Virginia Coronavirus: Simon Malls Close, Others Adjust Hours

VIRGINIA — Simon Property Group announced Wednesday it will temporarily close all malls, outlets and shops it operates in Virginia and others in a response to the ongoing new coronavirus outbreak in the United States. In Northern Virginia, that includes Fashion Centre at Pentagon City, Leesburg Premium Outlets and Potomac Mills. Its other Virginia properties include Apple Blossom Mall in Winchester, Norfolk Premium Outlets and Williamsburg Premium Outlets.

Simon officials made the decision after extensive discussions with federal, state and local officials, "and in recognition of the need to address the spread of COVID-19," according to a statement released by the company.

The closures go into effect at 7 p.m. local time and are to end March 29.

Malls across the country are facing what could be one of the scariest times in recent retail history as companies and governments race to protect shoppers from the ongoing new coronavirus outbreak.

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Across the United States, businesses are closing at a rapid pace. In some cases, companies choose to close individual stores or entire shopping centers for a period of weeks. In others, state governments are mandating that malls and other facilities close to the public.

A public health emergency order from Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam and State Health Commissioner Norman Oliver prohibits more than 10 customers in restaurants, fitness centers and theaters. In addition, Northam asked residents to avoid non-essential gatherings of more than 10 people, mirroring federal guidelines. That recommendation doesn't apply to essential services like manufacturers, distribution centers, airports, bus and train stations, medical facilities, grocery stores or pharmacies.

In neighboring Maryland, Gov. Larry Hogan ordered malls to shut down by 5 p.m. Thursday, March 19.

Operating decisions have varied at malls and outlets in Northern Virginia, so we're keeping track of changes and closures. The operating status for individual stores and restaurants may vary. The list below will be updated as changes are announced.

• Tysons Corner Center: The mall is operating with adjusted hours: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday to Saturday and 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday.
• Tysons Galleria: Updated hours are 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday to Saturday and 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday.
• Fashion Centre at Pentagon City: Closed until March 29.
• Springfield Town Center: Effective Tuesday, March 17, the mall reduced hours to 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday to Saturday and 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday.
• Fair Oaks Mall: The mall closed at the end of the day on March 19 and will remain closed until at least March 29.
• Dulles Town Center: The mall is continuing normal hours, and changes will be communicated through its website. Easter Bunny photos for 2020 have been canceled.
• Leesburg Premium Outlets: Closed until March 29.
• Manassas Mall: The mall has not announced changes to hours but is monitoring the new coronavirus situation.
• Potomac Mills: Closed until March 29.
• Spotsylvania Towne Centre: The mall has normal hours and will announce updates when available.

SEE ALSO: Virginia Coronavirus Updates: What To Know For Week Of March 15