EAST ST. LOUIS – State Senator Christopher Belt (D-Centreville) announced Frank Holten State Recreation area will reopen as early as May 29 after Governor JB Pritzker made updates to phase three of his Restore Illinois Plan.

“Reopening Frank Holten State Recreation area will give many local residents more opportunities to enjoy the outdoors after being cooped up for more than two months,” Belt said. “Now, families will be able to gather while practicing social distancing to restore some quality of life.”

When phase three begins, all state parks will reopen, indoor and outdoor tennis facilities will open, and golf courses can allow up to four people out on the same tee. Carts will also be permitted with one person per cart, or one immediate household per cart, as will boating or camping with up to ten people.

People must still wear masks when in a public area where they can’t social distance and continue to follow other social distancing guidelines.

Retail stores and personal care services like barbershops and hair salons will have the option to resume operations as well, while adhering to guidelines from the Illinois Department of Public Health. Bars and restaurants will also have the option to serve people outside as long as servers wear masks, tables are placed six feet apart, and they follow other guidelines that will soon be set by IDPH.

“With the reopening of more businesses, Illinois residents can now see a path back toward their normal lives,” Belt said. “I am glad the governor reduced restrictions and will slowly fulfill many Illinoisans wishes.”