Bolingbrook Establishes Restaurant Grant Program Amid Pandemic

BOLINGBROOK, IL — Restaurants across the state are undue financial stress since Gov. J.B. Pritzker imposed new restrictions that required indoor dining to be suspended. But, even when it is allowed again, patrons may still be concerned about COVID-19.

"One way to reduce contamination is to provide Ultra Violet light treatment of the air being circulated," said Bolingbrook Mayor Mary Alexander Basta. "UV has been shown to be effective in hospitals, food processing and commercial settings for some time."

In order to help eateries in the village prepare for this, the Bolingbrook Village Board, during its Tuesday meeting, approved a resolution establishing the Restaurant Grant Program that will reimburse restaurants for the cost of installation of UV lights in their heating, ventilation and air conditioning.

"That installation will help restaurants provide a safe environment, even after COVID-19," Basta told Patch.

After installation, a local restaurant may apply for reimbursement of up to 75 percent or up to $1,500 per building upon presenting of proof of installation and the invoice. The village has set aside $50,000 from the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act to fund the program.

Applicants will fill out and submit paperwork after the system has been installed and funds will be distributed on a first-come-first-serve basis till money has been exhausted.

Basta said village officials are advising everyone to adhere to the recommendations of the Illinois Department of Public Health.

"We ask residents to please wear masks, practice social distancing, and frequently wash hands," she said. "We will continue to advocate at the federal and state level for direct aid to the village of Bolingbrook. The village will continue to share resources that will support business owners and our community as we work toward recovery from this pandemic."

The village has been working with the Bolingbrook Area Chamber of Commerce to promote local restaurants by purchasing space on digital boards and mailers that were sent out to residents. They are also working with the Heritage Corridor as well as the DuPage Convention Visitors Bureau to help promote hotels and eateries.

"We are asking that adults make responsible decisions. Business owners have an obligation to operate in a responsible manner that upholds health standards and keep consumers safe," Basta said. "We trust that our community will come together and be mindful of these factors as we move through mitigation and navigate this pandemic."