By: Ruth Ferguson, NDG Editor
The Dallas City Council voted on Wednesday to offer Uber Technologies an economic incentive package in hopes of luring them to Dallas as they expand this fall.
“I am thrilled for Dallas and for Uber Technologies,” said Mayor Eric Johnson. “Uber’s expansion will bring thousands of high-paying jobs and a $110 million investment to our city’s core, which has long driven our region’s explosive growth.”
According to a recently published report, the expansion could net Dallas up to 3,000 jobs with annual salaries starting at $100,000. Speculation suggests the company is considering the new development in Deep Ellum called The Epic.
The popular ride-sharing company offers more than just a ride to the local grocery store. They also provide meal deliveries through Uber Eats, scooter rentals via Jump, and more.
“The City Council’s vote for this competitive economic incentive package illustrates Dallas’ continued commitment to innovation and strengthening its workforce. We are looking forward to hopefully welcoming Uber to Dallas very soon.”
Uber has some roots in Dallas already with a $1 million contract with DART and plans to include the city as a test site for Uber Air for passengers bold enough to ride in an urban air taxi service. Last year the company forecasted 2020 for test flights with plans to go live by 2023.
The company could use good news after reporting a record quarterly loss of $5.24 billion for the second quarter of 2019. On Wednesday, the stock price dropped below $36 for the first time since the IPO launched in May. They were not alone in their losses as the Dow Jones fell more than 800 points as concerns are spreading regarding the possibilities of an economic recession.
