Houston innovation hub, others cancel SXSW plans over coronavirus concerns

The Ion, the group building Houston’s “innovation hub” in a former Midtown Sears facility, canceled its South By Southwest plans due to concerns over the coronavirus outbreak.

Gabriella Rowe, executive director of The Ion, made the announcement in a March 5 Facebook post.

“I could not ask my staff to take such a risk nor did I want startups to have to choose between promoting their company and keeping themselves and their loved ones safe,” Rowe wrote.

Rice Management Co. is funding the construction…