From Dallas Express · Dallas Express · · 1m 40s
Safer Streets, Bigger Test
AT&T leaves Dallas as downtown safety improves.
In brief
AT&T leaves Dallas as downtown safety improves. Downtown Dallas improved public safety and reduced homelessness but faces AT&T's planned relocation, testing its ability to retain major employers. Originally reported by Dallas Express.
Downtown Safety Gains
Downtown Dallas improved public safety with 130 police officers and double-digit crime declines.
AT&T Relocation Plans
AT&T announced a gradual multi-year move from downtown to Plano, preferred a suburban-style campus.
Public Safety Metrics
Violent crime dropped 16.5%, robberies fell 29%, auto theft decreased 45% in the past year.
Homelessness Reduction
Downtown unsheltered homelessness fell 85% with 287 people moving into permanent housing.
Prop U Staffing Gap
Dallas needs 4,000 sworn officers but has 3,410, 590 short, as per city charter.
Police Response Times
CBD patrol division averages two minutes for Priority 1 emergency calls in 2025.
AT&T's Impact
Downtown's biggest employer is leaving, testing downtown's ability to retain major businesses.
Downtown Vision
DDI aims to convert offices to housing, boost residential population to 40,000-50,000 by 2030.
Investment Figures
Over $8 billion in planned investments include convention center, Morgan Stanley hub, and housing conversions.
Prop U Funding
Prop U requires half of annual growth in unrestricted revenue to fund police and fire pensions.
Downtown Challenges
Downtown faces staffing gaps and economic shifts as AT&T departs and public safety improves.
Next Steps
DDI must show safer streets can attract residents, businesses, and investment despite AT&T's exit.
Public Safety Context
Downtown violent crime rose 42% from 2019 to 2023 before recent declines.
Downtown's Future
Downtown Dallas must balance safety gains with economic retention after AT&T's planned relocation.
The key point
Downtown Dallas improved public safety and reduced homelessness but faces AT&T's planned relocation, testing its ability to retain major employers.
