NEW NUMBERS: The Illinois Department of Public Health reported 1,671 new cases and 192 deaths. That takes the state's overall known total to 84,698 cases, including 3,792 deaths. READ MORE HERE.
- Chicago police announced four more cases of COVID-19 Wednesday, bringing the number of cases in the department to 508. Of the confirmed cases, 483 are officers and 25 are civilian employees. MORE DETAILS HERE.
- The DuPage County coroner is reporting an "unusual spike" in overdose deaths in the past month that may be tied to increased isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic. In the last three weeks, 20 people in DuPage have died from opioid overdoses, Coroner Richard Jorgensen said in a statement. Some days saw multiple die from overdoses, he said. By comparison, in all of 2019 the west suburban county saw 96 opioid overdoses. DETAILS HERE.
- This summer is looking "not-so-hot" for people hoping to enjoy themselves in the traditional ways in west suburban Aurora. The July 4th parade and evening fireworks are cancelled, along with the Aurora Pride Parade and the Puerto Rican Heritage Festival. And Aurora Mayor Richard Irvin said because of expected crowds, you won't be able to cool off in either of the city's pools. Irvin said the city has cancelled just about all the big summer events that could draw a crowd and help spread the COVID-19 virus. READ MORE HERE.
- Block parties have long been a staple of summer in Chicago, but no permits are being issued at this point due to the coronavirus pandemic. The Chicago Department of Transportation issues the permits because of street closures, and in a letter to aldermen from CDOT First Deputy Commissioner Thomas Carney said "all block party permits will not be issued through May 31." This means no block parties for Memorial Day weekend. MORE DETAILS HERE.
- Morton Arboretum announced Tuesday plans for a phased reopening of the grounds beginning with access for members. Beginning June 1, the great outdoor museum of trees in west suburban Lisle reopen with members-only access. Online member reservations are currently scheduled to begin May 29 at 8:30 a.m. The phased reopening will allow members through June 14, with nonmembers expected to be allowed back starting June 15. DETAILS HERE.
- Some DuPage County residents are getting more time to pay their energy bills. The DuPage County Community Services Department has extended the deadline for applications for the annual Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) until June 30 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. DuPage officials said help is available for residents whose last 30 days of income have been impacted by the pandemic or anyone struggling to pay utility bills. READ MORE HERE.
- The Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) announced Tuesday Illinois hospitals have begun receiving $75 million in new stability payments to help fight COVID-19. HFS said the funds will help hospitals continue to provide essential COVID-19 services to their communities in the coming weeks and months. MORE DETAILS HERE.
- Mayor Lori Lightfoot said when Chicago is able to open up more for business, she intends for people coming downtown to have more transportation options. The Mayor was asked about public transportation during the city's recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic and what alternatives there might be for people who don't want to use CTA buses and trains. She did not react to a suggestion about some streets reserved for bikes and pedestrians, but she did have other ideas. DETAILS HERE.
This is a rapidly evolving situation. Stay tuned to WBBM Newsradio where we will remain live, local, and committed to bringing you the latest information during this outbreak. >>LISTEN LIVE!
