New figures released by the Texas Workforce Commission show Irving’s unemployment rate is one of the lowest in North Texas. Now at 6.3 percent, Irving’s unemployment rate is at its lowest point since 2008, and is continuing to fall. It has been steadily decreasing in 2012, down from 6.7 percent in February and 7 percent in January
In comparison, the state’s unemployment rate in March was 7 percent, and the national rate was 8.4 percent. Locally, the Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington Metropolitan Statistical Area matched the state average at 7 percent.
“Irving has benefited from our ability to attract and retain companies that are creating new jobs, even in this challenging economy,” said City Manager Tommy Gonzalez. “We look to continue this positive level of job growth in Irving through our various economic development initiatives.
Job Hot Spot
Irving recently was named one of The Best Cities for Jobs. In the Forbes report, the Dallas-Plano-Irving region ranked No. 6 on a list of 65 of the nation’s largest metropolitan areas that are leading in job growth and employment. Rankings by Forbes are based on recent growth trends, mid-term growth, long-term growth and the region’s momentum.
“A number of new corporate leases will ensure that job growth continues over the coming months,” Gonzalez said. “We will stay aggressive when it comes to bringing in businesses and more jobs because that’s what residents have said they want. We rely on resident input to shape our strategic plan.”
Bringing in Businesses
The city works closely with the Greater Irving-Las Colinas Chamber of Commerce to determine ways to make Irving even more competitive compared to other large US cities. The city’s business-oriented programs and incentives, as well as an expedited permitting process, allow businesses to open their doors in a fraction of the time it takes in many other cities.
“Most customers want things as fast as they can get them, and ours are no exception,” said Inspections Director Gary Miller. “We took a look at our processes and gave them exactly what they want. Now our permitting process takes an average of only six days.”
Newest Additions
The city’s employment rate has been boosted by the opening, relocation or expansion of several businesses. A continuing contributor has been CHRISTUS Health. The company is consolidating its Houston and San Antonio offices, bringing more than 1,000 jobs with it.
Mattito’s Tex-Mex and Zeytin Mediterranean Grill opened restaurants in Las Colinas, and Scooter Beans restaurant opened in Heritage Crossing. A 117-room Candlewood Suites and Noah’s, a multi-use events center, also opened in Las Colinas to offer residents and visitors new hospitality options.
“We will continue to bring quality retail and restaurants to Irving so residents have the best options available,” Gonzalez said.
