In a major win for bars and taprooms, Mayor Lori Lightfoot allowed establishments that serve alcohol only to re-open on June 17. Prior to this time, these businesses were unable to re-open under the City of Chicago’s Phase Three Reopening Plan.

North Branch Works and our members successfully advocated for this policy change, pointing out that Chicago is home to more breweries than any other city in the country and highlighting the many ways they support the local economy, jobs, and vibrancy of our neighborhoods.

We also had confidence that bars and taprooms with a track record of success could easily comply with COVID-19 guidelines such as social distancing, limiting the number of seated patrons, and providing laminated menus.

North Branch Works’ letter to Mayor Lightfoot highlights these and other important points.

We applaud Mayor Lightfoot's decision to allow taprooms and breweries to re-open and are committed to working with establishments who prioritize the health and safety of their patrons.

This policy win is a great reminder that persistent advocacy yields results. And it also demonstrates the type of advocacy we can do with elected officials to support you and your business.

We recognize that running a small business in the best of times comes with many challenges, including often a limited-capacity to influence the business climate around you.

If you can, please consider joining North Branch Works as a dues-paying member. And please let us know if there are any policy changes that we can advance that can help you achieve success.

With questions/comments, please contact Steve Simmons, Director of Business and Economic Development, at 773-929-5552 x2226, steve@northbranchworks.org:10033.

Image credit: Maplewood Brewery and Distillery