SPOKANE, Wash. — It's no surprise that Spokane's hospitality industry took a significant hit during the coronavirus crisis, but new numbers are providing more insight into the impact of canceled events and travel plans.
Visit Spokane says the county has lost more than $21 million in revenue due to event cancellations and the loss of travelers amid the pandemic.
Coronavirus has caused at least 35 event cancellations from business conventions to sporting events. Additionally, more than 25,000 visitors to the Lilac City were lost this year.
Hoopfest, Bloomsday and the Torchlight Parade are just some of the events that have been postponed or canceled in Spokane.
Hotel occupancy was down more than 64% from March 15 to May 2. That's compared to the same time period in 2019.
Hotel companies have also had to make tough sacrifices. Doubletree has laid off 110 employees, while Hotel Ruby Group has laid off 100.
Davenport Hotel Collection has closed four of its properties and laid off 1,100 people.
A spokesperson for Davenport Hotels recently announced that it will reopen its four remaining properties on June 11.
The properties that will reopen include the Historic Davenport, Davenport Tower, Davenport Lusso and the newly-renovated Centennial Hotel. The Davenport Grand is currently open.
Visit Spokane has information posted to its website about safety protocols at the Spokane Convention Center, hotels in the area and the Spokane International Airport.