Burr Ridge Mayor Gary Grasso Shares Coronavirus Update

Press release from the Burr Ridge Police Department:

July 1, 2020

As has been widely reported, new cases are spiking in more and more states, primarily in the south and west, especially Arizona, Texas and Florida. Arizona, for example, reported its single-day high of deaths, new cases, and hospitalizations. Colorado is the most recent state to step back, closing its bars. We all know those who live in or visit these states and return home to our area. It’s beginning to look like Round 2 is coming in the fight with the virus. Dr. Fauci has said that we have reached 40,000 new cases daily nationally and could reach 100,000. The CDC strongly recommends wearing face coverings and social distancing.

The new case count for Burr Ridge jumped us over the 100 mark. There are now 102 total reported cases for Burr Rudge, but the more relevant number is the 14-day count. Fourteen days ago, on June 17, there were 94 cases – so the increase has been only 8 cases in that period. That is a higher 14-day differential number than last week, but still a very confident indicator that we are doing relatively well in Burr Ridge. The positivity rate remains very low in both the Northeast Region and statewide overall. The state reported over 33,000 tests over the past 24 hours, easily the highest single-day total thus far. Ventilator availability is still around 75% and the ICU bed availability is steady at 44%. Nonetheless, we cannot ignore that our numbers may yet increase now that indoor dining and bars are open again. We must remain vigilant. Those over 60 must be cautious; staying home is always a safer route. If you go out, wear those face coverings – stay six feet apart and wash those hands.

I am contemplating asking the Village Board to consider a resolution strongly recommending employees and patrons of Burr Ridge stores and shops, and those coming and going to restaurants, and anyone inside our public buildings should wear face coverings. I realize and respect those who do not want to wear them, but I believe that face coverings protect not only the person wearing it, but also all those they interact with in public. The next Board meeting is July 13; if you have a thought on a resolution recommending the use of face coverings as described here, let me know: ggrasso@burr-ridge.gov.

As I noted Monday, the tent program was extended because of its success. I again thank the five Trustees who continued their support for safe, outdoor dining at our restaurants. It also gives choice to those patrons who do not want to venture inside. Please continue to enjoy our restaurants, whether inside or out, as well as our shops and stores, but keep your social distance and wear face coverings to, from, and inside whenever possible.

Finally, it is Independence Day week – this year without parades or fireworks – but with our liberty and independence always part of our daily lives…. Maybe stop at the Veterans Memorial to celebrate the 4th – and remember a loved one. It’s a different time for all of us this year.

"The United States is the only country with a known birthday…. There is no ‘Republican,’ no ‘Democrat,’ on the Fourth of July—all are Americans.” – President James G. Blaine

SOCIAL DISTANCING - ELBOW BUMPS - WEAR FACE COVERINGS

This press release was produced by the Burr Ridge Police Department. The views expressed here are the author’s own.