AKRON, Ohio — Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine has ordered widespread closures throughout the state from schools to movie theaters in an effort to slow the spread of coronavirus.
Shopping malls, which haven't officially been shut down by DeWine's orders, are taking their own action to close.
These closures include Chapel Hill Mall and Summit Mall in Akron, along with the Aurora Farms Premium Outlets.
Here are statements from each of the malls:
Chapel Hill Mall: Due to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak and to protect the health and safety of our visitors and our tenants, Chapel Hill Mall is closed until April 1, 2020. In the event that the state mandates a longer closure, we will make that information available on our Facebook page and our website. We look forward to seeing you soon! Be safe and stay healthy.
Summit Mall & Aurora Farms Premium Outlets: After extensive discussions with federal, state and local officials and in recognition of the need to address the spread of COVID-19, we will be temporarily closed. This measure will take effect from 7 p.m. local time today (March 18) and will end on March 29. The health and safety of our shoppers, retailers and employees are of paramount importance and we are taking this step to help reduce the spread of COVID-19 in our community. Retailers selling essential items, such as pharmacies, may still be open, as well as restaurants and eateries providing takeout and delivery options.
Although the malls are closed, some of the services and locations (carryout food options, etc.) remain open. See what's still open at Summit Mall (like Dillard's) HERE and Aurora Farms Premium Outlets HERE.
Great Lakes Mall in Mentor and SouthPark Mall in Strongsville both remain open as of Friday morning, but both have issued statements regarding changes to operating hours, which you can read below:
Great Lakes Mall: The health and safety of our guests, retailers and employees is our top priority. Our tenants are individually following guidelines from their owners or corporate leadership, including the potential for modified operating hours or temporary store closures. We encourage guests to call ahead before visiting. Our already rigorous disinfectant and cleaning practices will continue through the foreseeable future. In order to support our retailers, employees, and local community, and in accordance with CDC guidelines regarding COVID-19, we have temporarily modified our operating hours to 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. (Monday through Saturday ) and 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.(Sunday), effective from Tuesday, March 17. The Play Area and Food Court seating is temporarily closed. Please visit our Food Court for carry out orders.
SouthPark Mall: As the rapidly evolving news of the COVID-19 outbreak continues, the health and well-being of our customers, tenants, employees, and communities remains our top priority. At SouthPark Mall, we are continuing to make informed decisions based on state and national guidelines as well as advice from local health authorities.While mass gatherings have been canceled, spaces, where people are constantly moving such as airports, shopping malls and centers, grocery stores or similar spaces, remain open per public guidelines. However, with the support of our local health department, SouthPark Mall will reduce its hours beginning tomorrow, Tuesday, March 17, until further notice. The temporary hours are:
- Monday - Saturday: 12:00 PM - 7:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Please check with individual stores, restaurants, and any exterior-facing tenants at the center as they may have varying hours so they can continue to provide support and services to our communities. Additionally, all center events have been canceled through Tuesday, March 31. We will continue to work together as we monitor this situation, follow national guidelines and continue discussions with local health officials. Updates can be found on our website and social channels.