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Caterpillar Employees Deemed Essential Under Pritzker's Stay-At-Home Order

Jeff Smudde / WCBU
Caterpillar's former world headquarters in downtown Peoria.

Thousands of Caterpillar employees will continue heading to work under Gov. J.B. Prtizker's executive stay-at-home order meant to control the COVID-19 virus.

"Caterpillar continues to operate our Illinois facilities while adhering to the Governor’s Executive Order. Our employees’ safety, health and well-being remain a top priority," said spokeswoman Kate Kenny in an e-mailed statement.

The governor's executive order exempts many types of businesses, including those considered vital to continuing to keep the supply chain flowing.

Other essential businesses include grocery stores, gas stations, hospitals, and pharmacies. Restaurants can remain open on a carry-out or delivery basis. People are still allowed to travel to provide for their basic needs, but are asked to stay at home until April 7 and work remotely if possible.

Tim was the News Director at WCBU Peoria Public Radio. He left the station in 2025.