Several shops in Ross Park Mall close, modify hours due to coronavirus

Wayne Christ, 79, sat alone in the food court of Ross Park Mall.

Christ, who lives in Ross, said he’s been keeping his distance from others and frequently washing his hands. But he still came to the mall — he didn’t want to halt his entire life because of the coronavirus pandemic, even if he falls into the demographic most at risk.

“I do have some issues with my health,” he said. “But you know, you still have to live.”

Four cases of covid-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus, have been confirmed in Allegheny County. Amid fears of the virus spreading, local establishments and government have taken precautions to limit large crowds. Starting Monday, Pittsburgh will limit all gatherings of more than 250 people.

At the Ross Park Mall, several shops closed their doors or hung notices indicating modified hours.

Pottery Barn started an adjusted schedule March 14, now operating from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday — a loss of about 16 hours a week. Hollister closed its store altogether.

“We want to help you take care of yourself and each other, which starts by closing this location,” said a notice hanging on Hollister’s locked doors.

The mall’s Apple Store was also closed to customers, after CEO Tim Cook announced that all locations outside of China will be shuttered until March 27.

In comparison with a typical Sunday afternoon, the building was relatively quiet — though there were still plenty of shoppers walking the halls.

Jill Foley, 65, of Franklin Park said she is surprised by the panic that’s ravaged local grocery stores, as residents stock-pile hand sanitizer, medication and toilet paper. She doesn’t believe such drastic behavior is necessary to prevent covid-19. It’s just “common sense,” she said.

“If you have any of the things that are wrong with you, stay home,” Foley said. “I don’t have those problems and hopefully it’s not an issue for me.”

Health officials have recommended “social distancing,” even for healthy individuals, to prevent covid-19 from spreading. While many coronavirus carriers never experience symptoms, they are still able to pass the virus on to someone else.

Cleaning crews have been increased at the mall, according to mall management. Increased cleaning and disinfecting began in January, with particular focus to high-traffic areas.

The mall is managed by Simon Property Group, which did not respond to a request for comment.

Christ does think public response to the coronavirus has been exaggerated, but he doesn’t see that as a bad thing.

“It’s better to do it this way than to do nothing at all,” Christ said. “The way I see it, I’m at the mall, but I’m still not getting close to anybody.”