Champaign-Urbana Coronavirus Updates: March 17
Updated hours for grocery stores, including where at-risk populations can shop
Even in this era of social distancing and staying in as much as possible, we all need to eat.
In this article, we have three goals: to get out current news about where to shop local for food; where to find special grocery shopping hours for at-risk populations; and a roundup of updated store hours for as many stores as possible. Get the info on grocery stores HERE.
CUPHD asks daycare to limit services
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Cancels Graduation; Asks Students to Move Home
In an email sent by University of Illinois president Tim Killeen on Tuesday afternoon, the university confirmed what most had expected: that commencement exercises would be cancelled.
“We are very disappointed to share the news that commencement ceremonies will not take place as scheduled in May at our universities in Urbana-Champaign, Chicago and Springfield due to the global COVID-19 pandemic. Diplomas will be mailed, and we are exploring possible alternatives such as rescheduling and/or hosting virtual events to honor the Class of 2020. You will hear more from leadership of your universities in the days and weeks to come.”
Late Monday, the University requested that all students who can safely do so return to their permanent home address to take their classes for the rest of the semester. University Housing is asking those students living in residence halls, Private Certified and Greek housing to begin making plans to move out, as well as making arrangements with those who cannot leave.
Get more updates from the University of Illinois at its COVID 19 website.
Movies Theaters in Champaign, Savoy Close; Skateland Closed
AMC Champaign 13 emailed patrons about its closing as of today; the closure is not limited to Champaign.
“All AMC theatres are temporarily closed in accordance with local, state and federal guidelines. They will re-open when those guidelines allow,” reads the AMC website.
The Savoy 16 sent out an email to patrons indicating it would close “temporarily.”
“Goodrich Quality Theaters in Illinois will be temporarily closed during this challenging time. Theaters will remain closed until state and local government health departments deem appropriate to open for business.”
Skateland, the rollerskating rink in Savoy, also sent out an email on Tuesday to clients about a temporary closure. “This isn’t goodbye, it’s see you later.”
Chambanamoms, Visit Champaign County, and You’re Welcome CU create new Facebook group to support local restaurants, retailers and small businesses.
Anyone can join here. Restaurants, businesses, retailers are welcome to join and post: https://www.facebook.com/groups/215956263095817/
City of Champaign Adds Curbside Pickup Zones To Make it Easier to Patronize Restaurants
Primary Election Day in Champaign County: What It Means in the Era of Covid 19
United Way of Champaign County and Community Foundation of East Central Illinois launch COVID-19 Relief Fund
Via news release: The United Way of Champaign County and Community Foundation Boards of Directors have authorized the establishment of the Champaign County COVID-19 Relief Fund. The Boards have each seeded the fund with up to $50,000, creating up to $100,000 to respond to the needs in our area. The fund will distribute resources to United Way’s existing network of partners and the partners supported by the Community Foundation.
“United Way knows many people in our community are one missed paycheck away from financial crisis,” remarked Sue Grey, United Way of Champaign County President & CEO. “Our network of partners are working to provide needed assistance to families. This fund will support their efforts.” United Way of Champaign County will not charge any processing fees on gifts to this Fund.
Urbana Business Association Suspends Market at the Square for March 21
“We were advised by the Champaign-Urbana Public Health District to not host a market this weekend.”
Champaign County Forest Preserves Remain Open; Public Restrooms Locked
“As of this posting, the preserves will remain open, at regular hours, to provide the public with the option to get outside in fresh air and get exercise. But, until further notice, we will close and lock all public restrooms throughout the District as a precaution against the spread of COVID-19.”
Champaign County Jury Commission Cancelled; Future Updates Available
Via press release from Champaign Circuit Clerk Katie Blakeman:
The Champaign County Jury Commission scheduled for Wednesday, March 18, is CANCELLED.
Jurors may call the number listed on their summons for assistance. No jurors will be called for the week of March 23rd, and an update for the week of March 30th will be provided by early next week.
Our Jury Coordinator has contacted all jurors who were scheduled to report next week, and is assisting jurors who are scheduled to report for future dates on a case by case basis.”
City of Urbana Restricts Access to City Building, Asks Citizens to Call or Check Website to Conduct Business
Via press release on March 17: Public access to the Urbana City Building located at 400 S. Vine Street will be restricted to the north entrance as of Tuesday, March 17. This entrance is closest to the tree sculpture and reflecting pool.
- The building will remain open to the public, but it is requested that any person trying to contact a city office please call first or check the City of Urbana website, as many interactions can be handled over the phone or internet.
- Any person attempting to visit the Community Development division should first check in at the City Clerk’s office.
- Persons entering the building will be asked to wash or otherwise sanitize their hands before making their way to any City department.
Dentists recommended to suspend elective appointments through March 30
Did you get an email from your dentist’s office yesterday announcing limited services? You’re not alone. Due to their exposure risk, the Illinois State Dental Society is recommending for dental offices will be in effect for the two-week period beginning Tuesday, March 17 through Tuesday, March 31:
- Treat only patients requiring emergency dental procedures.
- Postpone elective dental treatment and procedures.
- Preserve personal protective equipment (PPE) for emergency dental situations.
Nothing Says Social Distancing Like Golf: Some Courses are Open in Champaign County
As of March 16, the Lake of the Woods Golf Course in Mahomet remains opens to walkers only.
We are doing our best to keep you updated related to coronavirus info, all in one place, as it relates specifically to Champaign-Urbana and beyond. We want to make sure we keep you informed about local resources, closures, and so much more.
We’re going to put together a digest of info as it gets released. If you want to contribute to this, email editor@chambanamoms.com.
See our digest from March 16: retail closures, Free MTD rides, Champaign, Urbana school districts announce food distribution plans, and more.
Find earlier closure announcements here: What you need to know in Champaign County and beyond
Champaign-Urbana Area Library Resources | 300 resources for learning and entertainment | Find local info about social distancing with kids