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Coronavirus
As a new strain of coronavirus (COVID-19) swept through the world in 2020, preparedness plans, masking policies and more public policy changed just as quickly. WVXU has covered the pandemic's impact on the Tri-State from the very beginning, when on March 3, 2020, Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine barred spectators from attending the Arnold Sports Festival in Columbus over concerns about the virus, even though Ohio had yet to confirm a single case of COVID-19.

Museum Center Cuts Staff Due To COVID-19 Losses

union terminal clock
Tana Weingartner
/
WVXU

The Cincinnati Museum Center is making cuts in response to financial losses caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The museum is cutting 50 full-time and 125 part-time employees who've been furloughed since mid-March.

A news release says remaining employees will see pay cuts, including a 40% reduction in salary and benefits for senior leadership. The cuts take effect July 1.

The release states the museum expects a $3.5 million loss in revenue for the 2020 fiscal year, and a projected loss of $8 million in earned revenue for fiscal year 2021 because of the closure. 

"This is a devastating moment for our teams," President and CEO Elizabeth Pierce said in a statement. "We've had incredible momentum and engagement with the community following the restoration of Union Terminal. COVID-19 has forced us to make excruciating decisions for the future survival of our mission."

While the museum is still waiting on guidance from the state as to when it can reopen, it is prepping for the possiblity of reopening portions of the museum in mid-July. Much like the Cincinnati Zoo, it is taking such steps as timed tickets and social distancing reminders. 

Senior Editor and reporter at WVXU with more than 20 years experience in public radio; formerly news and public affairs producer with WMUB. Would really like to meet your dog.