As we continue to monitor COVID-19, please visit these trusted agencies for the latest information:
Additionally, here is a resource site from the Chamber of Commerce, CVB, and EDC: www.bnprepared.org
The Essential Business Checklist from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity is available here, and an essential business flowchart is available here.
City-related info:
12/22/20:
In response to the economic hardships experienced by small businesses resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, the City of Bloomington’s Economic & Community Development Department is launching a COVID-19 Small Business Assistance Grant Program to assist small businesses in preventing, preparing for, and responding to the COVID-19 pandemic. Applications for this grant program are now being accepted on the City’s website. Local businesses may learn more about the program and apply on-line at www.cityblm.org/ED
12/16/20:
The City and District 87 partner to help local families.
11/12/20:
This year's Turkey Trot goes virtual!
11/4/20:
Mayor Renner has sent a letter to the Governor regarding recently announced COVID mitigations.
9/29/20:
In light of COVID, the City of Bloomington will hold a modified version of its "Bloomington 101" program this fall. Learn more and apply --> http://ow.ly/inoa30rcpzq
9/2/20:
The City of Bloomington has issued an Executive Order revoking the one City permit for an active "party bus." The purpose of this action is to limit the transport of people in the City or from other communities to establishments to prevent large crowds and to limit transport in vehicles where social distancing is often not feasible, in response to COVID. This Executive Order will remain in place until September 15, prior to which time it may be acted upon by the City Council or extended by the City Manager. The Executive Order is here.
8/20/20:
The Mayor, City Manager, and representatives from the Police and Fire departments remind the business community and public to take proper COVID-19 precautions. As a reminder, there can be penalties for failing to abide by health regulations, which could include the revocation or non-renewal of a business's liquor license. We're all in this together! Everybody stay safe and healthy!
View a letter to liquor licensees here, and a related YouTube message here.
8/5/20:
- The Police department's fingerprinting services have been suspended until further notice.
- The Bloomington Ice Center has reopened with COVID guidelines.
7/6/20:
Sprayparks are now open!
6/27/20:
Playgrounds are open!
6/25/20:
As we prepare to enter Phase 4 of the Restore Illinois plan tomorrow, here are some Bloomington-specific updates and answers to questions we have received frequently:
- City Hall, City offices at the Government Center, etc. will remain open by appointment only as they have been for the past few weeks.
- The walk up windows at Grossinger Motors Arena are still open for business. These windows can be used for making cash water bill payments and performing other transactions.
- People may begin renting/reserving most City facilities for gatherings of up to 50 people.
- The Zoo will reopen with reduced capacity. Please visit www.millerparkzoo.org for more information.
- Limited restrooms in parks will be opened. Drinking fountains will not be available in parks.
- Playgrounds/spraygrounds will remain closed at this time.
- Outdoor dining has been extended in the City through the end of August (so continue to drive carefully!), and indoor dining options will start to become available tomorrow.
- Indoor tavern hours will return to normal. Off-premise (outside of the building) hours must continue to end by 10:30 p.m Sunday-Thursday and midnight Friday-Saturday.
If you have a question during business hours, please contact us at 309-434-2509 or info@cityblm.org. Some of our facilities may be closed, but we are open for business and here to help!
6/24/20:
6/12/20:
The John M. Scott Health Care Trust is distributing an additional $55,000 to cover COVID-19 costs for nonprofits and McLean County residents. Learn more here.
6/4/20:
- Mini Golf Course
Opening on June 5th for the season and be open Friday - Sunday from noon - 7:00 PM. The 2020 safety measures are listed on the parks website here
- Paddle Boats
Opening on June 6th. The boats will be open Saturday & Sunday only from noon - 5:00 PM.
Parks link here.
- Summer Registration
Going on now with safety guidelines in place at Lincoln Leisure Center. Registration at www.BloomingtonParks.org.
- Golf Courses
Have entered into the Phase 3 of play, allowing limited cart use and foursomes. Play details and safety guidelines posted here.
- Miller Park Zoo
Facility readying to open on June 26th, if state moves into Phase 4 of the reopening timeline.
