Pearce O'Neal

Austin city officials have cancelled South By Southwest festival amid growing concerns of coronavirus.  The news comes just a few days after an announcement was made saying cancelling the festival wouldn't make it safer.  Bobcat Update's Pearce O'Neal has the story. 

South by Southwest has been cancelled for the first time in 34 years due to coronavirus fears. Austin city officials made the decision this past Friday, a week before the event was set to begin. The festival draws in thousands of visitors and volunteers from all over, including Texas State students and faculty.  South by Southwest Street Team Leader Dale Blasingame (BLA-ZIN-GAME) says he is disappointed with the outcome.  

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As of now, there have been no cases of coronavirus in Travis County, but the cancellation is being taken as a proactive measure. Biology Lecturer Michael Wilson says the risk of contracting coronavirus is higher when large groups of people interact in close proximity. 

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South By Southwest brought in 356-(m)million dollars for the Austin economy last year. The cancellation could be potentially devastating for local businesses.

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 Officials are looking into rescheduling or providing a virtual experience.  It is undetermined if attendees and vendors will receive refunds. For Bobcat Update, I'm Pearce O'Neal.