Simon Property Group temporarily closes all malls, premium outlets, mills in US

Simon Property Group, one of the largest shopping mall operators in the U.S., is temporarily closing all of its nationwide properties due to coronavirus COVID-19, including six in Central Texas.

The company made the announcement Wednesday afternoon following extensive discussions with federal, state and local officials and in recognition of the need to address the spread of the virus.

RELATED: CoronavirusNOW.com, FOX launches national hub for COVID-19 news and updates

Simon will close all of its retail properties, Premium Outlets and Mills in the U.S., including Barton Creek Square and The Domain in Austin, Lakeline Mall in Cedar Park, Round Rock Premium Outlets in Round Rock, San Marcos Premium Outlets in San Marcos and Ingram Park Mall in San Antonio. Simon operates a total of 21 centers in Texas.

This measure will take effect from 7 p.m. local time Wednesday, March 18 and will end on March 29.

"The health and safety of our shoppers, retailers and employees is of paramount importance and we are taking this step to help reduce the spread of COVID-19 in our communities," said David Simon, Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and President of Simon.

For a list of affected malls and shopping centers, click here.

CLICK HERE FOR THE LATEST INFO ON THE CORONAVIRUS OUTBREAK

Health CoronavirusConsumerUs Tx/travis County/austin