The city of Chicago’s Riverwalk will officially reopen on Friday, with restrictions aimed at limiting activity and crowds, Mayor Lori Lightfoot’s office announced.
Lightfoot ordered the Riverwalk closed in March as part of a broader effort to curb the spread of coronavirus. Now, with the city easing restrictions on the public and allowing more businesses to reopen, the mayor’s office said it will allow people to visit the Riverwalk through limited access points on Lake Street.
People who want to run, jog, walk or bike along the path between Lake Shore Drive and Lake Street can do so between 5 a.m. and 10 a.m., the city said.
Starting at 10 a.m., the Riverwalk will close for an hour for cleaning and then it will reopen from 11 a.m. until 9 p.m. for the concession vendors, who will be allowed to serve customers but only with reservations.
“The full concessions program will be launched through a phased rollout over the coming weeks,” the city said. “In addition to requiring reservations each establishment will take extra precautions to properly space tables 6 feet part. During this time there will also be several passive recreation areas for outdoor use.”
Those visiting the Riverwalk must maintain social distance and wear face masks, the city said.
Riverwalk vendors that will be open by reservation include Tiny Tapp & Cafe, City Winery, Chicago Brewhouse, Beat Kitchen and Community Marketplace, Chicago’s First Lady and Mercury Sightseeing Cruises, Urban Kayaks, Island Party, and The Northman.
Sweet Home Gelato also will have walk up service, the city said.
Chicago’s iconic Lakefront Trail remains technically closed, though many residents have been able to access it in recent days.
Lightfoot has hinted that, when the lakefront opens, it will do so with restrictions similar to those the city is allowing for the Riverwalk.
